Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Maritime, Gaming & Disaster Management
Mr Speaker, Honourable Members and Colleagues, my people of the Turks and Caicos, especially my Good people of the North and Middle Caicos, those listening via radio, social media or other means; Good Morning.
Mr Speaker, I rise to publicly register my full support for this Budget. However, before I go into details of my ministry’s appropriations and how this budget would positively impact our people, like other speakers, I would like to give thanks to Almighty God, for His mercies endures forever. I would also like to thank the many dedicated Civil Servants and others who put themselves on the frontline every day to keep our Islands safe, particularly during this pandemic.
Mr Speaker a special recognition is given to Our Frontline Forces, Our Police Force, Customs, Immigration, The DDME, the DECR, Maritime Departments (who were made special constables), Ports, our Health workers. They are true Patriots.
Mr Speaker, I would also like to give thanks to the Ministry of Finance for the formulation of a visionary stimulus package designed to bring some relief to Our people and small businesses affected by this Pandemic.
Mr Speaker, these are unprecedented times and it only through the mercies of God and careful and honest Stewardship of Our Country’s Resources by this Good- P-D-M Government, we are in a position to even entertain a Stimulus Package at this time.
Mr. Speaker, given the unprecedented times world-wide. As Minister Tourism and it would be remiss of me not to mention the serious impact that Coronavirus (COVID-19) is having on economies globally but in particular in our major source markets, the United States, Canada and Europe.
Mr Speaker the fallout from COVID-19 will be greater than that of any Hurricane, the Great Depression of the thirties, the aftermath of 911 and the Financial Crisis of 2008/2009. Mr Speaker, the effect of this Pandemic on Small Island States like Ours with a single leg economy can be crippling.
But- Mr. Speaker, we are a resilient people, time and time again the Tourism Sector showed itself to be avenue through which countries rebound. Our Industry is built on a solid foundation and all our attributes, our beautiful beaches, pristine waters, natural environment, daily nonstop flights to almost every major gateway in North America, Europe and beyond proximity to key source markets are still in place. I am SURE that every member of this Honorable House would agree with me that not even COVID-19 could TAKE THESE AWAY!
Mr. Speaker, Travel and Tourism are now embedded in the world DNA. The World will travel again and TCI will be a shining Star on the World stage.
The Budget:
Mr. Speaker, I will now discuss our 2020/21 allocation and give some highlights of the work completed under the various program heads:
Mr. Speaker, in fiscal year 2019/2020, my Ministry’s budget was $9,189,364. This year it stands at $10,873,829 an increase of $1,684,465 or 18%. All things considered Mr. Speaker; this is a good budget and we are thankful to the Ministry of Finance.
Mr. Speaker, my Ministry has a strong regulatory and enforcement role the increased allocation will primarily be used in the following areas:
- Investment in critical manpower for the DDME and the DECR,
- Investment to enhance service delivery, with the procurement of key equipment and various program.
- We are investing in critical institution building, by providing the funding to allow for the transition of the Gaming Inspectorate to a full Commission. Additionally
- 100,000 to the TB for the development of a COVID-19 rebound marketing strategy and
- 100,000 to the National Trust to cushion the impact of COVID-19
Capital Projects
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to inform this Honorable House that in fiscal 2020/2021, my ministry has received $850,000 for capital projects. This money will be spent to strengthen our regulatory Framework, improve service delivery and strengthen resilience in the disaster management area. Mr. Speaker:
- $300,000 Mobile Antennas- purchase and installation of radio antennas to enhance communication throughout the TCI
- $250,000 DECR Vessel- support enforcement of environmental laws- coast protection, fisheries and national park ordinances and regulations;
- $150,000 Upgrade Scientific Lab-Providenciales; - to better conduct environmental monitoring and assessments
- $150,000 Renovation to the DECR Office in Kew-North Caicos
Ministry/TB/Tourism:
Mr. Speaker, three months ago tourism arrivals were at an all-time high, however, with the advent of COVID-19, the UNWTO has advised markets globally that we adjust our figures downward by at least 20% over the next months.
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to advise this Honorable House that:
- Land-based arrivals in 2019 were at 486,739 this was an increase from 441,344 or 10.28% in 2018. For the first quarter of 2020, arrivals to the TCI were pacing ahead by 6-8% over the same period in 2019.
- Cruise arrivals in 2019 increased to 1,111,818 up from 2018 numbers of 1,021,741.
an increase of 90,077 or 8.81% more passengers to the Grand Turk, our Nation’s Capital.
Mr. Speaker, the overall visitor arrivals to the destination in 2019 was 1,598,557 compared to 1,463,085 inclusive of land and cruise passengers. the islands saw an increase of 9.25% in overall arrivals.
Mr. Speaker, the Turks and Caicos saw increased flights from Chicago, Washington DC, via American and South West Airlines in 2019.
Mr. Speaker, as a result of a solid working relationship between the Tourist Board, the Ministry and our Private Sector Partners, including the TCHTA, we have been able to keep the destination and Brand TCI visible in the travel marketplace and on many social media platforms.
I am pleased to advise this Honorable House Mr. Speaker, the TCI played host to the popular Emmy Award-winning series, The Bay, and several episodes were filmed here – these will be aired this summer. Mr. Speaker, in 2019,
The TCI also took steps to establish a film commission and we saw the inauguration of our film festival.
Mr. Speaker, the Tourist Board continues its push to shine the light on our Sister Islands and I am pleased to report that every Island in Our Chain, including North and Middle Caicos, saw positive growth in stay-over visitors in 2019.
Mr. Speaker, having timely and accurate data to inform marketing decisions in most essential and I am pleased that the work which started in 2019 on a state of the art data collection system is nearing completion and the final product is expected to be rolled out later this year. (cost of approx.400,000)
Mr. Speaker, these gains may falter because of COVID 19 but I want to assure we have a plan to address this.
Destination Marketing: Post COVID-19
Mr. Speaker, following the all-clear signal of the COVID-19 virus, how quickly our destination opens up for business and rebounds depends heavily on leadership from the Ministry of Health, the Tourist Board and our friends in the Private Sector. I am pleased to report that before the closure of our islands, the Ministry and Tourist Board engaged its stakeholders to discuss short, medium and long term marketing strategies for the destination to keep visible during the hiatus.
Mr. Speaker, the Ministry continues to engage the Ministry of Health, the Tourist Board and our Private Sector Partners on the best way forward. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that the Ministry of Finance has allocated $100,000, which will be available immediately following the passage of this budget to start a promotional campaign for the destination’s recovery.
To date Mr. Speaker, we have sent out an RFP for an ad agency to represent the destination during this time.
We have moved ahead with an online/social media campaign and we have secured the serviced of an ad production company to help us with our ad creatives.
Mr. Speaker, once the full scope and depth are known, our ongoing marketing and promotional strategies will be adjusted to fit any scenario. Additional funding will be identified to fund these campaigns.
Mr. Speaker, our strategies are clearly linked to the Ministry of Health and its protocols. The Board will redesign its training efforts to ensure that our people in the hospitality sector are cognizant of their roles and responsibilities to our guests and themselves in a COVID-19 era. Quality assurance and health and safety standards will be the order of the day.
Mr. Speaker, I have no doubt, that the strategy that the Ministry of Tourism and its Private Sector Partners will develop and deploy will resonate in the marketplace and aid in our recovery.
Further: Tourist Board
Mr. Speaker, recently, the entire country joined in on congratulating Mrs. Pamela Ewing on her appointment as Director of Tourism. Mrs. Ewing is no stranger to the hospitality sector and has well over 25 years of employment therein.
Mr. Speaker, she has headed up the Tourist Boards US operations for well over 15 years. She is heading the Tourist Board at a most challenging time, but everyone feels that she is more than capable of leading the organization now.
Mr. Speaker, the Tourist Board continues to advance to TCIG new regulations to improve Accommodations Licensing and Standards across our destination.
Mr. Speaker, in 2019 the Tourist Board Training Unit certified 625 persons in the National Tourism Training Programme, TIDES.
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to report that considerable work has been done to the following:
- TOURIST ACCOMMODATION (LICENSING) (AMENDMENT) BILL 2020;
- TOURIST ACCOMMODATION (LICENSING) REGULATIONS 2020;
- TOURISM (AMENDMENT) BILL 2020
- now out for consultation. Although COVID 19 was not envisage, we encourage feedback to our consultation/
Mr. Speaker, capital projects for the Ministry/TB for 2019/2020 have been significantly advanced. We have seen the awarding of the following:
- The Bight Fish Fry improvement contract awarded
- The Promenade and Straw Market in North Caicos commenced
- Heaving Down Rock improvement in Providenciales contract awarded
- The Grand Turk Front Street Vendors Market contract works started
Work on these projects should be completed later this year and will be a major enhancement to our product offerings.
Mr. speaker, this is a Productive Government, the People’s Government. We are getting it done for everyone.
CRUISE/TB
Mr. Speaker, it is no secret that cruise tourism is the lifeline of Grand Turk’s economy. Sadly, the cruise industry has seen more than its fair share of fall-out from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mr. Speaker, the Cruise Steering Committee will continue its work to strengthen our product offering to the cruise sector in Grand Turk. It will continue its risk mitigation work and business continuity plan with Grand Turks Watersports Association and other community businesses, particularly in the wake of COVID19.
Mr. Speaker, in the 2020/2021 fiscal cycle, the ministry, the cruise sector (including Carnival Corp.), and the Steering Committee will continue its work to see the development of the following:
- A tourism booth at the Grand Turk Cruise Center
- Finalization of the Tourism Booth at GTCC: marketing/promotion
- Governor’s Beach enhancement
- Renovation of the Downtown Tourism Building and
- Other projects to enhance the visitor and resident experience
- Secure funding from the Infrastructure Fund to market the cruise sector
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to advise this honorable house that the ministry has finalized the installation of safety signs on our beaches and in collaboration with the TCI Swim Foundation.
Mr. Speaker, we have placed swim zone signs at Bambara Beach, and will install the same at Conch Bar’s Mudjin Harbour and Horse Stable Beaches, following the passage of COVID-19.
Mr. Speaker, does any member of this Honorable remember the Mega One Triton? Well, I am pleased to report that the Mega One Triton, which sat on Governors Beach is a ghost of the past and Governors Beach is now in consideration to be a Blue Flag Beach – a label it held before.
DECR
Mr. Speaker I now draw your attention to the work of the Department for Environment, Coastal Resources. In 2019 the DECR accomplished:
- Started the development of the TCI Environment Strategy with JNCC. A road map to environmental safe-guards
- Started 5-additional Darwin Plus projects and submitted additional proposals for funding.
- Coordinated the EDF 11th ReSEMBiD project visit, allowing the TCI to submit proposals on Resilience, Sustainable Energy and Marine Biodiversity.
Mr. Speaker the DECR in order to enhance service delivery, the DECR building will see a thorough refurbishment over the coming year. The contract for the re-development of the Environmental building along with the Vendor Markets at Club Med and Beaches were noted and these will bring the enhanced working environment and improve the visitor experience
- Further, we successfully purchased a number of boat engines and trailers stronger patrols and enforcement capability.
- Our Major goal this year, Mr. Speaker would be the implementation of beaching vending and swim zones on our beaches, specifically to reduce the level of beach harassment and improve enforcement.
- Additionally, we aim to finalize our Beach Development Policy
- We commissioned an Environmental Awareness Survey last quarter of 19/20 and will present these findings within the 2nd quarter. This will be the basis of our outreach and communication strategies.
Mr. Speaker in this fiscal year 2020/2021, the DECR is allocated funding for investment in the following areas:
- To strengthen program delivery, 4 new staff will be recruited, three conservation officers for patrol and enforcement of National Parks, Beaches etc. and One outreach and awareness officer to implement its communication strategy and work with our in schools programs
- A total of 250,000 is allocated for Comprehensive EIAs connected with the proposed National Parks Amendments. Mr. Speaker, these assessments would aid us with bringing closure to outstanding matters of home and land ownership in our National Parks.
- We have allocated an additional 50,000 for the improved management of vendor markets and other facilities
- With partner funding we will finalize the Development of the TCI Environment Strategy this is a blueprint, enabling adaptation to meet TCI’s changing needs. This is due for completion by September.
- Collaboration with the UK’s Joint Nature Conservation Committee (JNCC) to conduct a high-level environmental management meeting for senior staff and policymakers of the TCIG, once the COVID-19 travel restriction is lifted.
- Mr. Speaker, we will Pursue the inclusion of TCI in the Blue Belt programme, a programme that supports the delivery of the UK government’s commitment to providing long term protection for the marine environment; ensuring environmental concerns are addressed properly.
- Involvement in the EDF 11th ReSEMBiD (Resilience, Sustainable Energy, Maritime, and Biodiversity) project on Marine Biodiversity which also include the enhancement of the fisheries sector.
- Implementation of on-going and new DarwinPlus projects inclusive of the Marine Spatial Planning, finalize the Sargassum and Wetland management policies among others. The end result is a Sargassum policy and management plan, period of consultation is completed.
- As illegal sand mining and blocking of beach access are real threats. We have finalized the recruitment of Coastal Engineer and Reef specialist, we hope to see a speedy delivery of EIAs, policy papers finalized with more speed and a new management plan for our Parks and Vending Sites.
- North Caicos DECR Office refurbishment at $150,000
- Providenciales Office refurbishment at 150k. This office houses Our scientific laboratory which will include a WetLab and dry section.
Maritime and Shipping Department:
Mr. Speaker, the Maritime and Shipping Department is a vital component of the sea trade and the bedrock of its safety.
Mr. Speaker, in 2019 the Maritime Department made significant leaps forward as it readies the destination for a potential IMO Capitals 2020 audit. Mr. Speaker, working in concert with the UK MCA, the Maritime Department has seen success in the following areas:
- Completed the Maritime policy, implementation plan and strategy- this will provide a road map for the transformation of the sector in accordance with obligations international and local obligations that will strengthen and governed over the next years.
- Received training in Seabed Mapping Data and extraction
- Installed real-time Tidal Gauges on Grand Turk and Providenciales and extracted data from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
- Signed MoU with Ports Authority solidifying responsibilities in compliance and management of Maritime issues
- Installation of local VHF radio systems – improved communication with mariners
- Received donation of oil spill equipment from MCA to be stored at all seaports-
- Recruited Director of Maritime
Mr. Speaker, the Department of Maritime will continue to partners with the UK MCA and its TCI local stakeholders in meeting its local and international obligations for the IMO code III standard.
Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies :DDME
Mr. Speaker, the world has been knocked down by the COVID-19, but for us, in the Caribbean, this pandemic is not the only hazard; hurricane season is right around the corner. To defeat COVID-19 and be prepared for the hurricane season ahead, discipline and synergy must run in parallel.
Last year Mr. Speaker we saw of the marriage of the DDME and the Ministry of Tourism. This has been a happy marriage however, today this marriage faces its biggest challenge, but we will stay focus.
Mr. Speaker, the hardworking team at the DDME has already strategically started its preparation for the 2020 hurricane season. Mr. Speaker, I must warn that this season is expected to show above-average activity.
Mr. Speaker, as expected and can be appreciated, the preparation work for COVID-19 has hampered the preparedness work of the staff of the DDME in its hurricane preparedness initiative. However, I would like to reassure this Honorable House, that the Department will launch an aggressive campaign in short order to educate and inform our people of the state of readiness of our country, and the need to be ready individually for the upcoming season.
Mr. Speaker, in FY 19/20 the DDME successfully attained:
- Some $400,000 worth of hurricane supplies, including cots, flashlights, tarpaulins etc. that can assist persons affected by storms or other hazards
- Endorsement of the National Policy for Volunteer Management, 2019
- Completed over 18 disaster management training
- Conducted 7 Public Information and Education Campaigns
- Installed 12 weather stations throughout the islands
- Testing of School Disaster Plans throughout Turks & Caicos in collaboration with the Ministry of Education
FY 20/21
Mr. Speaker, the DDME received an additional $550,000 in this new budget.
This is an example of My Government’s commitment to Risk Mitigation and improving our country’s resilience.
Investment in 5 new staff to improve community outreach and planning across all islands and a corresponding $250,000 in operational expenses to allow these new staff to operate efficiently.
Mr. Speaker, the Department will continue to work hard to achieve its states KPI’s.
NATIONAL TRUST
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that my government has recognized the important role the National Trust plays in the promotion and preservation of our country’s heritage and I am pleased that every year since being in office, my government has found a way to increase its subvention to the National Trust.
Mr. Speaker, many of the popular heritage sites and attractions across our country are managed and or owned by the National Trust.
Mr. Speaker, these sites and other activities contribute to more than 60% of the National Trust’s budget annually, with TCIG contributing the other 40%.
Mr. Speaker, with the closure of these sites as a result of COVID-19, the National Trust has been challenged to meet its budgetary obligations. However, I am pleased to inform this Honorable House, that the National Trust will receive an addition $100,000 from TCIG in this budget cycle.
Mr. Speaker, the National Trust will continue to work closely with its global partner, the Royal Society for the Protection of Bird sand others as it seeks to carry out its mandate.
In 2019 Mr. Speaker, the Trust worked on the following:
- Cheshire Hall Plantation
- Conch Bar Caves received external electricity to support the visitors’ reception facility
- Enhancement of the Little Water Cay floating dock
- Lastly, Heaving Down Rock will be receiving improvements at the docking site to allow for a better experience by those that patron area.
- Signage for several sites was completed and due to continue over the next year.
In 2020, notwithstanding challenged due to the COVID-19, the Trust will work on the following:
- Establishment of a digital platform for e-learning and communication for personnel
- Use of digital platform to correspond with stakeholders, civic groups, decision-makers and partners.
- Continue project partnerships with our international donors
- Institutional strengthening exercise continues with support from RSPB (Royal Society for the Preservation of Birds); strategic documents such as the 2020-2025 strategic plan, fundraising, and communications/marketing strategies
Mr. Speaker, the Trust will continue its organizational strengthening and management exercise and review and amendments to its ordinances.
GAMING
Mr. Speaker, on May 1, 2019, section 1 of the Gaming Control Ordinance 2018 came into force. Part II section 4-26 of the Gaming Control Ordinance 2018 also came into being. 4 Board members including the Commissioner of Gaming were appointed.
Mr. Speaker, the Gaming sector is evolving and it attracts the attention of many international bodies and agencies. Therefore, Turks and Caicos must amend its laws and regulations to be compliant with its international regulations.
Mr. Speaker, this year the newly created Commission will receive an allocation of approximately $ 1.9 million this investment is to complete the transition from an inspectorate to a full fledged Gaming Commission/Statutory body. Since May 1, 2019, several major developments have taken place in gaming, including the developed and adoption of a code of ethics to govern the commission, drafting of internal controls and procedures, training of staff in AML procedures, online betting and security developments in the gaming industry.
Mr. Speaker, some important FY 20/21 time lines for Gaming are:
- Human Resources matters for the transitioning of the current to be completed by 2nd quarter of the financial year 2020-2021.
- Recruitment of New key positions by the end of 1st Quarter of the financial year such as a permanent Managing Director, AML Compliance Officer, Chief Financial Officer, est. these persons will lead in each area as specified in the Gaming Control Ordinance for the setup and functioning of the Commission as it is mandated
- The recruitment of addition staff will commence by 2nd quarter of the financial year 2020-2021.
- Draft regulation to be completed by end of October 2020
- Job descriptions to be finalized by end of May 2020
- Gaming Control Ordinance to be 90% implemented by end of November 2020
Mr. Speaker, the commission continues to advance the finalization of the gaming regulations and recruitment of key personnel. The department may be challenged in meeting its revenue projections as a result of COVID-19. Shortfalls are estimated to be between $250,000 -$325,000 monthly.
Capital Projects 2020: North and Middle Caicos
Mr. Speaker, I cannot end without acknowledging several areas for development for the good people of North and Middle Caicos. Mr. Speaker we are spending close to 5 million dollars in development for these beautiful twin islands:
- The Port Authority will invest just under 1,000,000 to support prosperity and improve accessible to the twin islands. This includes under 300000, to undertake dredging projects, 700,000 to clean up Bellfield landing and construct a Port office plus welcome center
- A technical Block for the Raymond Gardiner High School
- A Road Development Project totalling close to 2 million
- Signs that will introduce the various settlements and
- The Promenade a major Product Development and Enhancement Project to be completed this year.
Conclusion
Mr. Speaker, in concluding, I wish to reaffirm my commitment and that of the Very dedicated and passionate staff of the Ministry and its various Departments to achieving the goals that are set.
Mr. Speaker, our partners and stakeholders both locally and internationally (TCHTA, CTO, Steering Committees, Action Partners ) are very important to us and are critical in us realizing many of our planned outputs. Our thanks are extended.
Mr. Speaker, thanks to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands and my self-motivated team. Mr. Speaker, COVID-19 will challenge us but we will re bound with God as our center.