ARTICLE
29 May 1997

Interview With Chief Minister, Derek Taylor

FS
Financial Services Commission

Contributor

Financial Services Commission
Turks and Caicos Islands Wealth Management
Chief Minster Taylor believes that the Turks & Caicos Islands are set for exciting times, which he attributes to TCI still being one of the best kept secrets of the Caribbean.

With no exchange control, use of the US dollar, . strategic location just 1 hour and 20 minutes flying tine from Miami, and the freedom for anyone to purchase real estate, Mr. Taylor is optimistic that TCI will prosper over the ensuing years.

An eco-tourism destination, TCI remains unique with pristine coral reefs, some of the best diving to be found anywhere in the world due to the "wall" just 300 yards offshore Grand Turk, the sea drops precipitously to a depth of some 7,000 feet.

According to Chief Minister Taylor at least one master plan entailing a joint private and public sector project, is under way for a causeway between East Caicos and South Caicos Islands as well as other master plans for example; for Northwest Point in Providenciales, currently the most built up island.

OFFSHORE FINANCE

As it relates to the offshore finance centre's activities Mr. Taylor would like to see more responsibility for this sector to be in the hands of the elected government officials. At present the British designated Governor with a 3 year term has ultimate responsibility for the offshore industry.

Nevertheless, Mr Taylor believes that TCI cannot just rely on tourism as its sole revenue generator and is anxious to see further offshore financial services develop.

He is also not averse to the concept of a Free Trade Zone being established on one or more of the islands in order to attract foreign direct investment ad to create jobs for the local populace. Looking forward, Mr Taylor eyes the day when TCI will be more financially independent from Britain, although this does not in any way mean that TCI should become independent.

Most TCI Islanders look forward to that day, but recognise the necessary education levels amongst the population that will have to be attained

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