Immigration to lose deputy in wake of CIO

(CNS): Just a month after Franz Manderson, the former chief immigration officer (CIO) moved to take up his post as deputy chief secretary, Deputy Chief Immigration Officer Kerry Nixon, has announced her retirement effective 30 September 2009. Thanking Nixon for her service, which spans some 40 years, Manderson said that he intends to appoint a new person to head what is considered one of government’s most important departments within the next few weeks.  

A veteran public servant, Nixon’s entire career of almost four decades has been with Immigration and she was appointed Deputy CIO in1996. Manderson, who still maintains responsibility for Immigration under the portfolio, wished Nixon well.

“I take this opportunity to personally thank Mrs. Nixon for her unfailing assistance and support throughout my tenure at Immigration. On behalf of the government and the people of the Cayman Islands I wish her a most enjoyable retirement,” Manderson said. 

Nixon said it had been a distinct honour to serve her country over the past 40 years, contributing to the development of the modern Immigration Department which exists today. “I look forward to providing advice and support to the new Chief Immigration Officer and to ensuring a smooth transition of the new management team,” she added.

Manderson confirmed that he expects to appoint a new CIO within the next 21 days.