The owner of the land on which the fish market is located in George Town is considering an offer to sell the property to an undisclosed buyer.
In an email to Cayman Compass, Christopher Johnson said an offer is under consideration, but did not say what the offer amounted to.
The news of a potential sale comes nearly one year after Johnson issued a writ against the fishermen, who he claims have exposed him to legal liability through their continued unapproved use of his land.
“Two months ago, another person put up a tent and table,” said Johnson. “I will take action against them. The access is blocked, and people cannot get to the sea.”
In his email, Johnson accused the fishermen of illegal activity and said he has called on the government for assistance.
In December 2020, the government unsuccessfully sought to acquire the property from Johnson by means of a bill for compulsory acquisition. However, it was voted down.
The fishermen have not denied Johnson’s ownership.
Instead, the fishermen say they have consistently used the property for decades, and in doing so have made the location a place of national cultural significance, which should be protected.
Last month during a finance committee update, Tourism Minister Kenneth Bryan said he echoed the sentiments of the fishermen. Bryan said he believes the site is of cultural significance and should be protected.
“I am willing from a tourism perspective and as a representative for George Town Central, to sit down with the landowner to find a result that is amenable to all parties, including the whole country,” said Bryan.
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It is my understanding that the fish vendors are simply that, and are not fishermen, but buy their fish from commercial offshore boats.