Editor’s Note: This letter was written to Minister for Caymanian Employment and Immigration Michael Myles and is reprinted here with permission of the author as a letter to the editor.
Dear Minister Myles,
I am writing to you in my capacity as deputy leader of the opposition and shadow minister for Caymanian employment and immigration.
I listened with great interest to your announcement on the radio [on 20 Feb.] regarding the decision to postpone the commencement of the new immigration changes originally slated for 1 March. On behalf of the opposition, I want to express our support for the principle of ‘getting it right’ rather than rushing the implementation of such a landmark piece of legislation.
We believe a bipartisan approach is the most effective way to navigate this delay. Our primary objective is to ensure that the transition is seamless for both Caymanian job seekers and the business community, while avoiding unnecessary friction within the Parliament.
Specifically, we are seeking a briefing to discuss:
Budgetary implications
As the proposed fee updates are a major revenue measure for the government, we would like to understand the projected impact this delay has on the current budget and how any shortfalls will be managed.
Implementation roadmap
We are keen to see the ‘staged roadmap’ for the next six to 12 months to ensure that the administrative systems at WORC are being fortified as promised.
Policy alignment
To ensure we are ‘speaking with one voice’ in the House, we would welcome a technical overview of the feedback received during the current public consultation on fees.
Commencement timeline
We would appreciate clarity on the revised implementation dates for both the legislative changes and the new fee structures at a national level. Providing a definitive timeline is essential for providing the private sector with the certainty they require for their 2026 financial planning.
By working together, we can ensure these reforms provide the protection our people deserve while maintaining the economic stability our country requires. I look forward to your response to schedule a suitable time for this discussion.
Sincerely,
Kenneth Bryan, JP, MP
Deputy Leader of the Opposition
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