Cayman Islands Beautification Project Launched

Leader of Government Business and Minister of
Tourism, the Hon McKeeva Bush (right) along with the
members of the new Cayman Islands Beautification
Committee

Monday, July 12, 2004

The newly formed Cayman Islands Beautification Committee (CIBC) will soon commence a countrywide programme of landscaping and beautification on a scale never before attempted here.

The volunteer group was recently given its terms of reference by Leader of Government Business and Minister of Tourism, the Hon McKeeva Bush. “I appreciate the efforts, expertise and donations, which will benefit all of the Cayman Islands in the long run,” said Mr Bush. Congratulating the members for dedicating their time and skills, he also presented them with a CI$15,000 government contribution towards the initial projects.

John Papesh, Dart Management’s vice-president of management and public affairs, also gave a US$50,000 cheque to CIBC chairman David Kirkaldy. “Dart Management is pleased to be able to help enhance the beauty of these Islands,” said Mr Papesh.

In addition, Dart Management is lending the expertise of the general manager of the West Indian Club Nursery, Sandy Urquhart, who is well known for spearheading the district park developments and his landscape design skills.

Other members of the new committee include veterans of the local floral and beautification scene, government agencies and the farming community.

The members of the Grand Cayman Committee include Berna Murphy-Cummings, deputy chairman; Kent Rankine, treasurer; Ella Kay Lockwood, secretary, Patricia Ulett, Ministry’s representative, Alex O’Neil; Neils Godfrey; Shaun Ebanks; Pam Hart; Jenny Manderson; Eddinton Powell and Sandy Urquhart.

The Cayman Brac committee members are Stephanie McCoon; Yvonne Walton; Royce Dilbert; Temple Tatum; Larry Bryan and Annilou Scott.

This enhancement initiative was made after the Ministry of Tourism decided that countrywide beautification is increasingly needed. The objectives of the committee include improving the image of these Islands through landscaping, and by using local flora and resources.

The scope of the CIBC’s operations will include public buildings and main motorways, as well as making George Town more aesthetically pleasing and accommodating to pedestrians.

The committee will also assist government in the overall improvement of the tourism product and make recommendations on improving the general appearance of the Islands.

Members will seek funding through a variety of methods, including sponsorships, memberships, donations and government grants.

Government agencies including the Public Works Department, the Department of Tourism, the Planning Department and the Environmental departments, all of which will work closely with the committee, and supply aesthetic input on government development projects.

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