Would Canada take over the Turks & Caicos one day and maybe even Cuba (when the country is in a much better condition)?

Eventually I think Turks and Caicos will join, not Cuba though.

Well, I think "take over" is the wrong term.....maybe they could join confederation, and become a member of the Canadian family.

Some kind of close connection or partnership with Cuba would send the Americans into convulsions.

Let's do it!!!! LOL






KGB

i believe that Cuba currently has about the same population of Ontario however, it's GDP is just a tenth of that of Ontario's and of course, a lot of work has to be done in social services, healthcare, education, environment, infrastructure, etc. in order for Canada to even think about considering and of course, if Cuba wants to.

nevertheless, i say both!!!!

No, even if the Canadian and Turks and Caicos people wanted it. The obstacle is amending the Constitution. And we all know how efficient, successful, and popular Canadian constitutional amendments have been. (Think Meech Lake, Charlottetown)

Even more unlikely is Cuba. The minute Castro dies, the U.S. is going to be there. Within a year, Cuba will be just like bordertown Mexico, and run by U.S.-friendly CIA-funded puppets.

No, even if the Canadian and Turks and Caicos people wanted it. The obstacle is amending the Constitution. And we all know how efficient, successful, and popular Canadian constitutional amendments have been. (Think Meech Lake, Charlottetown)

Even more unlikely is Cuba. The minute Castro dies, the U.S. is going to be there. Within a year, Cuba will be just like bordertown Mexico, and run by U.S.-friendly CIA-funded puppets.

as Castro said himself, Guantanamo is really a scar to his country. maybe Canada could help to make Cuba a better place and prevent further American occupation, afterall Cuba's largest trading partner is surprisingly Canada and Castro likes us.

as Castro said himself, Guantanamo is really a scar to his country. maybe Canada could help to make Cuba a better place and prevent further American occupation, afterall Cuba's largest trading partner is surprisingly Canada and Castro likes us.

Not much Canada can do. Even though every member of the UN except Australia and several U.S. Pacific commonwealths vote every year to end U.S. economic sanctions, that doesn't sway the U.S.

a lot of work has to be done in social services, healthcare, education, environment, infrastructure, etc. in order for Canada to even think about considering and of course, if Cuba wants to.

I don't know, Cuba has a pretty much self-sustaining economy and a child mortality rate that is lower than the US. That doesn't sound that bad to me. Frankly the U.S. embargo is an ideological relic from the Cold War. The US does business with China, but God forbid letting tourists go to the evil empire known as Cuba. It's laughable.

I think that an amendment supporting the Turks & Caico's entrance into Confederation would be welcomed by all Canadians. Finally, we can finally spend our loonies by the beaming sun and shiny white beaches.

However, would the Turks& Caicos want to join with us?

I hate Mulorney Period.

^ they still want to join but not as much as they did two decades ago when they actually cried and screamed to join with Canada.

its our gay government that hasnt let them join, holy crap they only have like 25,000 people how frigan hard can it be. Cuba on the other hand, i actually woudnt mind it becoming another Canadian Province, it would be the second biggest population wise about a million people smaller then Ontario, so if it were to come up to the Canadian standard of living it would be a huge boost to the economy size and maybe diversity and bring up our total population to around 44 million. It would be great for vacations (cheaper to) and it would be one less country for the United States to pick on.

^ they still want to join but not as much as they did two decades ago when they actually cried and screamed to join with Canada.

We should cry and sceam for them to join Canada. Or we'll send our invincible army after them, lol.

CUBA

area: 110,860 sq. km. largest country in Caribbean and westernmost island of the Greater Antilles

coastline: 3,755 km

climate: tropical; moderated by trade winds; dry season (November to April); rainy
season (May to October). the east coast is subject to hurricanes from August to November (in general, the country averages about one hurricane every other year); droughts are common

terrain: mostly flat to rolling plains, with rugged hills and mountains in the southeast

lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m

highest point: Pico Turquino 2,005 m

natural resources: cobalt, nickel, iron ore, chromium, copper, salt, timber, silica, petroleum, arable land

land use:
- arable land: 33.05%
- permanent crops: 7.6%
- other: 59.35% (2001)

environmental issues: air and water pollution; biodiversity loss; deforestation

population: 11,308,764 (July 2004 est.)

age structure:
- 0-14 years: 20% (male 1,163,741; female 1,102,391)
- 15-64 years: 69.8% (male 3,949,197; female 3,948,196)
- 65 years and over: 10.1% (male 528,162; female 617,077) (2004 est.)

median age:
- total: 34.8 years
- male: 34.2 years
- female: 35.5 years (2004 est.)

population growth rate: 0.34% (2004 est.)

birth rate: 12.18 births/1,000 population (2004 est.)

death rate: 7.17 deaths/1,000 population (2004 est.)

net migration rate: -1.58 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2004 est.)

infant mortality at birth:
- total: 6.45 deaths/1,000 live births
- male: 7.25 deaths/1,000 live births
- female: 5.6 deaths/1,000 live births (2004 est.)

life expectancy:
- total population: 77.04 years
- male: 74.77 years
- female: 79.44 years (2004 est.)

HIV infected: 3,300 (2003 est.)

ethnic groups: mulatto 51%, white 37%, black 11%, Chinese 1%

religion: nominally 85% Roman Catholic prior to CASTRO assuming power; Protestants, Jehovah's Witnesses, Jews, and Santeria are also represented

languages: spanish

current gov't type: communist state

capital city: Havana

administrative divisions: 14 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 special municipality* (municipio especial); Camaguey, Ciego de Avila, Cienfuegos, Ciudad de La Habana, Granma, Guantanamo, Holguin, Isla de la Juventud*, La Habana, Las Tunas, Matanzas, Pinar del Rio, Sancti Spiritus, Santiago de Cuba, Villa Clara

economy overview: The government continues to balance the need for economic loosening against a desire for firm political control. It has undertaken limited reforms to increase enterprise efficiency and alleviate serious shortages of food, consumer goods, and services. A major feature of the economy is the dichotomy between relatively efficient export enclaves and inefficient domestic sectors. The average Cuban's standard of living remains at a lower level than before the depression of the 1990s, which was caused by the loss of Soviet aid and domestic inefficiencies. The government reluctantly allows a large dollar market sector, fueled by tourism and remittances from Cubans abroad.

GDP: US$32.13 billion (2003 est.)

GDP growth rate: 2.6% (2003 est.)

GDP composition by sector:
- agriculture: 5.5%
- industry: 26.9%
- services: 67.6% (2003 est.)

inflation rate (consumer prices): 4.1% (2003 est.)

labour force: 4.58 million
note: state sector 78%, non-state sector 22% (2003 est.)

labour force by occupation: agriculture 24%, industry 25%, services 51% (1999)

unemployment rate: 2.6% (2003 est.)

gov't budget:
- revenues: $17.21 billion
- expenditures: $18.28 billion, including capital expenditures of NA (2003 est.)

agriculture products: sugar, tobacco, citrus, coffee, rice, potatoes, beans; livestock

industries: sugar, petroleum, tobacco, construction, nickel, steel, cement, agricultural machinery, pharmaceuticals

exports: $1.467 billion f.o.b. (2003 est.)

imports: $4.531 billion f.o.b. (2003 est.)

debt: $12.52 billion (convertible currency); another $15 billion -$20 billion owed to Russia (2003 est.)

currency: Cuban peso (CUP)

telephone lines in use: 574,400 (2002)

telephone mobile in use: 17,900 (2002)

internet users: 120,000 (2001)

railways:
total: 4,226 km
standard gauge: 4,226 km 1.435-m gauge (140 km electrified)
note: an additional 7,742 km of track is used by sugar plantations; about 65% of this track is standard gauge; the rest is narrow gauge (2003)

highways:
total: 60,858 km
paved: 29,820 km (including 638 km of expressway)
unpaved: 31,038 km (1999 est.)

airports with paved runways:
total: 79
over 3,047 m: 7
2,438 to 3,047 m: 9
1,524 to 2,437 m: 20
914 to 1,523 m: 6
under 914 m: 37 (2004 est.)

You think there are language issues in Canada now? Throw Cuba into the mix and watch what happens :bash: The problem with taking on the Turks and Caicos is that alot of people in government think that it might be a major tax drain and hurt the economy even more. Nova Scotia recentely voted for the Turks and Caicos to join the province, but at least one MP wasn't amused with the idea of annexing a tropical paradise. Glace Bay MP Dave Wilson said Nova Scotia already has one island to take care of – Cape Breton. It would be nice to have an actual "warm" part of the country though :sleepy:

TURKS & CAICOS

area: 430 sq. km, roughly 3.8 times the size of Vancouver city proper

coastline: 389 km

climate: tropical; marine; moderated by trade winds; sunny and relatively dry, frequent hurricanes

terrain: low, flat limestone; extensive marshes and mangrove swamps, about 40 ISLANDS

lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m

highest point: Blue Hills 49 m

natural resources: spiny lobster, conch

land use:
arable land: 2.33%
permanent crops: 0%
other: 97.67% (2001)

environmental issues: limited natural fresh water resources, private cisterns collect rainwater

population: 19,956 (July 2004 est.)

age:
0-14 years: 32.5% (male 3,301; female 3,184)
15-64 years: 63.8% (male 6,696; female 6,036)
65 years and over: 3.7% (male 327; female 412) (2004 est.)

median age:
total: 27.2 years
male: 27.9 years
female: 26.5 years (2004 est.)

pop. growth rate: 3.03% (2004 est.)

birth rate: 22.85 births/1,000 population (2004 est.)

death rate: 4.26 deaths/1,000 population (2004 est.)

migration rate: 11.68 migrant(s)/1,000 population (2004 est.)

infant mortality rate:
total: 16.27 deaths/1,000 live births
male: 18.79 deaths/1,000 live births
female: 13.61 deaths/1,000 live births (2004 est.)

life expectancy:
total population: 74.25 years
male: 72.05 years
female: 76.57 years (2004 est.)

ethinic groups: black 90%, mixed, European, or North American 10%

religion: Baptist 40%, Methodist 16%, Anglican 18%, Church of God 12%, other 14% (1990)

languages: english (official)

literacy:
definition: age 15 and over has ever attended school
total population: 98%
male: 99%
female: 98% (1970 est.)

capital city: Grand Turk (Cockburn Town)

status: overseas territory of UK

economy: The Turks and Caicos economy is based on tourism, fishing, and offshore financial services. Most capital goods and food for domestic consumption are imported. The US is the leading source of tourists, accounting for more than half of the 93,000 visitors in the late 1990s. Major sources of government revenue include fees from offshore financial activities and customs receipts. Tourism fell by 6% in 2002.

GDP: USD$231 million (2000 est.)

GDP growth rate: 4.9% (2000 est.)

GDP per capita: $9,600 (2000 est.)

inflation rate for consumer prices: 4% (1995)

labour force: 4,848 (1990 est.)
about 33% in government and 20% in agriculture and fishing; significant numbers in tourism, financial, and other services

unemployment rate: 10% (1997 est.)

budget: revenues: $47 million
expenditures: $33.6 million, including capital expenditures of NA (1997-98 est.)

agricultural products: corn, beans, cassava (tapioca), citrus fruits; fish

industries: tourism, offshore financial services

exports: $169.2 million (2000)

imports: $175.6 million (2000)

currency: USD

telephones main lines used: 5,700 (2002)

telephone mobile used: 1,700 (1999)

highways:
total: 121 km
paved: 24 km
unpaved: 97 km (2000)

port: Grand Turk, Providenciales

airports: 8 (2003 est.)

military: responsibility of UK

----------------------------------------------------

if the T & C became part of Canada, there would be an island available to be turned into a giant military, naval, and air base for Canada.

TURKS & CAICOS
if the T & C became part of Canada, there would be an island available to be turned into a giant military, naval, and air base for Canada.

Not a bad idea, but it would never happen in a million years.

Not a bad idea, but it would never happen in a million years.

either that or we take over Cuba and kick the Americans out of the island and use their facilities at the bay. :cheers:

either that or we take over Cuba and kick the Americans out of the island and use their facilities at the bay. :cheers:

Haha that would be nice. Too bad we wouldn't have any troops or equipment to man the place. Let alone a way to get them there.

Turks & Caicos is still possible, although I am not sure if it ever will happen. I'd be nice, though, and it makes a certain amount of economic sense as well. The gov of T&C, however, isn't really actively soliciting the idea as it once was. I remember reading an interview by a senior gov. official from T&C saying something to the effect that they are not really actively pursuing the idea, but are open to it.

Cuba is obviously not going to happen.

I highly doubt that the people of Cuba would want to join Canada, most countries cherish there independance...

whats all this talk of Cuba and Turks/C joining Canada? Why the hell would Cuba join Canada lol? Am I missing something here..or is this just one of those "what if" threads?

Turks and Caicos isnt a "what if" thing IMO. There has actually been some serious talks about it in the past and its always kind of lingered around. It would also make perfect sense Canada and T&C so in that sense it could happen. Cuba is definitely what if, I dont see that happening, ever.

Here is an article on the subject, its only a year old.


Resurrection of idea for Canadian, Caribbean union
By CHRIS MORRIS

FREDERICTON (CP) - It's a dream that just won't die - a Canadian paradise in the sun with sugar-sand beaches, crystal clear water, medicare and the loonie.

After failed attempts in the 1970s and 1980s to breathe life into the idea of a union between Canada and the Turks and Caicos Islands in the Caribbean, the proposal is back, and this time it's supported by determined politicians and business people in both countries.

"In the long term, what is so absolutely vital for Canada is to expand our sphere of influence," says Conservative MP Peter Goldring, a driving force behind the Turks and Caicos movement.

"We had a sphere of influence in the Caribbean 100 years ago. Canada was a major shipper and transporter to the Caribbean from the Maritime provinces. We have lost that direct Maritime link with the Caribbean."

Goldring has organized an all-party committee of Parliamentarians as well as a group of business leaders to lay the groundwork for a possible union between Canada and the Caribbean Island.

"I'd like it to be the 11th province," Goldring says.

"It would be a Canadian province at the gateway to the Caribbean."

He thinks even Prime Minister Paul Martin might go for the idea.

"It would give Canada Steamship Lines the opportunity to register its fleet in a part of Canada," Goldring says with a smile, referring to the shipping company once owned by Martin that sails most of its fleet under foreign flags.

Ralph Higgs, a senior government official based in the Turks and Caicos capital of Cockburn Town, said in a telephone interview there is genuine and sincere interest among islanders in a union of some sort with Canada.

"We will talk and come up with something that is beneficial to both parties," Higgs said.

"It will be, in the final analysis, for the leaders of our countries to decide the best form for that relationship, whether it's provincial status, free association or overseas territory. We'll look at the pros and cons of each one and decide which is best for both parties."

For two decades, beginning in the early 1970s, the islands in the Caribbean made a series of proposals to join Canada.

The idea of spending Canadian dollars to soak up Canadian rays on toasty Canadian beaches has always played well in the winter-weary Great White North.

Islanders who supported the plan saw business opportunities and a chance to improve their standard of living by importing elements of Canada's social safety net, including medicare.

But when the implications of annexation were explored, interest cooled.

An External Affairs study released in 1987 warned that annexation of the islands - population 25,000 - could lead to racial tension, would be too expensive and would provide little or no benefit to Canada.

The archipelago of 30 islands lies east of Cuba, south of the Bahamas and north of Haiti. It's about 3,500 kilometres south of the Maritimes.

The British colony has 400 kilometres of white beaches and 800 kilometres of virgin reef for divers and snorkellers.

"This comes at a propitious time because the islands are re-evaluating their relationship with Great Britain," says Ottawa businessman Richard Pearson whose lobby group, A Place in the Sun, is pushing for a union.

Pearson says there are movers and shakers involved in the drive for an association with the Turks and Caicos, including former New Brunswick premier Frank McKenna, who is currently considering a run for federal office.

Goldring says the concerns expressed in the report two decades ago, including the distance, are no longer relevant.

"The world is very much different now," he says.

"Communications are instant. Computers and portable cellular phones have taken big business into small communities. September 11 has caused us to appreciate and value personal security and friendly places to visit."

Goldring says this early stage of the process involves getting the word out to Canadians that a union with the Caribbean country may be possible.

"There's a lot of disappointment Canada didn't see the light 20 years ago," he says.

"We want to do it right this time."

Isn't Saint Pierre & Miquelon closer?

T&C I could see happening one day but definitely not Cuba. As far as the motivation for the T&C government having wanted to join with Canada, it should be obvious : Money. Back when somebody up here was actually considering it the T&C gov't basically had looked around and figured "Hey, now there's a place that would raise our standard of living, is relatively close by and won't make us pay for our own healthcare....let's ask them if we can join" Of course, alot of us were for it simply because the place is in the tropics and for some reason we think that we would get free vacations there or something. Once the feds actually thought it through they realized that we'd basically be paying to set up a Canadian colony. And then they asked themselves "What for?" And frankly, well yeah, what for? Sure it's only 25,000 people but really, why would we want to pay to expand our nation when we're already the second largest in land area already ? Not to mention the fact whatever the T&C has to offer Canada is already perfectly available to us. So essentially, we'd just be adding to our bills for no good reason.

As far as Cuba goes,.....that one is brand new to me. Why in the world would Canada have any interest in annexing Cuba? The American's started their problems with the Cubans with the Bay of Pigs invasion. That really lit a fire under Castro's ass so he started getting real cozy with the Soviets. That's when one of the big heads in the USSR decided that Cuba would make a great place to park a few nuclear warheads. We came "That close" to all out nuclear war because of that little episode and the US hasn't forgotten about it. Until Castro dies and somebody more open to US interests takes his place, the US embargo on Cuba will stand. And hey, it's their right if they don't want to trade with Cuba. You can hand the bill for that one to Castro. As far as we go though, not only would it be economic suicide for Canada, the social problems it would cause would go a long way to tearing apart a country that already has open wounds thanks to Quebec seperatism. Annexing Cuba would probably be the the straw that broke the camel's back.

our Prime Minister should make the Turks & Caicos a future election issue. another issue would be to make our territories into provincial status, an action to protect our sovereignty.

also, if the Turks & Caicos became part of Canada, what status should they get? provincial or territorial?

Come on, T&C. I want to retire there!

If T&C ever joined Canada, they should only get to become territories. Even our existing arctic territories have higher population than Turks & Caicos.

^ our arctic territories will become provinces soon as our Prime Minister said, to protect our Canadian sovereignty. the Turks will likely become provincial status, it's also a status that would make them more encouraged to join Canada.

Okay, I have to ask all the forumers who support the possible annexations this : What for? Why would we have any interest in annexing these countries?

^Global Domination!

In all seriousness, the Turks & Caircos is a good choice. Its not to big and can be developed quite easily(is quite developed already). Plus they want to join us. Cuba is not a good choice, to large and much to fix.

^Global Domination!

In all seriousness, the Turks & Caircos is a good choice. Its not to big and can be developed quite easily(is quite developed already). Plus they want to join us. Cuba is not a good choice, to large and much to fix.
Well, what I mean really is what interest do we as Canadians actually have in acquiring these countries. I mean, it would cost us millions (probably more like billions) and I can't figure out for the life of me why we'd want to spend that money for a couple islands that are just as accessible to us now as they would be in the event of annexation. Just doensn't make any sense to me is all.

Well, what I mean really is what interest do we as Canadians actually have in acquiring these countries. I mean, it would cost us millions (probably more like billions) and I can't figure out for the life of me why we'd want to spend that money for a couple islands that are just as accessible to us now as they would be in the event of annexation. Just doensn't make any sense to me is all.

it'll do wonders to our economy.

it'll do wonders to our economy.
Well, that's pretty much what I'm talking about actually. How would that be ? It would cost us a fortune so I wonder how we would recoup that money. After all, even if Canadians decided to all go there for their vacations isn't that money already part of the internal economy of Canada already ? I suppose there's an argument to saying that it's money that would be spent in Canada as opposed to some other place but I doubt the difference would be made up once we factor in the cost of actually running and developing the place up to our standards.

Well, that's pretty much what I'm talking about actually. How would that be ? It would cost us a fortune so I wonder how we would recoup that money. After all, even if Canadians decided to all go there for their vacations isn't that money already part of the internal economy of Canada already ? I suppose there's an argument to saying that it's money that would be spent in Canada as opposed to some other place but I doubt the difference would be made up once we factor in the cost of actually running and developing the place up to our standards.

according to an article i read sometime ago, turning that place into Canadian standards would cost $423 million. the place is already quite well developed. we spend money to make money. though a lot of Canadians already go there to vacation, even more people would go there once it becomes part of Canada.

there's also a matter of trade and military. Paul Martin and other Canadian companies can park their boats at the islands and the gov't can park their warships and maybe even build a military and air force base there as well.

according to an article i read sometime ago, turning that place into Canadian standards would cost $423 million. the place is already quite well developed. we spend money to make money. though a lot of Canadians already go there to vacation, even more people would go there once it becomes part of Canada.

there's also a matter of trade and military. Paul Martin and other Canadian companies can park their boats at the islands and the gov't can park their warships and maybe even build a military and air force base there as well.
So we pay $423 million bucks (not including upkeep which would run into the millions per year. Even more than any other territory due to it's geographic location) and we get to ..... what do we get again? Ah, we get to have private firms set up hotels and resorts which they can do right now if they want. And not to mention we can set up a military base for Canada's plans of global domination. We have no other use for a military base in the Caribbean so that must be the reason. But seriously, this would only cost us money. There just isn't an upside to this for Canada at all unless you own a business that can afford to build a large hotel down there. Even then, I don't understand how their incorporation would change any of that.

The bottom line is Turks and Caicos wins, Canada loses. I just don't get it but if you could cite a report or something that spells out how this is beneficial for Canada in the long run I'd be happy to read it.

"The bottom line is Turks and Caicos wins, Canada loses."

Oh lighten up....it won't effect your miserable little existance over there in the back-forty of Canada one little bit.

Nobody loses. Instead of Canadians having to support foreign holiday resorts elewhere, we could build a Canadian holiday paradise for ourselves and others where the hassles of foreign travel don't apply, and all the profits from everything associated stay in the Canadian economy, instead of someone else's.

And instead of thinking about it just in terms of who gets to exploit who...why not think of it as an example to the world of how people can get together peacefully and just...have fun about it. What's wrong with someone joining the Canadian family and enjoying the positive aspects instead of all this grumpy shit?

For all you pesimists, why don't we just trade in one island for another....boot out newfoundland and take T&C...save a lot of money?






KGB

"The bottom line is Turks and Caicos wins, Canada loses."

Oh lighten up....it won't effect your miserable little existance over there in the back-forty of Canada one little bit.

Nobody loses. Instead of Canadians having to support foreign holiday resorts elewhere, we could build a Canadian holiday paradise for ourselves and others where the hassles of foreign travel don't apply, and all the profits from everything associated stay in the Canadian economy, instead of someone else's.

And instead of thinking about it just in terms of who gets to exploit who...why not think of it as an example to the world of how people can get together peacefully and just...have fun about it. What's wrong with someone joining the Canadian family and enjoying the positive aspects instead of all this grumpy shit?

For all you pesimists, why don't we just trade in one island for another....boot out newfoundland and take T&C...save a lot of money?






KGB
After careful thought and consideration concerning your post, I have formulated the most direct and succinct response applicable:
Fuck off .

The bottom line is Turks and Caicos wins, Canada loses. I just don't get it but if you could cite a report or something that spells out how this is beneficial for Canada in the long run I'd be happy to read it.

You are right on. I used to write to a discussion board based in the T&C, and asked them why their Government might want to form an association with Canada. One of the answers I received was absolutely brilliant. Essentially, only Canada would be willing to send them money (with few if any strings attached) and be willing to tolerate all the nonsense and other corruption associated with the place. The T&C has a huge illegal immigration problem - with Haitians primarily - and they would love to dump that problem onto Canada's lap. They also want to share in our social programs - healthcare, welfare, etc. It's very much a one-way deal - we pay, they get the benefits. Canada would get no real benefits whatsoever. Unless you feel that being able to post tropical beach photos under "Canada's natural assets" is important.

Britain wants to be rid of the T&C, and the US of A would never put up with their BS. Britain has already let Canada know: hey, if you want them, go for it! Please!!!

For all you pesimists, why don't we just trade in one island for another....boot out newfoundland and take T&C...save a lot of money?


KGB

Now that's a plan.

^Thank-you for qualifying my opinion. :)

Better yet lets kick Loose's have not province out, that would save some money.

Better yet lets kick Loose's have not province out, that would save some money.
Actually, what would really save some money is if you kicked out ALL the have not provinces. That way Alberta would only have to give Ontario money ! See, they'd go for that so you should do it !
Go tiger, go !
[EDIT]
I forgot...of course, then you could join with the T&C and Cuba and be in economic and socialist paradise. Good plan.

Nah, BC and Quebec have some redeeming qualities much like T&C so they can stay, Manitoba on the other....doesnt.

We can already visit and invest in the T&C, but we don't need their illegal immigration, and additional problems. It would be nice to have a tropical island, but you have to examine the issues before you get too involved. The Mal-Ruin-E Government did that back in the 1980s and said thanks, but no thanks. It was one of the few smart things that his Government did.

Nah, BC and Quebec have some redeeming much like T&C so they can stay, Manitoba on the other....doesnt.
Hmmm....good thinking. BC and Alberta have SOOOOO much in common with Ontario. Not to mention of course that with Quebec in this new confederation you can truly forge ahead with cultural healing. I'm sure the western portion of this new land will be absolutely ECSTATIC with now not even having a border to share with the rest of the country. It's bound to be a real hit.

I forgot to mention that of course, you're right. Economically, we'd all win wouldn't we? Since you wouldn't have access to the emerging markets in the East without going through the West, we could charge whatever we wanted couldn't we? Well, we'd be rich thanks to your plan. Unless of course you'd prefer to just get a little more cozy with the States. No doubt they'd love to take your money as well ! But, I suppose you could just develop your ties to the Caribbean and the T&C. And maybe Portugal or something too.

Yeah you're right, everybody wins. Especially me, I could move down to T&C no problem, live on some tropical beach. You on the other hand would be stuck in Manitoba.

Yeah you're right, everybody wins. Especially me, I could move down to T&C no problem, live on some tropical beach. You on the other hand would be stuck in Manitoba.
Sounds alright by me.....but you have to promise to move there.

Canada is indeed one of those unique countries in the Western World. I have met some friends in the US who brag so positively about Canada. In this day in age where so many colonizing countries would rather get rid of their remaining colonies, it is amazing that one country is seeking the opposite and wants colonies.

^Hey Dr. Joe ! You could be a "colonist"! lmao !

"Nah, BC and Quebec have some redeeming qualities much like T&C so they can stay, Manitoba on the other....doesnt."


Well, to be honest, with all miserable, alcoholic, unemployed misanthropes there, I expected a hell of a lot more good novels coming out of the place.

So quit wasting your time telling people to "fuck off" on the internet, and do something productive with all that negative energy, so the rest of us will have something intriging to read while were laying on the new Molson's beach in the Turds & Chaos Islands.

Which brings up another positive aspect to Canadian tropical islands....access to good ole Canadian munchies like Mars Bars, Vachon Cakes, and butter tarts, instead of experimenting with that strange shit they always have.





KGB

"Nah, BC and Quebec have some redeeming qualities much like T&C so they can stay, Manitoba on the other....doesnt."


Well, to be honest, with all miserable, alcoholic, unemployed misanthropes there, I expected a hell of a lot more good novels coming out of the place.

So quit wasting your time telling people to "fuck off" on the internet, and do something productive with all that negative energy, so the rest of us will have something intriging to read while were laying on the new Molson's beach in the Turds & Chaos Islands.

Which brings up another positive aspect to Canadian tropical islands....access to good ole Canadian munchies like Mars Bars, Vachon Cakes, and butter tarts, instead of experimenting with that strange shit they always have.





KGB

Why KGB, if I didn't know any better, I'd say you were in a rather jovial mood...what a pleasant surprise. Of course, now that I've been nice to you, I'm sure you'll be interested in proving me wrong. But , come on now big guy, how 'bout a hug hmmmm? :lol: :grouphug:

T&C could make us money because of tourism. Americans would probably rather go there for a warm holiday because it is owned by Canada than some place they assume to be thrid-world.

Why KGB, if I didn't know any better, I'd say you were in a rather jovial mood...what a pleasant surprise. Of course, now that I've been nice to you, I'm sure you'll be interested in proving me wrong. But , come on now big guy, how 'bout a hug hmmmm? :lol: :grouphug:

I've seen KGB be humorous before...almost fun even.

Don't worry though...he'll live to piss you off another day ;)

Have there been any updates on this? It seems that politicians always talk for a little while about it, and then when nothing happens, everyone forgets about it. Are we still going to be talking about this 20 years from now without anything ever happening?

im just wondering why i never hear anything about i ton the news

First we should concentrate on keeping control of our own territory. Canada must be adamant about its intentions with regards to Hans Island. It would be an international embarassment to be "defeated" by small European country!

looselog, you are blowing this subject WAY out of proportion. T&C is a good idea. It is not like the islands come with a 450 million dollar price tag at the time of order! The money does not have to be put in right away considering it already is self sustained. The inhabitants are surviving just fine w/o us right now. Besides, it's not like Manitoba was a "win win" situation now was it?

And im quite fond of your other statement about Manitoba. "Its importance to this country is because its smack in the middle." Wow, now thats a keeper.

In high school I did an paper on this issue (Canada annexing the Turks and Caicos) for my economics class and I would like to share it (I got an A on it :) ):

Would an annexation be a wise economic decision for Canada and the Turks and Caicos Islands?

Canada is an enviable nation on the global stage. As a member of the G7, with a GDP-per capita of over $27,700 (Central Intelligence Agency [CIA], 2003), it is one of the world’s richest nations. It has a very diverse economy and its citizens enjoy some of the world’s best living conditions. While Canada may seem like an almost perfect place, it appears to lacking something that many Canadians would greatly appreciate – a tropical address. The United States of America has the Sunbelt (from California to Florida) and Hawaii. What does Canada have? It could potentially be the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Turks and Caicos Islands, currently a British overseas territory (CIA, 2003), would be Canada’s answer to Hawaii. White sand beaches and an unending summer sound very pleasant, but that alone would not be sufficient enough to set the stage for an annexation. In this case, the economic benefits can be assessed to help support or negate the idea of the Turks and Caicos becoming a part Canada. For Canada, its tourism industry would be the obvious beneficiary of an annexation, but do the economic benefits end there? What about the Turks and Caicos - what is in it for them? This essay will explore how the opportunities in trade, tourism and investment for Canada, and the opportunities for economic development in the Turks and Caicos Islands would make an annexation between the two nations a wise economic decision.

Tourism is the first and foremost economic reason for Canada’s appetence to unite with the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Turks and Caicos Islands are a much desired tourist destination. For one, they are blessed with a favourable climate with temperatures hovering around 24 degrees Celsius between August and January, and 28 degrees Celsius between February and July (Turks and Caicos Islands 1999, p.462). These warm temperatures enhance the Turks and Caicos Islands experience as it contributes to the congenial environment that makes it an excellent tourist destination. To compliment the warm temperatures, the absence of tropical diseases makes Turks and Caicos Islands a safe and healthy destination for its visitors (Smithers, 1995). Therefore the inconveniences of vaccinations are not a burden. For divers and beach mongers, the Turks and Caicos Islands are home to some excellent diving sites and white sand beaches, which are characteristic of the Caribbean Islands (Mancini, 1996). Through a union, Canadians would more so be able to take advantage of what the Turks and Caicos Islands have to offer. The Turks and Caicos Islands would provide a stable, sunny and secure retirement and vacation “snowbird” destination. It could also serve as a tropical convention destination and a centre for year-round athletic training facilities (Goldring, 2003). Most importantly, all this would be enjoyed in Canada – no customs, passports, duties would be required and Canadian dollars would be used. As a nation, Canada would benefit from the Turks and Caicos’ strength in the tourism industry – its largest industry (Smithers, 1995). Currently each tourist in the Turks and Caicos Islands spends approximately C$1000 on hotels, food and souvenirs (Goldring, 2003). With 93,000 annual visitors (Goldring, 2003), C$930,000,000 would be the expected contribution towards Canada’s tourism industry – allowing Canada to rebalance its international vacation deficit. The demand for a tropical vacation destination exists among Canadians. This is evident in the fact that Canadians account for 40 percent of all annual visitors to the Caribbean (Williams, 2004). There also appears to be an increase in the popularity of the Turks and Caicos Islands among Canadians. In all of 1999, the Turks and Caicos received 7200 Canadian visitors in contrast to the 10,100 Canadian visitors received in the first quarter of the year 2000 (Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade [DFAIT], http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca). All in all, the potential advantages for Canada in the tourism sector would support the idea of adopting the Turks and Caicos Islands.

While the contributions to Canada’s tourism industry are an obvious economic benefit, there are also opportunities for Canada that exist in trade and investment. Currently, the Turks and Caicos Islands’ economy (led by tourism) is experiencing a boom. In addition, they are aiming to attract quality financial investments. In joining Canada, they would open up more opportunities for Canadians to make these investments. Confidence in Canada’s investment interest in the Turks and Caicos Islands is evident in the apparent growth in Canadian investment activity, especially in real estate. One could also look at establishments such as the Bank of Nova Scotia, CIBC, and RBC Dominion Securities Global Incorporated, all which have already expressed their interests in investing further in the Turks and Caicos Islands (DFAIT, http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca). For Canadians, investing would become even more attractive if Canadian investment policies and the Canadian dollar are adopted by the Turks and Caicos Islands. For Canadian businesses, the Turks and Caicos Islands would serve as a new marketplace in which to venture upon. Canadian businesses would also be able to capitalize on the elimination of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ Business license charges, which would have been required for any new or foreign businesses wishing to operate there (Williams, 2004). Edmonton Centre-East Canadian Member of Parliament, Peter Goldring, an avid supporter of the motion to invite the Turks and Caicos to join Canada, recognizes the existing opportunities for Canadian businesses and investors when he states: “It makes good business sense for Canada to take advantage of a willing marketplace to expand into that will benefit both countries” (Goldring, 2003). On the idea of expansion, an annexation with the Turks and Caicos Island would better position Canada to expand its trading markets. Currently, Canada accounts for less than 2 percent of the Caribbean’s imports (Williams, 2004). The Turks and Caicos Islands’ proximity to the Caribbean, Latin America and South America would allow for ease in distributing, marketing, and transshipping manufactured goods in those regions (Goldring, 2003), hence creating the opportunity for Canada to expand its share of Caribbean imports. In the end, the opportunities for Canada that exist in investment and trade supports the idea of a union between the two nations as a wise economic decision.

For the Turks and Caicos Islands, in becoming a part of Canada they will be accelerating their economic development. Currently, the economy of the Turks and Caicos Islands is dependent on tourism, customs revenue, and offshore financial services as sources of revenue (DFAIT, http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca). A union with Canada would provide opportunities for developing their weaker industries and encourage economic diversification. This would decrease their dependence on their stronger sectors, hence providing an economic ‘safety net’. Current opportunities for economic diversification in the Turks and Caicos can be found in the movie industry (as a studio location), manufacturing and distribution, aquaculture development, and regional trade and investment banking (Goldring, 2003). Diversifying their economy, along with increased Canadian investments, would also stimulate job growth. This would help lower the unemployment rate, which currently sits at 10 percent (CIA, 2003). The Turks and Caicos Islands’ economy is also over-reliant on its imports of capital and consumer goods, and energy (DFAIT, http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca) since they do not have the resources to produce most of these goods for themselves. For example, they currently lack natural freshwater resources and consequentially are limited in their agricultural activities (Turks and Caicos Islands 1999, p.463), which is why they must import most of their agriculture. Today, the Turks and Caicos Islands rely on Canadian imports for transportation equipment, chemicals, processed and unprocessed minerals, food products, wood and paper products, fish products, petroleum and natural gas (CIA, 2003). Through a union with Canada, these products would become more available to the Turks and Caicos Islanders. The increased supply of these products, coupled with duty free imports through domestic trade with Canada, would result in cheaper consumer prices for Islanders and tourists. An additional benefit for Turks and Caicos Islanders is that they would have better access to globally recognized education programs at Canadian Universities and institutions of higher education (Williams, 2004). While paying the same tuition fees as fellow Canadians, Turks and Caicos Islanders would be able to obtain the proper education, skills, and qualifications to become more competitive in the labour market. For the Turks and Caicos Islands, a union would allow them to attract more highly skilled and educated workers from Canada to contribute towards their growing economy. Overall, the opportunities for economic development in the Turks and Caicos Islands would advocate the idea of the annexation of Canada and the Turks and Caicos Islands as a wise economic decision.

In assessing the economic benefits of a union between Canada and the Turks and Caicos Islands, it appears favourable that the annexation takes place. To reiterate, Canadians would be able to take advantage of the opportunities that exist in tourism, investment and trade, while the Turks and Caicos Islands would enjoy stimulated economic growth. However, a union among nations would also have to consider the social and political factors in order to fully assess whether it is viable. At least Canadians and Turks and Caicos Islanders can take comfort in knowing that if their countries were to unite, it would be in their best economic interests at the very least.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Canada. Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. Turks and Caicos: Guide for Canadian Exporters to the Turks and Caicos Islands. April 2004. 24 April 2005. <http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/latinamerica/turkscaicosexportersguide-en.asp>.

Central Intelligence Agency. (2003). The World Factbook. Washington, D.C: Brassey’s, Inc.

Goldring, Peter. “Open Letter to the People of Canada”. Canada’s 11th Province: The Turks and Caicos Islands? August 2003. 24 April 2005 <http://www.petergoldring.com/>.

Lambie, C. (2004, May 3). Turks and Caicos Residents cool to idea of joining Canada. Canadian Press. Retrieved March. 31, 2005, from EBSCO database (Canadian Reference Centre) on the World Wide Web: <http://www.ebsco.com>.

Mancini, Marc. (1996). Selling Destinations: Geography for the Travel Professional. (Canadian Ed.). Scarborough, Ontario: Nelson Canada.

Smithers, Amelia. (1995). The Turks and Caicos Islands: Lands of Discovery. (Second Ed.). Hong Kong: Macmillan Education Ltd.

Turks and Caicos Islands. (1999). In Peoples of the Americans (Vol.8, pp.462-463). Italy: Marshall Cavendish Corporation.

Wilkinson, B. (2004, April 15). Canada wants Turks and Caicos Islands. New York Amsterdam News [Article]. Vol.95 Issue 16, p14. Retrieved March 31, 2005 From EBSCO database (Canadian Reference Centre) on the World Wide Web: <http://www.esbco.com>.

Williams, C.J. (2004, November 20). A new province in the sun?. Winnipeg Free Press [Article]. Pe1. Retrieved March 31, 2005, from EBSCO database (Canadian Reference Centre) on the World Wide Wed: <http://www.ebsco.com>.

^I agree. What'd you get on the essay? It seems pretty short, like four pages/1200 words?

Isn't Saint Pierre & Miquelon closer?

lol....just slightly. But I think we already have enough rocks in the Gulf of St.Lawrence.

I think that Canada lost its chance to get the T&C. We had the chance in the 80's but blew it (just like we lost our chance with Jamaica in the 1880/90's). I think that T&C would rather go for independence then join another country, since they are basically independent as it is. I think there's no chance at all for Cuba. I could see them joining the US long before joining Canada. Hell, they'd have a better chance of joininh T&C then us.

^I agree. What'd you get on the essay? It seems pretty short, like four pages/1200 words?

The essay had to be betweeen 1200-1500 words. My first draft had around 2000 words, so I had a lot of "trimming" to do. BTW...I got an 'A' (Level 4) on it - what would you have given it?

check out www.cfatp.ca for information on this issue

I think that Canada lost its chance to get the T&C. We had the chance in the 80's but blew it (just like we lost our chance with Jamaica in the 1880/90's). I think that T&C would rather go for independence then join another country, since they are basically independent as it is. I think there's no chance at all for Cuba. I could see them joining the US long before joining Canada. Hell, they'd have a better chance of joininh T&C then us.
They don't want to join the US at all.

The essay had to be betweeen 1200-1500 words. My first draft had around 2000 words, so I had a lot of "trimming" to do. BTW...I got an 'A' (Level 4) on it - what would you have given it?

Hmm...I don't know, which grade was it for? What's Level 4? I'll read it again:)

They don't want to join the US at all.

Thus showing the odds of it joining Canada

^Even though they want to join Canada?

Hmm...I don't know, which grade was it for? What's Level 4? I'll read it again:)

Level 4 = A = around 90%

It was my ISU for Gr.12 Economics.

^Even though they want to join Canada?

Cuba- When did Castro say he wanted Cuba to join Canada

T&C- If you watched the Global Sunday report, the people on T&C seemed much more willing to start a free trade agreement with Canada and get it's own independence.

^ I saw that report, it was very interesting. Some people that live on the T&C supported joining Canada in some way and others like you said just want to work with Canada. I think one day the T&C will be part of Canada but not for a while.

Cuba on the other hand is totaly different. Castro will not join Canada but Cubans have expresed and interest in joining Canada. Im not sure if I would want Cuba part of Canada. There would be no benifit to Canada to take on a large 3rd world country, no Goverment would risk there political future on that.

I could see the Turks & Caicos joining Canada, you both have the same political system, same head of state, both countries are members of the Commonwealth, Britain won't stand in anyones way in this deal, so go for it.

Cuba- When did Castro say he wanted Cuba to join Canada

T&C- If you watched the Global Sunday report, the people on T&C seemed much more willing to start a free trade agreement with Canada and get it's own independence.
I never said anything about cuba wanting to join. T&C on the other hand....

I think that Turks & Caicos islands would join Canada but I doubt it would for Cuba to join Canada.

Canadians are getting too greedy first Hans Island and now expansion into the Carribean, Northern European Nations should now be showing their support for Denmark by highlighting these expansionist ideas as well.

T&C was never a Canadian idea. It was brought up by them, proposed to us.