Cabinet has temporarily waived licence fees for watersports operators with expired Wildlife Interaction Zone permits who apply for new licences before 31 July 2022.
There are two Wildlife Interaction Zones in Cayman – at Stingray City and Sand Bar, where locals and tourists are allowed to touch and feed stingrays.
Premier Wayne Panton announced the waiver, which he said is part of government’s efforts to support the economic recovery of operators impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This waiver will benefit up to 270 vessels whose owners, operators and employees have been significantly affected by the economic impacts of the pandemic,” he said. “The opportunity to come – literally – face to face with our marine life at Stingray City and the Sand Bar is one of those ‘only in Cayman’ moments that draws visitors to our islands year after year.
“The watersports operators and guides who facilitate these experiences are valuable ambassadors for our community, culture and marine environment; Government is proud to support them through this fee waiver programme.”
To operate within the two WIZ areas, commercial vessels must possess a valid permit and display the new purple 2023 decals issued by the National Conservation Council.
The waiver only applies to applicants who previously held a WIZ permit that expired between 30 Jan. 2020 and 30 Jan. 2022. Operators must apply for their WIZ permit by 31 July 2022 in order to be eligible for the waiver.
The Ministry of Finance and Economic Development advised that the total revenue being waived is not expected to have a material impact on the government’s 2021 and 2022 forecast financial performance or compliance with the Principles of Responsible Financial Management.
More information on the licence conditions can be found at the Department of Environment website.
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