Caymanian people are capable

As we look at Caymanians of the past, we learn how many went to sea at an early age; yet in less than 10 years many had become captains, engineers, wireless operators, cooks and musicians.

We are a people who can learn quickly. Among five night auditors I trained while at the Holiday Inn was one young man who was working in room service.

Within six months he was one of the best in the industry.

Many who had no university degrees such as Mrs. Joyce Hilton or Ms Genevieve have left their mark in our Islands.

Even in more recent times our students abroad are in the top 10 per cent at their schools and in sports – competing against such giants as the USA – are still bringing home gold and silver medals.

But – back a yard – we see work permits on the increase while too many of we, the Caymanian people, are unemployed. What hurts even more is to learn most seeking permits are our fellow Caymanians.

The Bible says, “Let the children first be filled,” so let’s do that. And I’m not talking of more assistance by Children and Family Services.

We have to teach the employers that it is more profitable for them to hire Caymanians rather than give in-service training to their friends and country men and women. The rollover policy did not work, so how about doubling the permit fees for any who does not have 60 per cent of Caymanians on staff.

Of course, this should not apply to domestics or such, but for anyone with three or more employees.

Marry this with a minimum wage and in a short time – maybe before the law can be passed – all Caymanians will be employed.

Of course, I don’t expect much support from those who are complaining an investor has hired 70 unemployed and paying them a good wage. Or looking a gift horse in the mouth because he has given $5 million so hundreds will not lose their homes; makes me wonder what they think of Mrs. Oldy giving $1 million after Hurricane Ivan.

Have these people never read or heard that what you do to help your fellow man, you are doing to God? Have they never learned how to be unselfish and show love?

Think of the millions of dollars investors have spent in Cayman for their own gain and tell us how many have done things such as Camana Bay that provides a much better venue for the Parade of Lights or Taste of Cayman, junior hockey, etc., etc.

I say thanks to Mr. Dart and our premier, who are doing so much to help Cayman, especially when the world is having such hard times.

CA Christian