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Cabinet approves proposal for new names for airports in Provo, South Caicos, North Caicos and Middle Caicos and more Government business…

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#TurksandCaicos, October 6, 2022 – Her Excellency the Acting Governor, Anya Williams, chaired the 25th meeting of Cabinet on Wednesday 14 September 2022 at the Premier’s Office on Providenciales.

All Members were present with the exception of the Minister for Tourism, who is out of the country.

At this meeting Cabinet:

  • Declined a request for an amendment to the National Physical Development Plan (NPDP) regarding a zoning change to a specific parcel in Juba Sound, Providenciales.
  • Approved a proposal by the TCI Diabetic Association for specialised podiatry and foot care services to persons within the TCI community with diabetes. Members also approved the waiving of fees for registration and license to practice under the Health Professions Authority.
  • Approved the drafting of a ‘Scape Metal and Derelict Vehicle/Vessels, and other related items Removal and Export Policy’ with a view to introduce new regulatory measures, compliance with health and environmental requirements, registration, removal of export tariffs and ensure sustainable development of this Industry.
  • Accepted the recommendations by the Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Centre (CARTAC) to not move forward with the establishment of a Revenue Authority, thereby reversing an earlier Cabinet decision, for  and instead it will focus on the enhancement of the Inland Revenue Department as part of the Ministry of Finance’s modernization project.
  • Discussed the continual increase in the cost of electricity to the consumer, and agreed for a team from the TCIG to meet with the local electricity provider to discuss measures to mitigate the effects of the increase on the public.
  • Approved a Turks and Caicos Islands Dog Control Strategy: Five-year Plan (2023-2027) to tackle but, not limited to, unregistered pets, stray dogs, unregulated breeds, illegal breeding, and approved six priority measures required by the Department of Agriculture to deliver this strategy.
  • Noted the Quarterly Financial Report of the Government’s Statutory Bodies for (January to March 2022), and approved the publication of this report.
  • Approved the re-parcelling of Parcels 10204/164 and registered Crown road reserve, rectifying an encroachment by a residential development on Crown Land.
  • Approved the implementation of a compliance risk management strategy for the tourism sector by the Inland Revenue Department, with a specific focus on tax compliance, and approved provisions to made in the FY23/24 budget to carry out the implementation.
  • Approved the proposed naming of the following airports currently under the control and management of the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (“TCIAA”):
  1. a)South Caicos International Airport  – Norman B. Saunders Snr International Airport
  2. b)Providenciales International Airport – Howard Hamilton International Airport
  3. c)North Caicos Airport – Clifford Gardiner International Airport
  4. d)Middle Caicos Airport – Eric Arthur Airport
  • Re-affirmed the appointment of Tueton Williams (Chair), Kesha Gardiner (Deputy Chair), Crosly Bain, Tracey Parker Gray and Pastor Dennis Swann as Members and Permanent Secretary Finance or her nominee, Permanent Secretary Ports, Director Ports, Chief Engineer and Collector of Customs as ex-Officio Members of the Turks and Caicos Ports Authority Board for a period of three years with effect from 1 October 2022 until 31 March 2025.
  • Approved the appointment of Dr Candace Williams as President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College for a period of two years, the establishment of a temporary office for and recruitment of a Provost charged with supporting the President.
  • Discussed rules and regulations surrounding the shipment of pre-owned vehicles to the TCI and agreed next steps.
  • Were updated on recent police activity surrounding the tragic murders over the past fortnight and broader activity to assured the safety of residents of the TCI.
  • Approved a revised Development Agreement between Circle Holdings and the TCI Government for a Mixed Accommodation Development and a marina in the Turtle Cove area, Providenciales.
  • Approved for the 19 September 2022 to be declared a national (“bank”) holiday to allow for a National Day of Mourning in celebration of the life of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

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The Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals  

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Grace Bay Strip Stone Creek Travels

PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS – (February 25th, 2026) – The Turks and Caicos Islands began 2026 on a positive note, with stayover arrivals in January surpassing the same period in 2025.

Preliminary figures indicate that 56,830 stayover visitors arrived in January 2026, representing a two percent increase year-on-year. The steady growth continues the positive momentum experienced at the close of 2025.

Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant, attributed the encouraging performance to new collaboration with tour operator partners as well as increased airlift from key source markets.

“We anticipated a strong January performance following the growth recorded in November and December. The winter season has traditionally been a robust period for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and this year that strength has been further supported by enhanced collaboration with partners and expanded airlift from Canada and the United States We are cautiously optimistic about maintaining this upward trajectory in the weeks and months ahead.

Cruise Sector

In cruise, preliminary figures show 122,935 cruise passenger arrivals in January, reflecting a 15 percent decrease compared to January 2025. The decline is attributed to a reduction in cruise calls during the month. A total of 33 vessels called on Grand Turk in January, seven fewer than during the corresponding period last year.

Marketing Shows

As part of its ongoing efforts to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier luxury destination, Experience Turks and Caicos has been actively participating in the Travel & Adventure Shows across several major cities in the United States.

The destination has already been showcased in Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago, with Fort Lauderdale and Denver scheduled in the coming weeks.

Public Relations Manager Laura Dowrich represented the Turks and Caicos Islands alongside the destination’s U.S. marketing agency, ABA Global.

Beaches Turks & Caicos – Stone Creek Travels

“One of the most encouraging takeaways from these shows is that the Turks and Caicos Islands is indeed on travellers’ radar. We met many visitors who shared fond memories of their time here, others who already have trips booked and were seeking recommendations on activities and dining, and many more who aspire to visit. It was a pleasure highlighting our multi-island destination and sharing the many experiences that make the Turks and Caicos Islands truly special,” said Ms. Dowrich.

Awards & Recognition

Building on a stellar year of accolades in 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands has begun 2026 with additional international recognition.

The destination earned a Gold Badge in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, placing #5 in Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean and #5 in Best Beaches in the World. In the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Grand Turk was ranked #10 among the Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.

About Experience Turks and Caicos

 Middle Caicos Dragon Cay Resort

Experience Turks and Caicos is the official destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The organisation is committed to positioning the destination as a premier, sustainable luxury tourism hub. By leveraging smart tools, data-driven strategies, and stakeholder collaboration, Experience Turks and Caicos focuses on enhancing the visitor experience and fostering long-term industry success.

About the Turks and Caicos Islands

The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of two island groups in the Lucayan Archipelago—the larger Caicos Islands and the smaller Turks Islands. Home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches, including the award-winning Grace Bay Beach, the destination is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxury accommodations, and rich cultural heritage. Each island and cay offer a unique experience:

  • Providenciales boasts world-class resorts, fine dining, and high-end tourism offerings.
  • Grand Turk serves as the vibrant hub for cruise tourism and historical exploration.
  • The sister islands provide a gateway to nature, adventure, and authentic local culture.

Recognised as the world’s best-kept secret, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer effortless luxury, with seamless connectivity via direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.

Photo Captions:

Grand Turk – slow travel with us

North Caicos – Correy Forbes

South Caicos Sail Rock

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DDME Staff Strengthen Disaster Management Capacity Through Professional Development Workshop

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Ms. Yolande Williams, Community Preparedness Officer for South Caicos speaking to Dr. Clerveaux

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 25 February 2026: Staff of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) participated in a one‑day Professional Staff Development Workshop on Thursday, 19th February 2026. The session was facilitated by former DDME Director (2011–2021) and current Permanent Secretary of the Governor’s Office, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux.

The in-house workshop was organised by the DDME Training Unit, to focus on the National Disaster Management Framework, strengthening staff understanding of their roles and responsibilities within disaster management. The session also aimed to enhance the effectiveness of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and reinforce inter‑agency coordination.

Drawing on her extensive experience in disaster management in the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as several deployments to CDEMA member states including Haiti, The Bahamas, and Jamaica, Dr. Clerveaux provided practical insights that reinforced key concepts and clarified operational expectations. Staff members actively participated in discussions and shared recommendations to improve sub‑committee performance and overall departmental efficiency.

To support learning retention, the workshop incorporated pre‑ and post‑assessments, enabling participants to evaluate their understanding and track improvements.

Acting Director of DDME, Mr. Kevaun Lucas stated: “Investing in the continued development of our team is essential to strengthening national resilience. This and future planned workshops will help to reinforce our commitment to building a highly skilled, well‑coordinated workforce capable of leading and supporting disaster management efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands. I am proud of the team’s engagement and encouraged by the meaningful contributions they made throughout the session.”

This Professional Staff Development Workshop forms part of DDME’s ongoing commitment to enhancing internal capacity, strengthening operational coordination and improving overall departmental synergy as the agency continues to advance national preparedness and response capabilities.

 

Photo Captions:

1st insert:   Ms. Tamara Hylton, Training and Education Manager for DDME
2nd insert: Dr. Virginia Clerveaux with DDME Staff Members
3rd insert: Mr. Kevern De Bellott, Deputy Director for DDME speaking to Dr. Clerveaux

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Liberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion  

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Port of Spain, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO (February 24, 2026) — Liberty Caribbean, the operators of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, recently served as Gold-Level Partner of the two-day Trinidad and Tobago Internet Governance Forum (TTIGF), themed “The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience”.

The Digital Divide is of particular interest to Liberty Caribbean and is being addressed through its Charitable Foundation across the region. Low broadband penetration in the Caribbean contributes to diminished opportunities for individuals, communities, and local economies, but with the support of funding partners, this gap can be addressed through a comprehensive programme – JUMP – that focuses on providing access, devices, and digital skills.

“Liberty Caribbean was proud to serve as Gold-Level Partner of the TTIGF because the conversations taking place here shape key digital policies for multiple stakeholders,” said Simone Martin-Sulgan, Vice President and General Manager, Flow Trinidad.

“As technology accelerates at an unprecedented pace, we must ensure that innovation strengthens our societies rather than fragments them. The theme, ‘The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience,’ speaks directly to the work we do every day: building networks that are not only fast and reliable, but secure, inclusive and future-ready.”

Across the Caribbean, the digital divide remains one of the most pressing barriers to equitable growth. Low broadband penetration limits access to education, entrepreneurship and essential services, and that is why we are deeply committed to closing this gap.

Through the Liberty Caribbean Charitable Foundation and initiatives like the JUMP Programme, the company is expanding access to technology, affordable connectivity and digital skills training so that individuals and communities are empowered to participate fully in the digital economy.

Martin-Sulgan further stated “at Liberty Caribbean, we believe progress and responsibility must move in lock step. By investing in resilient networks, inclusive programmes and trusted partnerships, we are helping to build a Caribbean that is innovative, secure and prepared for the opportunities ahead.”

Topics covered during the Forum, with over 140 participants, included “Securing Critical Infrastructure”, Integrating AI into Digital Transformation”, “The Digital Divide”, The Human Cost of Innovation – Mental Health and Well-being in the Digital Age’, and AI, Cyber Resilience and Regional Innovation”.

Focused on the underlying mandate of the Conference theme thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, technologists, researchers, and community stakeholders were invited to explore how countries can evolve boldly without compromising values or long-term stability.

Photo Caption: 

TTIGF – l-r Darren Campo, Regulatory & Compliance Officer; Yolande Agard-Simmons, Senior Manager Communications; and Kevon Swift, Senior Manager Government and Regulatory Affairs of Flow Trinidad in attendance at the Post Event Mixer at Caribbean Telecommunications Union’s Head Office in St Clair, Port of Spain

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