UK Department for Transport Visit to Turks and Caicos Islands

A team from the UK Department for Transport (DfT) recently visited the Turks and Caicos Islands to conduct a comprehensive audit of the country’s port operations. This exercise forms part of ongoing international oversight to ensure that ports serving the British Overseas Territories continue to meet required maritime security standards.

The audit focused on compliance with International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. The ISPS Code sets out a security framework for ships and port facilities engaged in international trade. Being compliant confirms that ports have approved port facility security plans (PFSP) in place, conduct regular assessments, maintain effective access control, and staff are properly trained to respond to potential threats. It also ensures that regular security drills and exercises are being undertaken and that effective communications are in place between all stakeholders.

During the visit, the team reviewed PFSPs, assessed physical security measures, examined access control systems, and observed operational procedures. One-on-one discussions were held with port management and security personnel to evaluate how policies are applied. The team also met with Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selveratnum.

DfT’s Deputy Head of Maritime Security Compliance, Charlie Probets, stated that cyber security and evolving global threats were increasingly common challenges facing ports today, alongside the more regularly associated threats pertaining to terrorism, general criminality, and border related issues. As port operations become increasingly digital, safeguarding information systems is just as important as securing physical infrastructure. Ensuring resilience against cyber risks is now critical component of maintaining ISPS compliance and protecting the broader supply chain.

Audits of this nature are essential. Ports serve as key entry points for food, fuel, medical supplies, and construction materials. Maintaining high security standards helps protect these supply chains from disruption among international shipping partners.

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Media Contact:

Paula Stewart

Business and Communications Manager

Ports Authority of the Turks and Caicos Islands

pstewart@ports.tc

Phone Number: 1(649)331-4525