ESTABLISHED 1965 www.caymancompass.com – 50 CENTS – MONDAY MAY 1, 2017 BRENT FULLER bfuller@pinnaclemedialtd.com The Cayman Islands government expects that a combination of greater demand for labor along with changes to private sector pension rules will reduce Caymanian unem- ployment during 2017/18. The government’s pre-election and finan- cial update estimates Caymanian unemploy- ment will fall from 7.1 percent in 2016 to 6.1 percent at the end of this year and then fall further to 4.9 percent in 2018. It’s expected there will be an increase in employment opportunities as a result of a number of new construction projects getting started in the second half of 2017, including the Ironwood development and a new five- star hotel along Seven Mile Beach. “Over the medium term, new employment is also expected from the islands’ hotel in- dustry with the completion of new facili- ties and renovation of existing ones,” the report stated. Meanwhile, changes to the National Pen- sions Law that allow workers to “cash out” their pension savings accounts if they leave before Dec. 31, 2017 are also anticipated to increase local employment. “It is assumed a proportion of unem- ployed Caymanians will replace resigning expatriate workers beginning in the last quarter of 2017 and continuing in 2018,” the pre-election financial report states. According to Chamber of Commerce esti- mates, some 2,500 foreign workers will de- part before the end of this year to take the money from their retirement funds. After 2017, that option will no longer be available to those workers. Economics and Statistics Office figures from the fall of 2016 said there were fewer GOVERNMENT: PENSION CHANGES TO IMPROVE LOCAL EMPLOYMENT Cayman’s healthcare liability grows $500 million in two years BRENT FULLER bfuller@pinnaclemedialtd.com The future amount the Cayman Islands government estimates it will have to pay to provide retired workers and other citizens with healthcare coverage has grown by an es- timated $500 million in the last two years, ac- cording to government’s own estimates. A valuation completed in September 2016, but which was not made public until last week, estimated Cayman’s total post-retire- ment healthcare obligation at $1.7 billion as of June 30, 2016. That is the present-value figure that Cayman’s government expects to pay out for healthcare coverage over the next 20 years. Similar valuations done in mid-2014 put the 20-year healthcare liability at $1.18 billion. The figures, contained in government’s pre- election economic and financial update, also note the following: “For all intents and pur- poses, the government is on a ‘pay-as-you-go’ plan in respect of post-retirement healthcare liabilities. Currently, no long term assets have been established to start offsetting the gov- ernment’s post-retirement healthcare liability.” Finance Minister Marco Archer has pushed for the public revelation of these healthcare liability figures which – be- fore 2014 – had not been released in more than 10 years by the government. Mr. Archer has often cautioned that the estimates of $1.18 billion or even higher do not represent money owed immediately and that larger amounts would only come due if Cayman “does nothing” about its current healthcare costs. However, the pre-election finance report also seeks to place a current value on the A sea of blue at Deputy Governor’s 5K Nearly 2,000 walkers and runners took to the streets in George Town Sunday for the fourth annual Deputy Governor’s 5K Challenge. Deputy Governor Franz Manderson’s fitness and fund- raising event is held annually to benefit worthy organizations in the community. “It’s one of the proudest days of my life to see so many people come and help be a part of the solution to challenges we face in the Cayman Islands,” PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 6 » George Town awash in color for Junior Batabano More than 300 students from nine schools islandwide paraded through George Town Saturday for the 15th Junior Batabano Street Parade, showcasing beautiful costumes and cultural flair. For the story and more photos, see page 10. - PHOTO: TANEOS RAMSAY PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 8 » PLEASE TURN TO PAGE 8 » Deputy Governor Franz Manderson is happy to see a strong turnout at his signature fundraising race. – PHOTO: TANEOS RAMSAY2 LOCAL&REGIONAL MONDAY MAY 1, 2017 • CAYMAN COMPASS Daily Matinees Every Day $8.00 Seniors, Mon-Fri Before 6pm Cayman Cinema@cbcinema6cbcinema6 CHIPS (R) 1:10 I 4:15 I 7:10 I 10:10 UNFORGETTABLE (R) 1:00 I 7:30 SMURFS: THE LOST VILLAGE 3D (PG) 12:35 2D I 3:45 I 7:00 2D I 9:55 GIFTED (PG13) 1:15 I 4:00 I 7:15 GOING IN STYLE (PG13) 3:55 I 10:00 THE FATE OF THE FURIOUS 3D (PG13) 12:30 VIP I 3:40 VIP I 6:50 VIP 9:40 I 9:50 VIP BOSS BABY 3D (PG) 12:45 2D I 3:50 I 6:50 2D I 9:45 - MONDAY - SATURDAY NIGHT: For your viewing pleasure, minors under the age of 18 will not be admitted to any film starting after 6pm, unless accompanied by their parent. *Additional charges will apply per 3D ticket requested. 640-FILM (640-3456) Will visit Tropical Optical May 2nd - May 6th, 2017 Not guilty pleas entered after bar incident Two men injured outside West Bay Road premises on Feb. 4 CAROL WINKER cwinker@pinnaclemedialtd.com Three defendants entered pleas of not guilty in Grand Court last week, when charges were put to them arising from an incident out- side the Fete Night Club in the early hours of Saturday, Feb. 4. Early reports of the incident in- dicated that one man was shot and another man was hit with a gun. The first order of business be- fore Justice Malcolm Swift on Friday was to join the indict- ments that set out different of- fenses against different defen- dants: Malik Wilford Mothen, 35; his wife Tashika Mothen, 29; Kash- wayne Hewitt, 20; and Daniella Tibbetts, 24. Tashika Mothen did not enter any pleas and she remained seated while the others stood for their arraignment. Mothen and Hewitt pleaded not guilty to possession of an unlicensed firearm outside the club on Feb. 4. Mothen pleaded not guilty to assault causing actual bodily harm and attempted murder in rela- tion to one of the injured men; and not guilty to causing actual bodily harm to the other injured man. Mothen and Hewitt pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and causing grievous bodily harm to the second man. Hewitt and Tibbetts pleaded not guilty to possession of an unli- censed firearm at a West Bay prem- ises on Feb. 10. Trial has been set for July 10. After the three returned to cus- tody, Mrs. Mothen remained in the dock while attorney Amelia Fosuhene made legal submissions on her behalf and Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions Patrick Moran responded. This matter was adjourned until May 18, with Mrs. Mothen re- manded in custody. Other defense attorneys were Prathna Bodden for Mothen; Crister Brady for Hewitt; and John Furniss for Tibbetts. Mr. Moran was assisted by Crown counsel Eleanor Fargin. SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) – Puerto Rico has un- veiled what officials say is the Caribbean’s largest solar plant in operation. Gov. Ricardo Rossello said the plant will produce more than 100,000 mega- watts of energy an hour in its first year, reducing carbon dioxide emissions equivalent to the con- sumption of 162,000 barrels of oil. Puerto Rico is seeking to reduce its dependence on petroleum. The $160 million Oriana Solar Plant features 183,000 photovol- taic panels and is located in the northwest coastal town of Isabela. REGION’S LARGEST SOLAR PLANT UNVEILED Farmers thanked for their hard work JEWEL LEVY jlevy@pinnaclemedialtd.com Hamlin Stephenson, a member of the Cayman Is- lands Agricultural Society and owner of Hamlin’s Farm, was named Farmer of the Year 2017 by the Agricul- tural Society at a ceremony Saturday night. At the event, George Town won first place for Dis- trict Exhibitor. Bodden Town, North Side and West Bay tied for second. More than 100 awards were presented throughout the evening. “I just dedicate myself to what I do, to the best that I can, and give God thanks for the rest of it,” Mr. Stephenson said by phone Sunday morning. He was unable to attend the ceremony because of illness, but his wife Hope and his workers collected the award on his behalf. This is not the first time Mr. Stephenson has won Farmer of the Year. He has claimed the prize a number of years running. The awards function took place at Stacey Watler Pavilion on Lottery Road, Lower Valley. The Agricultural So- ciety also named winners for the 50th annual Agri- culture Show, which took place in February. George Smith, presi- dent of the Agricultural So- ciety, thanked farmers for their hard work and contri- butions to agriculture in the Cayman Islands. Farmers and their guests enjoyed Cayman cultural dishes at the awards show, such as Cayman-style beef, rice and beans, fried plantain, “breadkind,” fish tea, cassava cake and sweets during the presentation of awards. “I just dedicate myself to what I do, to the best that I can, and give God thanks for the rest of it.” HAMLIN STEPHENSON, Farmer of the Year Hamlin Stephenson named Farmer of Year by Agricultural Society More than 100 awards were presented by the Agricultural Society at a ceremony Saturday night. - PHOTOS: JEWEL LEVY A 30-year-old West Bay man was arrested Thursday on suspicion of rape in connection with an attack police said occurred on Good Friday. According to the RCIPS, a 28-year-old woman said she was picked up by a stranger driving a truck along West Bay Road during the early morning of April 14. Police said the woman was “subsequently subjected to a serious inde- cent assault.” The suspect had not been charged as of press time and remained in custody Friday. Man arrested for suspected rape Mr. Stephenson shows off a head of cabbage picked from his farm.3 LOCAL NEWS CAYMAN COMPASS • MONDAY MAY 1, 2017 Jackeline Pandora Island Jewellers Camana Bay READ MORE OF THESE STORIES ON FACEBOOK.COM/ISLANDJEWELLERS AND VISIT OUR STORES FOR GREAT MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS IDEAS. Jackeline Pandora Island Jewellers Camana Bay READ MORE OF THESE STORIES ON FACEBOOK.COM/ISLANDJEWELLERS AND VISIT OUR STORES FOR GREAT What is the most important thing that your Mom taught you growing up? To love. That love is the most important thing. We didn’t have a lot of things growing up, but I had my Mom. What was one of the biggest sacrifices that your Mom made for you and your siblings? My Mom didn’t live for herself, she lived for us. I didn’t realize this when I was growing up. I guess I was selfish as a teenager, but now that I do realize, I am trying to give back to her. When do you miss your Mom the most? When I go to a nice restaurant, I always think about how much I want her to be with me. She never got the chance to experience something like that. When I go back home this year, I will take her to the fanciest restaurant in Brazil! Is there is anything that you would like to tell her? That I love her more than anything. She is the most important thing in my life and I would do anything for her. School, jobs hot topics at BT West forum JEWEL LEVY jlevy@pinnaclemedialtd.com Education and employment were hot topics Friday at the James Manoah Bodden Civic Center for candidates running in Bodden Town West. Three of four candidates, Gil- bert McLean (Independent), Chris Saunders (Independent) and Maxine Bodden Robinson (Progres- sives) answered questions posed by Chamber of Commerce debate moderator Roz Griffiths, with each seeing themselves making a differ- ence in issues affecting both the constituency and the country if elected in the May 2017 elections. Cayman Democratic Party candi- date Stafford Berry did not attend. Ms. Griffiths asked the candi- dates, on behalf of an audience member, whether they supported combining expats and Caymanians in government schools. All three candidates sup- ported the idea. Ms. Bodden Robinson said she would look for ways to integrate children of parents who are on work permits because it would add to the cultural breadth of Cayma- nian children. Mr. Saunders said he would like to see the integration of the entire community, and “we need to change the overall system and look at it holistically, not just from the kids but from the parents … We have an opportunity to do it through government policy,” he said. All the candidates agreed that unemployment is a major issue, not just facing Bodden Town, but the country on a whole. Mr. Saunders said Cayman needs to address cheap labor is- sues and work permits. Mr. McLean said the district needs more investment. Ms. Griffiths asked the candi- dates whether they would sup- port the establishment of a Human Resources Authority and re- move the responsibility of issuing work permits from the Immigra- tion Department. “I have always believed that we have made an awkward mistake with having Immigration dealing with matters of employment and labor,” said Mr. McLean. “Let im- migration deal with immigra- tion matters in allowing people in the country … seeing them out and taking care of Cayman bor- ders,” he said. Ms. Bodden Robinson said em- ployers should put more effort into hiring locally before filling vacan- cies with foreign labor. Mr. Sanders did not think the problem could be fixed by a new government authority. He said cheap foreign labour was causing work problems for Caymanians, and thought that poli- ticians ought to put their foot down. Mr. Sanders also expressed his desire to bring back a Caymanian protection board. Ms. Griffiths asked whether the candidates would accept a ministe- rial position if elected. Mr. McLean said he would, and his focus would be education, health and tourism. He said he had unfinished business from his former post as health minister. Ms. Bodden Robinson high- lighted the education portfolio and Mr. Saunders would accept posts in either agriculture, health or education. On health issues, Mr. Saunders called for free healthcare for chil- dren and retirees. Although CINICO was cre- ated when he was health minister, Mr. McLean said health insurance has not been functioning the way it should. He called for a single national health insurance fund for everyone. Ms. Bodden Robinson said health insurance is an issue that needs addressing. She also sug- gested the establishment of a na- tional health insurance system. In conclusion, Mr. McLean said he was ready to get back on the po- litical field and represent his dis- trict of Bodden Town West. Ms. Bodden Robinson said she was ready to hit the ground run- ning if elected. Mr. Saunders said the people gave him an education and he was willing to use it. “I can tell you what [Cayma- nians] do want is a government that they believe that is working for them, and what they do want is to feel represented, and that is my focus,” he said. Candidates Gilbert McLean, Maxine Bodden Robinson and Chris Saunders answered questions at the Chamber forum. - PHOTO: JEWEL LEVY “I have always believed that we have made an awkward mistake with having Immigration dealing with matters of employment and labor.” GILBERT MCLEAN, IndependentThe 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. The Ritch Report: The parting of the Red Bay candidates “If elected, the first thing I’m going to do is get that Ritch Report published.” – Red Bay candidate Denniston Tibbetts, Cayman Democratic Party “[I]t would not be in the public interest for ‘the advice’ to be disclosed.” – Red Bay candidate and Premier Alden McLaughlin, Progressives, December 2016 Elections are about choices. Choices are about contrast. And in this election – where candidates’ views tend to overlap on the vast majority of issues, such as the impor- tance of education and the scourge of local unemployment – here is a topic where, between two candidates, there could not be a greater contrast. Simply put: Mr. Tibbetts wants the Ritch Report to be made public; Premier McLaughlin does not. Since receiving the report early last year by law firm Ritch & Conolly on the Cayman Islands’ system of perma- nent residence, Premier Alden McLaughlin has fought tooth and nail to resist sharing the contents of the report, which cost $312,000 of taxpayer funds. Premier McLaughlin claims the report constitutes “privileged” legal advice, an assertion that Chief Justice Anthony Smellie accepted in court. Shortly thereafter, Governor Helen Kilpatrick unilater- ally blocked any appeal to a higher court of the Chief Jus- tice’s ruling. While we (obviously) have not read the report, we presume top officials have compelling (but not convincing) motivations to prevent the wider public from reading the report. Namely, we believe the Ritch Report is part-autopsy and part-playbook – containing a comprehensive critique of the shortcomings in Cayman’s current and possibly past immigration regimes, as well as a road map to how indi- viduals who have been wronged by Cayman’s government could successfully seek restitution. With local and interna- tional courts entertaining the possibility of monetary awards for immigration-related damages, the entire situation could quickly get very, very expensive for Cayman’s taxpayers. If true, the above may, to officials, seem reason enough to withhold release of the Ritch Report at all costs. Our perspective is the opposite. We think of ourselves as fiscal hawks, but of far greater importance than safeguarding the public treasury is protecting the rights of individuals – regardless of their immigration status. Any tax-funded report that points out flaws in our laws or governmental procedures should be produced as an illuminating beacon for Cayman’s public, not hoarded as a secret by Cayman’s government. As Mr. Tibbetts’ comment illustrates, even if the Ritch Report does indeed contain legally privileged advice and so is exempt from disclosure under open records legislation, that does not in any way prevent Premier McLaughlin and his government from voluntarily relinquishing that privilege, and publishing the report. That is, if they wanted to … but they don’t. Expanding upon the relatively narrow topic of the Ritch Report, apart from the personalities of their respective leaders – on the one hand, McKeeva Bush of the Cayman Democratic Party, and on the other Premier McLaughlin (and before him, Kurt Tibbetts) of the Progressives – the singular issue that has differentiated Cayman’s two major parties is their approach to immigration. Speaking generally, when the Progressives are in power, rules around immigration (particularly people gaining Cay- manian status or permanent residence) tend to be tight- ened, and when the CDP is in power, those rules are relaxed (sometimes under legal duress). The past four years have borne out that pattern, as no applicants have been awarded PR under the system implemented by the Progressives in October 2013, which has generated a backlog of about 1,000 applicants whose status is in legal limbo. During last week’s Red Bay candidate forum, Premier McLaughlin acknowledged the problems with the immigra- tion situation created by his government. He promised that pursuing a remedy would be a top priority if the Progres- sives were returned to power, and also pledged (as he did four years ago) that the Progressives would create a new authority to divorce the processing of work permits from the Immigration Department. We agree with Premier McLaughlin that Cayman’s broken PR system is in a grievous condition requiring immediate redress. We also see the merit in separating work permits (which is really an economic or employment function) from the immigration process (which is a law enforcement or security function). That being said … promises, promises. To quote Denniston Tibbetts, “It’s four years on now and it’s not been done.” MONDAY MAY 1, 2017 • CAYMAN COMPASS Koch: America isn’t a land just for the rich (like me) CHARLES KOCH Special To The Washington Post Like Alexis de Tocqueville nearly 200 years ago, I be- lieve American society thrives when people act out of an enlightened regard for themselves that constantly prompts them to assist each other. I remain optimistic that our nation can unify around policies that promote a system of mutual benefit for people from all walks of life. As President Donald Trump nears 100 days in of- fice, we are moving closer to that ideal in some respects, but not in others. But no pres- ident can – or should – be ex- pected to solve every problem alone. To be successful, leaders in any field must listen to everyone, even those with whom they disagree. On the plus side, the pres- ident has taken a thoughtful approach to regulatory re- form. He has appointed a strong team capable of acting on the best ideas to remove unnecessary regulations that undermine innovation, com- petition and opportunities for those who need them most. I also applaud the president’s selection of Neil Gorsuch for the Supreme Court. With a ca- reer of prioritizing the Consti- tution over political games- manship, the new justice will be a critical voice of properly applied constitutional law. At the same time, I view some actions of this admin- istration as counterproduc- tive. These include broad travel bans, discouraging free trade and a tendency toward rhetoric that too easily di- vides Americans instead of uniting them. But rather than spending too much time looking back – even if only for 100 days – we need to look forward. The president and lawmakers have an excellent opportunity to take bold steps here and now to reverse the United States’ trajectory toward a two-tiered system: one that benefits the wealthy and well-connected (including big businesses such as Koch In- dustries) at the expense of everyone else. In addressing the United States’ challenges, I en- courage the president to evaluate every policy on its potential to help people im- prove their lives. No piece of legislation will ever be per- fect, and allowing the perfect to be the enemy of the good only further accentuates our country’s divisions. Good policy moves us closer to this ideal, even if by small steps. With this principle in mind, here are a few policy changes I believe are vital – and genuinely achievable, by this president, at this mo- ment – to improving well- being and opportunity for all Americans: Comprehensive tax reform is long overdue. Americans deserve much, much better. The president’s newly offered plan to reduce rates and sim- plify the code is a step in the right direction. I am also en- couraged by the absence of Congress’ proposed border adjustment tax (or any tax) that would increase the profits of industrial compa- nies such as Koch by raising the price on goods that Amer- icans rely on every day. This administration should instead make room for tax cuts by encouraging Congress to rein in wasteful spending and reduce corporate wel- fare provisions that benefit big business at the expense of families. A tax code that cham- pions Main Street is vital for economic growth and innova- tion. On these issues, the presi- dent is well-positioned to lead. The healthcare debate has been a mess, but I’m hopeful the president can get it on track. Let’s start by laying the foundation for innovation; this will reduce costs and im- prove quality for everyone. This can’t happen without new legislation, but there are actions the administration can take in the meantime, such as reforming the Food and Drug Administration and granting discretion to states to innovate within the con- structs of Obamacare and Medicaid. While not per- fect, such actions can move us closer to a system where all individuals can choose the affordable care that is best for them. As a candidate, the pres- ident spoke passionately about the need to reduce crime rates and improve safety, particularly in urban areas. I agree. When crim- inal sentences are just and fit the offense, and when those who have committed nonvi- olent crimes learn from their mistakes and get a second chance, we all benefit. In- stead, what we have today is an epidemic of over-in- carceration that breeds dis- trust and increases violence between the police and the communities they serve. The president can break this cycle by working with lawmakers who stand ready to reform our criminal-justice system. I do not see eye to eye with the president (or anyone) on all issues; however, as with all administrations, I stand ready to help him do right, wherever I can. I believe Trump has a tre- mendous opportunity to pave the way – in the next 100 days and beyond – for long- term economic success and greater prosperity for all. I wish him the best and look forward to collaborating with him and anyone – regardless of political party or ideology – who is passionate about advancing a free, open and flourishing society. Koch is chairman and chief executive of Koch Industries. 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”5 LOCAL NEWS CAYMAN COMPASS • MONDAY MAY 1, 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 Independents blast ‘career politicians’ KAYLA YOUNG kyoung@pinnaclemedialtd.com Three of five candidates running for election in George Town South debated healthcare, traffic conges- tion and a cruise berthing facility, at the South Sound Civic Center on Thursday evening. Organizers of the Chamber of Commerce candidate forum invited all five of the constituency’s candi- dates. Progressives candidate Bar- bara Conolly and Cayman Dem- ocratic Party candidate Michael Adam declined the invitation. In their absence, independents Alric Lindsay, Paul Hurlston and Catherine Tyson made the case for voters to ditch the party system in the May 24 elections. Mr. Lindsay voiced a need for greater transparency and openness to hold government accountable. “Over the years, we’ve noticed the Cayman Islands have developed an environment for career politi- cians. Becoming career politicians, they have failed to focus on our is- sues,” he said. Both Mr. Hurlston and Ms. Tyson echoed dissatisfaction with recent governments and the attention paid to George Town South. All three candidates criticized extensive delays in completing construction of the new John Gray High School. Mr. Hurlston called for govern- ment to take education more seri- ously and to set a higher standard. “There are $54 million sitting at John Gray for the last 10 years in an incomplete school. Obviously we’re not too serious about education if this is happening,” he said. Regarding community revital- ization, he proposed turning Smith Barcadere into a proper park and moving to secure greater beach ac- cess in general for the public. Mr. Lindsay identified rising crime as one of the greatest issues facing the area. He called for the creation of world-class rehabilita- tion facilities to address the root causes of crime. “We find that crime is normally committed by re-offenders, so this suggests there is an issue in the system with rehabilitation and mental health services,” he said. The debate took a positive tone on LGBTQ rights. Ms. Tyson said the topic is a human rights issue in which all people must be respected. “I think when we beat the human rights drum so loud, we cannot forget that means everyone is a human being,” she said. Mr. Hurlston added that people should have the right to live how they choose. “I believe everybody has a right to determine who they want to be with and what they want to do,” he said. On the topic of elder care, the candidates agreed that govern- ment should take a greater role in protecting access to health ser- vices. Ms. Tyson said government should accept greater responsi- bility for protecting vulnerable pop- ulations, including senior citizens and children. Mr. Lindsay proposed that Cayman companies offer more em- ployment opportunities to the el- derly to provide them greater eco- nomic support. Regarding construction of a cruise berthing facility, Mr. Hurlston pointed out that the project has been attempted many times to no avail. He said planners should con- sider why the facility has not suc- ceeded, including environmental and funding issues. “We need to brush off the na- tional tourism plan and perhaps up- date it to determine where we want to go,” he said. Given the high cost of building such a facility, Ms. Tyson said the public should be provided greater information to avoid surprises down the road. The candidates proposed sev- eral ideas to reduce traffic conges- tion and improve pedestrian safety in South Sound. Mr. Hurlston highlighted the se- rious safety issues currently faced by cyclists and joggers who live in South Sound. He proposed better lighting as a possible remedy. Ms. Tyson pointed to the need for sidewalks to keep pedestrians off the road. To decrease street con- gestion, she suggested government set up offices in Bodden Town and East End, to ease the traffic flow to George Town. Mr. Lindsay said sidewalks would not be feasible, given space limitations. He proposed instead to increase police presence in South Sound to protect pedestrians from bad drivers. Independent candidates Alric Lindsay, Paul Hurlston and Catherine Tyson debate in the George Town South forum. – PHOTO: KAYLA YOUNG Progressives candidate Barbara Conolly and Cayman Democratic Party candidate Michael Adam declined the invitation.The islands’ most-trusted news source 6 MONDAY MAY 1, 2017 • CAYMAN COMPASS than 1,500 unemployed Caymanians in total on the islands. Unemployment overall is ex- pected to decrease from 4.2 percent this year to 3.6 percent in 2018. That decrease is projected to occur at the same time that un- employment among non-Cayma- nian permanent residents rises significantly. The same government es- timates that show Caymanian unemployment dropping from 7.1 percent to 4.9 percent, forecast that non-Caymanian permanent resi- dents’ unemployment would rise from 3.8 percent in 2016 to 6.9 percent this year and stay at 6.7 percent in 2018. No reason was given in the re- port for the sudden rise in unem- ployment among non-Caymanian permanent residents. Non-Caymanian work permit holders’ unemployment levels hovered around 1 percent for the entire period. Typically, non-Cayma- nian work permit holders have low levels of unemployment because they are not allowed to remain in Cayman without a job. Upward trend Although the government pro- jections show overall unemploy- ment trending down in 2017/18, the most recent actual jobless figures for 2015/16 have shown an increase. The number of unemployed Cay- manians grew by 197 people be- tween October 2015 and October 2016, according to the fall 2016 Labor Force Survey. The Caymanian unemployment rate went from 6.2 percent in October 2015 to 7.1 per- cent in October 2016. More than 1,400 Caymanians were unemployed and looking for work as of last fall, based on estimates from the Eco- nomics and Statistics Office. The potential for an increase in unemployment numbers was fore- cast by Finance Minister Marco Ar- cher nearly two years ago. “The age of pension entitlement was increased to age 65 in May 2016 and this could have inspired persons 60 and older to re-enter the labor force,” Mr. Archer said. “A min- imum wage was also established in March 2016, which could also have encouraged greater efforts towards getting a job by persons across all age groups.” Government: Pension changes to improve local employment Students’ science projects impress judges JEWEL LEVY jlevy@pinnaclemedialtd.com Cleaning oil spills with magnets and “optimal bottle flips” were just two of the sci- ence projects on display at Ro- tary’s Dr. Bill Hrudey Science Fair Saturday. Over 70 stalls were manned by young scientists at the Arts and Recreational Center at Ca- mana Bay, wowing judges and spectators with their science skills. More than 120 students from 11 schools participated. Students competed for prizes in four categories – life science including microbiology, botany or zoology; earth science, including environment, weather astronomy and ecology; physics, chemistry and computer sci- ence; and food and health. “Our science fair, started in 2006 by past Rotarian Dr. Bill Hrudey, is a signature project of Rotary Central Cayman Is- lands, and one of the most re- warding. We work diligently to provide a first-class experience for the students, and continu- ally the students respond with outstanding projects – both in quality of the presentations and their diligent data collection and analysis. We are grateful to all our participants, spon- sors, and Rotarians for their contributions,” said William Inniss, Rotary Central’s 2nd vice president. Admiring the inquisitive- ness of young participant Nicolas Isabel, Dr. Gerado Ochoa-Vargas stated that he was impressed by what the stu- dents had achieved. “Many of them were great, such as the one of Thomas James Sevik Jr. from Cayman Brac. He won the most innova- tive project, on oil spills,” said Dr. Ochoa-Vargas. Judge Steve Durksen was also impressed by the projects. He said every year the projects become more complex, innova- tive and creative. Students competed for cash prizes that will assist them in their future college studies. The Rotary Science Fair is an annual event which fosters students’ interest in the scien- tific method of problem solving and building a sense of accom- plishment and discovery. Dart’s Minds Inspired participants.Science Fair judges Dr. Gerado Ochoa-Vargas, Stephen Ta’Bois and Steve Durksen observe student projects. Thomas James Sevik Jr. stands in front of his prize-winning project.Thomas James Sevik Jr. receives his award for most innovative project, on oil spills. – PHOTOS: JEWEL LEVY ROTARY SCIENCE FAIR AWARDS NAMESAGE SCHOOLPROJECT NAME/ DESCRIPTION Earth science: Environment, weather, astronomy and ecology 1stJustin Spencer 9HomeschoolEarthquake Resistant Buildings 2ndCharlie Charlton-Jones 9 Cayman Prep and High School Ocean Acidification 3rdGeorgina Healey 13Grace Christian AcademyHumidity for Health Food and health 1stAnna Taylor-Payne 12 Cayman International SchoolThe Most Popular Cat Food Brand Chosen By Cats 2ndSamruddhi Tagalpallewar 14 St. Ignatius Catholic SchoolDiabetic Diseases 3rd Scarlett Nadeau, Amelia Thomas and Anna Owen 10 Cayman Prep and High SchoolHow Effective are Different Sunscreens? 3rdEzrie Tibbetts 12Triple C SchoolHow Music Can Affect You! Life science, including microbiology, botany or zoology 1st Pippa-Grace Parker, Emily McIntyre and Diandra Whittaker 13 St. Ignatius Catholic SchoolStudy on possible anti-fungal applications 2ndAndini Sumardi 14Triple C SchoolHow Does Acid Rain Affect Plant Growth? 3rd Charles Henderson and Ethan Lavis 11 St. Ignatius Catholic School Studying mass to volume absorbtion ratio of pencil shavings Physics, chemistry and computer science 1stOisin McGeough 14 St. Ignatius Catholic School The Effect of Distancing Sand Piles on the Deceleration of a Cart 2nd Michael Marzouca and Harrisen Richards 11 St. Ignatius Catholic School Vilros Temperature Sensor for Device Temperature Reading 3rdJacob van Duynhoven 14Grace Christian AcademyElectromagnets: Comparison of Electromagnets Special prizes 8 and Under Enzo Subiotto8Cayman Prep and High SchoolHow is the sound of the Sound? Age 9 Caleb Suckoo, Samuel Nyyssonen and Ethan Anderson 9 First Baptist Christian School Which soil is best for plant growth? Cayman Enterprise City’s most innovative Thomas James Sevik Jr. 13 Layman E. Scott High School (Cayman Brac) Free The Ocean of Oil Spills CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1District Days George Town DISTRICT DAYS 7 CAYMAN COMPASS • MONDAY MAY 1, 2017 50 years ago: Final Pacific Western flight takes off In the May 3, 1967 edi- tion of the Caymanian Weekly, a precursor of the Cayman Compass, news from George Town included: “The Pacific Western plane made her final call for the season last weekend. “She flew back to Van- couver with the last batch of tourists who had been staying at the Galleon Beach Hotel on Saturday. “This brings to an end another series of package deals arranged by the air- line in conjunction with Grand Cayman Hotels Ltd. “It has been good to have Canadian friends – many of whom visited us before – making return visits, in- cluding Bob Hutton – Top Dog – the morning man on Radio CKNW in Van- couver who interviewed the Caymanian editors for his programme, and also to make new friends from the cold north … “The medical staff in the island has been enhanced this week with the arrival of Dr. Philip T. Smith, M.A. M.B. B. Chir. who comes from Bristol, England. He was trained at Cambridge University and at the Uni- versity College Hospital in London and has been in the West Indies previously, having served one year in Montserrat. “Dr. Smith, who took up duties soon after arrival, is working with Dr. Husband. “Mrs. Smith, David aged 11 years and Simon 9 years, are due to arrive at the end of May. “We welcome Dr. Smith and trust that his term of office here will be a pleasant one … “Farewell to Jock – one of the friendliest and jolliest expatriates ever to come to work in the Cayman Islands [who departed] for Britain last Thursday morning. “Mr. A.J. Grahame (Jock) came to Grand Cayman 15 months ago as Inspector of Works, working with Mr. S.G. Cook, resident engi- neer, for Scott and Wilson, Kirkpatrick and Partners, the consultants engaged in connection with the recon- struction of the Owen Rob- erts airfield. “Within a few days ‘Jock’ had made many friends and endeared himself to the people of Cayman who ap- preciated his keen Scottish brand of humour and his jo- vial personality. “He was born in Edin- burgh but when he left he was headed for London and did not know where his next assignment would be. “His farewell message was typical of him: ‘I have thoroughly enjoyed my stay here. The Caymanian people are now very dear friends of mine. I would like to say that I do not feel that I could go away without saying thank you to all the MLAs, government officials and to the people of the Cayman Islands for the wonderful way they took ‘our Jock’ into their hearts. It is with sadness that I now leave and would just say, in good Scots, Haste me back.’ “Mr. Stewart Cook, at present working … on our airport reconstruction has accepted the post of Di- rector of Public Works for the Cayman Islands. “Mr. Cook will not be able to take up this ap- pointment until after the completion of the airport project and a short period of leave in Britain. “He is expected to take over from Mr. Es- terley Tibbetts, who will become Deputy Director, later this year. “In view of the rapid de- velopment of the islands, the need of a qualified Civil Engineer in charge of our Public Works Depart- ment has long been ac- knowledged. Mr. Cook and his wife have made many friends here and it will be good to have them back after their holiday.” Preschool garden marks first anniversary A George Town preschool is marking one year of growing healthy food options in its school vegetable garden. CITCO, a local fund adminis- trator, bank and corporate and trust manager established the garden at the NCVO’s Miss Nadine’s Pre- School in 2016 in honor of Earth Day, with the intention of intro- ducing the young students to sus- tainable living and healthy food op- tions, a press release states. A year later, produce from the garden has been used in school’s kitchen and the company is currently working on expanding the garden with the installation of an irrigation system and new grow boxes. “To date, the garden has produced tomatoes, basil, thyme, blueberries, scallions, sweet pep- pers, okra, lettuce, and mint for use by the school,” the release states, noting school volunteers and staff also try to incorporate the garden into student activities such as reading, making tea, taste testing, and play. “By encouraging children to grow produce we hope to ‘sow the seed’ in their minds about the many benefits of gardening, which can be- come the foundation of a healthy, sustainable lifestyle,” said regular volunteer Julie Belton. “Give a man a fish, you feed him for a day, teach a man to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.” Ms. Belton also commented that growing produce free of arti- ficial fertilizers and pesticides can not only help save money, it also helps prevent many illnesses asso- ciated with poor diet and a depleted food system devoid of nutrition and laden with toxic chemicals. CITCO recently launched a global sustainable health initiative which seeks to encourage healthy living for employees and increased community involvement, a goal which is complimented by local projects such as these. “CITCO’s community service committee is intended to sup- port local initiatives that assist the youth, elderly, and vulnerable within our community,” said volun- teer Gabriella Hernandez. “It is also important that staff from the company and the school are personally engaged and visits to the garden and the students are ongoing. It is a project that requires time and care to ensure viability and long term success. The progress to date has been due to the involve- ment of the school and company staff and community partners for which we are very grateful.” The release states the company hopes that the garden will increase productivity to ensure the preschool has access to healthy, clean produce for use by students and staff, which could reduce overall food costs for the charity run organization. CITCO also hopes to build on this project and partner with other organizations to expand the pro- gram to other schools. “By encouraging children to grow produce we hope to ‘sow the seed’ in their minds about the many benefits of gardening.” JULIE BELTON, volunteer Local farmer Andre ‘Charlito’ Gooden shows students how to plant produce.Students work together to water their produce.The islands’ most-trusted news source 8 MONDAY MAY 1, 2017 • CAYMAN COMPASS Mr. Manderson said in a press release. “It’s easy to criticise, but much more pro- ductive to come together and help make a change. The YMCA is doing a fantastic job with our young people and I am very pleased to support them in their work.” The 1,800 partici- pants helped raise money for this year’s chosen charity, the YMCA of the Cayman Islands. With the focus on youth, cash raised by the DG’s 5K Challenge will used by the YMCA to build a ropes chal- lenge course, which provides an alternative to classroom- style learning. “We are overwhelmed by the support of every- body who has taken part in this event to help us build the course,” said YMCA Chairman Andrew Johnson in the release. “The facility will benefit all the young people of the Cayman Is- lands, as well as the wider community. We are ex- tremely grateful to Mr. Man- derson and the DG’s 5K Challenge team, as well as all who participated.” The overall fastest male runner was defending champion Dominic Dyer, who completed the course in a time of 17:18, beating his time last year by two seconds. The overall fastest female runner was Tiffany Cole in a time of 19:51. The fastest civil servant runners were Sophia Wil- liams and Marco Miranda. The inaugural event in 2014 raised $12,500 for Cayman HospiceCare and the 2015 walk/run raised $50,000 for Special Olympics Cayman Islands to help send athletes to the Special Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Last year, $60,000 was raised for the Cayman Heart fund to buy a new ambulance that was gifted to the people of the Cayman Islands. Money is raised from cor- porate sponsorship and par- ticipants’ registration fees. “This year’s Challenge, both in Cayman Brac last weekend and in Grand Cayman this weekend, has shown what we can achieve when we all come together as one,” said Mr. Manderson. “Thank you to everyone who sponsored the event, helped organise it, and to everyone who has come out to take part. I am already looking forward to next year.” Group trophy winners, along with the final fun- draising total, will be an- nounced at a later date. A sea of blue at Deputy Governor’s 5K post-retirement healthcare costs for the last govern- ment budget year. “The post-retirement med- ical expense total[ed] $141 mil- lion for the year ended June 30, 2016,” the report stated. Certain changes to lessen the blow of healthcare costs over the next 20 years have already been made by the government, including in- creasing the retirement age for civil servants to 65. Another major change, expected to be put in place this year and to take effect in early 2018, is a require- ment that civil servants con- tribute a portion of their sal- aries to monthly healthcare premiums. Mr. Archer said in late 2016 that the move was “unavoidable” – regard- less of which political group might win the May 24 gen- eral election. However, the Cayman Is- lands Civil Service Associa- tion has noted that its mem- bership has not agreed to any such co-payment without choice in healthcare pro- viders being offered to plan participants. Neither retired civil ser- vants nor active govern- ment workers are required to make co-payments; their monthly premiums are paid by government. Both civil service plans under the Cayman Islands National Insurance Company have a $5 million maximum “lifetime limit” for healthcare coverage. There are no limits on prescription drug pur- chases or inpatient or outpa- tient care. Overseas accom- modations and airfare for covered government workers or retirees who must fly off island for treatment are cov- ered 100 percent. The Cayman Islands gov- ernment is obligated to pro- vide civil service retirees, vet- erans and seamen a certain level of healthcare benefits during their later years when they are no longer working. The liability figure repre- sents what government is expected to pay over a spec- ified period for these health- care services, which include, to some extent, payments to current civil servants whose retirement is expected during the period. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Cayman’s healthcare liability grows $500 million in two years CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Deputy Governor Manderson makes quick work of the course.Among the starters are some familiar faces in government. A group of walkers head into the sunrise, shortly after the race start. – PHOTOS: TANEOS RAMSAY Runners at the start line wait for the gun.9 LOCAL NEWS CAYMAN COMPASS • MONDAY MAY 1, 2017 william.forsythe@caymancaptive.ky Applications should be submitted by pdf only, no later than 19th of May 2017 to: The above Foundation is currently offering a scholarship for a maximum of four years to a Caymanian High School graduate. Preference will be given to those candidates who intend to pursue a career in the nancial services industry upon graduation from university. However applications from all disciplines will be accepted. Candidates should be prepared to begin their university degree programme in the 2017 school year. The choice of university must be approved by the Foundation. Applicants should possess a minimum of ve good passes at CXC or ICGSE or equivalent. Evidence of educational achievements and, if possible university acceptance should accompany the application. In addition, a brief biography and a narrative as to the reason for the choice of University/Course should be included. Additional details and an application form can be obtained at www.caymancaptive.ky “A scholarship from IMAC has been a tremendous opportunity of which I will always be grateful for. It has enabled me to pursue a degree at a top university to compete against some of the most intelligent students in the UK. Similarly, becoming a doctor means so much to me and this journey would have been a nancial burden without the generosity of the IMAC scholarship. Through IMAC I have embarked on a path where I can offer so much more to the people of the Cayman Islands than I would if I had not had this opportunity. Name: Whitney General Degree: Medicine (MB ChB) and BSc in Health Sciences at the University of Bristol S C H O L A R S H I P CURRENT RECIPIENT Whitney GENERAL INSURANCE MANAGERS ASSOCIATION OF CAYMAN EDUCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION CURRENT RECIPIENTCURRENT RECIPIENT Lions Eye Clinic gets new equipment JEWEL LEVY jlevy@pinnaclemedialtd.com The Lions Eye Clinic has been given new equipment to carry out speedier eye tests. The donated equipment, which the clinic received on Friday, is a combination of several instruments in one, which takes measurements of a patient’s eye, pressure, corneal curvature and cor- neal thickness. Eye examiners can get four measurements from this one machine, explained Diane Benson, a certi- fied ophthalmic technician at the clinic. One instrument mea- sures eyeglasses, she said. “We put the lens into the machine and it tells us what lens strength … is in your eyeglasses.” The new equipment re- places an old auto-refractor, which Ms. Benson likened to having a Ford and replacing it with a Rolls-Royce. “The old auto-refractor only gave us two measurements, but it did its job until it died and had to be discarded.” She also said the equip- ment is necessary to increase efficiency in diagnosing eye conditions. The Lions Club of Grand Cayman, along with the HSBC Charitable Founda- tion, donated the US$28,000 worth of equipment to the clinic. Lion Tannya Mortimer thanked HSBC for partnering with Lions to purchase the equipment. Lizzette Yearwood, CEO of the Health Services Au- thority, is grateful for Lions’ continued support over the years. She said they not only helped to upgrade the equip- ment at the eye clinic, but also helped with the upkeep of the building. Ms. Benson thanked the Lions for their continued support of the eye clinic. This month Lions cele- brate their Legacy project, White Cane Week, which fo- cuses on sight conservation, and 100 years in Lionism. White Cane Week, ob- served by Lions Clubs worldwide, calls attention to the use of the white cane by the visually impaired, and raises money to sup- port services for the visu- ally impaired. The new equipment replaces an old auto- refractor, which Ms. Benson likened to having a Ford and replacing it with a Rolls-Royce. Diane Benson of the Lions Eye Clinic demonstrates an auto kerato-refractor with Carson Lewis-Ramoon, observed by Lions and hospital staff. – PHOTO: JEWEL LEVY JEWEL LEVY jlevy@pinnaclemedialtd.com At a press event last week for the Health City Cayman Big Game 8 match be- tween Cayman and Mexico, coaches Garry Southway and Jovan Bowles introduced the Cayman side. The match will take place June 17 at the Truman Bodden sports complex. It is part of the Rugby Americas North Caribbean Champion- ships, in which the Cayman team plays one international match at home. The event has been taking place for the last six years and draws an audience of about 2,000 people, or- ganizers said. The press launch was held at the title spon- sor’s facility, Health City Cayman Islands. Players Edward Westin and Abdull Patterson were in attendance, along with Health City CEO and Medical Director Dr. Chandy Abraham. Dr. Alwin Almeida, senior orthopedic surgeon, said, “I know that both our ortho- pedic surgeons, Dr. Alwin and Dr. Niranjan, have actu- ally treated many sports in- juries which have come out of sports here in Cayman, but also a big part of it is ac- tually injury prevention, and we have a physiotherapy de- partment and we open that up to anyone who wants to come and learn and has spe- cific enquiries on ways to prevent injuries.” Coach Bowles intro- duced the Cayman Na- tional men’s side and said that Cayman will also play USA South on May 14 in At- lanta and will play in Ber- muda on June 3, ending the round-robin season against Mexico in June. Cayman National Rugby team coach Garry Southway, third from left, shakes hands with Health City CEO and Medical Director Dr. Chandy Abraham after signing on as sponsors. Coach Jovan Bowles and player Edward Westin, left with Abdull Patterson on the right. - PHOTO: JEWEL LEVY CAYMAN TO FACE MEXICO FOR BIG GAME 8 RUGBY MATCHNext >