11 Dec Parliament Wrap Up

Cayman Islands Parliament convened on Thursday, 11 December for the Sixth Sitting of the Third Meeting of the 2025-2026 Session. During the Sitting, thirteen Papers and Reports were tabled and the debate on the Immigration (Transition) (Amendment & Validation) Bill, 2025 continued.  

Several members of parliament contributed to the debate on the Bill. They included Government members: Minister for Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage and Social Development and Innovation Honourable Isaac Rankine; Minister for Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing and Infrastructure, Honourable Jay Ebanks, Minister for Health, Environment and Sustainability Honourable Katherine Ebanks-Wilks and Minister for Education and Training and Finance and Economic Development, Honourable Rolston Anglin.  

In his contribution, Minister Rankine said the economy functions as a combination of Caymanians and expatriates. He emphasised that those who come to the Cayman Islands must learn about the history, values and traditions and support arts and cultural traditions. Minister Rankine further stated that the new national electronic identification will support a modern immigration system by streamlining processes and creating a data framework that protects and supports Caymanians.  

Minister Ebanks also expressed his support for the Bill, noting it is about protecting Caymanians and will allow the Cayman Islands to grow responsibly and sustainably. He highlighted that when the country grows without guardrails, Caymanians feel it first in housing, traffic, education and cost of living.

Adding to the debate, Minister Ebanks-Wilks said the Bill is data-driven, solutions-oriented and long overdue. She explained that the country needs time to prepare for expanded population growth, noting that the Bill is not just about protecting Caymanians, it is also about stopping the exploitation of vulnerable workers. The Minister added that the Bill is about preparing Caymanians for the future by making sure the workforce is not just ready to work but also ready to lead, innovate and thrive.  

The Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Kenneth Bryan, emphasised the need for stronger incentives to encourage the business community to prioritise Caymanians. He stated that the government must create an environment in which businesses can thrive, noting that when the business community struggles, Caymanian job opportunities are affected. While outlining his concerns about the legal language in the Bill, Mr. Bryan specifically highlighted the clause and regulations associated with it, which would extend the required period for a person married to, or in a civil partnership with, a Caymanian to apply for Caymanian Status from seven years to fifteen years.

During his contribution to the debate, Minister Anglin, reflected on the shortcomings and achievements of both past and current immigration systems. He noted that no legislation is perfect and that amendments are a natural and necessary part of governance. Minister Anglin commended Minister Myles and his team for their work in bringing the bill forward and praised the National Coalition For Caymanians Government for their collaborative approach in getting it to Parliament. He concluded by calling for bipartisan support to ensure the bill’s passage through the House. 

Also, during the sitting, Speaker of the House, Honourable Ezzard Miller recognised several Caymanian pastors. He expressed gratitude for their spiritual leadership and guidance offered to the Caymanian people. This was followed by supportive remarks from other parliamentarians who emphasised the importance of faith and spiritual leadership in the Cayman Islands. 

The member for Bodden Town West, Chris Saunders recognised Shomari Scott, who was honoured at the 2025 Caribbean Media Exchange Leadership Award for his contributions to healthcare and tourism in the Cayman Islands. Scott’s career achievements at Health City Cayman Islands and his previous role at the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism were highlighted. 

Minister for Caymanian Employment and Immigration Honourable Michael Myles provided an update on his ministry’s efforts to increase Caymanian employment in the tourism sector. He reported on meetings with hotels, including Grand Hyatt and One GT, and collaboration with the Cayman Islands Tourism Association. He highlighted a successful six-week training initiative called the “mindset programme” cosponsored by the Ministry and One GT, which resulted in 20 Caymanians securing employment. He also announced that Grand Hyatt plans to hire 110 Caymanians when they open in April 2026.  

The House will return on Friday, 12 December at 11:00 am with the continuation of the debate on the Immigration (Transition) (Amendment & Validation) Bill, 2025. 

To watch Thursday’s proceedings, visit: 

Sixth Sitting of the Third Meeting of the 2025-26 Session of Parliament | 11 December 2025 Part 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVm20xhLGfk   

Sixth Sitting of the Third Meeting of the 2025-26 Session of Parliament | 11 December 2025 Part 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ACJ0yc9Xlc   

For further information visit: www.gov.ky/governmentinparliament.