September 4, 2007, Providenciales- The Ministry of Finance on Monday appointed a new Permanent Secretary in the person of Mr. Delton Jones who was previously serving as Chief Economist. Mr. Jones takes over the reins of Permanent Secretary of the Finance Ministry following the retirement of Mr. Hartley Coalbrooke.

As the mantle was handed over, accolades poured in for both gentlemen who in their own right have earned the respect of not only their fellow countrymen but colleagues from around the region and the wider world.

At a rather intimate handing over ceremony held at the Office of the Premier, Grand Turk, government officials turned out in a show of support.

Premier Misick in his remarks referred to the transition as “another milestone in the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands”. He commended Mr. Coalbrooke for his dedicated service saying, “Mr. Coalbrooke has served his country faithfully over the past 36 years”. He also made note of the fact that Coalbrooke has managed to serve in the capacity of Permanent Secretary to most of the country’s Chief Ministers .

To Delton Jones, the Premier extended congratulations on his accession to one of the highest Public Service positions. He wasted no time however in laying out matters that he believes needs to be dealt with. “As we grow one of the areas I believe is lacking is the collection of government revenues. We have to make sure that the government collects every cent it is owed”, said the Premier. He also painted a picture for the future of the country reminding Jones that “under your leadership there will be a broadening of our tax base.” He expounded, “With the amount of investment the government is making in infrastructure, airports, roads and schools, gone are the days when there will be no tax. I think the harsh reality is that we have to mature into a jurisdiction of low tax.” The aim and task of the Finance Ministry according to the Premier will be to establish a proper tax structure that gives the country the base to maintain the infrastructure in a balanced manner .

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