Wednesday, 2 February2000 | Updated at 8:55 PM |

Aspiring Candidatesfor the up-coming Elections in November have already begun makingthe rounds seeking support
It is a given. This year's General Election, which has been suggestedto be held on Monday, the 20th of November (most likely to bedecreed a Public Holiday) will be the most hotly contested ever.Among the attractions to the powerful position as a Member ofthe Legislative Assembly (MLA)-- with the possibility of beingelected by their peers to the Executive Council (ExCo) is a veryattractive salary and benefits package. A MLA's salary is nowover $80,000 per year plus an allowance of $2000 (for those whotake it) to operate a constituency office. ExCo members are paidover $10,000 per month plus an allowance for a district officeand other perks.

No one can doubt that being being electedas a Member of the Legislative Assembly in modern times demandsthe almost full-time attention of these officials. With the absenceof the Office of an Ombudsman, to deal with matters which oftendo not get the attention of very busy Civil Servants, an MLA,in addition to the contributions made in dealing with a myriadof Legislative and House Committee matters, must find the timeto deal with an abundance of complaints and needs of their constituents.

It has been said that already successfulCaymanian businessmen ... and women ... are being encouraged tothrow their hats (hearts) into the political arena this year.A few past and current career Civil Servants are also believedto be evaluating their chances. Taken the success at the pollsof some very high ranking retired officials over the past 16 years,it may not be surprising to witness a field of experienced administratorsfrom both the public and private sectors getting involved in thenext Government in an effort to shape and secure the stabilityof these Blessed islands for the next century ... and beyond.
The majority of Voters in the next Election will be representedby a healthy slate of '20 and 30 somethings'

In addition, the roll will contain, a farbetter educated and informed electorate. Also not to be discountedare the increased number of British Commonwealth citizens, whohave been resident for here for the qualifying period stated inthe Constitution and other requirements. The Elections liaisonoffice, headed up by Mr. Rupert McCoy in Government's Tower building(949-7900) will be able to enlighten anyone inquiring about theireligibility to vote.

Cayman NetNews to report on sittings of the House
Starting tomorrow, Cayman Net News will present encapsulated reportson the proceedings from the Legislative Assembly covering themorning sessions at around 2:00 PM and again at 7:00 PM followingthe afternoon sessions. This is further commitment to fulfillour pledge to report the news taking place in the Cayman Islands... "when it happens ... as it happens."
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