Cabinet directives, housing pressures and job opportunities for Caymanians sparked a candid discussion on Radio Cayman on Wednesday, 5 November.
Deputy opposition leader Kenneth Bryan and Red Bay MP Roy Tatum shared concerns about implementing the Immigration Bill during the ‘For the Record’ programme.
While the bill’s main reforms are widely known, both MPs said that how the government rolls them out is still up for debate.
Bryan stressed that directives to boards – such as the Work Permit Board and Status and Permanent Residency Board – should remain policy-based instead of becoming legislation.
He argued the focus should be balanced policies that protect Cayman’s delicate service economy rather than full public disclosure of all government directives.
“People want it done right,” Bryan said, noting frustration at repeated delays but warning against rushing, which could harm the immigration framework.
Both MPs agreed the civil service would see the earliest impact, with other sectors phased in later.
Tatum highlighted growing unease among Caymanians feeling outnumbered, not just in population numbers but in those obtaining Caymanian status under the bill’s point system.
The discussion also covered employer-Caymanian employment ties.
Bryan advocated a “carrot and stick” approach to encourage hiring locals, while both MPs lamented the absence of a labour union or consultative body to represent workers’ views.
Tatum drew attention to the proposed Fair Employment Opportunities Commission to protect Caymanian workers’ rights, urging the government to reconsider.
The commission would provide recourse for Caymanians who feel unfairly treated – “another layer of protection” amid rapid change.
The government has published an easy reference guide, Immigration Bill, 2025 FAQs, to help public understanding, which can be accessed here.
However, both MPs feel the process, priorities for implementation, and how Caymanians are brought along remain very much in the public spotlight.
