An application forthe construction for a private 1000 ft runway - to accommodatelight aircraft has been allowed against the Central Planning Authority(CPA), at a hearing about a week ago.Site Updated | Friday, 12 May, 2000 | 4:45 PM
Second Airstrip for Grand
Cayman allowed on Appeal
An application for the constructionfor a private 1000 ft runway
to accommodate light aircraft has been allowed against the Central Planning Authority(CPA) at a hearing about a week ago.
An application forthe construction for a private 1000 ft runway - to accommodatelight aircraft has been allowed against the Central Planning Authority(CPA), at a hearing about a week ago.
The application for this airfield, which is reportedly ownedby the Hawley family - long term residents of Grand Cayman - wasfirst made in September of 1996 and subsequently refused approvalin September of 1998. It is understood that the Appeals Tribunalhas not yet submitted its' reasons in favour of the developersto the CPA.
In the meantime, it is known that the dynamics of land use inthat area of Breakers have changed dramatically with the approvalof a 65 acres motorpark in May of last year. The motorpark abutsthe 37 acre tract owned by the airstrip's developers, and "willaccommodate automobile racing and a family park with nature trails"according to Mr. Robert Campbell, one of the motorpark's principals.A Drug Rehabilitation facility, from refurbished buildings onthe Hawley Estate also received CPA approval for operation inthe same vicinity.
This airstrip, which is located inland, approximately 2000 feetoff the junction of the Frank Sound and East End Roads - justlike the motor raceway - had quite a number of objections. However,in the long run there were also a respectable amount of signaturesin support of the airstrip.
Its surface has already been prepped - and although visible fromthe air - pilots have been banned from using it, as it is demarcatedwith '"X" marks at either end - which denotes that itdoes not have approval for landings and takeoffs - until now.It is not yet known whether or not the CPA will appeal the Tribunal'sruling to the Grand Court.
In any event, the CPA will now have to deal with the applicationas an "after the fact" matter - as the field has alreadybeen built. Before the airstrip may become operational, thereare also some Government approvals - such as Civil Aviation, Customsand Immigration arrangements to be met.
Some resident and visiting aviators have complained for sometimethat there is no other airfield in which to land during the afternoon- as the Owen Robert's airport is quite active with the takeoffsand landings of commercial carriers. This 'suburban' airstripcan therefore relieve the present congestion of air traffic. Otherbenefits could be an increase of commercial activity for the EasternDistricts of East End and North Side.
A few days ago, Mr. David Morritt broke ground on a new 130 unitresort - The Morritt Grand Resort - to compliment his alreadysuccessful time-share development, the 179 unit Morritt's TortugaClub on the beach at Colliers. This is further indication thatthe Eastern Districts are now coming into their own as there isalmost no more space left on Seven Mile Beach for Hotel and Condosdevelopment.
One local aviation analyst feels that the approval of this runwaycould be "significant" - though limited to aircraftwhich require short take off and landing space (STOL) - will bebeneficial to the community as there is presently no alternativeto the Owen Roberts runway. He further states that it could beused in emergencies. Last December, it was reported that a smallaircraft did make an unauthorised landing on this airstrip.
Cayman Net News' efforts to obtain a comment from the developersof this airstrip in connection with the ruling by the AppealsTribunal have been unsuccessful.
World Class Caymanian OwnedPrivate Hospital Opens
Ann B. London
The Cayman community warmlyembraced the new, state-of-the-art Chrissie Tomlinson MemorialHospital at its official opening Saturday, 6 May.
The few rain dropswhich fell did little to dampen the enthusiasm of over 1000 well-wishersgathered for the occasion of the opening of the new diagnosticmedical facility founded by Dr. Steve A. Tomlinson, the firstCaymanian doctor to practice in these islands.
He chose the date of the anniversary of the birthday of his latemother, Chrissie Tomlinson, to dedicate the new world-class facilityin her honor.
Touching tributes were made on behalf of Dr. Tomlinson by medicalassociates who will share the new facilities with him, as wellas by visiting specialists who had traveled from the United States,England and even Norway to be on hand for the grand opening.
These included Dr. James Ling of Cedars of Lebanon Hospital inMiami, Miss Chrissie's own physician who treated her until herdeath several years ago, and who had adopted him as another ofher sons, he said, referring to her as "Lady Chrissie".
An emotional remembrance of their mother was also presented byDr. Steve's sister, Mrs. Jacqui Smith, Cayman's first physiotherapist,who heads up that department at the new multi-million-dollar facility.
Dr. Luis Cona, of Professional Medical Centre, made the openingremarks and served as master of ceremonies for the opening programme,set on a brightly decorated stage in the hospital's colours ofivory, peach and green.
Dignitaries on hand included the Acting Governor, Mr. James Ryan,Leader of Government Business, MLA Truman Bodden, and the ExecutiveCouncil Member of Health, Mr. Anthony Eden.
Others included in the programme were Mr. Arlin Reid, who gavethe prayer; Hospital Administrator Peter Bodden, a Caymanian returninghome from the U. K. to take up the new post; Nursing DirectorCarmen Eloise; Mrs. Elizabeth Olson of Olson Construction, thecompany which built the hospital; Miss Exie Tomlinson, niece ofDr. Steve, and Miss Joy Williams, who presented a beautiful renditionof the stirring and emotional song "Wind Beneath My Wings",a sentimental favourite of the Tomlinson family.
Presentations were made to a number of individuals heavily involvedin the realisation of Dr. Steve's dream, including Mr. Harry Chisholmof the Royal Bank of Canada; Mr. Harry Olson, of Olson Construction;Mr. Arek Joseph of Chalmers Gibbs Martin Joseph; Mr. Jaime Martinezof APEC Consulting Engineers Ltd.; Mrs. Esther Ebanks of D&SCabinets; Mr. Lindburgh Martin of Ernst & Young; Mr. MikeBrown of Mike's Ice; Ms. Sallie Johnson of Vision Marketing, andMr. Merlin Welds of Andro Electric.
Seated at place of pride in the front row of the VIP section wasDr. Steve's father, Anthony Tomlinson, who cut the ribbon to openthe doors to the new facility, into which the crowd filed, followingthe unveiling of the plaque by Mr. Truman Bodden, after whichrefreshments were served and tours of the new medical facilitygiven to the public.
Olson Construction sponsored a live broadcast of the two-houropening ceremonies to the at-home Caymanian public on CITN.
Trust takes possession ofLittle Cayman Property
On Monday 8th May the National Trust for the Cayman Islandssigned a purchase agreement for 64 acres of land near BlossomVillage in Little Cayman, part of a larger parcel of land ownedby Marobad Holdings Ltd. The completion of the purchase laterthis year will bring the entire nesting area of Red-footed Boobiesinto Trust ownership. The Trust already owns a third of the nestingarea, and the adjacent Booby Pond, through Crown grant in 1995.
Under the agreement which has taken several years to negotiatethe 64 acres with the nesting colony will be acquired by the Trust,and the remainder of the parcel will remain in ownership of Marobad.
The development of the remainder of Marobad land will be subjectto comprehensive restrictive covenants designed to protect thebird colony, which is designated bird sanctuary.
Funds for the purchase come from several years of extremely successfulfundraising by the Trust's Little Cayman District Committee, combinedwith a US$100,000 contribution to the Trust by Holland AmericaLines in 1996.
Through the Ministry for Agriculture, Communications, Environment& Natural Resources the Trust is receiving extensive assistancefrom the Lands & Survey Department, and the Department ofEnvironment, with the survey and subdivision of the Trust parcelwhich will involve a minor amendment to the Animal Sanctuary boundary.
Tim Hubbell, Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry for Agriculture,Communications, Environment & Natural Resources, commentedon Friday "The Booby Pond Nature Reserve on Little Caymanis the only internationally protected Ramsar site in the CaymanIslands at the present time and as such is very important to allof us. The Ministry is therefore very happy to continue to supportthis worthwhile project."
National Trust Chairman Rev. Alson Ebanks observed"In 1995 when the Trust accepted land and management responsibilityfor the Booby Pond Nature Reserve, we knew that we had to acquirethe substantial piece of privately owned land which falls withinthe Sanctuary. It has taken the Trust since 1995 to get to thispoint, which makes it all the more rewarding to see it comingtogether with so much support and cooperation from all concerned."
Regional Rotarians desendedon Cayman
By Ann B. London
Some 550 Rotarians, from 13 islands, representing 10 Caribbeancountries, gathered here last week for the 26th Annual RotaryDistrict 7020 Conference at the Marriott Beach Resort, from 2- 6 May.
For Cayman's Bobby Bodden, it was the culmination of a year ofservice to the organisation as District Governor, a very busyyear in which he, and his wife, Tessa, travelled throughout District7020 which embraces Anguilla, the Bahamas, the British VirginIslands, the Cayman Islands, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Barts, St. Martin/St.Maarten, the Turks and Caicos Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
In their extensive travels, they visited schools, hospitals, sheltersand a variety of projects and programmes the different Rotarychapters are involved in.
Here in Cayman, the visiting delegates attended Assistant GovernorSeminars, President Elect Training Seminars, District Assemblyand Rotary Foundation Seminars, all leading up to the officialopening Thursday evening, when they were welcomed by the ActingGovernor, James Ryan. Conference Chairman was Jeremy Hurst.
The RCIP, under the direction of Rotarian Sergeant-General NevilleSmith, served as standard bearers for an impressive parade ofthe flags of the 10 Caribbean island nations brought into theMarriott ballroom to the accompaniment of each country's anthemfor the opening.
Mr. Herbert Brown, of Tampa, with a 45-year-old perfect attendancerecord in Rotary, addressed the group on behalf of Rotary InternationalPresident Carlo Ravizza, regarding the club's global efforts toeradicate polio from the face of the Earth by the year 2005.
It was some 40 45 wars throughout the world, mostly in Africaand Asia, Mr. Brown told conference delegates, that most hamperedthe club's efforts in this regard, as they were unable to getin and immunise the children in these areas of conflict.
On Friday, the group was addressed the Cayman's Chief Justice,Mr. Anthony Smellie, who spoke on human rights, and the conceptof "Restorative Justice: The Role of Rotary", in whichhe asked, "how do we restore the well-being of the victim;the sense of responsibility and of humanity of the offender andthe sense of security of the community?" Around the globe,he said, "imprisonment has not led to a reduction in crime,but instead only to an increase in imprisonment."
A new approach is required, he suggested. Cayman's Departmentof Tourism Director Angela Martins discussed the topic of Caribbeantourism and its changing face. It is a new ballgame, she said,and the rules of fostering tourism to the region have changed,she claimed.
She suggested the goal of a departing visitor should be that he/sheleave with "perceptions of the people, their social patternsand in general their quality of life," concepts beyond theusual sun, sea and sand, she said.
The assembled Rotarians also heard from Cayman Magistrate MargaretRamsay-Hale, who spoke on "Youth in Crisis?", and theincrease in juvenile crime. She challenged Rotarians to becomeinvolved in mentoring programmes to help youth develop a senseof sell-esteem and service to the community. This, she said, shouldbe part of their regular routine, not a sentence handed down bythe courts.
Other activities included a Rotary Morning Show conducted by CharlesGlidden and Ashleigh Saladino on CITN in which the Rotarians comprisedthe live studio audience. Bobby Bodden presented an address onthe state of District 7020 today.
Cayman entertainer Dave Martins presented a comedic skit to thegroup, representing the Rotary Foundation. There were also reportson the workings of Rotaract, Interact and the Inner Wheel groupsof Rotary.
On the social side of things, Rotarians were entertained at areception hosted by the Rotary Club of Cayman Brac, and the ActingGovernor hosted a reception at Government House. One evening featured"home hospitality", in which groups of delegates wereentertained at fellow Rotarians' Cayman homes. There was alsoa party at Pedro/St. James.
The conference concluded Saturday evening with a black-tie galahosted by Bobby and Tessa Bodden. A spectacular fireworks displaywas launched from a barge anchored off Seven Mile Beach, whichthe Rotarians witnessed before returning to the ballroom for dancingafter dinner to the music of local band, "Footloose".So, truly Cayman's hosting of the Rotary District Conference endedwith a bang.
PrisonersUprising
Under ControlRecently brought in British Officers injured
The incident involving four inmates at H.M. Prison at Northward which begun on the playing field Tuesdayafternoon, (9th of May) is now over. Male and female Police Officers,armed with sidearms and automatic weapons in full black riot geartrotted into the compound, went to the cellblock where the riotingprisoners were holed up - and removed them along with a reportedleader.
It is understood that two of the recentlyappointed Prison Officers from England who have been involvedin this incident, received slight injuries.
A n earlier release issued by GovernmentInformation Services at 5:29 PM today (Wednesday) stated:
"An incident that began last night(Tuesday, 9 May) involving four inmates at HMP Northward is currentlybeing dealt with by prison staff and the Royal Cayman IslandsPolice Officers.
"The incident began when two prisonofficers came into the prison last night inn their spare timeto hold a football training session for a group of inmates. Asecond group of inmates who also wanted to use the field to playbasketball were informed by prison staff that the field had beenscheduled to be used for the training session.
"At this time four inmates began adisturbance which resulted in two prison officers being slightlyinjured.
"The situation was dealt with immediatelyand the four inmates involved were place on report to be dealtwith by an Assistant Director (on the Morning of Wednesday, the10th of May.) It was determined that the matter would be passedon to the police, as assaulting a prison officer is a criminaloffence.
"The prison adjudication process, whichis normal procedure for routine disciplinary matters, began theircells in B wing and refused to come out, demanding to speak tothe Temporary Prison Director.
"HMP Northward assembled the necessaryresources including staff and the RCIP support group. It has followedits policy to contain and control and as a result the whole prisonhas been put on reduced regime, meaning that inmates are stayingin their living areas.
"Currently the four inmates are beingdirected to come out of their cells so that they can be relocated.Prison authorities are prepared to take appropriate action.
"The necessary services are on handand will be called upon if need."
The release ended by stating: "A furtherup-date on the situation will be issued when additional informationis available."
Cayman Net News haslearnt that a "considerable amount of Police Officers, infull riot gear, were at the road entrance to the prison compoundalong with fire fighters and their equipment, as well as ambulances.
A later release, issued at 6:18 PM today,(Wednesday) confirmed that the situation is ended.
This recent incident comes on the heelsof a major disturbance at the Prison last September which resultedin millions of damage, other skirmishes and escapes. The formerPrison Director, his deputy and another Senior Officer were relievedof their commands. The present Acting Director is scheduled toleave in June, when a new appointee takes over.
Missing ElderlyCuban Woman Found Dead
A press release issued by the Royal Cayman Islands Police (RCIP)at 12:55 PM this afternoon Tuesday, 9 May) reported that the bodyof 74-year old missing visitor - Maria Fernandez Saavedra fromCuba, was found around 3:55 PM yesterday, Monday afternoon, ina wooded area on West Bay Road, adjacent to the West Shore Plaza.
The woman was staying with her son Juan Brethren Fernandez- also of Cuban origin, his British wife and their young son forthe past seven weeks, in the Island Pines condo apartment complexon Seven Mile Beach where the son and his family lived for almosttwo years as long term tenants. The apartment is located directlyacross the street from where the body was found.
A Police search team, along with one of their canine helpers-discovered the body, which is now subject to an autopsy, to determinethe cause of death.
One nearby hospitality worker, recalled that there was a foulodor in the air - from the early morning on which the body wasfound. It is believed that the deceased has been dead for severaldays - since she was reported missing by her son last week Thursdaymorning, the 4th of May, on returning home at noon from work.
It was also reported that efforts were being made for her toremain on the island through Immigartion applications.
A further report will be released by the RCIP following theMedical Examiner's report.
National Trust Statementon Ritz Carlton
Last weekend while the Cayman Islands were observing EarthDay, what took about 5,000 years to create was being destroyedin a mere 4 days. Over one hundred acres of mangrove forest wascleared on the proposed Ritz Carlton site. Since the developerhas not met the conditions of the planning approval (set by theCentral Planning Authority), this shows gross disrespect for thepeople of the Cayman Islands, our environment and our planningregulations.
Today the Council of the National Trust for the Cayman Islandsvoted unanimously to file a Notice of Appeal to the Grand Court,against the recent dismissal of our planning appeal concerningthe proposed Ritz project. However, in view of last weekend'sdevastation on this site the Trust is also investigating severalother options to ensure this action is not allowed to stand unchallenged.
Chasing a Dream
Aaron J. Housholder
Daaron McField, the son of local attorney Steve McField, ison the threshold of a journey no Caymanian has ever taken. 
On Tuesday, April18, Daaron McField became the first Caymanian to be drafted bya professional American-style football team when he was selectedby the Canadian Football League's Winnipeg Blue Bombers as theNo. 2 overall draft pick in the CFL College Draft. Daaron is nowon the verge of realizing a lifelong dream: to play professionalfootball.
Born in Vancouver and raised in Cayman until he was seven yearsold, Daaron has always been an athlete. As a child and teenager,he says he dreamed about football, but was forced to focus onother sports because there was never an organized football leagueclose to where he lived. He therefore focused on sports like soccer,baseball, hockey, and rugby.
By the time he reached his late teens, Daaron was ready to leavehis dream of playing football behind. "By the time I was15 or 16," Daaron said, "I figured it was too late tostart playing football. I didn't think I had the time to reallydevelop my skills." Instead, he invested his energies inacademics and began his studies at the University of British Columbiain Pharmacology and Therapeutics.
While lifting weights in his college gym, Daaron was approachedby members of the football team and was asked to try out for thesquad. "At first, I didn't take them seriously, because Ihad never really played football at all," explained Daaron.But the players kept inviting him to play, and when he was finallyinvited to the tryout by the head coach of the team, Daaron decidedto give it a shot.
"The real reason I tried out for the team," Daaron recalled,"was that I was planning to apply to med school, and I figuredit would look good on my application if I had some varsity sportsexperience." So, with nothing to lose, he tried out for theteam, and impressed the coaching staff enough with his raw athleticismto win a spot on the roster.
As he learned the game of football, Daaron continued to excelin his academic studies. He earned his Bachelor of Science degreeand was one of 150 students out of an applicant field of nearly4000 to be accepted into the Nova Southeastern University Collegeof Osteopathic Medicine. His plans to attend medical school changed,however, when the Winnipeg Blue Bombers drafted him in the firstround of the draft.
The choice between professional football and medical school waseasy. "Football is something you can only do when you'reyoung," Daaron explained. And besides, he added, "Football'sa little more fun (than medicine). I thought I'd just take a coupleyears to chase a dream."
Returning to medical school, however, is not out of the picture.Daaron says he is glad to have his studies to fall back on, justin case his football career does not work out. But if he becomessuccessful in football and earns the lucrative contracts thatthe American NFL offers, then his post-football future may notinclude a medical career. "If I make it to the NFL and make$3 million a year, then I may do something more interesting afterfootball," he said.
So, does Daaron aspire to be the first Caymanian to play in theNational Football League? "Definitely," was his immediateresponse. "No one dreams about playing in the second bestleague. If you dream of playing football, you dream of playingin the NFL. But because I started playing late, I had to playcollege ball in Canada and then go through the CFL. The CFL isa stepping stone."
As Daaron explains, though, he's not too concerned with the NFLright now. "Realistically, I'm not ready for the NFL quiteyet," he admitted.
While the NFL is a long-term goal, Daaron's mind is currentlyfocused more on the short term. His first interest is to finalizehis contract negotiations and then report to training camp, whichopens June 9. From the moment he joins his new team, he will concentrateon learning more about the game of football, further improvinghis physical condition, and doing what it takes to help his teamwin.
But most importantly, he says that he will work hard in everythinghe does. "Because I played in Canada, I wasn't seen as agod as soon as I strapped a helmet on. I've had to fight toothand nail for everything I've got." And he vows to continuegiving his best in pursuing his dream.
After a one-month training camp and exhibition season, the BlueBombers begin their regular season on July 5 with a game in Montreal.From there, Daaron and his team will embark on a five-month journeyin search of the Grey Cup, the trophy awarded to the championsof the Canadian Football League.
And after the season ends? Daaron says that he will return toCayman a trip he had planned for this summer until the footballseason changed his plans and will spend as much of the off-seasonas possible here with his father and his friends.
The 'White Paper' for CaymanPoses Many Questions with
No Simple Answers
Editors Note:
Just what is this "White Paper" being talked aboutso widely -- and less understood by many?
Simply put, the White Paper is a policy document which the Government- in this case Her Majesty's Government in the UK - uses to putacross its ideas to its electorate, in this case, the OverseasTerritories (OTs), of which the Cayman Islands is one.
It is a "White Paper" (printed on white paper) becauseit is meant to stimulate discussion. In the, UK as here, whena Bill (a draft Law) goes to Parliament (the LA in Cayman) itis a "green bill", (printed on Green Paper) becauseit is still a discussion draft.
The difference between a "White Paper" and a "GreenBill" is that the White Paper does not go to Parliament,it is simply how the Government of the day feels on an issue.
The Labour Government in the UK is very pro-technology, and theuse of the Internet has opened up a lot of policy issues throughthe Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and the Parliamentarywebsites.
The White Paper on "progress and prosperity" appearsto be a follow-up to the 1997 White Paper on "EliminatingPoverty" which dealt among other things with the conceptof sustainable development and bio-diversity. The reference tothe OTs in the 1997 White Paper was to call for development or"country" plans.
In Cayman, the Honourable Financial Secretary, Mr. George Mc Carthyis Chairman of the Select Committee to discuss the White Paperand MLA for West Bay, Mr. McKeeva Bush, is the Deputy Chairman.Mr. Bush moved a motion sometime ago in the Legislative Assemblythat the Select Committee on the White Paper should be established.
Frankly, it is difficult to fully explain what is going on inregard to the White Paper and OECD initiatives in simple terms.What is obvious though - is that the Cayman Islands is betweenthe 'devil and the deep blue sea'. It could be said - and understoodby many - that we are only buying time now, significant changesare coming ... and come they will.
This Blessed Territory and its people have two options, co-operateand try and save as much of our financial industry as we can,and move to diversify our economy - or go Independent.
"Recently announced advances,such as the drive to encourage creativity confirms that Cayman'sGovernment is leaning towards the former, and that the-businessinitiative is the route of choice for diversification. Whetheror not we can move fast enough to remain in the race - and keepour world standing, remains to be seen." -
This statement was made by Baroness Patricia Scotland, Ministerof the Overseas Territories on 3rd April 2000 in the opening addressat the Wilton Park Overseas Territories: into the New Millenniumconference. Two areas are of particular concern noted by the Baronesswere human rights and financial relations.
She explained that the UK expects the internationally acceptedstandards to be met with by the Overseas Territories and mentionedthat it is the administrative and constitutional issues that jointhe Overseas Territories and the UK together.
On 17th March 1999, in the House of Commons, Foreign SecretaryRobin Cook made a statement regarding the British Dependent Territoriesand the just released, White Paper 'Partnership for Progress',a twenty nine page proposal/implement for the UK Government includingnine separate sections.
Once implemented, the measures outlined in the White Paper willundoubtedly change the workings of the Government of the CaymanIslands, will change certain legislation and/or mandate variousdirectives to be made and implemented by the Executive Council,and may change the people's lifestyles, and perhaps, eventually,the belief system of the Cayman Islands.... and the way it hasworked for their success.
The question that remains unanswered by politicians, clouded bypartial reports and summaries in newspapers, on the radio, andon television, for all the people who love this Country, bornCaymanians, Status holders, Residents, Visitors and Investorsalike, is this good for Cayman? Is there a choice?
The two main areas of change will be regarding the financial industryand relevant regulation to adhere to international standards,the second area is that of human rights. In relation to the humanrights issues, the most relevant portion of the White Paper underconsideration to be implement changes in the Cayman Islands -is the legalisation of consensual homosexual acts in private (specifically,section 4.2 and 4.5 of the White Paper).
On Saint Patrick's Day 1999, Foreign Secretary Cook went on todescribe what the White Paper was to provide, saying: "Itprovides the basis for a renewed contract and a modern partnershipbetween the United Kingdom and the Dependent Territories."
He further suggested that the Dependent Territories - whose membershipincludes: Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the CaymanIslands, the Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Montserrat, the PitcairnIslands, St Helena and its dependencies Ascension and TristanDe Cunha, the Turks and Caicos Islands, the territories of theBritish Antarctic Territory, the British Indian Ocean Territory,and South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, and the SovereignBase Areas of Akrotiri and Dhelkelia in Cyprus - value their partnershipwith the UK, and stated that none of the above governments expressedany desire to gain independence. "They all want to preservethe constitutional link with the United Kingdom, which has providedall of them with security and most of them with a high level ofprosperity", he said.
Foreign Secretary Cook further stated that the "White Paperaddressed three objectives: 1) to establish better and more effectivecommunication between the Government of the United Kingdom andthe Governments of the Dependent Territories; 2) to improve thestatus of the residents of the Dependent Territories; 3) to ensurethat the United Kingdom could discharge its international responsibilitiesin respect of those territories."
The White Paper also confirmed that the name, "DependentTerritories" would be replaced by "United Kingdom OverseasTerritories", initially unofficially until such time as therelevant legislation could be introduced and passed.
Mr. Cook noted that once relevant legislation is passed, the WhitePaper includes the offering of British citizenship, "to allthose residents of the Overseas Territories who wish to take itup."
Whilst there are certain perceived advantages of being a Britishcitizen, including: right of abode, (this is not a right reciprocatedto British citizens); the right to travel freely throughout theEuropean Union (EU), and the ability for work experience whilststudying in Britain; there may be some disadvantages (section3 of the White Paper).
One of the most notable disadvantages would the taxes incurredby a British citizen that are not incurred by a citizen of a BritishDependent Territory. An example is V.A.T., that is, 'Value AddedTax.. As a member of the EU when purchasing goods in the UK, notinclusive of books, a tax of 17.5 percent is added to the purchaseprice. Presently, as citizen of a British Dependent Territory,when leaving the UK or other EU nations, this tax or its equivalentmay be reclaimed from the government when leaving the UK or otherEU nations.
Foreign Minister Cook reiterates the reality of obligations toboth parties in the partnership with the Overseas Territories."The United Kingdom accepts its responsibility for the defenceof the Overseas Territories and for their international representations.In return we have to insist on the governments of the OverseasTerritories fulfilling their obligations to meet the standardsof international organizations in which the United Kingdom representsthem."
It was clearly stated by Foreign Secretary Cook that, "ThoseOverseas Territories that choose to remain British must abideby the same standards of human rights and good governance thatwe demand of ourselves. We require our Overseas Territories tomaintain legislation that fully complies with the European Conventionon Human Rights, and the international Convention on Civil andPolitical Rights, to which the United Kingdom is a party."
Foreign Secretary Cook did make it evident that, "One importantduty of the United Kingdom, as the sovereign authority for theOverseas Territories, is to preserve their rich and unique environment.We propose to develop an Environment Charter between the UnitedKingdom and Overseas Territories - to protect their environment."
The White Paper itself states in section 1.4, "the OverseasTerritories themselves must embrace reform and modernisation therelationship between Britain and the Overseas Territories needsto be effective and efficient, free and fair. It needs to be basedon decency and democracy."
All of the delicate and specifically non-offensive wording, inboth Foreign Secretary Cookís statement, and that of theWhite Paper itself, appears to make the necessary changes desirable.The fact remains, however, that the choice for the Cayman Islandsseems to be ìfollow the reform delineated in the WhitePaper, affect it's changes and suggestions, or become an independentterritory and suffer the consequences thereof.
This is not a choice. It is a demand and the consequences forthis incredibly unique Country, these highly spiritual, religiousIslands and its people, may be dire.
Section 1.19 of the White Paper states that, "The new relationshipwould be a modern partnership tailored to the needs of both sides,and based on four fundamental principles: self-determination;mutual obligations and responsibilities; freedom fro the territoriesto run their own affairs to the greatest degree possible; a firmcommitment from the UK to help the territories develop economicallyand to assist them in emergencies."
Section 2.8 indicates, "Democracy, human rights and the ruleof law are all as relevant in the Overseas Territories as elsewhere.The principles which should underlie modern constitutions areclear. There must be a balance of obligations and expectations,and both should be clearly and explicitly set out (including):measures promoting more open, transparent and accountable government;improvements to the composition of legislatures and their operations;improving on the effectiveness, efficiency, accountability andimpartiality of the public service; the role of Overseas TerritoryMinisters and Executive Councils and their exercise of collectiveresponsibility for government policy and decisions; respect forthe rule of law and the constitution; the promotion of representativeand participative government; freedom of speech and information;the provision of high standards of justice; and, adoption of modernstandards of respect for human rights."
The relevant, government organisations with the ability to controland dictate the direction for the Overseas Territories include,the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), the Department forInternational Development (DFID), the Organisation of EconomicCooperation and Development (OECD), European Union (EU), and G8(Global 8, formerly known as G7).
Section 5 of the White Paper indicates the reforms required inthe financial sector, inclusive of: "powers to ensure that,whatever the secrecy laws, regulators and law enforcement in thoseOverseas Territories with financial sectors can cooperate properlywith their overseas counterparts, including on investigation andenforcement matters; create conditions for fair competition betweenthe Overseas Territories."
In relation to finances, the White Paper requires that the, "(UK)will monitor all Overseas Territories concerned and indicate whatstandards are expected. and Overseas Territories will be requiredto produce timely independently audited annual accounts for allpublic sector activities to UK standards, with full identificationsof contingent financial liabilities."
Further, tax issues are significant in the White Paper, section5.20 includes, the OECD and EU - (share) concern about the economicside-effects of harmful tax competition between states- a globalapproach was needed, as for tax evasion, fraud and money laundering.
The White Paper states specifically in section 5.21 that, "TheGovernment supports the initiatives taken by the EU, OECD andG7 (now G8) They have a responsibility to ensure that their regulatoryregimes are effective, transparent and offer adequate accessibilityfor the legitimate investigation of criminal activity, includingtax fraud and evasion."
Most importantly, section 5.26 states, ìthe GY urged theOECD to give particular attention to the development of a comprehensiveprogramme to improve the availability of information to tax authoritiesto curb international tax evasion and avoidance through tax havensand preferential regimes to pass information to tax authoritiesin support of the investigation of tax related crimes in wayswhich would allow it to be shared internationally.
This startling declaration makes a perfectly legitimate meansof handling funds, means that is not a crime, that is to avoidtax in a legal manner (not the crime of tax evasions), a reportableand perhaps punishable offence and the act of avoiding tax wouldbe shared with organisations internationally.
This would completely alter the usefulness of the Cayman Islands,the need for the Cayman Islands, as a legitimate off shore bankingestablishment.
Whilst it appears that Overseas Territories, of greatest importanceto us, the Cayman Islands, may have been given a 'stay' by theOECD in relation to being labelled a "tax haven" (thiswould make Cayman open to receive whatever punishment the UK dictatesuntil we were within the standards dictated by the UK) becausethe "tax haven list" will be published in June 2001instead of June 2000, the people of Cayman must make their voicesheard and take responsibility for their future and the choicesour government makes.
To make your opinion heard, the public is encouraged to contactThe Select Committee on the Review of the Overseas Territories,representing the Cayman Islands, and provide feedback on the proposalsin the White Paper, the complete text of which may be found at:HYPERLINK "http://www.fco.gov.uk" and www.fco.gov.uk.
The Select Committee states that it will take any feedback intoconsideration in forming the official response for the CaymanIslands to the White Paper.
The select committee welcomes feedback on the proposals containedin the White Paper and will take these into consideration in formulatingthe Cayman Islands' official response to the UK on the the WhitePaper.
Written contributions should be hand delivered by 15 May, 2000to: The Chairman, the Select Committee on the Review of OverseasTerritories, the Legislative Assembly Building, George Town.
More Opposition to Cayman'sRole in Support of Cuba at CITES Conference
Dear Sir:
I have read the press release issued by the Cayman delegatesreturning from the Convention on International Trade in EndangeredSpecies (CITES) held in Nairobi, Kenya in mid-April. This reportwas printed in its entirety in your newspaper last week (CNN Vol1 - 6), and other local news media.
I am a concerned long time visitor who loves the Cayman Islandsand its people, and would be grateful if you will publish my rebuttalto the delegates' report for the sake of presenting a balancefor everyone's understanding as to what took place in Nairobi.
The first part of the report stated in part:
"Three representatives (Messrs. Kearney Gomez, Tim Hubbelland Joe Parsons) from the Cayman Islands attended the recent Conventionon International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), Conferenceof the Parties (COP) held in Nairobi, Kenya, East Africa, duringthe period 7 - 20 April, 2000.
Of particular importance to Cayman is the issue surrounding marineturtles. At the convention neighboring Cuba submitted two proposals,the first was made in an effort to down-list their populationof hawksbill turtle, and to get approval for the sale of theirstockpile of shell to Japan as well as shipments of shell froman annual harvest of 500 turtle per year.
It was also made clear by Cuba that the turtle are not being takenfor the primary intention of selling the shell, but rather aretaker as a traditional source of food.
The Cayman Islands Cites Management Authority applauded the reducedharvest initiative taken by the Cubans, and felt that they shouldbe supported in their sustainable usage philosophy and adaptivemanagement strategy of the hawksbill turtle.
For the Cuban proposal to be successful it would have requiredtwo-thirds majority vote of the parties. In the end, Cuba withdrewtheir first proposal and the second proposal lost by 3 votes with66 countries voting for, 38 against and 15 abstentions.
It should be noted that the Cayman delegation could not vote butwere represented by the United Kingdom delegation, and while Caymansupported the Cuban proposal the EU and UK abstained on this particularvote."
According to leading biologists, scientists and other prominentfigures in international and Caribbean turtle conservation, thereare several issues in this press release that should be lookedat more closely. Firstly, the phrase "their population ofhawksbill turtle". Hawksbill turtles are migratory and travelthroughout the Caribbean, therefore, Cuba does not have its "ownpopulation of turtles".
Any harvesting of hawksbill turtles in Cuba directly affects thenumber of hawksbill turtles on Cayman Islands' coral reefs. This,in turn, affects not only the health of our reefs and the experiencesof divers and tourists visiting these islands, but also any futurepossibility of Caymanians having an opportunity to harvest hawksbillturtles for food or shells.
Another point to consider is Cuba's statement that hawksbill turtleswere not taken "for the primary intention of selling theshell, but rather as a traditional source of food."
According to a report by the Florida Marine Research Institute,Japan initially signed the CITES convention in 1981, reservingthe right to import hawksbill turtle shell to be carved into hairornaments, eyeglass frames, cigarette lighter holders, and jewelryby Japanese artisans. Hawksbill turtle shell, called "bekko"in Japan has been considered a precious material - on a par withivory, rhinoceros horn, gold and gems --for thousands of years.
The Japanese "exception" fueled the trade in hawksbillturtle shell until 1993. Over this 12-year period, Japan importedabout 336,000 large hawksbill turtle shells. In 1993, bowing tointernational pressures, Japan imposed a zero quota on importsof hawksbill turtle shell, while retaining the option of raisingthe quota at any time. It was also in 1993 that Cuba began stockpilinghawksbill turtle shells against the possibility of future sale.
The Wider Caribbean Sea Turtle Conservation Network (WIDECAST)and the Caribbean Conservation Corporation (CCC) state jointlythat "as with ivory, the re-opening of international trade,even in the form of a one-off sale of stockpiled shell, will encouragethe stockpiling of shell by other countries and the illegal killingof hawksbill turtles worldwide."
The Hawksbill turtle was classified as "Critically Endangered"in 1996. The species has been on CITES Appendix I since 1977.International trade in tortoise shell has been identified as theprincipal cause of the hawksbill's endangerment. While all wildturtles must face many threats to their survival -- the hawksbill'sbeautiful shell adds yet one more.
The GIS press release further stated, "The Cayman IslandsCites Management Authority applauded the reduced harvest initiativetaken by the Cubans, and felt that they should be supported intheir sustainable usage philosophy and management strategy ofthe hawksbill turtle."
The Cayman Islands' CITES Management Authority is not the onlyconcerned body in this matter. There is also a Cayman IslandsCITES Scientific Authority. When delegates at the convention askedto see a copy of this Scientific Authority Report (believed tobe in line with other Scientific Authorities throughout the worldin opposing the Cuban proposals) they was told that the Caymandelegation was unavailable. Attempts made locally to obtain acopy of the CI CITES Scientific Authorities Report have so farbeen unsuccessful.
Cuba has voluntarily reduced its yearly turtle catch and donean exemplary job of recording data and compiling information fromcaught turtles. The Cuban economy is beset by problems, and whileit is thought by some that a "one-off" sale of stockpiledshell would benefit the Cuban economy, others adamantly disagree,stating that trade in endangered species is not a way to helpthe economies of third world countries.
"Richer nations should never force poorer nations to be putinto the position of having to trade in endangered species inorder to meet basic economic needs," says Peter Fugazzotto,Associate Director of The Sea Turtle Restoration Project (STRP).Most scientists believe that allowing periodic "sell-offs"of stockpiles of hawksbill turtles (or any endangered species)encourages other countries to begin stockpiling against the daywhen another opportunity will be presented to sell them. Allowing"just one last sale" has been compared to giving a drugaddict, "just one last fix!"
The Government press release continues: "For the Cuban proposalto be successful it would have required two thirds majority voteof the parties. In the end, Cuba withdrew their first proposal"This first proposal was withdrawn due to overwhelming lack ofsupport according to the CITES Traffic COP Briefing Room onlineat www.traffic.org -- " and the second proposal lost by 3votes with 66 countries voting for, 38 against and 15 abstentions."
Although the ballot was secret, it is known that Mexico, CostaRica, Brazil, Kenya, Canada, the United States, the Bahamas, andBermuda have all taken strong positions against the re-openingof trade in hawksbill turtles. Mr. Paul Brown, Environment Correspondentfor the Guardian reports: "Many Eastern Caribbean nationsconsistently vote with Japan on matters concerning whaling andother fisheries.
Japan has admitted to using its foreign aid grants to fund fishingfleets, fish processing plants and even a convention centre forsome of these nations. African nations with stockpiles of ivoryalso have an interest in seeing "windows" in the banagainst international trade in endangered species." Countriesthat are known to support the Cuban proposal include: Antigua& Barbuda, Dominica, St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Surinam, El Salvador,South Africa, Namibia, Mongolia, Benin, Zimbabwe, Banatu and Columbia.
"It should be noted that the Cayman delegation could notvote but were represented by the United Kingdom delegation, andwhile Cayman supported the Cuban proposal the EU and UK abstainedon this particular vote."
It should also be noted that the Cayman delegation strongly lobbiedthe UK and the EU to vote for the two Cuban proposals (and laterthe one remaining proposal). It was this lobbying that triggereda "cry for help" from leading turtle biologists receivedby the National Trust for the Cayman Islands and other environmentallyconcerned citizens here. The National Trust issued a statementsaying that they did not support the Cuban proposal(s) and thisreport was faxed to the Cayman delegation in Nairobi with copiesto the UK and EU delegations, as well as members of the scientificcommunity. The National Trust declined to comment on the matterto the press, but it is known that they had not been previouslyconsulted, nor had they been advised of the Cayman delegation'sintentions at the CITES convention.
In an on-line report from the CCC, Dr. Jeanne Mortimer, widelyaccepted as one of the world's leading scientific authoritieson hawksbills has stated, "Hawksbill turtles are highly migratoryand extremely slow to mature. This, combined with their complicatedlife history and their severely depleted numbers, make it utterlypremature to re-open international trade." Dr. Mortimer adds,"Of all the species of sea turtles, the hawksbill has experiencedthe longest and most sustained history of commercial exploitation.Primarily as a result of this trade, hawksbills have declinedby 80 percent or more during the last three hawksbill generationsthroughout their global range."
International environmental groups like WIDECAST and the CCC canonly surmise as to why the Cayman Islands would support the Cubanproposals. Some feel that the presence of the Scientific Managerof the Turtle Farm in the Cayman delegation represents a conflictof interest and implies a monetary interest in seeing the tradein turtle shells re-opened. Delegates to the convention from severalother countries questioned the absence of the Cayman Islands CITESScientific Authority at this CITES convention.
A local conservationist, who was contacted during the convention,commented, "Hawksbill turtles are a part of the historic,cultural and natural history of the Cayman Islands. Any decisionsthat potentially put that population at risk should be made openly,with input from the public and from as many interested partiesas possible.
If Caymanians are ever to feast upon abundant wild turtle again,it is important that current stocks be managed carefully and withforethought. 'Jumping the gun' will not benefit anyone."One local fisherman I know also told me recently, "We needto bring back the turtle population to where they were beforeto give our future generations the options we had. We and governmentshould work together."
Thank you for allowing me space in your well respected publication.
Michael Paul Dwyer
MEMORIUM
In Loving Memory of ourdear co-worker
ALLAN DONOVAN FORBES
who left us one sad year ago on 11 May, 1999
He was different.He was special. Unique in a thousand ways. He was so giving andloving. There are some who strive for praise and yearn for worldapplause. There are some who chase sweet comfort but he was sodifferent. He knew sorrow in great measures and was stung by illnessto but neither could defeat him.
He will always be remembered for having touched and improved thelives of so many he met, for always thinking of others beforehimself. His love, warmth and heart of gold we will never forget.We think and talk about him often and have such lasting memories.We wish we still had him here with us but God knew best.
Sadly missed by Cayman Airways A70 crew; Debbie Rankin, Rita Ebanks,Alba Tibbetts, Lorraine Nixon, Sharon Malcolm, Patsy Cotterell,Casdale Rankin & Ivan Forbes.
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