Turks and Caicos Islands House of Assembly members sworn in

GRAND TURK – History was made in the Turks and Caicos Islands last Friday when Members of the first House of Assembly in that country were present for a special swearing-in ceremony that marked the recent victory of the governing Progressive National Party (PNP).

The swearing-in ceremony was preceded by an Ecumenical Service held at the St. Mary's Anglican Church Pro Cathedral on Front Street.

Deemed a 'Great Day for the country,' by Premier Dr. Michael Misick, the event marked a significant achievement for his administration which championed the cause of constitutional modernisation and ushered in the most modern constitution in the Caribbean just last year which made way for the title designations of Premier, Deputy Premier, Deputy Governor and the change from Legislative Council to House of Assembly.

During the historical First Sitting of the First Session of the First House of Assembly of the Turks and Caicos Islands, 20 individuals were sworn-in as Members of the House including the Speaker, Hon. Clayton Greene, Attorney at Law, 13 Elected Members from the Progressive National Party, one Government Appointed Minister, two Elected Mem-bers from the People's Democratic Movement, a Governor's Appointed Member and Two Appointed Members- one for each side of the political divide.

Premier Misick and his administration were returned to power after capturing 13 of the 15 electoral seats of the British Caribbean territory during that country's general elections on February 9.

Misick, who led the party to victory in 2003 after eight years in the opposition, has become that nation's leader for a second term.

The PNP is credited for the country's recent economic growth, particularly in the fast growing islands of Providenciales, Grand Turk – the capital – Middle Caicos, South Caicos and North Caicos, the Premier's constituency.

Addressing the gathering, Premier Misick spoke of the significance of the day and the journey that has brought the country to its present point.

Having recently claimed victory at the polls during the February 9 General Elections with a margin of 13 to two, the Premier, noted the sense of humility and regard that he has for the people of the country whom he says have placed their trust in his party and their ability to govern. To this end he said, "We pledge to rededicate ourselves to the task ahead and to be responsible in our actions."

He went on to further highlight the proud record of achievement his administration is able to stand on after just three and a half years in office. In respect to the economy he noted, "when coming to office there was half a million dollars in the bank. Today, we have over $35 million in the bank and $23 million in reserves."

The Premier was quick to note however, that the achievements of his government during their previous term mark ' just the beginning.' "We have plenty to do in our Turks and Caicos Islands," according to Misick. To this end he pledged to continue on the platform of modernising the country and building "A Bigger and Better Turks and Caicos Islands for all."

Leader of the Opposition, Floyd Seymour in his remarks following the Premier agreed that there still is much work to be done in the country and pledged his support in working with the government on issues that are in the best interest of the nation.

In a show of support, political Leaders and friends from throughout the region joined with the people of the Turks and Caicos in celebrating this significant milestone in their political life and constitutional history.

Overseas dignitaries in attendance included: Prime Minister Perry Christie and his delegation including Tourism Minister Obie Wilchombe; Education Minister Alfred Sears; Works and Utilities and Immigration Minister Bradley Roberts; Senator Phillip Galanis; and Deputy Premier of Nevis Hensley Daniel.

IN ATTENDANCE – Prime Minister Perry G. Christie was among the oversees dignitaries in attendance at a ceremony where members of the first House of Assembly in the Turks and Caicos Island were sworn in. Next to the Prime Minister Christie are Turks and Caicos First Lady Lisa Ray-Misick and Mary Jane Misick, mother of Premier Michael Misick.

© 2007 The Freeport News