The governor, premier and leader of the Opposition encouraged Cayman to stay safe this holiday season, in the face of the ongoing challenges brought by COVID-19 and the Omicron variant, in particular.
The three men also reflected on the challenges of 2021 in their respective Christmas messages and remarked on the importance of spending quality time with family this holiday.
Governor Martyn Roper
In the face of the new variant and ongoing fallout from the pandemic, Roper stressed the booster is “absolutely fundamental” to keeping the islands safe.
He reflected, too, on Cayman’s uniqueness, history and heritage, as he praised the jurisdiction’s openness and diversity.
Roper listed three priorities for 2022: Bouncing back from the pandemic and re-establishing the tourism industry; supporting Cayman on environment and climate change; and, thirdly, celebrating the Platinum Jubilee, as the Queen marks 70 years on the throne.
“There is lots to look forward to,” Roper said.
Watch the full message below:
Premier Wayne Panton
“What a year it has been,” Panton reflected in his message, paying tribute to those whose lives have been lost this year.
Urging the community to follow COVID-19 protocols as they celebrate this season, he, too, encouraged people to “boost up”.
Acknowledging Cayman’s safe passage through another hurricane season, save for the damage brought by Tropical Storm Grace, Panton remarked, “We are blessed and have much to be grateful for.”
He noted government’s assistance in the form of the pension holiday extension and continued tourism stipend, including the additional $500 payment for Christmas.
Watch the full message below:
Leader of the Opposition
“There is much to be hopeful for this Christmas,” Leader of the Opposition Roy McTaggart stated in his Christmas message, acknowledging the “setbacks” of recent months, as Cayman grapples with the presence of the Omicron variant on its shores.
He, too, paid tribute to “friends and loved ones who have passed on” and praised those working in the health sector for their efforts to keep the jurisdiction safe and well.
He encouraged the community to show Caymankind to those who may be struggling this holiday, noting the importance of “keeping our collective spirit and determination strong”.
Watch the full message below:
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