CIO moves on

| 03/07/2009

(CNS): At an informal reception at the Immigration Department celebrating the promotion ofoutgoing Chief Immigration Officer Franz Manderson, retiring Chief Secretary George McCarthy called him “the ultimate professional”, and he received accolades from a wide cross-section of civil service colleagues. Manderson took on his new role of Deputy Chief Secretary on Wednesday, 1 July, taking over from the new Chief Secretary Donovan Ebanks, who has filled the seat just vacated by McCarthy.

Manderson’s farewell function, held Monday 29 June, concluded 27 years in uniform – from his beginnings as a work experience student, his subsequent progression through the ranks, and on through his years as chief. At the reception the new Chief Secretary said, “This is a happy and glorious experience. I look forward to you doing even greater things on the other side of the street.” Deputy CIO Kerry Nixon, JP, said, “This is another great milestone. Mr Manderson ‘s move will augur well for Immigration and for all the Cayman Islands, for he’ll now be able to direct policy.”

Examples of Manderson’s exemplary service were numerous, and events such as the Cuban refugee crisis, Hurricane Ivan, and the struggles to protect Cayman’s borders and combat illegal immigration practices were all cited. Other tributes noted his efforts to further his qualifications, and his involvement in changing immigration legislation.

Describing Manderson as an ideal role model for youth, Attorney General Sam Bulgin said “Franz is the essence of someone who is always striving. He brought a bright and refreshing approach to Immigration matters, and I’m sure he will bring the same passion, dedication and commitment to his new position.” Similar sentiments were voiced by others, including Cabinet Secretary and former Immigration Chief Orrett Connor, RCIPS Commissioner David Baines, Work Permit Board Chairman Sharon Roulstone, former Deputy CIO Dennis Brady, and Deputy CIO Bruce Smith.

Manderson thanked his colleagues and other government officials who had allowed him to take risks and make hard decisions. He especially expressed his gratitude to those closest to him – wife Nuvia, their children Alyssa and Franz Jr., mother Jenny Manderson and sister Paula Evans – for their unwavering support and encouragement.

Commending the many members of his extended Immigration family, he said, “I am leaving with a tremendous sense of achievement. I came to the Department with a vision which has been realized by your commitment and hard work.”

These top level civil service changes coincided with this week’s start of the new fiscal year for the Cayman Islands Government.

 

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  1. Dennie Warren Jr. says:

     

    Congratulations!