Turks and Caicos Islands Celebrates International Day of the Ombudsman
Theme: Empowering Voices, Resolving Challenges
Turks and Caicos Islands — October 2025
The Turks and Caicos Islands, home to around 44,000 people across 40 islands and covering approximately 1,000 square miles, present unique challenges for public outreach and engagement. The Office of the Complaints Commission (OCC) concluded its annual All-Island Tour (3–10 October 2025), reaffirming its dedication to accessibility, accountability, and partnership throughout the islands. This outreach programme brings services directly to communities, ensuring residents are informed, supported, and able to engage with the Ombudsman’s work.
During the Tour, Former Commissioner Hon. Rita Gardiner and the OCC team visited several islands, meeting residents, community leaders, and government representatives. The Tour aimed to raise awareness of the OCC’s role in investigating maladministration and promoting equal access to oversight.
The All-Island Tour serves as a cornerstone of the OCC’s public outreach, enabling residents from every island to understand how to report concerns about government services, know their rights, and navigate the complaints process.
Although no formal complaints arose during the Tour, residents offered valuable feedback on service delivery, which will be relayed to relevant authorities for review and action. Community members commended the OCC’s proactive engagement and Former Commissioner Gardiner’s enduring commitment to transparency and fairness.
Reflecting on her tenure in remarks delivered on October 31, 2025, Former Commissioner Gardiner said:
“When I first assumed this role, public understanding of the Commission’s purpose was limited. Today, I am heartened to see far more residents recognise the OCC as a trusted voice for fairness and accountability. This growing awareness speaks to a community that values justice and good governance. It has been my honour to serve the people of these islands.”
The OCC now operates under the leadership of Commissioner Cheryl Ann Jones, who succeeded Hon. Rita Gardiner. Mrs. Jones assumed duties on November 3rd.
The OCC continues its mandate to support good governance through free, confidential, and impartial investigations, ensuring that all residents receive fair treatment when interacting with government departments, statutory bodies, and boards.
If you have faced delays or unfair treatment by a government or statutory body, contact the OCC. We are here to help.
Contact the Office of the Complaints Commission
Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands
Email: complaints_commission@gov.tc
Phone: (649) 338-3407
Website: complaintscommissiontci.com