NOTICE FROM THE OFFICE OF THE DEPUTY GOVERNOR

TROPICAL CYCLONE 9 - CLOSURE OF TCIG OFFICES

Dear Colleagues,

As you are aware, the Department of Disaster Management & Emergencies has been monitoring the trajectory of Potential Tropical Cyclone (PTC #9). 

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for the Turks and Caicos Islands which means that severe weather conditions are expected within the next 36 hours.

The Turks and Caicos Government has activated its Disaster Management Plan which includes, but is not limited to the winding down of government services.

Kindly note that all government non-essential services will cease operations as of close of business on Wednesday, July 29^th, 2020.  Staff are to ensure that all supplies and equipment are properly secured before closure in order to minimize loss and to reduce the potential down time after the storm.  Kindly ensure before leaving on Wednesday, July 29^th, 2020 that the following measures are taken:

• All electrical equipment should be disconnected from power outlets, covered and elevated from the ground to prevent damages due to flooding;

• All important documents should be stored in plastic bags.

• All Government Property and Vehicles should be secured and returned to designated drop off locations.

Kindly note that as essential services are to remain in place throughout the storm, Permanent Secretaries are required to ensure that adequate coverage is in place. 

Separate announcements will be issued by the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority and Ports Authority regarding the closure of air and sea ports, staff are to adhere to the timelines provided by those authorities.

Colleagues are reminded of Clause 2.8 Disasters - in the Public Service Handbook which states that based on skill, some staff may be called upon to provide support in the event of need throughout the Islands.

You are encouraged to remain alert and to take all the necessary precautions to protect yourselves and your families.  For further information and regular updates regarding Tropical Cyclone #9 please visit the following: DDME Website: www.gov.tc/ddme, Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TCI.DDME, Twitter: @DDMETCI

Updates will be issued through the Turks and Caicos Government Press Office and Radio Turks and Caicos on the resumption of government services

I take this opportunity to wish you and your families all the best and remind all to continue to practice the wearing of mask and social distancing as we continue to fight the spread of COVID-19 in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

May God Bless, Guide and Protect our beloved islands.

Best regards,

Deputy Governor

Anya Williams