<<

Caymanian

Wednesday, December 18, 2019 Issue No 468 www.caymaniantimes.ky

Complimentary

international segment. Other conditions may apply. may conditions Other segment. international international segment. Other conditions may apply. may conditions Other segment. international

with any Cayman Airways sale or promotion. Only one voucher per ticket purchased. Ticket must include at least one one one least least at at include include must must Ticket Ticket purchased. purchased. ticket ticket per per voucher voucher one one Only Only promotion. promotion. or or sale sale Airways Airways Cayman Cayman any any with with with any Cayman Airways sale or promotion. Only one voucher per ticket purchased. Ticket must include at least one one least at include must Ticket purchased. ticket per voucher one Only promotion. or sale Airways Cayman any with

for use up to one year from the issue date, is non-transferable, non-refundable, and cannot be used in conjunction conjunction conjunction in in used used be be cannot cannot and and non-refundable, non-refundable, non-transferable, non-transferable, is is date, date, issue issue the the from from year year one one to to up up use use for for for use up to one year from the issue date, is non-transferable, non-refundable, and cannot be used in conjunction conjunction in used be cannot and non-refundable, non-transferable, is date, issue the from year one to up use for

*This cover note holds no value without the attached Cayman Airways Travel Coupon. The Travel Coupon is valid valid valid is is Coupon Coupon Travel Travel The The Coupon. Coupon. Travel Travel Airways Airways Cayman Cayman attached attached the the without without value value no no holds holds note note cover cover *This *This

From:

To:

______

HappyHappyHappyHappyHappy Holidays!Holidays!Holidays!Holidays!Holidays!

Give the gift of Happy Holidays!

______

US$50 Voucher Voucher Voucher US$50 US$50 US$50

international segment. Other conditions may apply. may conditions Other segment. international international segment. Other conditions may apply. may conditions Other segment. international

with any Cayman Airways sale or promotion. Only one voucher per ticket purchased. Ticket must include at least one one least at include must Ticket purchased. ticket per voucher one Only promotion. or sale Airways Cayman any with with any Cayman Airways sale or promotion. Only one voucher per ticket purchased. Ticket must include at least one one least at include must Ticket purchased. ticket per voucher one Only promotion. or sale Airways Cayman any with

for use up to one year from the issue date, is non-transferable, non-refundable, and cannot be used in conjunction conjunction in used be cannot and non-refundable, non-transferable, is date, issue the from year one to up use for for use up to one year from the issue date, is non-transferable, non-refundable, and cannot be used in conjunction conjunction in used be cannot and non-refundable, non-transferable, is date, issue the from year one to up use for

*This cover note holds no value without the attached Cayman Airways Travel Coupon. The Travel Coupon is valid valid valid valid is is is Coupon Coupon Coupon Travel Travel Travel The The The Coupon. Coupon. Coupon. Travel Travel Travel Airways Airways Airways Cayman Cayman Cayman attached attached attached the the the without without without value value value no no no holds holds holds note note note cover cover cover *This *This *This

From:

To:

______

______

To: ______Happy Holidays! Holidays! Holidays! Holidays! Holidays! Holidays! Holidays! Holidays! Holidays! Happy Happy Happy Happy Happy Happy Happy Happy Happy

From: Happy Holidays! www.caymanairways.com Holidays! Happy ______US$50 Voucher Voucher Voucher Voucher Voucher Voucher Voucher Voucher Voucher Voucher US$50 US$50 US$50 US$50 US$50 US$50 US$50 US$50 US$50 US$50

*This cover note holds no value without the attached Cayman Airways Travel Coupon. The Travel Coupon is valid for use up to one year from the issue date, is non-transferable, non-refundable, and cannot be used in conjunction with any Cayman Airways sale or promotion. Only one voucher per ticket purchased. Ticket must include at least one international segment. Other conditions may apply. ______

adventure US$50 Voucher Surprise your loved ones this Christmas with a trip or www.caymanairways.com Travel Gift Certi cate from Cayman Airways, and start planning your 2020 family adventure!

INSIDE THIS ISSUE A Passport to Success  TALK ON THE STREET — A2

Talk on the Street: Referendum Postponed

 COMMUNITY NOTICES — A2

Financial Tips for Christmas

 LOCAL NEWS — A4

Full story on page A3 >>

 Cher Bailey received two awards, “Most Outstanding Growth,” and “Perfect Attendance” A Night With Legends Regiment Offi cer Music lovers from all walks of lie be felt in today’s music scene, with Fathers and Sons Bond and Build and of all ages enjoyed a night of fes- many contemporary artists drawing tive celebration at the Cayman Music from this reservoir of reference in per- Recruitment and Entertainment Association’s, “A formance and composition.  LOCAL NEWS — A6 Night with Legends” event at the Lions The atmosphere on the evening Center on 6th. was electric, with performances from Launched Each year the Music Association prominent acts such as the Regenera- hosts the event, which to seeks to pay tion Band, Local Motion 345, featuring homage to those who pioneered the Notch and a special appearance from Music scene on the Island, with this Fab 5. year’s recipients being the Tornadoes One of the highlights of the evening and the Kiemanaires. was ... a Continued special impromptu story on serenadepage B1 Both bands embodied the music of their time and their in�luence can still

Public Consultation Opens for ICT Consumer Protection Regulations

The Governor’s Of�ice has issued a call  LAW ENFORCEMENT — A7 for expressions of interest from poten- tial of�icer recruits for the new Cayman Regiment. The National Security Coun- cil has given the green light to seek the formation of an initial force of seven of�icers and 50 reserve volunteers who will be put through initial training and equipped before summer 2020. HE The Governor Martyn Roper said: “This is excellent news for Cayman. The primary role of the Regiment will be to provide Humanitarian Aid and Disas- ter Relief support following disasters. We’re now looking for a dynamic lead- Police Renew Appeal for Witnesses  Fab 5 out of made the trip to celebrate the occasion and gave a sizzling two- er with UK military experience to take in Death at Bananas Bar hour set that had the audience dancing up a sweat this exciting... Continued project storyforward. on Theypage will A8 TALK ON THE STREET | COMMUNITY NOTICES PAGE A2 Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 C�������� T����

TALK ON THE STREET Talk On The Street: EDITORIAL Referendum Postponed Financial Tips for Christmas. Part 1 With the recent news that the referendum on the Christmas cruise port on December 19th has been postponed cheque will soon be here and due to a judicial review, the also the urge to spend. Your pay obvious question comes to just arrived. You have worked mind. Our reporter wanted hard all year and you may or may not to check the public’s pulse get a bonus. on this to see what their“Will an- During the Christmas season many thisswer wouldpostponement be. The speci�icaffect consumers tend to exceed their budget orquestion change posed what was,the result of the ref- and spend too much on gifts, prepara- erendum would have been on Decem- tions and festivities. By following a few ber 19th?” will show that there are real concerns simple �inancial tips, you will be able about the port damaging our environ- to enjoy your Christmas without hav- Below are the responses of ment. Then the port will be stopped by ingCaymanian to worry about Times your �inancial state 15Jose, individuals. Caymanian, 51: theTommy, voters.” Caymanian, 61: in January. wants you to enjoy the season and have given you 3) Consider giving time instead of “I think that it will make less people “This will not change things. The vot- 7 tips each week to consider before gifts. Remember it is the thought that comeAlbert, out Caymanian, to the polls.” 51: ersGeorge, will still Caymanian, vote “Yes” 44: for the port.” withdrawing that cash, writing that counts not the value of the gift. check or handing over that credit/deb- 4) Combine Christmas dinners with it card. family and friends. “If it was held in December, I think that “I hope everyone stays home and 1) Be honest to yourself. Create a 5) Purchase items in bulk the port would have been stopped but I doesn’tTina, Caymanian,vote now. We 33: need the port.” Christmas expense budget. Make a list 6) Save 50% of your bonus if re- think the delay will cause more people of items that you really need to pur- ceived to Debbie,stay home Caymanian, and not vote.”39: chase and stick with it. 7) Avoid buying a new out�it for the “I hope it doesn’t change anything. Be- 2) Take advantage of real Christmas New Year’s Eve party.  Remember sim- fore this happened, I think most people specials. Ask the store clerk for the ple is elegant. Try matching from your “If it doesn’t stretch out more than wereBarbara, voting Caymanian, “No.”” 57: original price to verify your savings. existing wardrobe. about March or April, I think that it won’tKevin, affect Caymanian, anything.” 51: “I think that it will slow down the mo- Upgrades to Emergency mentum that the No side had. Now, it “No, I don’t think it will affect any- will seem too drawn out and make most Notifi cation System thing. But, if there is a new environmen- peopleAndrew, frustrated.” Caymanian, 48: tal impact study, I think more people willWilliam, vote against Caymanian, the port.” 23: (NENS) Begin “This will not change a single, solitary thing.Christina, The port Caymanian, will still be23: voted down.” “I think it will make more people vote against the port because they will get a The hurricane season may chance to look at the environmental side “I am not sure. I just hope that we can have recently come to an end of Lisa,things Caymanian, a little more.” 56: stillLeroy, stop Caymanian, this port.” 49: but Hazard Management Cay- man Islands (HMCI) and the De- partment of Public Safety Com- “I hope it causes more people to see “Not really sure. I will not change my munications (DPSC) continue the seriousness of this issue and how it mind.Linda, I will Caymanian, still vote 47:against the port.” their work to make Cayman bet- canJeana, affect Caymanian, our environment.” 53: ter prepared for disasters than ever before. “I think it will frustrate some people “With an emergency, reaction “There is going to be a major shake- for a while, but then the momentum time is everything. The govern- up of things here. The judge will order will get going again and we will stop the ment has made a signi�icant a new Environment Study done and it port.” commitment to increasing our capability to notify and mobilise the public in an emergency as quickly as possible,” said the Minister “We understand that more peo- for Home Affairs, Hon. Tara Rivers, JP. ple generally have access to a mobile “This year and next should see a leap phone than would normally listen to forward in how the country responds the radio. However, a conscious de- to disasters, and how the public is in- cision was taken to implement radio formed through investments made in interrupt capability in Phase I as it is communication technology,” she con- the more robust and reliable channel,” tinued. commented the Director of HMCI, Ms Development of Phase I of the Na- Danielle Coleman. tional Emergency Noti�ication System “A battery powered radio should be began in March 2018 and is now fully part of everyone’s disaster kit as you operational. The project established a can’t always rely on there being power system allowing HMCI and DPSC to in- or a mobile signal during an emergen- terrupt radio broadcasts with warning cy. As a result, it made sense to ensure messages across all three islands in the that noti�ication via radio was the �irst event of a sudden onset emergency. step of the NENS that we can now ex- “Our radio interrupt system is one pand on,” she continued. of the �irst of its kind in the Caribbe- Commenting on the added bene�its an. A lot of groundwork for the NENS of Phase II’s upgrades, Ms Coleman was accomplished in Phase I and im- went on to say: “With hazard man- portant lessons were learned. This will agement, there is always more that be fully leveraged as we embark on can be done. By expanding the NENS the implementation of Phase II of the and streamlining communications in NENS,” said the Director of DPSC, Mr Phase II, we free up �irst responders to Julian Lewis. focus on tackling the disaster and pro- The focus of Phase II is on broad- tecting the public.” ening the number of communication The purpose of the NENS is to no- channels available to disseminate tify the public in the event of a sud- emergency messages in order to reach den onset emergency which requires the maximum number of individuals at them to take immediate action to once. protect their safety. Should the sys- This involves investment in a cen- tem be deployed, the message will tralised message distribution system specify the nature of the emergency including the creation of a new mobile and what the public should do in re- On Tuesday, December 24, our Customer Service Centres at alert application. Once complete, the sponse. Caribbean Plaza and Administrative Offices on North Sound Road public will be able to download the app The magnitude 5 earthquake which will close at noon for Christmas. These offices will reopen for free of charge and receive emergency occurred in the early morning of Mon- business on Friday, December 27 at 8:30 a.m. noti�ications directly to their phones. day, 9 December 2019 did not pose an In addition, the new system will also immediate threat to safety, therefore enable simultaneous warning messag- the NENS was not activated. Gift Certificates from CUC that can be used towards paying es to be delivered via SMS, emails and Phase II is expected to be complet- electricity bills are available in denominations of $25, $50 and social media, greatly reducing the time ed by the end of quarter  two in 2020 $100 from our Customer Service Centres. taken to disseminate critical messages which will enable utilisation during to the public. hurricane season. Bill payments can be made at our payment locations across Grand Cayman during their respective holiday hours. Caymanian CVisitaymanian www.cuc-cayman.com for a list of payment locations. Times Warmest wishes for a blessed Christmas! Issue # 468 Publisher: Ralph Lewis Company: Lewis Ltd #19 Walkers Road (next to Tomlinson Furniture) Contact 911 Telephone: 345 916 2000 in the event of an Email: [email protected], electrical emergency or [email protected] Website: www.caymaniantimes.ky LOCAL NEWS C�������� T���� Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 PAGE A3 16 Passport 2 Success graduates shine so bright

Sixteen Passport 2 Success graduates shone very brightly at the recent Pass- port 2 Success graduation at the George Town Yacht Club. Passport2Success helps young people gain success in the world of work by taking them through 14 weeks of training consisting of differ- ent developmental workshops and par- ticipatory session, so that they gain the self-con�idence and necessary skill sets they will need, not only to get a job but shine in it. The 29th Cohort of Passport 2 Success began on Monday September 9, 2019 with 17 participants consisting of a mix-  Angelina Brown receives her completion certificate, and  T’Keyah Dreckett received two awards: “Most Improved,” and “Perfect ture of single parents and young adults also gained a “Most Enthusiastic,” award Attendance” between the ages of 17 and 23. Each of them got an opportunity to tell their story; the story of how the pro- gramme changed them, helping them to Whittaker & Kaylone Warren made Martinez said as she thanked her tutors, conference, and also my �irst trip to the overcome challenges, so that they would great masters of ceremony, as they in- Catherine Tyson and Carmella Pugh for National Gallery.” be set on the good road called ‘Success’ vited each of their friends from the co- their constant encouragement and sup- In addition to receiving their Certif- not just for now, but for the rest of their hort to come forward to present re�lec- port, adding that the cohort, “had be- icate of Completion, each of the gradu- lives. Some of them had already gained tions on what the course had done for come like a family,” to her, and this really ates received special awards too. Rosa employment after impressing their them. kept her going. Whittaker was Top Female Overall; Tim- employers during the work-placement Jessica Martinez-Frederick said that Cher Baily was also very proud of her othy McKenzie, Top Male Overall; Jessica internship which is part of the course. she had tried to join the programme achievements, and how much she had Martinez Frederick, Most Consistent; Jo- Graduate Barbie Bodden has got a job at before, but did not manage to get on, so learned over the 14-week course: “Since seph Maitland, Most Resourceful; Cher the Westin, and T’Keyah Dreckett, who she was very motivated when she �inally joining this programme I have learned Bailey really shone, with two special sang “Shine Bright Like a Diamond,” very managed to join: “When I �inally started how to maintain a positive mindset and awards: Most Outstanding Growth and beautifully during the presentation, has this program I made a promise to myself accept change…I have also learned the Perfect Attendance. Isabel McFarlane found a job at Kirk Freeport. Cher Bailey that when I graduated I would be proud importance of �irst impressions, and I received the Most Positive Attitude, and has got a job at Camana Bay Cinema. of myself,” she said. “This program has have learned that I can meet people for Barbie Bodden was Rising Star, along Graduates gained the honor of or- helped me in so many different ways the �irst time in a professional environ- with Jaheem Jefferson. Kaylone War- ganizing their own ceremony, and Rosa both personally and professionally, Ms ment and make a good �irst impression,” ren Most Helpful and T’Keyah Dreckett she said. “One of the main highlights for received two awards: Most Improved me was attending my �irst professional and Perfect Attendance; while Angelina symposium world mental health Day Brown was Most Enthusiastic.

Monday to Friday 9 am to 6 pm Saturday 10 am to 5 pm Baytown Plaza. West bay Road Phone Repairs 943-2355 | Phone Retail 945-2355 Email - [email protected]  Passport 2 Success graduation ceremony

Puritan Cleaners & Daco Water Specialties take this opportunity to thank all our customers for their continued patronage over the years. Have a safe & Merry Christmas and a Healthy & Prosperous 2020! Premium quality for over 60 years your leading Launderers, Drycleaners and now using the most popular and Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solvents. Seamstress on duty. Happy Holidays!

DRY CLEANERS & LAUNDRY Daco Water Specialties Puritan Cleaners A division of Puritan Cleaners Professional Launderers & Dry Cleaners Call 526-1038 / 926-1038 /949-7104 With 3 convenient locations to serve you. Website: www.puritan.ky Savannah Countryside • Tel#: 946-1884 Elgin Avenue • Tel#: 949-2452 Eastern Avenue Drive Thru Rain or Shine • Tel: # 949-7104 Email: [email protected] All stores Close at 5:00 PM, 24th December & 31st December 2019. All stores will reopen at 7:30 AM from December 27th – December 31st, 2019. We will reopen again at 7:30 AM on the 2nd of January 2020. You feel good when you look good! LOCAL NEWS PAGE A4 Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 C�������� T���� Ribbon cut at DVES’ new Administration Building

Hon. Joey Hew from the Ministry of Commerce, Planning and Infrastructure, and Stephen Quinland, Director of the Department of Vehicle and Equipment Services (DVES), along with Deputy Governor, Franz Manderson, cut the rib- bon on the big brand new DVES building at North Sound Road. It has been just over a year and a half since the ground- breaking for the new 2-story 8,734 square foot building which will not only provide of�ice space for department managers and other employees, but will provide storage and inventory facilities too. DVES personnel service and main- tain the Government’s �leet of more than 1000 vehicles and it is hoped that the new facility will help them complete their work more ef�iciently and under more pleasant conditions. ronment, for the hard working mem-  Mr. Manderson, Mr. Hew and Mr. Quinland all helped to cut the ribbon on the new building Mr. Quinland said the opening prayer: bers of the Cayman Islands Civil Service. “Today I stand before you; a man “When I took my tour after taking of�ice, touched with joy. Who is unbelieva- I noticed that the working conditions bly thankful that you are helping DVES were less than ideal for our staff here. “The improvements that we now wit- tric vehicle service and safety. This, of reach that unreachable star.” So along with the Cabinet we remained ness will enhance staff productivity, and course is in preparation of the Govern- Minister Hew said: “The main priority committed to providing the necessary customer experience, all of which will ment’s plan to convert 30 percent of our of this government is to provide the safe, resources to ensure that this project contribute to the stable, effective and �leet to energy-ef�icient vehicles by the modern and comfortable working envi- would move forward. accountable government for which we year 2027. After completion of phase 2 strive. We will also reap the bene�its of of DVES redevelopment plan with con- inventory management and control, and struction set to start in the �irst quarter anticipate the need to reduce capital of next year, these competent mechanics expenditure. DVES is a unique facility. will be able to put their training to good It is the only facility across our islands use in a modern, state-of-the art service which services every aspect of our vehi- bay. cles and equipment needs; from a small “The Department will have an in- weed whacker to a 40-ton truck; to a creased number of bay spaces, which 70-ton car-crusher, and the compaction will lead to increased turnabout in re- equipment at the Land�ill. So it is truly pair times and increased working sta- remarkable, given the Government’s bility for the larger vehicles, and it will 1000 + vehicles and equipment, that it also minimize employee exposure to the is all managed by this relatively small elements. Tremendous bene�its will re- department.” sult in the work here at DVES for many I had the distinct pleasure of visiting years to come.” DVES and meeting with the �ive me- After the ribbon was cut, Minister  Hew chanics who are being trained, right up- joined Mr. Manderson and Mr. Quinland stairs in our new training room, in elec- on a tour of the new facility. Fathers and Sons Bond and Build at A.L Thompsons

A.L. Thompson’s in conjunction with With over 40 children at the event and Men’s Shed hosted a workshop for fa- smiles on each of their faces when they thers and sons to bond around building heldEDITORIAL up the �inished products, | COMMUNITY con�irma- NOTICES and making woodwork. tion of workshop’s goals being achieved The event, which took place on 23rd wasPAGE more 2 than evident.Wednesday, October 18, 2017 | Issue No 132 Caymanian Times November, 2019 was attended by doz- “Hopefully, the tool boxes that were ens of fathers, who joined their sons to built at the workshop will be around for make special tool holders. years to come and encourage the chil- The Caymanian Times spoke to Retail dren to �ill them with their own tools oticEs Manager Dan Thompson of AL Thomp- andE makeditorial them eager to take on projects N sons, who explained more about the of their own,” said Mr. Murphy. event: “I would like to thank Men’s Shed – Customs Registration of Importers begins “A. L. Thompson’s has been exploring Cayman Islands as well as the Family To help importers start using a system for entry declaration, the Department will ideas on hosting various workshops Resource Centre for their efforts and start registering importers starting Monday, 16 October 2017. for our customers for quite some time. look forward to hosting more of these When Men’s Shed - Cayman Islands ap- types of events in the future,” he noted. The registration is required by the implementation of a new online electronic proached us about hosting the event in Deputy Governor Franz Manderson system for entry declaration. Effective 1 November 2017, the Cayman Islands EDITORIAL | COMMUNITYpartnership NOTICES with them, we jumped at was also on hand for the event and ex- Customs Department will implement the new system. This will require importers the opportunity as it was a great cause pressed joy at seeing the fathers and their to complete and submit entries electronically to Customs using the new gateway PAGE 2 Wednesday, Octoberwith focus 18, on 2017 our youth.” | Issue No 132sons working together on the project. portal COLSCaymanian (Customs Online Times System). Importers will be able to access the portal He added that the reality is that we “I wanted to come and support this through the website www.customs.gov.ky. have become a disposable society (glob- event;Tips fathers of and the sons Week building tool For individuals who have not yet received training in the use of the system, Customs will provide in-house training. ally)…. boxes. My �irst job at 11 years old was in “When something breaks, we buy a my Motivational Uncle Jimmy Powell’sTip cabinet shop However, before they can use COLS, importers will have to be formally registered and recognised as an importer by Customs. Nnew oneotic or we call someoneEs else in to and so I amThe a bib Power supporter of Music of this kind This will require each individual to come in and provide Customs with relevant information including a government-issued Editorial �ix it. Trade skills and craftmanship are of bondingDo not betweenunderestimate parents the and power their  (L-R) A proud dad stands with his son next to Mark Nicoll, Deputy Governor Franz Mander- becoming more and more scarce, so we children,”of music. he Musicremarked. can heal the sick, theirson business and A.L. Thompsonlicence and/or Retail Managercompanies Dan registration Thompson including directorship. thoughtCustoms this workshop was a greatRegistration idea mendMen’s theShed, broken which heart, isof spearheaded relieve Importers stress by identification,As a result, Customsbegins e.g., driver’s will begin licence the or registration passport. Additionally,process starting it will Monday, be necessary 16 October for through companies 27 October and businesses 2017, from to provide8:30am by gettingTo help the importers kids involved start using and creating a system forMark entryand Nicolleven declaration, helpis an youorganization the to liveDepartment longer. that seeksJust will anstart event registering around them. importers starting Monday,toask 16empower Octobersome of men, 2017.our manyseniors of who whom are strug- still Roberts Drive (locally known as Airport Road). playing music and dancing. They will “WhatThe registration is more empowering is required andby the im- implementationgle to put their of emotionsa new online into words.electronic bringto 4:00pm men Monday together to inFriday. a collabora- Registration willThe take island’s place �irst on men’sthe 1st shed floor is housedof Customs Headquarters, located at #42 Owens agree that music has added value to However, if they miss this period to be registered, Customs will continue to register importers during normal business pactfulsystem than for entry teaching declaration. and encouraging Effective 1 November“It’s an international 2017, the Cayman movement Islands that tive, community setting where they inside the Cayman Catboat Club on our youth to create something tangible seekstheir to life help and them also builda few social more connec-years. couldhours. roll Although their sleeves most importers up, work were with previously North registered Church Street in the andold system, is a smallit is necessary for all importers to be registered Customs Department will implement the new system. This will require importers with their own, two hands and expos- tionsAfter – anda long improve stressful their day, quality close yourof life theirin the hands new and,system. hopefully, Once registered build new with woodworkingCustoms, importers shop that can hasthen been submit set upentries electronically and do business with to complete and submit entries electronically to Customs using the new gateway ing them to a trade such as carpentry at – eyes in a turn more on hands-on your iPod way,” or CD noted player Mr. friendships.Customs, without having to attend in person.with donated tools and tables. portal COLS (Customs Online System). Importers will be able to access the portal an early age to ignite their interest and Nicoll.and just enjoy the mellowing sounds TheCayman movement Islands has Customs now spread Management across thanksFor more importers  information for their on cooperationMen’s Shed, and understanding and looks forward to through the website www.customs.gov.ky. build their con�idence in their own abil- ofHe music. added If you that have Men’s energy sheds left you be- Europe,continued North partnership. America, and now the contact Mark Nicoll at marktnicoll@ Tips of the Week ities…”For individuals who have not yet receivedgan maytraining as even an in dance initiative the use a jig. of inthe ,system, Customs to Cayman will provide Islands. in-house training. gmail.com Motivational Tip However, before they can use COLS, importersLive will longer. have to Live be formallyhappier. Liveregistered life to and recognised as an importer by Customs. The Power of Music This will require each individual to come in itsand fullest provide with Customs MUSIC. with relevant information including a government-issued Air-Conditioned Storage Do not underestimate the power Sea Grape of music. Music can heal the sick, their business licence and/or companies registration including directorship. Units - Kingbird Drive mend the broken heart, relieve stress identification,As a result, Customs e.g., driver’s will begin licence the or registration passport. Additionally,process starting it will Monday, be necessary 16 October for through companies 27 October and businesses 2017,Secretarial from to provide8:30am Services Available for Immediate and even help you to live longer. Just Rental ask some of our seniors who are still Roberts Drive (locally known as Airport Road). Services: Work Permits, Trade and Business Applications playing music and dancing. They will to 4:00pm Monday to Friday. Registration will take place on the 1st floor of Customs Headquarters,& Renewal located at #42Annual Owens Returns, General Letters Various Sizes from agree that music has added value to However, if they miss this period to be registered, Customs will continue to register importers during normalPlease business call for other services their life and also a few more years. hours. Although most importers were previously registered in the old system, it is necessary for all importersContact: to be registered Susan 80 sq. ft to 190 sq. ft After a long stressful day, close your in the new system. Once registered with Customs, importers can then submit entries electronically and doCellular: business with345 326-9953 Please call: 326-3800 eyes turn on your iPod or CD player Customs, without having to attend in person. Health Tip Address: Unit #2, Grand Plaza Drinking alcohol and Blood (Opposite Hi-Tech Electronics) and just enjoy the mellowing sounds Cayman Islands Customs Management thanks importers for their cooperation and understanding and looks forward to or of music. If you have energy left you Pressure Email: [email protected] continued partnership. Business Hours: 9am – 5pm, Mon – Fri Email: [email protected] may even dance a jig.  A young boy works on his toolbox Drinking too Amuch dad and alcohol son work can together on their toolbox  A young boy is assisted whilst making his woodwork Live longer. Live happier. Live life to raise blood pressure to unhealthy its fullest with MUSIC. levels. Having more than three drinks in one sitting temporarily increases Air-Conditioned Storage Sea Grapeyour blood pressure, but repeated Units - Kingbird Drive binge drinking can lead to long-term Secretarialincreases. Services Available for Immediate Advertise Heavy drinkers who cut back to Rental Services: Work Permits, Trade and Business Applications moderate drinking can lower their l Free Consultation - New Clients Welcome l Full & Partial Dentures & Renewal Annual Returns,systolic General blood Letterspressure (the top Various Sizes from Please call for other services l Specializing in Cosmetic Dentures l Re-Lines/Soft Liners number in a blood pressure reading) 80 sq. ft to 190 sq. ft your Contact: Susan l Dentures Over Implants l Athletic mouthguards & night guards Cellular: 345 326-9953by 2 to 4 millimeters of mercury Health Tip Address: Unit #2, Grand(mm Hg)Plaza and their diastolic blood Pleasel Over 30 call: Yrs Experience326-3800 l Denture Repairs while you wait! Drinking alcohol and Blood (Oppositepressure Hi-Tech Electronics)(the bottom number in a or Pressure Email: [email protected] pressure reading) by 1 to 2 Business Hours: 9am – 5pm,mm Mon Hg. Heavy– Fri drinkers who want to Email: [email protected] Drinking too much alcohol can lower blood pressure should slowly raise blood pressure to unhealthy reduce how much they drink over levels. Having more than three drinks one to two weeks. Heavy drinkers in one sitting temporarily increases who stop suddenly risk developing your blood pressure, but repeated severe high blood pressure for binge drinking can lead to long-term several days. increases. Advertise If you have high blood pressure, Heavy drinkers who cut back to avoid alcohol or drink alcohol only moderate drinking can lower their l Free Consultation - New Clients inWelcome moderation. l Full &Moderate Partial Dentures drinking is systolic blood pressure (the top l Specializing in Cosmetic Denturesgenerally l Re-Lines/Soft considered Liners to be: number in a blood pressure reading) your here by 2 to 4 millimeters of mercury l Dentures Over Implants l Athletic mouthguards- Two drinks & night aguards day for men younger than age 65 (mm Hg) and their diastolic blood l Over 30 Yrs Experience l Denture Repairs while you wait! pressure (the bottom number in a - One drink a day for men age 65 blood pressure reading) by 1 to 2 and older Fast, mm Hg. Heavy drinkers who want to - One drink a day for women of GardenerDesigner lower blood pressure should slowly any age Cameraman reduce how much they drink over A drink is 12 ounces (355 one to two weeks. Heavy drinkers milliliters) of beer, 5 ounces (148 Efficient, who stop suddenly risk developing milliliters) of wine or 1.5 ounces severe high blood pressure for (44 milliliters) of 80-proof distilled Caymanian Secretary several days. spirits. If you have high blood pressure, Affordable.Lawyer Keep in mind that alcohol contains Times avoid alcohol or drink alcohol only calories and may contribute to in moderation. Moderate drinking is Issue # 132 Driver unwanted weight gain — a risk factor generally considered to be: for high blood pressure. Publisher: Ralph Lewis - Two drinks a day for men here Only 48 hours’ Also, alcohol can interfere with Company: Lewis Cayman Islands Ltd younger than age 65 the effectiveness and increase the Telephone: 345 916 2000 Dive instruct - One drink a day for men age 65 side effects of some blood pressure Email: [email protected], Director and older medications. GardenerFast, or [email protected] notice required - One drink a day for women of - By Sheldon Designer Website: www.caymaniantimes.ky G. Sheps, M.D. any age Cameraman Hairdresser A drink is 12 ounces (355 milliliters) of beer, 5 ounces (148 Efficient, milliliters) of wine or 1.5 ounces (44 milliliters) of 80-proof distilled Caymanian Secretary spirits. Affordable.Lawyer Keep in mind that alcohol contains Times Designer calories and may contribute to Issue # 132 Driver unwanted weight gain — a risk factor for high blood pressure. Publisher: Ralph Lewis Only 48 hours’ Also, alcohol can interfere with Company: Lewis Cayman Islands Ltd the effectiveness and increase the Telephone: 345 916 2000 Dive instruct side effects of some blood pressure Email: [email protected], Director medications. or [email protected] notice required - By Sheldon G. Sheps, M.D. Website: www.caymaniantimes.ky Hairdresser Designer ADVERTISEMENT C�������� T���� Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 PAGE A5

More winners, better prizes, BAYSHORE MALL, CARDINALL AVENUE & THE STRAND +1(345) 949-7477 • KIRKFREEPORT.COM every Christmas

3 X US$5,000 CASH WINNERS 5 X US$1,000 CASH WINNERS AND OTHER GREAT PRIZES!

Every US$100 purchase at any Kirk Freeport store made before noon on December 24th qualifi es for all prize draws! Winners will be announced on Hot 104.1 FM in the afternoon/evening and CayRock 96.5 FM, X107.1 FM and KISS 106.1 FM during the breakfast show the next day.

Remaining prize draws! Dec 16th – 20th: US$1,000 each day Dec 24th: US$5,000

CHRISTMAS SWEEPSTAKES CHRISTMAS Rolex giveaway Jan 2nd: Rolex Giveaway is on January 2nd, 2020.

RULES AND REGULATIONS: Minimum US$100 purchase to enter. One entry per purchase. Receipts can be combined to reach US$100 requirement. Winner must claim prize at Kirk Freeport on Cardinall Avenue within 7 days of announcement. Non-winning valid entries from Kirk Freeport Christmas Sweepstakes will be included in the Rolex Drawing. Kirk Freeport employees and immediate family members are not eligible to enter. LOCAL NEWS PAGE A6 Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 C�������� T���� Jamaica crowned Miss World Jamaica, Toni-Ann Singh has been crowned the 69th Miss World

On Saturday at ExCel Toni-Ann Singh aged Lulu, one of Britain's most iconic singers, with an 23 was crowned the 69th Miss World by her predeces- internationally renowned voice performed a very fes- sor de Leon at the grand �inal hosted by tive ‘Run Rudolph Run and closed the show perform- Peter Andre and . ing ‘Shout’, The show opened with Kerry Ellis, a West A tearful newly crowned Miss World 2019 said: End and Broadway star singing ‘Rise Like A Phoenix’ “So honored and grateful for this opportunity but with other performances by Andre singing ‘Mysterious most of all I’m thinking about the work that needs to Girl’ and Misunderstood, an all-singing all-dancing duo be done and that I have the platform and the means from South London who performed ‘Girls in London’ to do it. I’m ready to get out there and work. I’m ex- with the �inal 12 contestants. cited!” UK broadcaster and TV celebrity Piers Morgan asked Toni is a women’s studies and psychology student at the �inal �ive contestants their last question before the Florida State University who aspires to be a medical judges had to decide who would wear the famous blue doctor. Previously she has worked as president of the crown. Celebrating the icon theme, Zandra Rhodes was Caribbean students association on campus. In her free one of the judges. time Toni enjoys singing, cooking, vlogging, volunteer- Miss World , Ophely Mezino was the runner ing and singing. Her special talent is that she can sing up, and Miss World , was placed third classical opera. The most important thing in Toni’s life after the culmination of a month-long Miss  World Fes- is her mother who has facilitated her dream by sup- tival that saw contestants from 111 countries compet- porting her in every way possible. ing in a number of fast track challenges. Public Consultation Opens for ICT Consumer Protection Regulations

Consumers are one step closer to sations in different ways. The consulta- having formalised consumer protection tion process provides all those who will regulations in the information and com- be affected by a regulatory decision the munications technology (ICT) sector. opportunity to provide input.” The �inal draft of the proposed regula- The proposed regulations address �ive tions are now out for public consultation. keyAccurate areas that Information will be of interest to con- These proposed regulations will ap- sumers: ply to ICT service providers and ICT network providers, and seek to ensure They specify requirements of service their services and networks are reliable, providers to provide accurate descrip- provided with due care and skill and tions of the service and other informa- rendered in accordance with the stand- tionComplaints to consumers, through advertising ards reasonably expected of a compe- and any other means. methods by which the consumer can tent provider of these services. make enquiries about bills and how Alee Fa’amoe, Executive Director ICT They detail requirements on how service providers can address non-pay- at OfReg explained the process: “Trans- service providers address complaints mentProvision of an outstanding and Repairs and undisputed parency and accountability are at the includingContract handling, Terms tracking and record- balance on the consumer’s account.  Alee Fa’amoe, Executive Director infor- heart of this, and every public consulta- ing procedures. mation and communications technology tion process. Regulations are designed How services and fault repair are ad- sector at OfReg to protect the consumer while at the Terms and conditions of contracts are dressed, including timeframes, the con- same time creating a healthy competi- speci�ied, addressing how they may be sumer’s ability to report faults and the tive environment for the industry, which amendedBilling and in particular how roaming provision of notices of planned service then, in turn, provides the best value to plans are outlined. disruptions or outages to consumers. ered to the OfReg headquarters at Aliss- consumers. With this as a background, Responses are due to OfReg by 5:00 ta Towers, North Sound Road.  you can see how decisions made by Of- Bills are addressed, including what pm on 31 January 2020 and should be To view the consultation paper in full, Reg affect different people and organi- information is to be included on bills, sent to [email protected] or deliv- visit www.ofreg.ky/consultations. Cabana’s Farm to Table Gives Local Produce A Platform

The Cayman Island are known as one a full banquet, serving numbers into the ed, “We have seen a resurgence in the and can readily be seen at placed like of the top culinary destinations in the hundreds of people on any given Thurs- local farming industry and many of our the Farmers Market, near the crickets Caribbean and one of the special treats day. suppliers have been able to expand their pitch in George Town where purveyors among the bevy of memorable dining What adds to the night being such a businesses as a result of the growing of fresh produce and novelty food items experiences is the ‘Farm to Table’ feast special and unique experience is the in- need for locally sourced produce,” while made on Islands are patronized by the that occurs every Thursday night at the timacy and how the structure of the set- addressing the guests. public at an ever-increasing frequency. Cabana seaside restaurant on the Wa- ting is connected; with the hosts of the The couple have made it a point to According to the Moxams, there is terfront in George Town. evening being approachable and acces- have the night, despite the weather or something extra special about the food Now running for over 6 years, the sible to answer any questions, etc. any other hinderance that could possi- grown in the Cayman Islands, as it evening, which is popular with residents While greeting guests, Cabana Owner bly derail the feast. comes from, ‘mom and pops’ operations and visitors alike, has mushroomed into Luigi Moxam and his wife Christina not- With delights on the menu, which vary and are in no way part of any kind of from week to week, guests are treated to major agribusiness that might involve original creations such as coconut-cevi- spraying certain fertilizers and other che and watermelon lemonade, along implements to mass produce the prod- with specialty wines and more. uct. There is also special �ish, which Luigi The staff at Cabana are also very explains can range from the usual/tra- knowledgeable and are able to tell ditional red snapper that has become guests about the different dishes and a staple in most restaurants to more the suppliers behind some of the pro- exotic catches such as Ocean Turbit or, duce. “Whatever swims up” he joked. “Everything we do here really is a la- The restaurant is located on the ocean bor of love and we take a great deal of front, along some of the most pristine pride in being able to share the food that waters in the world and all the �ist served is grown here and hearing from our cus- is served fresh from the sea to the plate. tomers how different everything tastes Everything - from the team of serv- in terms of freshness; there is a zest to ers, to the setting of the table at Farm to food that does not have to travel vast Table communicates an atmosphere of differences to get to our tables/plates,” community and fellowship. noted Mr. Moxam. “It is important for people to have a The fact that the Cabana is in George relationship with their food as well. As Town means that the business has also James L. Murray an essential part of our lives, it is cru- been contributing to the revitalization cial for people to know where they are of George Town by default and with mu- September 27, 1932 - December 11, 2019 sourcing their food and take responsi- sic and other entertainment also hap- bility for what they are consuming,” re- pening at the ocean -front location on Biology Teacher marked Mrs. Moxam. occasions, this is one hotspot that prom- Cayman Islands High School The trend of homegrown food has ises to continue to grow in the hearts been catching on in the Cayman Islands and minds of the community. 1979 to 1993

“ When someone asks why anyone would become a teacher, remind them why it’s worth it. Every job has its ups and downs, but not every job job can change a life ”

A tribute page has been set-up for anyone wishing to leave a short message: https://james-murray-2019.muchloved.com/  One of the specialty dishes  Luigi Moxam and his wife Christina welcome at the popular restaurant on guests to Farm to Table at Cabana George Town’s Harbor LAW ENFORCEMENT C�������� T���� Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 PAGE A7

POLICE NEWS Police Renew Appeal for Witnesses in Death at Bananas Bar

Police are continuing to appeal for witnesses to the incident which resulted in the death of 36-year-old Dinesh Asanka Fernando Wannukawatta-Waduge from Sri-Lanka. Dinesh died following an assault at Bananas Bar in Dolphin  Dinesh, with his wife and four-year-old daughter Plaza on Eastern Avenue early Saturday morning, 30 November. Three men have been And if you see someone who Once again I want to appeal charged in relation to the you know, please encourage to everyone to put yourself incident and a court case is on- probably around 100 people at them to come forward. If you in the shoes of the family that going. the location on the night of the have information but are con- Dinesh has left behind. His “Unfortunately we are still in incident and we know that about cerned about coming forward daughter and wife deserve to urgent need of witnesses into 20 persons were in a position for any reason, please contact have the truth. They deserve this matter. Even following the to actually witness the incident. us and we will take whatever to see justice served. But even appeal that was made last week We’ve had to put in as much ef- steps we can to address your more than that, when incidents by Deputy Commissioner Wal- fort to �ind witnesses as we’ve concerns." like this occur, it is our collec- ton, no additional witnesses had to in order to �ind and identi- “At the end of the day it is tive responsibility to do the have come forward to assist us,” fy the suspects in this case.” up to the local community to right thing in response.” said Detective Superintendent After reviewing CCTV foot- pinpointed seven potentialPhotos wit- of play their part in maintaining RCIPSAnyone Major with Incident information Room Pete Lansdown. “There were age, RCIPS detectives have thesenesses persons who they are would included. like to law and order. If people do not atis 649-2930 encouraged to contact the identify and speak to. come forward when they wit- ness criminality, then that pro- . “One or two extra witnesses vides an opening for criminal- Tips can also be submit-Crime could make the difference be- ity to go unchecked and even Stoppersted anonymously at 800-8477(TIPS) via the Mi- tween a successful conviction increase. As police it is our job orami-based online callhttps://www.tip- centre of or an acquittal," said Superin- to investigate and prosecute, submit.com/WebTips.aspx-, tendent Lansdown. "If you rec- but we cannot do that effec- ?AgencyID=187  ognize yourself in one of these tively if the public doesn’t play images, please contact us. their part. . GOVERNMENT PAGE A8 Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 C�������� T���� Regiment Of�icer Recruitment Launched ... Continued story from page A1

training overseas and will also attend of- • Nationality: British Overseas �icer training at the Royal Military Acad- Territories Citizen, British Citizen need to have a wide variety of skills in- emy, Sandhurst in the UK. The recruits or Irish Citizen. Other Common- cluding project management and will will help the Commanding Of�icer set up wealth applicants may be consid- need to be adaptable, resilient and able the Regiment and recruit 50 reservists ered on a cases by case basis. Must to deal with the day-to-day challenges initially. Eventually this number will rise be legally resident in Cayman. a programme like this will inevitably to 150. Junior Of�icers would need to be • Minimum quali�ications have. The role is part-time, for which available to start in February.” Bachelors Degree a per diem allowance will be paid, and Speci�ic details of the roles are given • Experience and quali�ications there will be opportunities to refresh, below and draw on policy from UK Re- in project management preferred. re-hone and improve existing skills and serve Regiments. Expressions of inter- • Must pass medical and �it-  Governor during press conference talents with further training with some est should be emailed to staffoff@can- ness test of the best military teams in the world. dw.kyCommanding by 1 January 2020. Of�icer • Required to start January And the candidate will need to be able 2020 to start work immediately.” • Part-time (hours to be agreed) izen. Other Commonwealth applicants In terms of the Junior positions, the This will be a part-time role. The Com- • SalaryJunior to be agreed Of�icers may be considered on a cases by case ba- Governor said: “We are looking for six manding Of�icer will work closely with sis. Must be legally resident in Cayman. Junior Of�icer recruits. We would like to the Governor’s Of�ice and new Defence • Minimum quali�ications: two ‘A’ lev- employ them on one year, full-time, �ixed Board to shape the new Regiment and • No minimum experience required els at Grade C or above, two years study term contracts after which they might provide strategic direction on policy, train- but previous service in the Cayman Is- at UCCI or equivalent level of education become part-time reservists to enable ing, equipment and Regimental ethos. Re- lands Cadet Corps or other military ex- • Must pass medical and �itness test them to continue their civilian careers, quirements for this position are as follows: perience preferred • Required to start February 2020 although there will also be some full- • Minimum 5 years experience as an • Aged between 18 and 50 years old • Full-time, one year, �ixed term con- time positions created in future. During Of�icer in the British Armed Forces • Nationality: British Overseas Terri- tract this year, the of�icers will receive basic • Aged between 23 and 50 years old tories Citizen, British Citizen or Irish Cit- • Salary to be agreed Attorney General Leads Cayman’s CFATF Plenary Delegation

The Attorney General, the Hon. Samuel Bulgin, QC, led tion of targeted �inancial sanctions without delay and a 10-person delegation from the Cayman Islands to the the delegation discussed proposed changes to the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) plena- CFATF mutual evaluation process. ry held the week 22 November in Antigua. During the Ms. Lees also presented to the delegation on the Cay- plenary, Cayman presented our First Follow-Up Report man Islands’ recently completed National Risk Assess- (FFUR), which was submitted to the CFATF in September. ment of Terrorist Financing. The Cayman Islands was The report outlined our progress to date in ful�illing the the �irst country in the Caribbean to assess its jurisdic- CFATF’s 63 recommended actions for our jurisdiction. tional risks for terrorist �inancing using the methodol- The Attorney General delivered a presentation to ogy issued by the Financial Action Task Force in June almost 200 delegates from over 25 countries that 2019. By being one of the �irst jurisdictions to use this outlined our signi�icantly enhanced legislative frame- methodology, Cayman has provided a key blueprint for work; our increased effectiveness in implementing the other jurisdictions to follow, Ms. Lees said. legislative framework, as a result of additional resourc- Ms. Lees, who coordinates our jurisdiction’s re- es, policies, training, and outreach; and our improved sponse to the CFATF, said in relation to the Cayman  The Attorney General, the Hon. Samuel Bulgin, QC understanding in both the public and private sectors of Islands’ own peer review process that Cayman has a our role in the global AML/CFT/ PF �ight. 21 February 2020 deadline to demonstrate that it has During the plenary sessions, delegates also dis- made positive and tangible progress in implementing cussed the mutual evaluation reports for the Turks and the recommendations of the report. The Financial Ac- standards. All stakeholders are doing everything they Caicos Islands and Bermuda, with Ms. Elisabeth Lees, tion Task Force (FATF) has to decide then whether to can to ful�ill the 63 recommended actions, and it was National Coordinator for Cayman’s Anti-Money Laun- impose a remediation plan on the Cayman Islands and good to present to Plenary on the signi�icant progress dering Steering Group, acting as legal assessor during place the jurisdiction on the compliance document. we have made. Whatever decision  is made by FATF, the the peer review. Representatives from the United King- “The Cayman Islands is committed to taking pro- Cayman Islands will continue to ensure all the recom- dom Treasury educated delegates on the implementa- active steps to ensure compliance with international mended actions are ful�illed.” Well maintained with some BOAT FOR SALE outstanding features: One (1) 48 FT Hatteras Sport Fisherman • Having two (2) Redicci (ready to go fishing with rods & reels, etc.) propellers and two(2) spare Michigan propellers. • Pulpit and Tuna Tower, dive platform and out riggers etc. • 250X North star GPS • Starboard engine rebuilt with about 75 hours running and part engine refitted with new coolers and heat exchangers. • 15HP ONAN reconditioned generator. • New macerator pumps installed. • Air conditioners reconditioned For further details please contact the owner at 345-926-1038 345-526-1039 345-526-1030 345-949-7104 COMMUNITY | ENTERTAINMENT C�������� T���� Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 PAGE B1

Styrofoam and Plastic bag bans in the Caribbean

PLASTIC FREE CAYMAN BAN IN PLACE

All items

Government-initiated single-use plastic steering committee BAN ANNOUNCED All items

BAN IN DISCUSSION – Government Level

All items

BAN IN DISCUSSION – Plastic Free Cayman (PFC) is incred- boring school has to close because of A multitude of Public/NGOs (including Voluntary Ban) ibly disappointed to notify the public ‘dump �ire days’. international or- All items that a second steering committee meet- Plastic litter blocks drainage and col- ganisations provide NO BAN ing on single-use plastics scheduled lects standing water making it a known readily available All items Discover all the legislations in for 11th December 2019 was cancelled breeding ground for mosquitoes, in- online resource force in the Wider Caribbean earlier the same day and until further creasing the risk of dengue fever. tools to assist pol- Region! notice by a Ministry of Health repre- Micronizing plastics (plastics break- icymakers. Global sentative “due to insuf�icient numbers ing into smaller and smaller pieces) agencies, such as the to make up quorum”. enter the food chain by direct ingestion United Nations (UN)  Map of Styrofoam and Plastic bag bans in the Caribbean A list of members shows 29 repre- such as shell�ish or by accumulating in have made publicly sentatives form the committee and 13 animal tissue transferring to humans in available reports, people had committed to attend, includ- a similar way to more commonly under- recommendations, ing three volunteers from PFC. The �irst stood risks such as heavy metals poison- guidelines and resources to assist local youth of Cayman, believe Cayman must of the two meetings was also cancelled ing or ciguatera poisoning. governments tackle this planet-wide ban single use plastics. First off there is and later rescheduled. Visual and odor pollution are common plastic-crisis. Caribbean region action the obvious reason that they are detri- PFC has not received any minutes complaints PFC receives from tourists plans such as the Land-Based Sourc- mental to the environmental health and from the �irst meeting, nor was an agen- expecting to relax on Cayman’s white es of Marine Pollution (LBS) Protocol prosperity of the Cayman Islands. Single da circulated for the second. As yet, no coral sand beaches instead �ind them- (signed in 1999 and adopted in 2010) use plastics are thrown into the land�ill clear mission statement, goals, respon- selves walking across beaches littered and the Caribbean Regional Action Plan or littered and end up being ingested by sibilities or action points have been set with bright white Styrofoam food pack- for Marine Litter (RAPMaLI) (developed marine and land-based species. These out for the committee. Neither has any aging while single-use plastic drinks in 2008 and updated in 2010) are plat- species inevitably die. This constant cy- documentation been provided which bottles crunch under their feet. forms facilitating communication and cle is leading to a decrease in multiple indicates how the chosen stakeholders On 7th December, 25 volunteers at- action in the Caribbean for the bene�it of crucial species populations. In order to were selected, how decisions are made tended PFC’s Monthly Beach Clean-up all countries. Earlier in 2019 the World protect its pristine environment Cay- or what number of members are re- removing 500lbs of trash from Collier’s Bank Group published a 104 page re- man must ban these harmful plastics. quired to make up a quorum. Beach in East End in under 2 hours, with port titled “Marine Pollution in the Car- Another reason is the perception people Nine months after the Cayman Youth most of it in the form of plastic bottles ibbean: not a minute to Waste” (http:// have of Cayman. With the world mov- Parliament passionately debated and and Styrofoam. On-island visitors pass- documents.worldbank.org/curated/ ing towards being more environmen- passed a single-use plastic ban in the ing the group clean-up effort Saturday en/482391554225185720/pdf/Ma- tally friendly and sustainability being Legislative Assembly the acting govern- morning were quick to thank the volun- rine-Pollution-in-the-Caribbean-Not-a- at the forefront of almost all decisions ment still fails to take on board the grav- teers but did not hesitate to share their Minute-to-Waste.pdf) made, the fact Cayman has not begun ity of the well-known social, economic, horror at the unsightly litter covering In Europe the Strategy for Plastics to do this yet looks poorly upon us. The environmental and health problems sin- Cayman’s beaches. (https://ec.europa.eu/environment/ world will begin to see our island as un- gle-use plastics are causing worldwide, According to United Nations Caribbe- marine/good-environmental-status/ derdeveloped and not environmentally across the Caribbean and in our local an Environment Programme 21 coun- descriptor-10/index_en.htm) requires friendly. Is this what we want? Other three-island community. tries in the Wider Caribbean Region member states to act by 2020 on regu- Caribbean Islands have already com- Government’s passive stance on this with bans already in place are: lating the 10 most common single-use pleted this process. Banning single use serious matter is extremely alarming • Anguilla plastics found on beach cleans to reduce plastics will protect our environment, given experts at the American Academy • ocean plastic pollution. look better for our island, and could of Pediatrics (AAP) (https://www.aap. • The forward-thinking UN Sustainable even become a source of income. If �ines org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press- • Development Goals (SDGs) should be are implemented onto people that bring room/Pages/AAP-Says-Some-Common- • embedded in all government agencies single use plastics onto our island, this Food-Additives-May-Pose-Health-Risks- • and encouraged for local businesses to money could then be invested back into to-Children.aspx) have issued warnings • Dominica guide our islands into a future of pros- our communities. The banning of single that toxic chemicals used for food pack- • France () perity for all. Particularly relevant is SDG use plastics will only bene�it us.” - Ben aging can interfere with a child’s hor- • Grenada 14, Life Below Water which tackles ma- Somerville, Protect Our Future mones, growth and development. Life- • rine pollution monitoring and action and “With research and technology ad- long health problems such as changing • provides a framework for governments, vancing at unprecedented rates, why the time of puberty, affecting male gen- • business and citizens to collaborate ef- are we failing to move on from single italia development, decreasing fertility, • Jamaica fectively to work towards the goals. use plastics? As a member of the youth affecting nervous and immune systems, • We applaud businesses, schools and of Cayman, I strongly believe that it is increasing childhood obesity and con- • individuals who have joined us in action imperative that Cayman bans single use tributing to cardiovascular disease are • by taking the Plastic Free Cayman 345 plastics. Not only to bene�it our envi- only some of the serious health effects • Pledge in committing to take steps to ronment but those of our neighbouring of chemical exposure from food packag- • Saint Lucia reduce their own single-use plastic con- Caribbean islands also. Of whom 7 have ing highlighted by the AAP. • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines sumption and be more mindful about already placed plastic bans which will Not only should we be concerned • Turks and Caicos their choices. come to act in 2020.” - Matt Gilmour, about the health impacts of direct in- • While we continue to advocate for Protect Our Future gestion of food tainted with toxic chemi- • Virgin Islands government regulation, we encourage “I understand that single use plastic cals, we cannot ignore the government’s Some countries like Jamaica which have everyone to visit www.plasticfreecay- is cheap, durable, and easily produced, chronic failure to act on implementing already banned single-use plastic ‘scan- man.com, take the 345 pledge and start however it doesn't support a circular an effective waste-management strate- dal’ bags and are phasing in strengthened your journey towards eliminating un- economy, takes thousands of years to gy. The lack of end-of-life stage planning regulations. As of January 1, 2020, Jamai- necessary single-use plastics. degrade, and harms ecosystems and hu- for products and packaging, most of ca’s ban will extend to locally manufac- We are extremely supportive of the man health (speci�ically our endocrine which are imported into Cayman, tow- tured and distributed polystyrene foam youth of Cayman speaking up for their systems). Being surrounded by water ers above our little island as “Trash Ev- food and beverage containers. future, yet we continue to wait for any and already struggling with waste man- erest” assaulting our noses and leaching Cayman government is clearly falling tangible action from the government agement systems, I think moving to- unquanti�ied and unreported amounts behind the region in policy implementa- which will protect them. wards a ban on single use plastics would  of chemicals into the air, our ground wa- tion on singleuse plastics down to lack “There are a multitude of reasons be bene�icial to the Cayman Islands.” ter and natural environment. The neigh- of government will. for why we, Protect Our Future and the - Isabela Walter, Protect Our Future ‘A Night With Legends’ Takes Patrons Down Memory Lane ... Continued story from page A1

acts included Politician McKeeva Bush • Guitarist - Bunny Myles (Musical ing at Sea. and other high ranking of�icials who Icon Awardee) The band’s member included: from Cayman’s own “Papie Connolly” danced the night away and enjoyed the • Bass guitarist - Calvin Hooker 1st con�iguration who set the tone of the evening with his sweet sounds of classics throughout the • Drummmer - Billy Dean • Drummer - John Burns - Drummer well known song, “My Caymanian Girl”. evening. • Drum and vocals - Lloyd Brown • Lead Guitar - McArthur Manderson Other notable attendees at the award Kiemaniares members, who contrib- • Drum and Vocals - Vivian Paddyfoot • Rhythm Guitar - Lewiston Ebanks ceremony for Cayman’s legendary uted to the band’s genesis included: • Alto Sax: Kenneth - ( Ken) Davis • Bass - Darnley Bryan • Tenor Sax - Wesley Howell (Musical Last con�iguration Icon Awardee) • Lead Guitar: Steve Welds • Keyboards : George Wilks • Rhythm Guitar: Ernie Bodden back- • Vocalists: Papie Conolly, Lloyd Hill ground vocals and Larry Cayasso • Michael Hurlston drums and Vocals The Tornadoes were initially founded • Darnley Bryan bass by Drummer: John Burns whilst work- • Clifton Papie Conolly Vocals LOVELY PLANTS FOR SALE

 Cayman Music & Entertainment Pres-  Edlyn Myles and the Regeneration Band Lovely Norfolk Island Pine ident Jean Eric Smith with Caymanian brought the house down with the ener- Musical Legend Pappie Conolly getic performance 5 to 6ft. tall. Good for Christmas tree and to plant outdoors for next year. Beautiful Areca palms for decoration. Other plants available also.

 Awardees and family members repre-  Prominent members of the community senting their loved ones on the evening danced the night away in solidarity with receive their awards the musical fraternity Call 917 – 0468 for more information. REGIONAL PAGE B2 Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 C�������� T���� Jamaica’s ‘worsening Dominica calm again crime crisis’ after elections

Jamaica’s opposition shadow minister Dominica is peaceful once more with is worried about the rising crime levels no civil disorder following its general on the island after decades of increasing elections on Dec. 6. criminality. Leading up to the elections, the Do- The People's National Party's Shadow  Negril is picturesque but had a double minican government reported incidents Minister of National Security, Fitz Jack- murder recently of civil disobedience, primarily in the son, says more needs to be done to halt villages of Marigot in the northeast, and  Dominica Labour Party supporters the country's “worsening crime crisis.” Salisbury in the west. These disturbanc- have plenty to cheer about Jackson's comments were triggered by es resulted in road blockages, which the recent murder of a Westmoreland another year, the government continues caused delays for visitors travelling to businessman and his wife in the tourist to dispense a steady stream of excuses for the airport. Cruise calls into Dominica destination, Negril. not being able to resolve those issues that were also cancelled until Dec. 8. comfortably winning the Roseau Cen- Jackson said the “gruesome and bare- continue to fuel the crime wave across After the citizens of Dominica went tral seat which has been a stronghold faced murders” have heightened the several communities,” said Jackson. to the polls, the Dominica Labour Party of the United Workers Party. crime crisis and brought with it a new The opposition spokesperson also won a resounding victory over the op- Joseph Isaac previously held that fear into a community which depends said that the killings further highlight position. The elections were conducted seat for the UWP but crossed the �loor on tourism. the ineffectual use of states of emergen- peacefully and without any disturbance. to the DLP and was made a govern- Osbourne Richards and his wife Patri- cy on which the government has relied The DLP led by Prime Minister Roo- ment minister. He contested the Rose- zia Richards were murdered two weeks to solve the crime wave which has taken sevelt Skerrit won an unprecedented au North seat for the DLP but lost. ago, during an apparent burglary and the lives of more than 1,200 Jamaicans �ifth term in general elections follow- Among the casualties for the opposi- robbery at their West End home in Negril. since the start of the year, an average of ing weeks of protest and court battles tion UWP was its deputy leader Joshua Police reported that the hands of both 22 a week. which ended on the eve of the elections Francis who lost his Roseau South seat victims were bound with an electrical He said the overuse of state of emer- with the court of appeal upholding the to newcomer Cherika Lockhart Hypo- cord and fabric. The police said that a gencies has nulli�ied the “shock and decision of the high court judge not to lite. The UWP held six seats before the refrigerator was missing. awe” effect that was intended to stop grant an injunction to stop the elections. last general elections and the DLP 15. “It is indeed a sad moment for the peo- criminals in their tracks and allow nor- The DLP won 18 of the 21 seats in Supporters of the  DLP took to the ple of Westmoreland and the entire coun- mal policing and other security opera- the island’s parliament with the wife streets in jubilation as they celebrated try that as we approach the end of yet tions to proceed successfully. of the Prime Minister Melissia Skerrit their party’s victory. Guyana oil wealth Antigua PM gets yes from will be billions Harvard over slavery

Guyana’s consistent Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minis- oil exploration success ter Gaston Browne has announced that will be a plus even in a the President of Harvard University, Dr challenging oil price en- Lawrence Bacow has agreed to a pro- vironment and will gen- gramme of cooperation between Har- erate billions of dollars vard and the Five Islands Campus of the in additional revenue. University of the West Indies in Antigua When the oil revenue over slavery issues. comes in it will raise the Browne said that Dr Bacow has indicat-  Harvard University was founded on quality of every citizen’s ed the willingness of Harvard to cooper- slavery money life. ate the Five Islands Campus, in acknowl- Since 2015, ExxonMo-  Guyana is about to become very rich from its oil finds edging Harvard’s historical relationship bil and its partners have with slavery, particularly confronting made 14 discoveries, to- past injustices and their legacies. ed on an endowment in 1815 that was talling more than six bil-  Preliminary discussions to establish funded from slavery  on the Royall’s lion recoverable barrels of oil equiva- by ExxonMobil, is expected to start cooperation will be held next month. plantation on Antigua. Browne is seek- lent. The Liza �ield, the �irst discovered producing by year-end. The Harvard Law School was found- ing reparations. St Lucia’s parrot Caribbean invests in sanctuary opens soon energy projects

St Lucia expects the Union Zoo rede- Energy projects across the Caribbe- velopment project will be completed an are taking shape with a keen focus and operational in time for the island’s on incorporating more renewables 41st anniversary of independence on into the electricity network, a critical Feb. 22. That’s according to Ezechiel Jo- need for the gas-starved region but seph, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries one that faces persistent challenges and Natural Resources.  St Lucia’s conservation centre will gener- from hurricanes.  Jamaica’s Solar Park is a great exam- The project will be the state-of-the- ate huge revenue Adam Carter, managing director at ple of sustainability art Wildlife Conservation and Education CIBC First Caribbean, said every island Centre which will generate signi�icant in the Caribbean suffers from the high revenue from tourism. cost of fuel imports, with the exception The St Lucia government received of money. When the story broke, Joseph of gas-rich Trinidad. tious green goals set by Caribbean grant funding of around US$1.8 million gave assurances that St Lucia has one of “Solar has hit grid parity,” he said, a governments. for the project from the Association for the most rigorous vetting processes for key threshold for investors and con- Jamaica, which is currently �inalis- the Conservation of Threatened Parrots. investors. sumers alike as solar-generated elec- ing an Integrated Resource Plan, has In 2018, controversy surrounded the The ACTP has agreements with St Vin- tricity is no longer more expensive set a goal of generating 50 percent project when it was reported in British cent, Dominica, and Australia be- than fuel-generated power. of its electricity from renewables by daily newspaper ‘The Guardian’ that the sides St Lucia to import parrots. Joseph Jamaica, for instance, welcomed ac- 2030. Barbados is eyeing 100 percent head of the ACTP had multiple criminal said once the project is completed, it will tivation of the 51MW Paradise Park PV of electricity from renewables by the convictions, including a �ive-year jail be a unique site in the region. “It is going solar project in October. same year. sentence for hostage taking, extortion to have an aviary where we will have ani- Paradise Park was built by Par- A major hindrance to any project in and attempted fraud in 1996. mals live, not in captivity but live; so that is-based renewables �irm Neoen, with the Caribbean, though, is the threat The article stated that in 2009 the will be the �irst of its kind in the region �inancial backing from London-based of hurricanes. Hurricane Dorian that head of the ACTP was sentenced to 20 and ACTP is the one funding it,” he said. Rekamniar Frontier Ventures and wiped out two Bahamian islands in months in prison for seven cases of The facility which replaces the union Hamburg's MPC Capital. late August, posed the risk of complete fraud. In one incident, he kidnapped zoo will also include a coffee  shop and Investors are increasingly attracted destruction of major solar farms. But, two men and threatened to cut their a gift shop that will sell handcraft prod- to renewables projects in the region, a secondary risk was the lack of suita- �ingers off unless they paid a large sum ucts produced by locals. with one critical factor being ambi- ble insurance. Grenada replaces nurse A-list Barbados exodus with Cubans compound for $40m

Grenada is looking to recruit nurses A luxury Barbados compound which has from Cuba as a stop-gap to stem the reportedly hosted everyone from Prince �low of Grenadian nurses leaving for Harry to Rihanna and Tom Cruise is for better opportunities abroad, mostly in sale for around US$40 million. Elton John, the UK. Hugh Grant, Bruce Willis, Mark Wahlberg, Health Minister Nickolas Steele said Nicole Kidman, Rod Stewart and Sting a delegation from the Ministry inter- have all visited the ultra-glam retreat.  Cove Spring House is a magnet for the viewed 100 individuals in Cuba, with Cove Spring House is gated on an rich and famous the government seeking 20 to 40 nurs- exclusive estate with just three other es in various specialties.  Grenada is recruiting Cuban nurses properties on the west coast of the is- He said it is unfortunate that Gre- there land – which would explain its appeal nada is losing some of its nurses for for privacy seeking celebs. And the villa, a further three in a separate guest cot- better opportunities, however, the set on the cliffs above its own secluded tage. The master suite boasts a dress- government must ensure a proper beach surrounded by tropical gardens, ing room and a Jacuzzi, while there’s a complement of nurses is still present Nickolas Steele has denied the reports. was also used as Simon Cowell’s X-Fac- swimming pool and Jacuzzi spa with a to serve the Grenadian citizens. Mean- Grenada is among several Caribbean tor judges’ house in 2010. waterfall outside. There’s also a media while, Grenadian police have launched islands that promote the Citizenship The property listing promises the room and �itness centre on site as well an investigation into reports that pass- by Investment Programme through services of 19 full-time staff, includ- as a commercial grade kitchen. ports are being sold illegally. Acting which foreign investors, who make a ing a property manager, butlers, chefs, “This is about as close as you can get Police Commissioner Edvin Martin substantial �inancial contribution  to maids, gardeners and security. There to seeing how Hollywood royalty and said that the allegations warrant a their socio-economic development, are seven-bedroom suites spread over actual royalty live away from the camer- probe. International Business Minister are granted citizenship. 20,000sq ft of living space, as well as as,” said Rightmove’s Miles Shipside. REGIONAL | REGIONAL C360 C�������� T���� Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 PAGE B3 ST MARTIN MAYHEM

The French government is deploying reinforcements to French St Martin to quell a disturbance which erupted over the past week. Groups of people have resorted to set- ting up roadblocks with rubble and set- ting vehicles alight. They are protesting against the im- position of state regulations stipulating strict controls now taking effect on re- building following devastating Hurri- cane Irma in 2017. There have been clashes with Gen- darmes in which teargas was used to disperse crowds of protesters. The intensifying protests which mim- local government against the French The disturbance has disrupted traf�ic ic the gilets jaunes (yellow jackets) of state represented by a Sous Prefect and commerce between the two sides of mainland France - but without the yel- (the Paris-appointed equivalent of a the island shared by France and Holland. low jackets - are in opposition to the governor). A request by French of�icials based in imposition of new local building regula- Another contentious issue thrown up Guadeloupe, the regional headquarters tions instituted by the French state. in the dispute is the question of land for the French north-east Caribbean, to In some instances, property owners title with many residents not able to use the large port in Philipsburg, the are barred from rebuilding on land in prove ownership; property having been capital of Dutch Sint Maarten to land families for generations but now de- loosely passed down through families reinforcements was denied by the St clared unsafe, or ‘red zones’, due to en- over generations. Maarten local government. vironmental and storm risks. The crisis is already giving vent to oth- They were redirected to the smaller The handling of the process has infu- er underlying long-standing unresolved port in Galisbay on the French side. riated locals especially who have been issues in French St Martin, especially French president, Emmanuel Macron on the lands for generations, much of those with have been festering since the was due to issue a statement on the cri- it on the seafront, and now regarded of 2017 hurricane. However, concerns have been ex- sis in the collectivite’ or commune - the high commercial potential. One of them is the quality of drink- pressed by local of�icials of some per- constitutional status of French St Martin The issue has pit residents against ing water with some residents have sons exploiting the unrest for commer- in the French Republic. the locally-elected government, and the been complaining of abnormally high cial gain. volumes of bromate chemicals in the There are reports extortion, with driv- water. ers traversing the border between the The local government has now as- Dutch and French sides of the island be- sured residents that the water quality ing demanded to pay an illegal toll. issue has now been brought under con- The open European border be- trol. tween French St Martin and Dutch Sint Although the French state was praised Maarten is a critical artery for one of the for its initial rapid response following most prosperous tourist economies in Hurricane Irma, there’s been grow- the Caribbean. ing concern over the dragging effect of The Dutch side of the island is the emergency measures put in place. main air and sea entry point, but in re- There were worrying scenes of vid- cent years French St Martin has seen eos posted online showing a vessel be- considerable investment in its port and ing pelted with objects thrown from a other vital infrastructure. bridge and elsewhere running classes Residents of both sides of the island with police. tend to live and work across the borders  There are no reports serious injuries, of the shared island which has a thriving deaths or arrests. and critical cross-border economy. Jamaican Authorities Moving to Make Export of Goods And Services Easier

State Minister for Industry, Com- an and Latin America where the viding focused capacity, merce, Agriculture and Fisheries Floyd average border control hours advocacy and market pene- Green says Government is working to are about 61.9, and an average tration support to exporters make the export of local goods and ser- cost of US$529. and export-ready �irms. vices easier, by reducing the associated Green stressed that it “doesn’t The programme, which costs and processes. serve anybody’s interest if our also includes mentorship, “We are already in the process of re- exporters cannot afford the business development, sales moving licences and fees and steps cost at the port to move their training and export promo- where we see no value. Last week, we goods”. tion components, will iden- dealt with 26 of those [steps] that we “As a Government, we are go- tify speci�ic needs of the are planning to get out of the system… ing to still work on the border target companies and design and reduce the time it takes for us to get control hours, and we believe and implement customized our products out of the country,” he said. that the proposed Jamaica Sin- enterprise development ini- Green was speaking at a signing cere- gle Window For Trade (JSWIFT) tiatives to improve business mony for memoranda of understanding will reduce those border con-  State Minister for Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, performance and competi- (MOUs) to facilitate the third instalment trol hours signi�icantly,” he said. Floyd Green, (left), enjoys a light moment with President, Jamaica tiveness. of the Jamaica Promotions Corporation JSWIFT, which is currently Promotions Corporation (JAMPRO), Diane Edwards. (Credit: JIS) To this end, JAMPRO is (JAMPRO) export development pro- being piloted in some indus- partnering with the Jamaica gramme, Export Max III on Tuesday. try entities, is a one-stop-shop Manufacturers and Export- “We have over-bureaucratized our electronic system that allows ers’ Association (JMEA), and processes around trade for far too long traders to submit information at a sin- be achieved when silos are removed and Jamaica Business Development Corpo- in our country,” he lamented, as he ex- gle point to ful�il all import and export focus placed on a singular mission, and ration (JBDC) to deliver the programme, plained that Government was intensi- regulatory requirements. “that mission is to drive exports solely”. for which MOUs were signed. fying efforts to rectify this hindrance to “The idea is to create a paperless envi- This year, 48 companies from the food, Other partners are the Bureau of trade. ronment for permits, inspections [and] non-food, creative and services sectors Standards, the Development Bank He noted, for example, that it now release of goods through JSWIFT,” Green are bene�iting from capacity building of Jamaica (DBJ), HEART Trust/NTA, takes 58 border control hours and costs said. and export promotion support under Bank of Nova Scotia; Jamaica Produc- about US$876 to export goods from Ja- Turning to Export Max III, the Minis- the programme. tivity Centre;  Foundation for Compet- maica, adding that this is a “big dispari- ter noted that the continued success of The three-year initiative, which will itiveness Growth Project; and Jamaica ty” compared to the rest of the Caribbe- the programme demonstrates what can run until 2022, is geared towards pro- National. Standard & Poor’s Lifts Barbados’ Credit Rating

Rating agency Standard and Poor’s “We expect over the next 12-18 access to of�icial funding, could lead us (S&P) has lifted Barbados’ credit worthi- months the Government will continue to raise the rating,” it said. ness out of default territory, signi�icantly to implement policies that achieve �iscal In response to the upgrade, Prime raising its foreign currency ratings. consolidation and instill institutional Minister Mia Mottley said it demonstrat- S&P has moved up the long- and safeguards, while strengthening macro- ed that her administration was “certain- short-term foreign currency ratings to economic stability,” it said. ly moving in the right direction”. ‘B-/B’ from ‘SD/SD’ – and upward move- S&P stressed, however, that failure “I want to congratulate the Barbadian ment on the ratings scale of six notches to meet fiscal and debt targets over people for pulling together and making – and assigned its ‘B-‘ foreign currency the next year could weaken inves- the necessary adjustments and sacri�ice issue rating to foreign currency debt de- tor confidence and result in a loss of to put us all on the right path to sustain- livered in the exchange. official capital inflows, adding that ability. We are not yet where we need to It also af�irmed its ‘B-/B’ long- and this outcome could place renewed be but if we stay the course and if we fo- the conclusion of external debt re- short-term local currency sovereign pressure on the country’s foreign ex- cus on adding value in all that we do and structuring, which was �inalized with credit ratings and ‘B-‘ issue-level rating change reserves and reduce funding on growth, I have every con�idence we Barbados exchanging just over $1 bil- on Barbados’ long-term local currency sources. will make it and reverse the impact of lion in new bonds (with a 26 per cent debt. “Under this scenario of diminished li- the lost decade. We can return the coun- haircut). S&P also issued a stable outlook, say- quidity, we could lower the ratings,” the try to investment grade and continue to And Greenidge noted the upgrade was ing this “balances the administration’s US-based rating agency warned. build people’s con�idence in all that we due, in large part, to that. strong mandate to implement broad But S&P said it could raise the ratings are doing,” she said. “The upgrade sends a strong state- �iscal and macroeconomic reforms with over the next year should the Govern- And Government’s IMF senior advisor, ment that BERT is working and speaks the political and economic challenges of ment adhere to its ambitious �iscal tar- Dr Kevin Greenidge said moving up six to the strength of the adjustment pro- doing so”. gets and reform agenda, which could notches on the ratings scale is “quite an gram and reforms being undertaken. The ratings agency said it expected strengthen investor con�idence and achievement for Barbados”, given that The report from S&P speaks to the out- multilateral lending institutions would contribute to improved gross domestic the Barbados Economic Recovery and look being ‘stable’ as opposed to ‘nega- continue to commit and disburse �inan- product growth prospects. Transformation (BERT) programme is tive’ a year ago, and is indicative of the cial and technical assistance to Barba- “Higher economic growth would facil- only a year old. government’s commitment  to continue dos, which would also support Govern- itate a reduced debt burden, which, to- The news from S&P came on the to implement policies that achieve �iscal ment’s mandate. gether with an expectation of continued same day that government announced sustainability,” he said. INTERNATIONAL SPORTS PAGE B4 Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 C�������� T���� Usman makes rival pay for taunts

UFC champion promised to live up to his �ight name of “Nigerian Nightmare” and did so emphatically. Usman produced a dramatic late stop- page to defeat trash-talking challenger Colby Covington in the �inal minute of their main-event bout at UFC 245 in Las Vegas. After unremitting action, Usman �i- nally broke Covington down in the last round, dropping him twice with two huge punches before referee Marc God- dard halted the contest as he unloaded a barrage of ground strikes. The build-up to the bout was ill-tem-  Kamaru Usman pulverised Covington  Conor McGregor returns next month pered, with Covington goading and in- sulting Usman for the past year. And while the pair scuf�led in the Palms Casino in Las Vegas back in March, Us- Usman. "He talked a lot going into this, sion, Volkanovski's work rate proved de- McGregor, who has 21 profession- man maintained a composed exterior so this was a respect thing. I had a re- cisive as he outpaced and out struck the al wins and four losses in MMA and a throughout �ight week. sponsibility to go in there and teach him world champion en route to a unanimous single defeat to Floyd Mayweather on The 32-year-old champion bat- a lesson." decision victory, with two judges scoring his record, has not tled toe-to-toe with his American ri- There was a title change in the co- it 48-47 and the third 50-45. fought since losing his title val through four hugely entertaining main event, as Australian former rugby Meanwhile, former two-weight UFC to Khabib Nurmagomedov via submis- rounds at the T-Mobile Arena, breaking league player Alexander Volkanovski champion Conor McGregor is set to re- sion in October 2018. Covington's jaw with a huge punch in produced a superb performance to de- turn to the octagon on Jan. 18 January The 31-year-old Irishman has pre- the third round. throne long-reigning UFC against veteran American Donald “Cow- viously fought twice at 170 pounds Nevertheless, Covington was still champion . boy” Cerrone in a welterweight bout at against Nate Diaz, losing the �irst �ight to competitive as the bout approached a Volkanovski, 31, pushed a relentless UFC 246. If he wins, McGregor will want a second-round submission but winning thrilling climax that saw Usman won by pace on Holloway, chopping at the Ha- a crack at Usman for his title. an epic rematch on points. TKO with 50 seconds remaining in the waiian's legs with punishing kicks while “Conor has signed and ‘Cowboy’ is Since losing to Nurmagomedov, �ifth round. threatening with powerful hooks from ready to go,” , the UFC pres- McGregor has had several brushes with "I wasn't worried about hitting him in close range. ident said, giving the green light for the the law, and, in a court hearing on Nov. speci�ic spots, I just wanted to hit him Despite Holloway's reputation as one of return of one of MMA’s most bankable 1, pleaded guilty to assaulting a man in a over and over wherever I could," said the best-conditioned athletes in the divi- stars. pub in Dublin earlier in the year. Woods captains US to Kipchoge aims for fi fth Presidents Cup London triumph

Tiger Woods' United Kenyan legend Eliud Kip- States team dominat- choge will return to racing ed Sunday's singles as for the �irst time since his they beat the Interna- historic sub-two-hour mar- tional team 16-14 in athon, in April's London to win an Marathon. eighth successive Pres- Kipchoge, 35, will be bid- idents Cup. ding to become the �irst ath- The visitors had lete to win the elite men's trailed 10-8 going race �ive times on April 26. into the �inal day, but "I love running in London Woods led by example where the crowd support is as he beat Abraham always wonderful," he said. Ancer 3&2 in the �irst The world record holder match. has won on all four of his  Eliud Kipchoge is the greatest marathon runner The US won eight previous visits to London, of the 12 points with  Tiger Woods led the Americans to victory setting a course record this Matt Kuchar sealing year. victory. His ground-breaking time of one hour rotating pacemakers and bike-delivered "We did it together," 59 minutes 40 seconds in in Oc- drinks - ruled his time ineligible. said Woods, who recorded a 27th win "It's been one of the more amazing tober was the �irst time a human had He has been has been voted BBC in the tournament, beating Phil Mick- challenges, but all the guys believed in covered the marathon distance in less Sports Personality's World Sport Star elson's record of 26. "We came here as one another and relied on one another." than two hours. of the Year for 2019. Kipchoge, who also a team. My team-mates and my boys It is the US' 11th win in the 13th edi- However, it is not classed as a world won marathon gold at Rio 2016, is the all played well, the captains did an tion of the biennial tournament, with record because various aspects of the �irst name to be announced for the elite amazing job. one draw. specially designed challenge - such as race. Clippers could Crawford dominates eclipse Lakers at last in title defence

The Los Angeles Unbeaten American Terence Craw- lenger, with the former Olympian then Clippers were hopeful ford retained his WBO welterweight somehow clinging on through the of a successful season title with a ninth-round knockout eighth. after their big summer of Egidijus Kavaliauskas at Madison And it was a thunderous uppercut at arrivals and those ex- Square Garden. the start of the ninth that sparked the be- pectations are proving Crawford, 32, recovered from an ap- ginning of the end, with Crawford land- not to be misplaced. parent knockdown in round three to ing the decisive blow after 44 seconds. After years in the dol- overwhelm the Lithuanian, dropping Crawford added: "After I dropped drums and always be- him in the seventh and twice more in him with my uppercut I was like, I am ing overshadowed by the ninth, a right hook ending the �ight. going to face his jab, and come out neighbours LA Lakers, "When I let my hands go that's when with my right hook." the Clippers could �i- I started landing more favourable The normally elusive Crawford (36- nally emerge as the shots," said Crawford after his 36th 0, 27 KOs) took more shots than usual. city’s best.  Paul George and Kawhi Leonard are brilliant for the Clippers win. "He's a strong �ighter, durable." He said: “I thought I had to entertain With Lou Williams Crawford started tentatively and you all for a little bit. He’s a strong out, LA Clippers coach although Kavaliauskas appeared to �ighter, durable, and I thought I’d give Doc Rivers wanted Ka- knock him down cleanly in the third the crowd something to cheer for.” whi Leonard and Paul George to be even close that third quarter too great. We round, the referee ruled the champion Kavaliauskas (21-1-1), who was the more aggressive in their staggered min- still got to improve." had slipped. mandatory challenger for Crawford’s utes last week. "I didn't think that coming into the By the seventh round in New York, WBO belt, had  some good moments in What Rivers got in return was the �irst season," Leonard added about how ex- Crawford had found his rhythm and the �irst few rounds before Crawford pair of teammates in franchise history to plosive he and George could be together. knocked down his 31-year-old chal- took control. score at least 40 points each in the same "We just want to win a basketball game. game. George had 46 points and seven If it's me having 10 and him having 40 or assists, and Leonard added 42 points vice-versa, or Lou Will is going or Trezz and 11 rebounds to help the Clippers to (Montrez Harrell) or somebody else hav- a 124-117 win over the Minnesota Tim- ing a great game, that is what I envision. berwolves. I just want to envision winning games." If this was what Leonard and George With Williams ruled out earlier in the envisioned when they talked about day with a sore right calf and Patrick joining forces early in free agency, the Beverley (concussion), Landry Shamet Clippers' All-Star duo joined some elite (ankle sprain) and JaMychal Green (tail- company with their Friday the 13th bone) already out, Leonard and George performance. They became the 21st carried the load. pair in NBA history to each score 40 or The Clippers were second in the West- more in a game, regular season or play- ern Conference after a fourth straight offs. win. This has been a remarkable season "It's great to have somebody else out for scoring, witnessed by James Hard- there help scoring the ball, making the en’s latest brilliant game. He bagged 50 game easier for myself," said Leonard, or more points for a second game - his who hit 10-of-24 shots and went 19-for- 54 contained  10 three pointers as the  Terence Crawford is still WBO welterweight champ 19 from the line. "We are still trying to Houston Rockets beat the Orlando Mag- build our chemistry out there. We didn't ic 130-107. PUZZLES | COMICS C�������� T���� Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 PAGE B5

Word Search Advance North Trek Bearing Quest Tr ip Compass Road Venture Direction Route Voyage East South Wander Fare Track Way Forth Trail Wend Journey Travel West

Have fun with C�������� T����

Find the listed words in the diagram. They run in all directions – forward, back, up, down and diagonally.

CURTIS By Ray Billingsley

THE AMAZING SPIDER MAN By Stan Lee

JUDGE PARKER By Woody Wilson & Mike Manley ADVERTISEMENT PAGE B8 Wednesday, December 18, 2019 | Issue No 468 C�������� T����

GOVERNMENT REVENUE WILL NOT BE NEGATIVELY IMPACTED BY THE PORT PROJECT.

Passenger head tax collected by cruise lines

GOVERNMENT REVENUE

PACI

MINISTRY OF FINANCE & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Port Authority Government Cayman Islands Cayman Islands Environmental Fund Government

The dollar amount received The dollar amount received The dollar amount per person remains unchanged but remains unchanged but more reduces slightly, but more more passengers mean passengers means revenue passengers means revenue revenue increases annually increases annually increases annually

CURRENT: 1.9 million passengers

GOVERNMENT PACI CI GOVERNMENT ENVIRONMENTAL FUND

Per person $3 + $1.95 + $7.32 = $12.27

Annual Total $5.7M + $3.7M + $13.9M = $23.2M

2023 WITH CRUISE BERTHING FACILITY: 2.5 million passengers

GOVERNMENT PACI CI GOVERNMENT ENVIRONMENTAL FUND

Per person $3 + $1.95 + $5 = $9.95

Annual Total $7.5M + $4.9M + $12.5M = $24.9M

There is NO FINANCIAL RISK to the Cayman Islands Government. They will provide NO loans, bonds or guarantees. The current fee paid to the tender boat company together with the passenger fee deduction of $2.32* will be redirected to Verdant Isle Port Partners to repay the project loan, and cover maintenance and insurance over 25 years. Verdant Isle pays all insurance and maintenance costs for the facility over the 25 year agreement After the 25 years, the Cayman people own the cruise berthing and cargo port facility which will be valued at $450 million.

*The $2.32 deduction is the maximum possible, and may decrease when negotiations are complete.

STAND UP FOR THE FUTURE OF CAYMAN VOTE YES.