Connect with us

Caribbean News

TCI is debriefed on Haiti by British Rep as President Moise prepares for a new round of protests

Published

on

#Providenciales, September 27, 2019 – Turks and Caicos – Embattled Haitian President Jovenel Moise, according to reports, will on Friday face a new round of protests despite a plea in a national address aimed at extending an olive branch to opponents in both the political and business sectors. 

The Haitian President did not attend the UN General Assembly this week; he instead remained at home and spoke not to the world but to his own people who continue to demand that he demit the presidential palace and his place at the helm of Haiti.

Critics say the President’s words delivered in a National Address mean little with the mounting accusations of corruption, stalled investigations to unearth the truth of those charges and the sluggish pace for processing the political appointment of a new Prime Minister.

It did not help that a Haitian Senator, claiming to be in fear for his life shot with his gun, an AP photographer and palace security officer, according to numerous media reports on the incident.

The images of a senator wielding a gun exposes the enormity of the divide in Haiti and the deteriorating state of the country’s already crumbled political foundation.

Turks and Caicos Islands Government leaders one week ago – Wednesday September 18 – heard about the state of affairs on the ground in Haiti from the British Charge d’Affaires based in Port Au Prince, where schools and businesses remain closed due to the chaos.

The reveal of that debrief came in this week’s report on the recent National Security Council (NSC) meeting, which was co-chaired by the Governor Nigel Dakin and Premier Sharlene Robinson.

“Updated by the British Charge d’Affaires based in Haiti on the current situation in Haiti, in particular the security and economic situation; domestic and international partner activity and public messaging to stem illegal migration.”

The status of Haiti was also considered from the perspective of the United States. 

The NSC report informed: “Updated by the US Coast Guard based in Bahamas on their work in the region to tackle illicit activity including illegal immigration and human trafficking from Haiti. Current and potential areas of further collaboration with TCI agencies.”

It is the first time the National Security Council, which was established in 2015, has documented such a strong focus on the inner workings of nearby Haiti.

The report informed of an update from the UK Defence Attaché for the Caribbean and Overseas Territories; the representative leading on TCI issues in the UK Foreign Office and an update from Immigration Minister Delroy Williams on sloop arrivals from Haiti and abuses of immigration laws.

The National Security Council is looking into what support the UK can offer on the coming National Security Strategy of the Turks and Caicos Islands.  Governor Dakin and Premier Robinson both promised the document was well in the making and soon to be unveiled.

FILE PHOTO – National Security Meeting

At the meeting, which was also attended by the Deputy Governor, the Attorney General and the Commissioner of Police there was a report by the Prison Superintendent, Grahame Hawkins about the facility’s “operational needs of the prison and mitigation of related challenges.”

Most notable from the meeting summary shared with TCI media and public is that the first draft of the National Security Strategy was presented by the Governor and Premier to the National Security Council.  

“…which aims to ensure the country is more resilient to natural disasters and strengthens its ability to tackle illegal migration including human trafficking and over-stayers.”

Next stop for the National Security Strategy is consultation with the Joint Law Enforcement Team (JLET), the Leader of the Opposition, Stakeholders, the Cabinet and the National Security Advisory Group.

#magneticmedianews

#tcidebriefedonhaiti

#moisegetsreadyformoreprotest

Continue Reading

Caribbean News

UK issues warning to tourists following shark attack

Published

on

Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer

In response to the Shark attack in Tobago on April 26, the UK Foreign Office issued a warning for British tourists stating that Tobago authorities temporarily closed the Buccoo Reef Marine Park and urged those who visit the beach, those who fish and others, to be careful when visiting certain coastal areas. These are “Plymouth, Courland Bay, Black Rock, Mt. Irvine, Buccoo, Pigeon Point, Store Bay, and all areas in between.”

 

 

Continue Reading

Caribbean News

JAMAICAN STUDENTS GAIN SCHOLARSHIPS TO STUDY IN CUBA

Published

on

KINGSTON, April 25 (JIS):

Fifteen young Jamaicans have gained scholarships to pursue tertiary training in medicine, nursing and civil engineering in the Republic of Cuba, under the Jamaica-Cuba Bilateral Scholarship Programme.

Speaking at the awards ceremony for the students, held at the Embassy of Cuba in St. Andrew on April 24, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Hon. Alando Terrelonge, said the scholarship component of the partnership is one of the many successes for Jamaicans.

“Through this valuable programme, the Government of Cuba has consistently invested in the educational development of Jamaican students, through the provision of well-needed and appreciated undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships, primarily in Medicine and Health Sciences,” Mr. Terrelonge said.

He highlighted that the long-standing, meaningful and mutually beneficial bond of friendship and cooperation has been shared between Jamaica and Cuba for more than 50 years and has provided invaluable support to Jamaica, with several agreements in the areas of Health, Science, Culture, Sports, Tourism and Education.

The Minister of State said that Jamaica is grateful for the unwavering support towards Jamaica’s development, adding that “not only are we close geographical partners but our relationship is based on, among other things, mutual respect and strong people-to-people connections”.

Mr. Terrelonge told the students that they have succeeded in securing their places in the various programmes and have proven themselves to be the “crème de la crème, having successfully undergone a rigorous selection process”.

“I commend you for your drive, hard work and dedication towards your educational development,” he said.

“As you prepare to depart Jamaica for diverse and vibrant Cuba, I encourage you all to continue to work diligently in your respective fields of study, to remain faithful to the goals you have set for yourselves, and to fly, even higher, the Jamaican flag in Cuba. It is my hope that you will not only meet but exceed your and your families’ expectations,” the State Minister added.

He also encouraged the students to view the scholarship not only as an opportunity to advance academically but to also “immerse yourselves in the rich culture of the Cuban people” and to form new connections, build networks, explore new adventures, improve their Spanish-speaking skills, and to stay connected with the Jamaica Embassy in Havana.

Under the full scholarship, tuition, accommodation, meals, clothing allowance, study materials and medical care are covered by Cuba.

The programme is administered by the Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in conjunction with the Scholarship Unit of the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service and other entities. Every year, the Cuban Government invites applications from persons wishing to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies.

 

CONTACT: GARFIELD L. ANGUS

 

Continue Reading

Caribbean News

GROUND BROKEN FOR HIGH SCHOOL AT CHRISTEL HOUSE

Published

on

KINGSTON, May 1 (JIS):

Ground has been broken at the tuition-free Christel House at Twickenham Park, St. Catherine, for the construction of a high school.

Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Faval Williams, who delivered the keynote address at the site, today (May 1), said Christel House’s dedication to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering vulnerable children is “nothing short of inspiring”.

“Your decision to invest in Jamaica speaks volumes about your belief in our nation’s potential, and your dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth is appreciated,” Minister Williams said.

She added that the partnership between the Government and the organisation, forged through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2019, is a “prime example” of what can be achieved when public and private entities come together with a shared vision and purpose.

Further, the Minister said a foundation is being laid for a brighter future, one where every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfil their potential, regardless of their circumstances.

She said that Christel House Jamaica, which now operates a kindergarten school at the location, will in time be more than just a school.

“It will be a symbol of optimism, a sanctuary of learning, and a catalyst for positive change in our community,” the Minister said.

“By providing comprehensive support, including education, nutrition, healthcare, and mentorship, Christel House will empower students to break free from the chains of poverty and chart a course towards a better tomorrow,” she added.

Mrs. Willliams said the shared goal between the Administration and Christel House extends beyond the construction of a building, as it is about nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape the destiny of the nation.

“Together, we are sowing the seeds of prosperity, equity, and social justice, ensuring that no child is left behind,” she said.

The school provides breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack, as well as transportation for children living far distances from the school. It also provides uniforms and textbooks, and counselling services for its students who have to contend with psychological and other emotional issues.

Founder of Christel House International, Christel Dehaan, emigrated from Germany to the United States (US) in 1962, and was an accomplished businesswoman.

In 1996, she sold her global enterprise, Resort Condominiums International (RCI), which had offices in 38 countries, and devoted her resources to philanthropic work from her headquarters in North Meridian Street, Indianapolis.

With support from dedicated donors, schools are run in India, Jamaica, Mexico, South Africa, and the US.

 

CONTACT: GARFIELD L. ANGUS

 

 

 

Continue Reading

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TRENDING