PRESS RELEASE

BEGINS

PREMIER ATTENDED VIRTUAL JOINT MINISTERIAL COUNCIL MEETING 

The Premier Honourable Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson attended the annual Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) on 23 – 26 November 2020 which was held virtually. 

The aim of the annual conference is to join together leaders from the Overseas Territories and UK Ministers and to review and implement a shared strategy for ensuring the security and good governance of all Territories and their sustainable economic and social development. 

The 4-day meeting features presentations from various other territory leaders and round table discussions on a number of matters affecting the UK Overseas Territories including:  

• COVID-19 Pandemic
• Constitutional Relationships 
• Economic Resilience  
• EU Exit  
• Trade  
• Protection of the Vulnerable
• Prisons  
• Environmental Protection and Funding  
• International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Instruments Implementation Code 
• And Border Security.   

During day one of the meetings, Premier Robinson gave a presentation on Border Security, highlighting TCI’s management of illegal migration and human trafficking through its National Security Strategy and multi-sector partnerships including the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police, US Coast Guard and Bahamas Defence Force.  

Following the Premier’s presentation, a roundtable discussion ensued to outline further border security challenges experienced around the region and a full outline of the UK funded Border Security Programme.

On day two, Baroness Sugg invited Premier Robinson to speak to the impact of COVID-19 on the Turks and Caicos Islands Economy and TCI’s short, medium and long term plans in response to the pandemic.  

During day three of the meeting, the Premier made a third presentation on Her Majesty’s Prison highlighting the TCI Government’s investment in the redevelopment, management and hiring and training of staff at the facility. 

The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force and the UK Government has lent their support in physical manpower and funding, in partnership with the TCI Government which has in the National Budget allocated funding to fulfill much needed upgrades to the facility.  

Leaders heard from His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson as well as the Minister for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Baroness Sugg.   

The Premier was joined by His Excellency Governor Nigel Dakin, Executive Director for the Office of the Premier, Local Government and Community Affairs, Ronlee James and UK Representatives for the TCI Government London Office, Tracy Knight and Kimo Tynes. 

Government Ministers joined during sessions that discussed any matters pertaining to their respective Ministry. 

ENDS