Deputy Premier Hon. Sean Astwood has laudedthe introduction of unemployment insurance as a significant milestone for theTurks and Caicos Islands, calling it a "big deal" for residents.Speaking at a House of Assembly meeting on October 13, 2020, Astwood emphasizedthat the initiative is a lifeline for Turks and Caicos Islanders, PermanentResidence Certificate holders, and British Overseas Territory citizens who havefaced job losses. He clarified that eligibility requires prior registrationwith the National Insurance Board (NIB) and sufficient contributions, addingthat the program specifically supports those who have been fully terminatedfrom employment, not those with reduced work hours.

Astwood highlighted the government’scomprehensive efforts to support citizens during the economic downturn causedby the COVID-19 pandemic. He pointed to initiatives such as the second stimuluspackage, upcoming food distribution programs, small business aid, andsector-specific support for taxi drivers and others. "You can’t overstatethe hurt people are experiencing," Astwood said, emphasizing thegovernment’s focus on protecting and uplifting residents during these toughtimes.

The Deputy Premier also noted hisministry’s role in driving economic activity through capital projects,particularly in construction, as part of the government’s broader strategy tostimulate the economy. He thanked his team for their hard work in deliveringinfrastructure projects, adding that these combined efforts underscore thegovernment’s commitment to easing financial burdens and safeguardinglivelihoods.