ESTABLISHED 1965 www.caymancompass.com – 50 CENTS – THURSDAY APRIL 20, 2017 High of 85 Low of 75 Slight to moderate with wave heights of 2 to 4 feet. EDITORIAL | PAGE 4 HOW MUCH HAS GOV’T SPENT ON THE JOHN GRAY GYM? WORLD | PAGE 9 UK LAWMAKERS BACK JUNE 8 ELECTION Road User If luck isn’t on your side, BritCay is. BritCay offers low deductibles at $200 for no additional premium! So, it will cost less if you make a claim. BritCay also settles claims fast. Ask for a quote. Low rates for comprehensive cover too. BRITISH CAYMANIAN INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED BritCay House, 236 Eastern Avenue, George Town, P.O. Box 74, KY1-1102 Tel. 949-8699 www.britcay.ky A member of Colonial Group International Ltd. : insurance, health, pensions, life Call 949-8699 www.britcay.ky FREE CI$10 Million ASSET PROTECTION! with motor cover* *private motor insurance Court disqualifies 2nd election candidate Dual citizenship ends Nickolas DaCosta’s campaign JAMES WHITTAKER jwhittaker@pinnaclemedialtd.com Cayman Brac independent candidate Nick- olas DaCosta is barred from standing in the May 24 general elections because he has U.S. citizenship, obtained through family ties rather than by birth, Chief Justice Anthony Smellie ruled Wednesday. The field of candidates has now thinned from 63 to 61, with Mr. DaCosta the latest casualty in a series of candidacy challenges being heard by the chief justice. Mr. DaCosta was born and raised in the Cayman Islands but has dual citizenship through his father, who is also a dual citizen of Cayman and the U.S. Delivering his decision Wednesday, Chief Justice Smellie said the constitution barred anyone with another citizenship from run- ning for election, unless that citizenship was acquired through birth outside the Cayman Islands. On a literal reading of the document, he said, foreign citizenship acquired by descent, rather than by birth, was not allowed. “Regrettable as I consider the result to be, I am compelled to conclude that the respondent is not qualified for election,” he said. Both Solicitor General Jacqueline Wilson, representing the Supervisor of Elections, and Anthony Akiwumi, representing Mr. DaCosta, had questioned whether barring candidates who had obtained foreign citizenship through descent was the intent of the Constitution. Mr. Akiwumi argued that the tolerance of citizenship by birth but not through descent would amount to an absurdity and could not have been the intent of the drafters of the document. Chief Justice Smellie said it was not open to him to avoid the literal wording of the document, unless it was clear that the re- sult of doing so would lead to an absurd or CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OFFERS $25K REWARD IN ARMORED CAR CASE Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce members are offering a $25,000 reward for in- formation leading to the arrest and conviction of armed robbers who held up an armored car at Foster’s Food Fair on April 8. Wil Pineau, the Chamber’s chief executive officer, said several members of the business community expressed an interest in helping to solve the crime. “It came from a cross-section of the busi- ness community concerned by the very nature of this crime,” Mr. Pineau said. A suspect arrested last week has been re- leased on bail. No one has yet been charged in connection with the crime. Close to a dozen shots were fired in the hold-up, which involved two men. A security guard was shot twice in the robbery. “We followed that news,” Mr. Pineau said, “but we’ve been raising the money since two days after the crime happened.” Anyone with information is asked to call the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line on 800-TIPS(8477). HUNTERS SIGN UP FOR IGUANA CULL Cullers have started registering with the Department of Environ- ment as contract hunters of inva- sive green iguanas in an upcoming four-month cull. For more, see page 8. Cayman athletes win 47 swim, 6 track medals Cayman to host 2019 Carifta Games KAYLA YOUNG kyoung@pinnaclemedialtd.com Cayman’s Carifta athletes celebrated a double success this week, capturing an im- pressive number of medals in Curacao and the Bahamas and winning the bid to host the 2019 Carifta Games. Sports Minister Osbourne Bodden con- firmed Cayman’s selection to host the re- gional track and field events, and said it was possible Cayman could host the swimming as well, if a new pool is completed on time. “We are doing well sports-wise,” Mr. Bodden said. “We have the track and field facilities, and our athletes will perform even better at home. We will also have the room stock on island as additional rooms are being built … as we speak. “Maybe we will even be in a position to host the swimming, if our goals come through with the 50-meter pool plans.” He added that Cayman’s athletes cur- rently compete in a 25m pool. With a 50m pool, he anticipates that training and capa- bility will only improve. On Wednesday, Cayman’s track and field team flew into Owen Roberts Interna- tional Airport after winning six medals, in- cluding three gold, at the games in Curacao from April 15-17. Shot put gold medalist Lacee Barnes, 17, said the competition brought some sur- prises for her. “This Carifta was really interesting for me. I came fourth in the discus, which is ac- tually my favorite and best event. I lost out by .6 centimeters but came back the next day and won the gold in shot put, which is actually my weaker event,” she said. Teammate Rasheem Brown, 17, said his PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 8 » PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 8 » The Cayman Islands track and field team makes a victorious return to Cayman on Wednesday from the Carifta games in Curacao. From left, Lacee Barnes, Rasheem Brown, William Edwards, Dejaughn Murray, Dominic Dyer, Ashante Graham and Aijah Lewis, and team manager Maxine Anglin. - PHOTO: TANEOS RAMSAY2 LOCAL NEWS THURSDAY APRIL 20, 2017 • CAYMAN COMPASS Daily Matinees Every Day $8.00 Seniors, Mon-Fri Before 6pm Cayman Cinema@cbcinema6cbcinema6 - THURSDAY - SATURDAY NIGHT: For your viewing pleasure, minors under the age of 18 will not be admitted to any lm starting after 6pm, unless accompanied by their parent. *Additional charges will apply per 3D ticket requested. 640-FILM (640-3456) THE FATE OF THE FURIOUS 3D (PG13) 12:30 2D & VIP I 1:00 I 3:40 2D & VIP 6:50 2D & VIP I 9:40 I 9:50 2D & VIP SMURFS: THE LOST VILLAGE 3D (PG) 12:35 2D I 3:45 I 7:00 2D I 9:55 BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (PG) 12:50 I 4:00 GOING IN STYLE (PG13) 12:40 I 3:55 I 7:20 I 9:45 SPARK: A SPACE TAIL (PG) 4:00 I 7:10 SILENCE (R) 7:30 BOSS BABY 3D (PG) 12:45 2D I 3:50 I 6:50 2D I 9:45 Police, employment issues focus of first national debate KAYLA YOUNG kyoung@pinnaclemedialtd.com Police accountability and crime opened the first Cayman Islands national debate ahead of the May 24 election. Five East End and North Side candidates took the stage at the Camana Bay Arts and Recreation Center to ad- dress a public audience of approximately the same size. While no more than five people, excluding media, at- tended the debate in person, more than 2,000 tuned in to the live Facebook broadcast. Incumbent independent candidate Ezzard Miller called for more police pres- ence in his district of North Side. He said attempts to im- prove accountability and at- tach stipulations to the police budget have failed. “The police need the re- sources but we must have a mechanism to check if they are delivering,” Mr. Miller said. Progressive North Side candidate Ed Chisholm sug- gested getting officers on bi- cycles to ride around the dis- trict and speak with local residents as a community- building effort. Independent East End can- didate John McLean Jr. echoed the call for greater monitoring of police performance. He proposed establishing a police academy for local offi- cers to ensure proper training. East End incumbent Arden McLean attributed law enforcement problems to decreased police budgets and diversion of funds by government to other “gran- diose schemes.” Mr. McLean did not think crime rates have had a nega- tive effect on tourism. “Tourists still believe we are relatively safe but it’s coming to that point where we need to address the matter,” Mr. McLean said. North Side independent candidate Justin Ebanks added that with high prices in the Cayman Islands, safety must continue to be an incen- tive for tourists. Mr. Chisholm warned that with the influence of technology, crime news spreads fast and can have a rapid impact on the islands’ tourism product. He repeated calls by Mr. Miller and Mr. Ebanks to im- prove funding and resources for the Joint Marine Unit to promote safety. Mr. Chisholm said the marine patrol boats are often in the shop, pre- venting greater control of gun trafficking. Mr. Ebanks proposed get- ting more marine boats in the water to address the unit’s myriad responsibilities, in- cluding border patrol, and search and rescue. The crime debate fed into a larger discussion about Caymanian employment op- portunities. Mr. McLean, Jr. suggested unemployment is a driver behind delinquency. “The police is one issue but the crimes stem from unemployment. If we tackle that, that would address crime,” he said. Both Mr. Miller and Mr. McLean said a problem with employment in the hospi- tality industry is lack of eco- nomic benefit to Caymanians. “We get trickle down when people go to restaurants but the ordinary worker does not get that trickle-down ef- fect because we have not promoted that enough,” Mr. McLean said. He proposed removing work permit responsibilities from the Department of Immi- gration and transferring them to a government labor depart- ment that would determine the need for foreign labor. “We need a database where people who want labor go. That department would deter- mine if there is no local labor available,” Mr. McLean said. He further suggested putting a “moratorium” on certain work permit categories until government is satisfied that enough Cay- manians have been employed in those jobs. Mr. Miller said Cayma- nian workers are often asked to have greater credentials than foreign labor. “Every job in the Cayman Islands belongs to a Cayma- nian. End of story. A work permit is the exception to the rule,” Mr. Miller said. Mr. Chisholm supported establishing a vocational school to provide greater professional opportuni- ties to locals. “We need to make sure there is something on island that provides an alternative to people not looking to go into banking,” he said. Mr. McLean and Mr. Miller both opposed the idea of a vocational school, saying the costs would outweigh the benefits. They instead sup- ported dedicating funds for full scholarships to send university students off is- land to study. Mr. Ebanks opposed the idea of investing in off-is- land education, saying the option would not be real- istic for many families. “We need to stop investing over- seas in our people. We need to keep the revenue in the country,” he said. The next national de- bate is scheduled for April 25. Six national debates are being organized by Cayman 27, while the Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce is hosting 19 district forums. Church honors community leaders The Ebenezer Seventh- day Adventist Church has paid tribute to Anthony Scott of Scott’s Industries, Scott’s Equipment and Scott’s Ma- rine; Robert Hamaty of Tor- tuga Rum Company; and Sophia Harris of law firm Solomon Harris, for contribu- tions to the community. The trio were honored at a ceremony on March 25 at John Gray High School. According to a press re- lease from organizers, “The awardees were chosen based on their long-standing affili- ation to Cayman and their contributions to the commu- nity and specifically their no- table charitable lifestyle.” Anthony Scott Mr. Scott is described in the release as having a pas- sion for being “The Fix-it Man,” which led to his entre- preneurial path. These days, the Scott name is synony- mous with “boats and yachts, and just about anything marine,” the release stated. “Mr. Scott is a God-fearing man, honored for his service, and passion for mentorships. Through his business, he has demonstrated the benefits of diligent work and has men- tored numerous individuals in the process,” the press release states. Mr. Scott is also one of the founders of the Cayman Islands branch of the YMCA and has served for more than 20 years as part of the Lions Club of Grand Cayman. Robert Hamaty Named 2001 Caribbean entrepreneur of the year, Mr. Hamaty is the founder and managing director of Tortuga Rum Company Ltd. He is also a commercial pilot and began his long-standing con- tribution to the Cayman Is- lands in 1978 when he joined Cayman Airways and later became a founding member of the Cayman Airways Pi- lots Association. “Through his businesses and board representations in the tourism space, he has provided training opportuni- ties, job placements and stra- tegic direction on various ini- tiatives on the island,” the church press release stated. He and his family have made financial contribu- tions to various youth orga- nizations and have taken a leading role in promoting the Cayman Islands overseas, or- ganizers said. Sophia Harris Ms. Harris, managing partner of Solomon Harris law firm, has served on numerous boards in the Cayman Islands, including Immigration and Cancer So- ciety boards. She was the first woman to serve as chair of the Lions Club in the Cayman Islands. A director of the Aall Foundation, a charitable trust, Ms. Harris has worked through this and other organizations to assist the Sunrise Adult Center, the Bridge Foundation’s Reha- bilitation program and to provide reading material to Northward Prison, among many local contributions, the release notes. Overseas, she has part- nered with various individ- uals and organizations to build infrastructure, and to provide clean water, solar power and medications to underprivileged communities in African countries such as Ghana and Nigeria. She also works with communities in South America to support survivors of human slavery, the press release stated. Premier Alden McLaughlin, who attended the ceremony, said the honorees had been inspirational in their service. “It is our privilege to par- ticipate in this ceremony to acknowledge these individ- uals who have and continue to contribute to these beau- tiful islands,” he said. The first national debate featured Ed Chisholm, Arden McLean, Justin Ebanks, John McLean Jr. and Ezzard Miller. - PHOTOS: KAYLA YOUNG Few people turned out for the election campaign’s first national debate. Most viewers tuned in online.The islands’ most-trusted news source 3 CAYMAN COMPASS • THURSDAY APRIL 20, 2017 proudly sponsored by for more info visit WHEN COMPANIES DO WELL, EVERYBODY DOES WELL. SERIOUSLY? C M Y CM MY CY CMY KThe islands’ most-trusted news source 4 – EDITORIAL – Opinion&Letters The Cayman Compass welcomes comments, opinions and viewpoints from readers. Letters to the editor can be emailed to editor@pinnaclemedialtd.com, submitted via www.caymancompass.com, sent by post or hand-delivered to the Compass office. THURSDAY APRIL 20, 2017 • CAYMAN COMPASS How much has the Cayman Islands government spent on the construction of the new John Gray High School gym? That’s a piece of information the Ministry of Educa- tion, and apparently Minister of Education Tara Rivers, do not want the people of Cayman to know – at least not until well after the May 24 elections. In mid-February, government officials – including Minister Rivers, Ministry of Education Chief Officer Christen Suckoo and George Town MLA Joey Hew – were eager to “show off” the new gymnasium. They were happy to pose for a nice “photo op,” to note that the new gym would be ready in time for May final exams, and to promise that the construction project would come in under budget. As to what exactly that budget is, however, they remain less than forthcoming. Senior project manager Jonathan Matthews described the costs as “confi- dential,” while Chief Officer Suckoo said, “Let’s not belabor this, OK?” No one should ever be “OK” with government attempting to deflect, obscure or shield information about how public officials are spending public money. On April 4, one of our journalists submitted a request under the Freedom of Information Law, seeking records related to the “cost of construction of the new gym at John Gray High School.” We were pleased to receive, on April 12, a fairly prompt response from Ministry of Education Manager Janet Chisholm. We were less pleased to read the contents of that response: “The new gym at John Gray High School is still in the construction phase and the minister has given the undertaking to disclose the full cost once the project is completed. Therefore, access to the records will be granted on the 30-Jun-2017. Releasing this record in the public domain will not benefit the public and might create misperception since the project is still in the construction phase.” (June 30? What about the new gym being ready by May exams?) We immediately requested an internal review of that response from Chief Officer Suckoo, which we presume is ongoing. If he persists in not releasing the costs, we almost certainly will lodge an appeal with the Information Commissioner’s Office. (In light of Premier Alden McLaughlin’s, Chief Justice Anthony Smellie’s and Governor Helen Kilpatrick’s quashing of the “Ritch Report” on immigration, we await to see how effective the information commissioner can be.) There are two fundamental flaws in the ministry’s argument to “defer.” First, the ministry asserts that Minister Rivers has vowed to disclose the costs on June 30. Between this date and that, the May 24 elections will occur. There is no certainty that Minister Rivers will be a member of the Legislative Assembly on June 30 – or if she is, that she will remain Minister of Education. Even if her intention is true, it cannot bind her successor. Second, the ministry attempts to strangle the definition of what most people would think of as the “public interest.” It is certainly of importance that Cay- manian voters have all the facts about the perfor- mance of Minister Rivers and the Progressives gov- ernment before their ballots are cast on May 24. High atop that list of “must-know” information is how much officials have spent on major capital projects, such as the gym. Remember the runaway costs of the Clifton Hunter High School? As for the ministry’s statement that the public may be confused by being given the costs of a project before the project is complete, we think it is more likely that the ministry itself is confused – about its obligation to share timely information with the public it serves. The inclusion of two key words will suffice in order to clear up any possible “misperception” in that area, i.e.: “The government has spent XX million dollars on construction of the new John Gray gym … so far.” How much has gov’t spent on the John Gray gym? PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY: Caymanian Compass Limited (a subsidiary of Pinnacle Media Ltd) Compass Centre Shedden Road, George Town SEND US YOUR VIEWS OR NEWS: P.O. Box 1365 Grand Cayman KY1-1108, Cayman Islands Telephone: (345) 815-0095 Email: newsdesk@pinnaclemedialtd.com ADVERTISE WITH US: Telephone: (345) 949-5111 Email: sales@pinnaclemedialtd.com Website: www.caymancompass.com PUBLISHERS DAVID R. LEGGE AND VICKI L. LEGGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DAVID R. LEGGE EXECUTIVE EDITOR PATRICK BRENDEL A MEMBER OF THE INTER-AMERICAN PRESS ASSOCIATION “Give light and the people will find their own way” May’s Brexit gambit: clever but not smart THERESE RAPHAEL Who can blame U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May for calling an election now, as her own Conservative party mandarins have been urging? Her party enjoys a 21-percentage-point lead in the polls. The opposition La- bour Party is weak and di- vided, and the economy has yet to register the expected wobbles in the wake of last year’s vote to leave the Euro- pean Union. What better time to crush the opposition and beef up the Conservatives’ 17-seat majority? Yet her decision is as stra- tegically flawed as it is tac- tically clever. First, she risks losing credibility. Having prom- ised not to get distracted by an election campaign – working out the nuts and bolts of Brexit, after all, is hard work – before the cur- rent term expires in 2020, she’s now reversed herself. Voters are accustomed to politicians who go back on their word, so she may be forgiven. But the volte-face won’t be forgotten. Voters will wonder whether other pledges will be similarly re- thought if there’s political advantage to be gained. Second, May risks of- fending the cherished British notion of fair play. She has fired the start gun before her competition has even rolled out of bed, let alone laced up for the race. She’ll win, but she risks sparking a nascent sympathy vote for the first underdog to show some signs of life. From a fair-play perspec- tive, it’s almost cruel to hold an election now given the hapless state of the Labour Party. At the start of the year, the country’s oldest think tank, the Fabian Society, de- clared Labour unelectable. That was significant given that the Fabian Society helped to found the party and has long been closely as- sociated with its causes. The threat of Britain becoming a one-party state is real enough that the Economist put the prospect on the cover. “The future owes us nothing; we have no divine right to exist,” warned former Labour Parliament member Jamie Reed, who stepped down in December (before his constit- uency turned Tory). The U.K. Independence Party has an unrecognizable leader and no clear mission. The one-time Conservative coalition partner, Britain’s Liberal Democratic Party, is down to nine seats. It is, on the back of strong support for remaining in the EU, reg- istering a pulse again, but it’s a long way from being competition ready. Even the fiery Scottish Nationalists look to have miscalculated in their call for a new in- dependence referendum be- fore negotiations with the EU about the terms of the U.K.’s departure are even truly underway. Third, there is something troubling about the way May framed her decision in a Tuesday speech – something that sounds too close to an attempt to stifle debate. In defending her decision, the prime minister pointed a finger at the opposition par- ties (and by extension, those in her own party who are dragging their feet on Brexit). She said division jeopar- dized the chances of getting a good Brexit deal and ac- cused her detractors, as she has in the past, of playing po- litical games. In fact, the entire case for new elections was couched in terms reminiscent of the way Winston Churchill rallied the country for a war of survival. “There should be unity here in Westminster,” May said. “Instead there is divi- sion. The country should be coming together, but West- minster is not.” The upshot: Those who aren’t with me are against me, and those who are against me are against the country. Brexit is historic and complicated and consequen- tial. But it isn’t an existential battle against an external foe. It isn’t disloyal to question the government’s strategy or oppose it. The furniture in the House of Commons is ar- ranged in two facing rows precisely because debate and challenge are central to democracy. It’s hard to imagine an- other figure claiming the mantle of leadership as con- vincingly. However, the idea that a new mandate would “remove the risk of uncer- tainty and instability,” as May put it in her speech, surely must strike some voters as rich. Brexit invokes greater uncertainty than the disheveled Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. May has fostered the per- ception that she is above the pettiness of party mach- inations; that sometimes she is even the only adult in the room. She didn’t vote for Brexit, but has vowed to carry it out. She casts her- self as the master of detail, drawing up lists and working through them; she does policy, not politics. No politician can hon- estly begrudge her the deci- sion to call an election given her position of dominance. But there isn’t much ques- tion whose interests she had foremost in mind: Her par- ty’s and her own. Raphael writes editorials on European politics and economics for Bloomberg View. She was editorial page editor of the Wall Street Journal Europe. © 2017, Bloomberg View From a fair-play perspective, it’s almost cruel to hold an election now given the hapless state of the Labour Party. At the start of the year, the country’s oldest think tank, the Fabian Society, declared Labour unelectable.5 LOCAL NEWS CAYMAN COMPASS • THURSDAY APRIL 20, 2017 Road User BRITISH CAYMANIAN INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED BritCay House, 236 Eastern Avenue, George Town Tel. 949-8699 12 Kirkconnell Street, Stake Bay, Cayman Brac Tel. 948-1760 www.britcay.ky A member of Colonial Group International Ltd. : insurance, health, pensions, life Low deductibles from $200 means it costs less when you claim with BritCay. You have a 1 in 10 chance of a road vehicle accident. BritCay offers the lowest standard private car insurance deductible at $200 and the best value comprehensive cover with extra free benefits. Ask BritCay for a quote. Pay less for comprehensive insurance Save 10% if you have BritCay home insurance Low cost 100% NCD protection New car replacement (new cars only, 12 months max.) Fast-track repairs! Authorised Repairer programme *$250 BritCay gift certificate applies to new buildings insurance policies only. CALL 949-8699 or visit www.britcay.ky cgigrp $250* CERTIFICATE WITH BUILDINGS INSURANCE Hurricane Hunter plane to visit Cayman next week Public invited to tour U.S. Air Force aircraft that flies into storms A Hurricane Hunter air- craft and its crew are due to land in Grand Cayman next week as part of a regional tour in the run-up to the 2017 hurricane season. The visit is part of the National Oceanic and Atmo- spheric Administration and the U.S. Air Force Reserve’s annual tour of Latin America and the Caribbean, during which they advise on their role in assisting countries in hurricane regions, according to a press release. Tours of the Air Force Re- serve Command’s WC-130J Hurricane Hunter will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, April 26, at the General Aviation Terminal next to the Island Air hanger at Owen Roberts Interna- tional Airport. “During the tour, the 53rd Weather Reconnais- sance Squadron, an elite United States Air Force Re- serve Unit, will showcase the aircraft to the public and share their experiences of flying through hurricanes,” the release states. Cayman Islands National Weather Service Director- General John Tibbetts said, “Military air crews fly the WC-130J aircraft directly into the core of the hurricane to gather data on the sys- tem’s structure that is crit- ical for forecasting a storm’s magnitude and path. “The information collected is then sent in real time via satellite from the aircraft di- rectly to the National Hurri- cane Center for analysis by weather forecasters.” During the 2016 hurricane season, the 53rd WRS flew 75 missions for the National Hurricane Center, including 12 investigative flights over the Atlantic. The hurricane hunters also flew one mis- sion over the eastern North Pacific and 14 over the cen- tral North Pacific. NOAA hurricane experts, including the director of the National Hurricane Center in Miami, Rick Knabb, and senior hurricane specialist Lixion Avila will also be on site to provide information about hurricane preparedness. Around 300 high school students, as well as govern- ment officials, are invited to tour the plane. The public will also get to check out the aircraft, meet the onboard weather specialists and take photos with the crew. Also on Wednesday, Mr. Knabb and other international and local weather experts will lead a public workshop from noon to 1:30 p.m. at The Ritz- Carlton, Grand Cayman. “At the workshop, the public will hear about the latest developments in hur- ricane forecasting and the future direction of the sci- ence. Also, the public will gain critical insights into threats such as storm surge and tornadic winds which are also associated with hur- ricanes,” the release states. The events are being co- ordinated by the Cayman Islands National Weather Service and Hazard Manage- ment Cayman Islands. HMCI Director McCleary Frederick said his office believes the Hurricane Hunter’s visit will help raise local awareness. “If you live in an area prone to tropical cyclones, you need to be prepared, and that is what this Caribbean Hurricane Awareness Tour is all about,” he said. “We want the people of the Cayman Is- lands to be prepared and know what to expect if di- saster ever strikes.” Mr. Tibbetts added, “We are extremely excited the aircraft is making a stop in Grand Cayman, and we urge the public to take full advan- tage of this opportunity.” The central North Pacific and Atlantic basin hurricane season begins June 1, 2017. An Air Force Reserve Command WC-130 aircraft operates out of Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Georgia. One of these ‘Hurricane Hunters’ will be landing in Grand Cayman next week as part of regional hurricane operations. - PHOTO: U.S. AIR FORCE/BO JOYNER JAMES WHITTAKER jwhittaker@pinnaclemedialtd.com Retailers have until the end of June to bid for 18 spots in Grand Cayman’s re- furbished airport terminal, which is expected to open in late 2018. The Cayman Islands Air- ports Authority is inviting bids from businesses inter- ested in operating shops, res- taurants, cafes or duty free stores in the new-look Owen Roberts International Airport. Businesses that are more than 60 percent Caymanian owned and those that already operate in the airport will be given additional points in the bid process. The formula for the bids means successful businesses will be required to pay a per- centage of their income to the airports authority. They will also be asked to specify a minimum annual guarantee, which they will be required to pay regardless of sales. Robert Hamaty, chairman of the tenants association at Owen Roberts International Airport, said he is happy that the tender process had considered the rights of ex- isting airport retailers, though he had argued that the current owners should be “grandfathered” in to the new terminal. He warned that the system of charging retailers a percentage of their take was alien to the Cayman Is- lands and put the tenants at a disadvantage. “It is a no-lose situation for the airport,” he said. “If you do well, you have to pay them more. If you do badly, they still get their min- imum annual guarantee. “It is not a system that I agree with, personally. It is alien to the Cayman Islands because it punishes success.” Despite those concerns, Mr. Hamaty, who runs three stores in the existing air- port, said he planned to bid for space in the refurbished airport. He said Tortuga Rum Company had already lost a lot of business due to the closure of two of its air- port stores to facilitate the redevelopment. “The airport stores are a major part of our business. We have lost two already and we will lose another one later this year when the con- tract runs out. That is no- body’s fault. The airport is being redeveloped, which is much needed. “Those stores are an im- portant part of our brand. We might not agree with the system but the decision has been made, so we will abide by the rules and bid along with everyone else and see what happens.” He said the airport re- tailers had taken the decision to temporarily disband their association while the bid process takes place. “It doesn’t make sense for us to have the associa- tion and fight like crabs in a bucket for the new con- tracts,” he said. He indi- cated it would likely reform once the spaces are allo- cated and the retailers move into the new airport, likely around late 2018. According to the request for proposals, which was is- sued last week, the available space breaks down into 9,150 square feet of food and bev- erage space, 1,852 square feet of retail space and 5,001 square feet of duty free space across 18 units. Interested retailers can log onto the Cayman Islands Government E-Bidding Portal at https://cayman.bonfirehub. com/opportunities/3166 to receive proposal documents. Deadline for submission of bids is 4 p.m. on June 30. Businesses to bid for space in new airport terminalDISTRICT DAYS 6 District Days Bodden Town THURSDAY APRIL 20, 2017 • CAYMAN COMPASS Pensioners gather at Pedro St. James More than 400 people at- tended a Public Service Pen- sions Board pensioners ap- preciation event at Pedro St. James last week. Attendees were bussed in by Websters Tours from throughout Grand Cayman for the Wednesday, April 12 gathering. Staged under tents on the grounds of the historic home, the event celebrated the contributions of the fund’s pensioners on the 25th anniversary of the board, ac- cording to a press release from organizers. Pensioners sat at ta- bles decked in the pension board’s purple and grey colors and caught up with old friends, watched the live entertainment and enjoyed a buffet-style meal. Kearney Gomez, master of ceremonies at the five-hour event, gave the opening re- marks. The former permanent secretary for the Ministry of Works, who is a 43-year civil service veteran, kept the au- dience entertained with snip- pets titled “Remember When,” and recollections of civil ser- vice life, in between intro- ducing the roster of digni- taries and entertainers. Following prayer, the blessing of food was given by James Watler. Deputy Governor Franz Manderson then took to the podium to address the crowd, which included National Hero Sybil McLaughlin and John Jefferson Jr. He gave thanks to sev- eral people, including Jewel Evans-Lindsey, the Public Service Pension Board’s man- aging director, who has run the entity since its inception. Mr. Manderson said the pension fund is now worth more $1.5 billion and has 1,800 pensioner members. He said those retirees were among those civil ser- vants who had laid the foun- dations that had allowed the fund’s year-on-year growth. In her vote of thanks, Ms. Evans-Lindsey said the pensions fund allowed its members to retire with dig- nity and respect. Following the speeches, young music group Jubi- late performed several well- received pieces, including “We Believe.” The group was followed by the John Gray High School Band, which played a medley of time-honored standards. Interspersed among the proceedings were spot prizes and plenty of giveaways do- nated by the event’s spon- sors and the Public Service Pensions Board’s Member Services team. Another performer at the Pensioners’ Appreciation event was Nasaria Suckoo- Chollette, who gave three readings of her poetry, in- cluding the humorous “Dan de Pan” and the woman-cen- tered “Lord, I Didn’t Know.” During the event, food stalls served up conch soup and rolls, Cayman-style beef, fried fish and festival, curry chicken, patties, heavy cakes, turtle stew and fresh food platters – supplied by local supermarkets and local vendors. Kiosks throughout the day were manned by the staff of the Health Services Authority, CINICO, Meals on Wheels, the Seventh-day Community Outreach, Lions Club Food Pantry and the PSPB. Swanky Kitchen Band closed out the live entertain- ment segment of the event. Staged under tents on the grounds of the historic home, the event celebrated the contributions of the fund’s pensioners on the 25th anniversary of the board. The Swanky Band entertains the crowd. Jubilate performs at the pensioners appreciation event.Deputy Governor Franz Manderson addresses the crowd. 50 YEARS AGO: Police opportunities open up In the April 19, 1967 edition of the Caymanian Weekly, a pre- cursor of the Cayman Compass, the following article appealed to young Caymanian men in search of work: “Young Caymanian and Com- monwealth male citizens, resident in the Cayman Islands, who are over 19 years of age, physically fit, of good character and pos- sess a fair standard of education are invited to apply to the Chief of Police for full information on the opportunities awaiting them in the Force. “The Police Force is currently going through a period of expan- sion and improvement, as a re- sult of which many benefits will be available. By being a member of a vital and respected organization, not only will one be serving his country in a very useful capacity, but will as well be contributing, in no small measure, to a very impor- tant aspect of the development of these islands. Eligible candidates therefore are urged to benefit now from the current policy of expan- sion and improvement. “Salary available to Constables range from a commencing point of 480 pounds per annum to a max- imum 816 pounds per annum. For direct entry to the rank of Cadet Inspector the commencing salary is 780 pounds per annum and goes to a maximum of 888 per annum. Other benefits include pension- able service, house and other gen- erous allowances.”The islands’ most-trusted news source 7 Community CALENDAR ■ COMMUNITY CALENDAR is published TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS. It is available to charitable or nonprofit organizations. Items should be submitted at least three working days before publication. Information must include name of sender, signature and contact number. ■ Items may be faxed to 949-2662, brought to the Cayman Compass office on Shedden Rd. or emailed to cwinker@pinnaclemedialtd.com at least three days in advance of publication. THURSDAY, APRIL 20 HUMANE SOCIETY QUIZ: The Humane Society will hold its monthly trivia night at Fidel Murphy’s on West Bay Road. 7 p.m. Hosted by Ann Ghezzi. All proceeds go to the animal shelter. SATURDAY, APRIL 22 EARTH DAY CLEANUP: Islandwide cleanup locations, 7–10 a.m. Find out more or volunteer at www.caymanchamber.ky. SUNDAY, APRIL 23 BRAC DG 5K CHALLENGE: Registration for the Deputy Governor’s 5K Challenge is open at www.caymanactive. com/dg5K. Led by Deputy Governor Franz Manderson, the event aims to raise $60,000 for the YMCA of the Cayman Islands. The DG’s 5K Challenge will be held on Cayman Brac on Sunday, April 23, and on Grand Cayman, Sunday, April 30. The charity event is open to all ages and fitness levels. MONDAY, APRIL 24 BRAC PUBLIC SERVICE PENSIONERS: The Public Service Pensions Board marks its 25th anniversary with a Pensioners’ Appreciation event at the Aston Rutty Centre, 4-8 p.m. It will feature booths, local food stalls, entertainment, prizes and giveaways, health screenings and advice. To confirm attendance or to inquire about transportation, call 917-8851. TUESDAY, APRIL 25 POST OFFICES CLOSED: Government post offices on all three islands will be closed all day for staff development. CHAMBER COURSE: Product to Market. 12:30-4:30 p.m. Chamber of Commerce, Governors Square. $150 for members, $225 for future members. Register online at www.caymanchamber.ky. CHAMBER COURSE: Immigration, Caymanian Status and Naturalization. 9-11 a.m. Chamber of Commerce, Governors Square. $175 for members, $225 for future members. Register online at www.caymanchamber.ky. THURSDAY, APRIL 27 BRAC FISHING: Cayman Islands International Fishing Tournament. Today through April 30. Visit fishcayman. com for more information. CHAMBER COURSE: Employment – Health Insurance. 9-11 a.m. Chamber of Commerce, Governors Square. $175 for members, $225 for future members. Register online at www.caymanchamber.ky. FRIDAY, APRIL 28 BIG BASH 2017: HospiceCare fundraiser. Ristorante Pappagallo. 7 p.m. Tickets $250. Dress is island casual. Valet parking. Tickets can be purchased directly from Cayman HospiceCare, 945- 7447, or email fundraising@ caymanhospicecare.ky. WELLNESS SEMINAR: The Ephesus Health and Wellness Seminar, Lead Us Back to Eden, takes place this weekend at Ephesus SDA on Seymour Drive. Tonight 6:30 p.m. Tomorrow 3 p.m. Both sessions are free and all are invited. Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. features cooking demonstrations, lunch, kitchen medicine and more. Fee is $10. Contact 324-1995 or 927-8788. SATURDAY, APRIL 29 FUNDRAISING PARTY: The Lions Club of Tropical Gardens hosts a fundraising ‘70s and ‘80s party at the UCCI Hall. Admission is $10 pre-sold and $15 at the gate. Refreshments will be on sale. Tickets are also available at Funky Tang’s. Funds raised go toward the club’s community projects. There will also be spot prizes for the best Male and Female ‘70s/‘80s outfits. CAR BOOT SALE: Hope Academy PTA Car Boot Sale. The PTA hosts this event 5-10 a.m. on the side parking lot, Grand Harbour. Anyone looking to get rid of usable items sitting in the garage, attic or around the house is encouraged make them available to new owners. Spaces are $25; sellers keep whatever they make selling their items. Contact pta@hopecayman. com for more information. GENERAL INTEREST VOTER ID CARDS: The Elections Office is issuing new voter registration cards. Cards may be collected from the Elections Office at the Smith Road Centre, 150 Smith Road, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays. The new cards will replace all previously issued voter identification. Officials will stop issuing cards on Friday, May 19. To receive a card, people must show a valid form of official identification, such as a driver’s license, passport or work ID. Those with questions should contact 949-8047, office@elections.ky or www.elections.ky. CANDIDATES CONTRACTS: Election candidates have until April 24 to publish the nature of any public service contracts from which they may benefit in the Cayman Islands Gazette. Currently one issue of the extraordinary gazette remains open before that date – April 21. The deadline for submission is noon the day before publication. Content may be submitted at the Gazette Office, in Government Information Services in the Government Administration Building, Grand Cayman. Those with questions should contact 244-1752 or caymangazettes. gov.ky. There is a minimum cost of $600 plus $150 for every page over four pages. Failure by candidates to publish their interests in the Gazette by the deadline is a disqualifying criterion under section 62 (1)(g) of the Cayman Islands Constitution Order (2009). There is no requirement to publish for people who are not party to any public service contracts. POSTAL VOTING: The Elections Office reminds registered voters that the period during which they may request postal ballots or mobile voting will continue until close of business on Friday, May 12. People who will be away from Cayman on Election Day may request a postal ballot by filling out Form B, available on www.elections.ky, at portal. elections.ky/files/downloads/ forms/2016/FORMB.pdf. The completed form and proof of travel may be emailed to office@elections.ky. MOBILE VOTING: Voters who will be in Cayman, but unable to physically attend the polls, may apply for mobile voting using Form C, available from www.elections.ky at portal. elections.ky/files/downloads/ forms/2016/FORMC.pdf. Elections Office polling staff will either visit successful applicants in person, or facilitate their vote before polling day at an early voting station. ADULT ACTING CLASSES: Offered through the Cayman Drama Society. May 7, method acting. June 4, the actor’s voice. $40 per class. Contact training@cds.ky. PRESCHOOL FUNDING: Government funding to assist with preschool attendance is available for eligible Caymanian children who will be between 3 and 4 years old before Sept. 1. Email ecap@gov.ky or call 244-5724 for more information. Collect application forms from Government Administration Building, Department of Education, early childhood centers, District Health Centres or the Public Health Department at the Cayman Islands Hospital. Deadline to apply is April 28. MARITIME CULTURE: The National Gallery of the Cayman Islands’ exhibit celebrates Cayman’s maritime heritage and identity. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday. Admission is free. Families can download a free copy of the “Upon the Seas” exhibition guide at www.nationalgallery.org.ky. Guides include information about the artists, exhibition themes, discussion points and art activities. Guides available on arrival. The exhibit runs until April 20. HUMANE SOCIETY BOOK LOFT: North Sound Road. Open Monday 12:30-4 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thursday 5:30-7:30 p.m. Volunteers needed for front desk a few hours per week. Email humanesocietybookloft@ candw.ky or call 946-8053. Donations of books, games, CDs, stationery, DVDs, cards etc., in good condition always needed. RED CROSS THRIFT SHOP: The Thrift Shop opening hours are Tuesday to Thursday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-7 p.m. Friday hours are 9 a.m.-2 p.m. and closed evenings. Saturday 7:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. SPECIAL OLYMPICS: Volunteers are needed. Tuesdays at the Truman Bodden Complex at 5:30 p.m. for track/field, football and bocce. No experience necessary, just a smile and patience. Wednesdays at Lions Pool 10:15–11 a.m. You do not have to swim, just be able to walk in water chest-deep. Thursdays at First Baptist Church for basketball, 5:30–7 p.m. Saturdays, volunteers needed for Adult Special Olympic swim conditioning at CIS pool 9:30–10:30 a.m. Deck support and in-water swimming assistance needed. For more information, contact Penny McDowall at 516-2578 or pjmcdowall@gmail.com. OPEN STUDIO: Every Thursday 10 a.m. till noon and every Monday 1-4 p.m. at Watler House Studio on grounds of Pedro Castle. Offered by Visual Arts Society to adults/youth who want to work independently in an inspiring atmosphere. Contact info@visualartcayman.com. COMMUNITY CHESS: Tuesdays 5-8 p.m., West Indies Wine Company. Join the Cayman Chess Club for a complimentary chess class and open challenges weekly. Anyone can learn to play and enjoy chess, even beginners. LOST DOGS: The Department of Agriculture and veterinary students of St. Matthew’s University provide an online list of dogs housed at the Department of Agriculture Animal Rescue Shelter in Lower Valley. Anyone missing a dog can check www.smustudents.webs.com. BETHESDA COUNSELLING CENTRE: Caters to all who seek help. Open Monday to Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 68 Mary St. Appointments available Saturdays and late evenings. Center is owned and operated by the United Church in Jamaica and the Cayman Islands. Call 946-6575. ARTISANS MARKET: Camana Bay every Wednesday, noon till 8 p.m. Visual Arts Society artists display arts, crafts, paintings, prints, hand-crafted jewelry and ceramics for sale. Email info@visualartcayman.com. OPEN CANVAS: Wednesdays. Visual Arts Society supports this event at KARoo Restaurant in Camana Bay. 7-11 p.m. No fee, easels provided. Contact info@ongart.com or jar.was@gmail.com. MUSEUM TOURS: The National Museum provides guided tours for students and school groups free of cost. Students will gain an understanding of Cayman’s geological formation, flora and fauna, seafaring and rope-making heritage, political history and more. Contact the museum to book a tour in advance at 949-8368 or email info@museum.ky. For more Community Calendar events, visit www.caymancompass.com/events. CAYMAN COMPASS • THURSDAY APRIL 20, 2017 POLITICAL MEETINGS AND FORUMS THURSDAY, APRIL 20 CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FORUM: Savannah candidates, 7-9 p.m. at Savannah Primary School Hall. FRIDAY, APRIL 21 CHAMBER FORUM: West Bay West candidates, 7–9 p.m. at Sir John A. Cumber Primary School Hall. SATURDAY, APRIL 22 PAUL HURLSTON: George Town South. South Sound Civic Centre, 7 p.m. MONDAY, APRIL 24 CHAMBER FORUM: West Bay South candidates, 7-9 p.m. at John Gray Memorial Church Hall. ARDEN MCLEAN: East End. Robinson Rankin’s yard, John McLean Drive, 8 p.m. TUESDAY, APRIL 25 NATIONAL DEBATE: Candidates from various districts, at Arts and Recreation Centre, Camana Bay, 7-9 p.m. EZZARD MILLER: North Side. Frank Sound Park. 8 p.m. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26 CHAMBER FORUM: Red Bay candidates, 7-9 p.m. at Mary Miller Hall. ARDEN MCLEAN: East End. Mervin Welcome’s yard, Knot Street. 8 p.m. THURSDAY, APRIL 27 CHAMBER FORUM: George Town South candidates, 7-9 p.m. at South Sound Community Centre. FRIDAY, APRIL 28 CHAMBER FORUM: Bodden Town West candidates, 7-9 p.m. at Bodden Town Civic Centre.The islands’ most-trusted news source 8 THURSDAY APRIL 20, 2017 • CAYMAN COMPASS incongruous decision. He said that was not the case here. “It must be accepted that the framers, in seeking to en- sure the undivided loyalty (of elected representatives), may have taken a different view of foreign citizenship acquired by descent than that acquired by birth,” he said in his ruling. “They may have been con- cerned over the risk of divided loyalties fostered through de- scent, of parental and genera- tional attachments. “It is not given to this court to construe the subsection to avoid the literal meaning.” He said the framers of the constitution had cre- ated a carve-out that toler- ated foreign citizenship in certain circumstances, so he could not conclude that they had overlooked the possi- bility that someone who ac- quired citizenship through descent would be precluded from standing. “It is not open to the court to assume that they didn’t at least consider the issue of foreign citizenship by de- scent,” he said. Chief Justice Smellie said he was not required to make a decision on the second ele- ment of the argument against Mr. DaCosta’s candidacy – that he had sworn an oath of alle- giance to the U.S. to become a Notary Public in Florida – be- cause he had already ruled against him on the first point. Mr. DaCosta is the second candidate to be excluded from the election as a result of a constitutional challenge. A second candidate, who Chief Justice Smellie ruled can only be referred to as Can- didate X, was barred from running because of a past criminal conviction for a dis- honesty offense. Alric Lindsay, an inde- pendent candidate in George Town, is also facing a chal- lenge to his candidacy amid claims he was out of the country for more than 400 days in the seven years before his nomination and that this makes him constitutionally barred from standing. Contract hunters registered for iguana cull JAMES WHITTAKER jwhittaker@pinnaclemedialtd.com The Department of En- vironment has begun regis- tering contract hunters for a four-month islandwide cull of green iguanas. Officials are signing up Caymanians and businesses to be involved in the inten- sive cull – the latest effort to reduce the population of the invasive species. Registration was taking place for contract hunters at the DoE headquarters on North Sound Road be- tween 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday. Further registra- tion days will be scheduled as necessary, according to of- ficials. The department is re- cruiting contract hunters, who commit to culling more than 100 iguanas a month at a price of $2 per an- imal. The project begins in May and runs through the end of August. Contracts are open to adults who are Caymanian, permanent residents with the right to work, or anyone with a relevant Trade and Busi- ness License, according to the DoE’s guidelines. The DoE is also running a green iguana raffle for ca- sual hunters, who compete for raffle tickets to win prizes in a cash draw. The regis- tration process for that part of the cull begins on April 26 via email. “Anyone interested in culling green iguanas on a smaller scale will be able to participate in the Green Iguana Raffle, where raffle tickets for a twice-monthly cash prize will be issued for every ten iguanas culled,” ac- cording to the guidelines. The cull, which includes a $320,000 budget for payments to contracted hunters and a $50,000 allocation for the community raffle plan, is the largest attempt yet to tackle the exponentially in- creasing population of green iguanas in Grand Cayman. At the latest popula- tion survey in August 2016, 404,000 adult green iguanas were counted. When hatch- lings are included in the count, the number increases to more than 800,000. The fig- ures also show a year-on-year increase in the rate of popu- lation growth. If the population growth continues unchecked, the DoE predicts “a catastrophic impact on the natural envi- ronment and socially unac- ceptable problems for agri- culture, infrastructure and residential areas.” Participants in the four- month cull will be respon- sible for safely disposing of the dead iguanas. A Department of Envi- ronment report on two test culls held last year sug- gested a sustained culling project would likely generate around 200 tons of iguana carcasses annually – equiv- alent in weight to about 80 adult elephants. The DoE guidelines for the forthcoming cull indi- cate: “Contracts and raffle terms will place strict obli- gations on participants to re- spect property rights, cull the iguanas humanely, and dis- pose of carcasses properly. Reporting of culled iguanas for payment purposes must be done by marking the car- casses, photographing them and sending the photos to the cull manager.” For more information, email Fred Burton at frederic.burton@gov.ky or Tim Austin on timothy.austin@gov.ky. An islandwide cull of invasive green iguanas is set to begin next month. Mandatory 10-year sentence imposed for four bullets Defense to appeal conviction and sentence CAROL WINKER cwinker@pinnaclemedialtd.com A woman found guilty of possessing four bullets without a license was sen- tenced on Tuesday to 10 years imprisonment, the man- datory minimum sentence under the Firearms Law. Kimesha Tameka Wal- ters, 30, had pleaded not guilty after the .38 ammuni- tion was found in her North Sound Road apartment on Feb. 18, 2016. In the same search by police officers, 57 wraps of ganja were found. Walters pleaded guilty to possession of ganja with in- tent to supply. The bulk of the trial for the bullets took place in Feb- ruary this year, with Magis- trate Grace Donalds deliv- ering her verdict in March. At the sentencing hearing this week, Crown counsel Scott Wainwright pointed to the provisions of the Fire- arms Law: in a case where the individual pleads guilty, the court shall impose a sen- tence of at least seven years. In any other case, the court shall impose a sentence of at least 10 years. In law, “shall” means “must.” The definition of firearm in the law includes “any am- munition capable of being used in any firearm.” Defense attorney Mar- geta Facey-Clarke confirmed on Wednesday that an ap- peal is being filed against both sentence and conviction for the bullets. Walters also received six months consecutive for the ganja, the total found being calculated as 5.29 ounces. Cash seized on the premises, totaling $1,500, was forfeited to the Crown. Walters, who was un- employed, had admitted receiving the ganja to sell it so that she could support herself and a young child. She denied knowledge of the bullets, which an officer found in a basket on top of a refrigerator in her bed- room along with hair ac- cessories, jewelry and other personal items. Walters gave evidence that other people had access to that area of the apartment, including a couple who rented the premises’ second bedroom. Walters told the court the bullets were not hers and she did not know they were there. Crown counsel Claire Wetton, who conducted the prosecution, pointed out that Walters’ DNA matched the DNA that was on the bul- lets, and the bullets were wrapped in a plastic sim- ilar to the plastic the ganja was wrapped in. Ms. Facey-Clarke argued that the Crown’s DNA ex- pert had agreed that there was a possibility of sec- ondary transfer – that is, Walters’ DNA being on the hair accessories and jewelry in the basket with the bul- lets and then the items being touched by the officer who found the bullets. She also pointed out that the bullets were report- edly found together in the plastic that was tied in a knot, but when he showed them to another officer, the plastic was untied. The at- torney argued further that Walters’ fingerprints were not on the bullets or the plastic wrap. As to the ammunition being capable of being used, Ms. Facey-Clarke noted an officer’s evidence that only one of the four bullets had been test fired. The officer had ex- plained that all four rounds of ammunition were in good condition. Walters had no pre- vious convictions. focus and confidence helped him win silver in the 110m, in his third Carifta games. He will travel to Kenya in July to compete in the World U-18 Championships. The Cayman team came sixth overall in the track and field medal count. Other medalists were Dominic Dyer, who won gold in the U-20 5,000m and bronze in the 1,500m, and Jamal Walton, who won gold in U-20 200m and silver in the 400m. Youth and Sports As- sistant Chief Officer Joel Francis said the results were fantastic, considering the level of competition in the Caribbean. “The Caribbean has been producing world- class track and field ath- letes for a number of years now. When you compete in the Caribbean, you are in effect competing against the best in the world. That really emphasizes the quality of the medals we won,” he said. Record wins for swim team Meanwhile, Cayman swim- mers won a record 47 medals in the pool competitions at the Carifta Swimming Cham- pionships in Nassau, The Ba- hamas, from April 15-18. The open water events were scheduled for Wednesday, April 19. Of the medals won by the Cayman swimmers, or- ganizers said in a press re- lease, “This is significant, as the last time we came close to this number of medals was in 2004 when the team trav- eled to Nassau and brought 46 medals home … so … 13 years later, set the bar just a little higher.” In 2004, there was no open water swim, “so the 47 earned this year versus the 46 earned in 2004 is ‘apples to apples’ and a record,” organizers said. Cayman swimmers also placed top three in a number of age groups. In the pool finals on Tuesday: In the 400 meter freestyle, Avery Lambert took silver, and the 13-14 age group, Ria Plunkett and Zachary Moore each won bronze medals. In the 15-17 age group, Lauren Hew won gold and Jonathan Key placed fifth. In the 50m freestyle, 11-12 age group, Corey Fred- erick-Westerborg won bronze among male swimmers. Al- ison Jackson took gold in the 13-14 age group. In the 100m breaststroke, Carmella Ylagan (11-12), Sa- bine Ellison (13-14) and Ella Plunkett (15-17) each placed fourth in their division. Lauren Hew (15-17 age group) and Avery Lambert (11-12) each won gold in the 200m backstroke. In the 4x50m free relay, Samantha Bailey (15- 17) won bronze. “A phenomenal perfor- mance … Quite amazing and kudos to all,” Minister Bodden said in a congratulatory email to the team organizers. For full results in the swimming events, visit http://oldsite. bahamasswimmingfederation. com/liveresults/. Cayman athletes win 47 swim, 6 track medals CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Court disqualifies 2nd election candidate CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1The islands’ most-trusted news source 9 CAYMAN COMPASS • THURSDAY APRIL 20, 2017 Dr. Wayne R. Porter MD F.A.A.D. Dermatologist call : 946-9020 between 9am to 5pm Dees Plaza #282 on Crewe Road, GT He will be in office from April 20th to April 22nd, 2017 Russian journalist dies after attack A prominent Russian journalist has died of his injuries six weeks after being attacked in St. Petersburg. The death Wednesday of 73-year-old Nikolai Andrushchenko was reported by Russian media outlets that cited his lawyer and the editor-in-chief of the Novy Peterburg newspaper. Back to the ballot box: UK lawmakers back June 8 election Parliament to be dissolved on May 2 LONDON (AP) – British voters will be heading to polling sta- tions for the third time since 2015, after lawmakers over- whelmingly backed Prime Minister Theresa May’s call for a snap election on June 8. The parliamentary elec- tion comes less than a year after Britain voted to leave the European Union, and will likely be dominated by the political and economic up- heaval spawned by Brexit. May, who took office in July after an internal Conser- vative Party leadership race, wants the election to increase her majority in Parliament and consolidate her power as she faces both pro-EU oppo- sition politicians and hard- core Brexit-backers inside her own party. Lawmakers voted Wednesday by a resounding 522 to 13 to back May’s call for an election, easily sur- passing the two-thirds ma- jority in the 650-seat House of Commons needed to trigger an early vote. May said holding an election in June, rather than as scheduled in 2020, would “deliver a more se- cure future for our country” as it negotiates its depar- ture from the EU. She said that waiting until 2020 would mean the “most sensitive” part of the two-year Brexit negotiations would come during the run- up to an election. “That would be in no- body’s interest,” May said. Now that lawmakers have approved the elec- tion, Parliament will be dis- solved at midnight on May 2, 25 working days before election day. The opposition Labour Party and Liberal Demo- crats welcomed the chance to put their policies to voters, though the Scottish National Party called the election a cynical political ploy. Its law- makers abstained during Wednesday’s vote. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said the election “gives the British people the chance to vote for a Labour government that will put the interests of the majority first.” Despite Corbyn’s bravado, his party is demoralized and divided under his left-wing leadership and is expected to fare badly. Polls give the Con- servatives a double-digit lead over Labour, and May is gam- bling that an election will de- liver her a personal mandate from voters and produce a bigger Conservative majority. May’s Conservatives cur- rently hold 330 House of Com- mons seats and Labour 229. Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron said that, for May, calling the election is “the political equivalent of taking candy from a baby.” “She expects a coronation and not a contest,” Farron said, urging voters to back his strongly pro-EU party to stop a Conservative land- slide. The Liberal Democrats currently have just nine seats in Parliament. May dismissed criticism of her decision to call voters back to polling booths for the third time in just over 24 months. A national election in May 2015 was followed by the June 2016 referendum on EU membership. She said the early ballot would strengthen Britain’s negotiating hand with the 27-member EU. “Brexit isn’t just about the letter that says we want to leave. It’s about … get- ting the right deal from Eu- rope,” May said. EU officials say Britain’s surprise election will not in- terrupt the bloc’s prepara- tions for Brexit talks – though they will slightly delay the start of negotiations. Leaders of EU states are due to adopt negotiating guidelines at an April 29 summit, and the bloc will prepare detailed plans for the talks with Britain by late May. It had been hoped talks could start by the end of that month, but EU Commis- sion spokesman Margaritis Schinas said Wednesday that “the real political ne- gotiations” with Britain would not start till after the June 8 election. May ruled out partici- pating in televised debates with other leaders. TV de- bates do not have a long his- tory in British politics, but were a feature of the last two elections, in 2010 and 2015. “We won’t be doing tele- vision debates,” May said, adding that politicians should spend election cam- paigns “out and about” meeting voters. One broadcaster, ITV, said it planned to hold a de- bate with or without the prime minister. Liberal Democrat leader Farron said that broad- casters should hold debates anyway, with an empty chair in May’s place. “The prime minister’s at- tempt to dodge scrutiny shows how she holds the public in contempt,” he said. Emirates trims US flights after Trump travel ban DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) – Emirates, the Middle East’s biggest airline, said on Wednesday it is cutting flights to the United States because of a drop in de- mand caused by tougher U.S. security measures and Trump administration at- tempts to ban travelers from Muslim-majority nations. The decision by the Dubai government-owned carrier is the strongest sign yet that the new measures imposed on U.S.-bound trav- elers from the Mideast are taking a financial toll on fast-growing Gulf carriers that have expanded rapidly in the United States. Dubai was one of 10 cities in Muslim-majority countries affected by a ban on laptops and other per- sonal electronics in carry- on luggage aboard U.S.- bound flights. Emirates’ hub at Dubai International Airport, the world’s third busiest, is a major transit point for trav- elers who were affected by President Donald Trump’s executive orders tempo- rarily halting entry to citi- zens of six countries. The latest travel ban sus- pended new visas for people from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen, and froze the nation’s ref- ugee program. Like an ear- lier ban that also included Iraqi citizens, it has been blocked from taking effect by the courts. Emirates said the re- ductions will affect five of its 12 U.S. destinations, starting next month. It called the move “a commer- cial decision in response to weakened travel demand” in the three months since Trump took office. “The recent actions taken by the U.S. govern- ment relating to the issu- ance of entry visas, height- ened security vetting, and restrictions on electronic devices in aircraft cabins, have had a direct impact on consumer interest and demand for air travel into the U.S.,” the carrier said in a statement. Emirates did not provide financial data for its U.S. op- erations but said it had seen “healthy growth and per- formance” there until the start of the year. In the three months Trump has been in office, however, there has been what it called “a significant deterioration in the booking profiles on all our U.S. routes, across all travel segments.” “Emirates has therefore responded as any profit-ori- ented enterprise would, and we will redeploy capacity to serve demand on other routes on our global net- work,” it said. BILLIONAIRES, COMPANIES POWER TRUMP’S RECORD INAUGURAL HAUL WASHINGTON (AP) – Billion- aires, corporations and NFL owners opened their wallets in a big way to help Presi- dent Donald Trump raise a record-shattering $107 mil- lion for his inaugural festiv- ities, records released by the Federal Election Commis- sion on Wednesday show. The amount about doubled the re- cord set by President Barack Obama eight years ago. After giving $5 million, Las Vegas gaming billionaire Sheldon Adelson and his wife had prime seats for Trump’s swearing-in ceremony on Jan. 20 and gained access to a pri- vate lunch with the new pres- ident and lawmakers at the Capitol. Phil Ruffin, another casino mogul and close friend of Trump, gave $1 million. All the seven-figure con- tributions fed into a fund- raising total that dwarfed the amounts raised for past in- augurations – yet produced an event that was largely viewed as lower-key than previous swearing-in festivi- ties. Trump’s inaugural com- mittee does not have to dis- close what it spent the money on or how much was left over. But it did promise to “identify and evaluate chari- ties that will receive contri- butions left from the excess monies raised.” NFL owners who chipped in $1 million each included Dan Snyder of the Redskins, Stan Kroenke of the Rams, the Patriots’ Bob Kraft via the Kraft Group, Bob McNair of the Texans and the Jag- uars’ Shahid Kahn. Businesses that donated at the $1 million level in- cluded Bank of America, Boeing, Dow Chemical, Pfizer, Allied Wallet, Access Indus- tries, Qualcomm. Health- care, energy and beverage companies were among the many businesses giving $250,000 or more. Companies also gave huge in-kind contributions of goods and services, including $2.1 million from AT&T for mobile equipment and soft- ware, nearly $500,000 in “ve- hicle expenses” from Gen- eral Motors, $500,000 in equipment from Micro- soft, $300,000 in food and beverages from Coca Cola, $257,000 from Pepsi and more than $500,000 in de- livery services from FedEx. Trump placed no re- strictions on the amount of money that donors could give. Obama limited contributions to $50,000 in 2009 but lifted that cap four years later. EU officials say Britain’s surprise election will not interrupt the bloc’s preparations for Brexit talks – though they will slightly delay the start of negotiations. Emirates said the reductions will affect five of its 12 U.S. destinations, starting next month. Prime Minister Theresa MayNext >