Office Of The Premier, Cayman Islands

24/07/2026

Acting Premier and Minister for Tourism and Trade Development Honourable Gary Rutty has expressed condolences to the government and people of Guyana following the recent capsizing of the MV Barima, which was carrying 116 passengers and a 17-member crew:

“The Cayman Islands joins the people of Guyana in mourning the tragic loss of life following the capsizing of the M.V Barima on Saturday 18 July.

We extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones, our hope to those still awaiting news of relatives, and our prayers to all impacted by this heartbreaking tragedy.

We stand with Guyana and pray that all those affected during this difficult time find strength and comfort in the days ahead.”

21/07/2026

A breakthrough that was nearly 20 years in the making.

Subject to public consultation, Cabinet has approved a plan to protect Cayman’s ancient Ironwood Forest – home to certain species not found anywhere else in the world – while also taking steps to commence the Linford Pierson Highway extension, to help ease traffic pressure and to make your commutes easier.

This initiative represents a key step in moving Cayman forward, directly supporting the Government’s Broad Outcomes to deliver responsible infrastructure, protect the natural environment, and preserve Caymanian heritage. Reaching this point is the direct result of transparency and institutional integrity. Credit is extended across all participating Ministries, agencies, UCCI, civil servants, and community stakeholders for their valuable contributions.

By leaning in together, we are making our beloved Cayman Islands stronger and fairer for today, and for tomorrow.

16/07/2026

Premier Hon. André Ebanks paid his respects by signing the condolence book during the Lying-in-State of the late Honourable Francine E. Jackson at the House of Parliament. Until her passing, Mrs Jackson was the Cayman Islands' last living National Hero.

"Miss Francine's extraordinary contribution to the Cayman Islands and lifelong commitment to community will never be forgotten," the Premier said. "The Government and people of the Cayman Islands extend their deepest condolences to her family and loved ones during this difficult time."

During each location’s posted hours through end of day on Monday, 20 July, the public is invited to sign condolence books at the Government Administration Building and the House of Parliament in Grand Cayman; and the District Administration Building in Cayman Brac.

Members of the public may also sign the virtual condolence book available on the Bodden Funeral Home website. To learn more, visit gov.ky/mrsfrancine

13/07/2026

The Cayman Forward initiative has identified key areas of reform across legislation, regulation, policy and procedure in planning and environmental management.

Recommendations will be implemented in four sequenced timeframes — spanning five reform categories: Strategy, Legislative, Regulatory, Policy, and Procedural.

The first step is the establishment of the Strategic Taskforce for Action, Reform and Transformation (START), led by the Office of the Premier, which will coordinate and oversee the delivery of every recommendation in the report.

Visit gov.ky/caymanforward to learn more and read the full report.

11/07/2026

Over the past three months, government, private-sector and civil society representatives took part in a structured dialogue process, guided by independent policy consultants. It included stakeholder consultation and a full-day summit, producing a report with nine key findings, thirteen recommendations, and a phased implementation.

The status quo is not working for anyone. Not for those who want to build and not for those who want to protect.

Cayman Forward has given us a clear roadmap for a shared decision framework based on evidence, mutual respect and collaboration.

Visit gov.ky/caymanforward to read the report and learn more.

08/07/2026

🇰🇾 A new chapter begins for the Cayman Islands Civil Service.

Today, during a special ceremony in Cabinet, Hon. Gloria McField-Nixon formally took her oath of office and was sworn in as Deputy Governor and Head of the Cayman Islands Civil Service.

Bringing with her decades of experience, dedication and leadership in public service, Deputy Governor McField-Nixon steps into this historic role with a commitment to building on the strong foundation of service and excellence established before her.

As the first woman to hold this office, her appointment represents not only a personal milestone, but an inspiration for future generations of women leaders across the Cayman Islands.

Congratulations, Deputy Governor McField-Nixon, as you continue the proud legacy of leadership and public service.

🔗 Read Full Press Release : https://gov.ky/w/deputy-governor-gloria-mcfield-nixon-officially-assumes-office

05/07/2026

In this official statement, the Premier Hon. André Ebanks reflects on the extraordinary life and passing of National Hero, Honourable Francine Jackson, who passed peacefully on Sunday, 5 July 2026 at the age of 97.

Today our country is in mourning. Our dearly cherished National Hero, Honourable Mrs. Francine Jackson has passed. A member of the Phenomenal Four, she helped change the political and cultural landscape of the Cayman Islands and advance political equality for women. Her life and legacy have touched countless families, strengthened our communities, and will endure for generations to come.

May she rest in eternal peace. God bless.

Watch the statement: In this official statement, the Premier Hon. André Ebanks reflects on the extraordinary life and passing of National Hero, Honourable Francine Jackson, who passed peacefully on Sunday, 5 July 2026 at the age of 97.

Today our country is in mourning. Our dearly cherished National Hero, Honourable Mrs. Francine Jackson has passed. A member of the Phenomenal Four, she helped change the political and cultural landscape of the Cayman Islands and advance political equality for women. Her life and legacy have touched countless families, strengthened our communities, and will endure for generations to come.

May she rest in eternal peace. God bless.

Watch the statement:

In this official statement, the Premier Hon. André Ebanks reflects ...

02/07/2026

Do you remember your favourite teacher? The one who believed in you, corrected you with care, and helped shape your character?

That’s the lasting difference teachers make – and thankfully, teachers are not found only in classrooms.

On Tuesday, the Sir John A. Cumber School family surprised their Principal, Mrs Jovanna Wright, celebrating her well-deserved recognition as Government’s Civil Servant of the Year 2025. Through leadership rooted in skills, experience and warmth, she’s making a difference in the hearts and minds of her students. And as our children blossom, our Islands are blessed.

On Wednesday, Credit Union staff matched energies with a bright, enthusiastic group of young people, offering them a life skill that too many of us never fully learn: financial literacy. Understanding how to make – and importantly, keep – money is how we all can achieve financial freedom. The need for this understanding is real; stats show that financial literacy remains woefully low among Caribbean peoples.

To Mrs Wright, the Credit Union team, and all teachers across our Islands: your work matters deeply, and you have our heartfelt thanks and support. For an educated, responsible and resilient Cayman, may God bless our Islands!

01/07/2026

Finance Committee concluded on Tuesday, 30 June with the approval of additional funding to bolster education, cost-of-living support, infrastructure, essential services, public safety, environmental conservation, agriculture, promotion of our heritage and culture, as well as other key national priorities.

These investments are made possible by the Cayman Islands' continued strong financial position. With forecast operating revenues of $1.288 billion, an expected 2026 operating surplus of $10.5 million, and continued compliance with all six Principles of Responsible Financial Management, Government remains well positioned to invest responsibly with the approved $134.3 million for a stronger, fairer Cayman.

In this update, Premier Hon. André Ebanks explains how stronger-than-projected revenues are enabling Government to expand affordability measures for Caymanian families, strengthen essential services, protect our natural environment, support economic diversification, and advance initiatives that ensure more people share in the country's economic success—today and for generations to come.

29/06/2026

What a joy to celebrate the people, spirit and stories that make us Caymanian! 🇰🇾

On Saturday our Cayman Islands Seafarers gave to our community – yet again! – by hosting the Anchors Away Fun Day, commemorating the international Day of the Seafarer. Dominoes, dancing, games, face painting and good food brought together generations of our people on a beautifully sunny day.

(And ICYMI): the celebration of our seafarers who helped build these Islands began earlier in the week, including with our country’s recognition of Mr Denniston Tibbetts, OCI, a proud Caymanian who has worked faithfully to preserve our country’s history.

On Friday we celebrated two institutions – 50 years of Radio Cayman, and the man who pursued the vision to start the station: Mr Loxley Banks. Before the doors were opened for the community to tour the newly refurbished building, the new name for the building was unveiled: the Loxley Banks Broadcasting Centre.

Celebrations like these remind us that our Caymanian identity, culture and heritage has deep, unshakeable roots – it is the cooling shade for our people. Thank you to everyone who helped bring these events to life – including to Minister Rolston Anglin, for suggesting the Radio Cayman name change as part of this meaningful celebration. God bless the Cayman Islands!