Miller calls for enquiry
(CNS): Full story – Independent MLA Ezzard Miller has called on the governor to open a commission of enquiry into a 2004 letter believed to be between the premier and a developer. The North Side representative says that since no one in authority is willing to confirm if there is already an investigation into this document, given the implications of the letter from McKeeva Bush to Stan Thomas requesting $350,000 for a zoning matter, there needs to be some sort of enquiry. Miller has submitted a letter to the governor setting out the reasons why he feels the document justifies a commission, whether or not this is the subject of the mysterious probe the governor and the police commissioner have alluded to.
He has also revealed that he had submitted a collection of supporting documentation that makes it clear that Windsor Development was never involved in any zoning applications for land owned by Thomas and that the letter raises many very serious questions.
Although the premier has said very little about the letter other than to state at a jobs rally on public beach last month that it was a real estate bill, he has made comments about being investigated but has not been specific and has denied any wrongdoing.
At a press briefing at the Legislative Assembly on Friday, Miller was joined by the opposition leader, Alden McLaughlin, who offered his support to the independent member over the correspondence, which was officially submitted to the governor on Thursday afternoon with the supporting documents – copies of which were also given to the press.
Miller claimed the letter alone should be the subject of an investigation as he believed it was a clear indication of wrongdoing on the part of the premier. After investigating the circumstances around the content of the letter himself, Miller stated that he could not find a legitimate explanation for why the premier could be asking Thomas to settle the balance of a transaction that he appears to be claiming that Windsor Development had conducted.
According to the planning records submitted to the governor with Miller’s request for an enquiry, there is no record of Windsor Development Corporation being involved in the re-zoning application for the land owned by Stan Thomas.
The application to change the zoning of the land from low density residential to hotel/tourism was originally made by Chalmers Gibb to the CPA on behalf of the previous owner of the land in 2002. It returned to the CPA in May 2003 for deliberation and the CPA eventually recommended to Cabinet that the land be re-zoned. In November 2003 Cabinet received the papers and the CPA recommendation in order to consider the re-zoning. In February 2004 the sale of the land to Stan Thomas was completed.
It was eventually approved by Cabinet on 13 July for referral to the Legislative Assembly but one former Cabinet minister at the time has confirmed the application was deferred a number of times at the request of the then leader of government business, McKeeva Bush. The plans were eventually brought to the LA in July 2004 for legislators to vote on the changes to block 10A, the land in question, and other plots which had also been earmarked for change.
In a time line spelt out by the opposition leader, several months after the successful re-zoning approval and legislative passage, Bush appears to have faxed the request for the balance of a transaction of $350,000 to Thomas on 15 October from the tourism ministry’s fax machine. The letter does not say what action on the re-zoning Windsor Development undertook for the fee, nor does it say what the total bill was on which the balance was due. It refers to actions that Bush himself claims to have taken when he states: “I have ensured that all of the proposed re-zoning issues have been agreed and approved by Cabinet.”
The two politicians pointed out that there is no “fee” in law for Cabinet or the LA’s approval of a re-zoning issue it is a matter of legislative change made to the country’s development plan. The only fees payable to government are those paid during the submission of the application, which it is understood were paid by Chalmers Gibb Martins Joseph (CGMJ).
Since the Register of Interests shows that Windsor Development was owned by Bush’s spouse and that the then government leader had declared in the register that he was not a director but only a signature on the bank account for the corporation, Miller and McLaughlin also questioned exactly what role Bush had in the real estate company at the time. They said that they were still pursuing the paper trail to ascertain who the directors of the company were when this letter was sent to Thomas.
Both men pointed to the continuing uncertainty surrounding what is an unusual set of circumstances. McLaughlin said the public deserves to know exactly what the letter is, adding that he found the continued lack of acknowledgment by the authorities about whether or not the letter is the subject of a criminal investigation baffling. He also stated that the silence of the premier and a lack of explanation about what the letter relates to is also compounding the issue.
Miller said that Bush’s own recent references to the letter being a real estate bill only fuelled the confusion given that there appears to be nothing in the public record at planning or in the LA to show that Windsor Development had any legitimate involvement in the application process, which is the only part of the process that would require the services of an agent or consultant.
Miller further stated that there was no other land owned by Thomas at this time that had been through a re-zoning application and that the West Bay Road site, known as Vista Norte and which has since been bought by Dart, was the only possible land that the premier could be referring to in the correspondence with the land owner.
CNS contacted the premier regarding the latest move by Miller but the premier stated that because of the legal action he is taking against CNS he did not think he was able to speak with this reporter. He did, however, state that he had spoken to the other media and that we could refer to those comments in which he stated that Miller’s request was nothing more thana “red herring” created by him and the PPM to draw attention away from ongoing projects. He indicated that he was not worried about any commission of inquiry as he had done nothing illegal.
Relevant documentation:
Hansard 2004/5 session Scroll down to pages 319-320
CPA minutes May 2003 Scroll down to pages 98-104
Category: Politics
Did anyone see the ridiculous commentary by Joey Ebanks (yes the oey Ebanks of Turtle Farm fame) re the EE 'seaport'? http://caymannetnews.com.ky/news-detail.php?iNewsId=465.
Apparently he thinks that his credibility is so high that he need only say that he has looked at the plans, talked to some unnamed engineer and environmentalist and sees nothing wrong with it and we'll swallow that hook line and sinker. He praises the business virtues of Joe Imparato whom he says that he called up to discuss the project. What the article does not disclose is that Mr. Imparato, as one of the Directors of CUC, is one of Joey's bosses! LMAO. Yes, we can see that you objectively looked at this project, Joey.
What's even funnier is that he thinks that Ezzard is very unpopular so that anyone could beat him if they called an election today.
Joey, you have lost what respect I had left for you.
I must say that if Ezzard leads he certainly is a man of integrity, that's the reason I pushed Northsiders to give this man a chance, I could see the potential in him and his destiny for Leadership needed in this 21st century. He is a man that believes in total honesty & transparency and this is something that should be appreciated by all of us. As much as I criticize Alden, he's not so bad himself, whether he wants the premier's job or not, at least he's doing the right thing for the country seeking answers for the people.I'm starting to like the guy. I admire these two young gentlemen standing up for democracy and what is right. Guys, there's no independent party or team established that we are aware of to support. It looks like since the majority of us are disatisfied with the UDP and how they govern the country; if we reject and oust the UDP there's not much choice, we have no options.It only means that we are going to have to give the PPM another chance. Its not my opinion it's just mathematics!
Kudos Alden and Ezzard
Anon 09:39
Why didn't he continue with the private member motion he brought to the assembly… first of this year, with fronting and protecting Caymanian businesses.
If he was to focus more on that, which is directly hurting the Caymanian businesses, and stop wasting his time, trying to tear Mac out of his seat, he would get a further 70% more support from the voters.
We are not interested in his politricks, we want to to be able to partiscipate in the many projects, ongoing and upcoming, without the unfair compitition, and be able to strive in our business.
We are sick and tired of being thesecond and third class entrepreneur in our own country.
I understand the point you're making. Independents and the PPM need to understand that the voters are looking for STRONG representation. Don't just support or launch an attack on whatever suits you as a politician but put the people first; get right down in their den and find out what their needs are and deal with it.
Followup is a good sign of a proficient and mature Administrator or Legislator. Threatening to put a motion on the table today and then fading away next week into thin air for the GOP or the PPM to pounce on something else is a sign of imaturity and irresponsibile. The opposition need to steer a steady course and be more stable.
As serious as the situation of joblessness and crime escalating is in the Cayman Islands I have yet to witness the heralded announcement coming from the PPM fading Leader Mr. Alden or the newly unannounced PPM leader Mr Ezzard Miller that "We will be Marching for Jobs at such and such a date, or marching against Crime or "0" tolerance for crime in our society".
I get your point.
Whether the Premier is right or wrong, he has to pay for his wrongdoing like everyone else.BUT the voters do not have their priorities in place if they can tolerate joblessness and criminals running wild with big guns terrorizing their communities, while the opposition spends all their time on the premier. I just don't get it. XXXX, what about jobs and crime? We must hold all elected members accountable, whether UDP or PPM or Independent.
Alden?Ezzard? Arden? .
Marching against crime. What would that do exactly? You think the criminals are impressed by marches. Oooh we better go and commit that armed robbery tomorrow those nice people were out marching yesterday. Don't be ridiculous.
And don't try to blame the Opposition for the Govt's ineptitude. When anything good happens, e.g. a new investment project, Govt. gets the glory. When the country is faltering the Govt. must take the blame.
The voters are looking for competent, principled leadership. Arrogance and dictatorial behaviour does not equal strong leadership.
Anon 09:39
They have nothing on the table , just pure rhetoric, you think Caymanians are fools, we nah letting go the bone for the shadow.
Lets see them use that assembly that they are part of, to ammend, or chage the policies that are adversly effecting the Caymanian businesses and our way of life, we do not care for the politricks.
If they dont run on those tickets, they will be history. I will get back to you in 2013 to confirm this statement…nice try though!
Looks like that guy above put his post in the wrong place.
Joey is doin what Frank McField is doing. Kissing up to Big Mac in the hopes that he will take him in and allow him to run in the next election with the dying UDP. Joey is not worried about his country he is an opportunist. You should read some of his Facebook postings, they make me question his very sanity.
Yes, Frank, you're barking up the wrong tree there buddy.
Next election we are going to have Joey, Frank, Mario and Captain Eugene on the team – what a race it's gonna be. I figure by then the rest of the UDP – who are now silently waiting to see what justice will be dealt to their leader before speaking up, will have disbanded and splintered and will be scrambling for positions in other parties or on the road preaching the merits of independent candidates.
Give the guy a break. Maybe he's getting some turtle meat out of this.
Here we go again with Ezzard leading the Opposition from the back seat. Not much has changed since KT stepped down huh !
Stan Thomas for Premier!! He knows how to get things done!
A Commission of Enquiry needs to be done more than just an investigation because as we know the Police can conduct private investigations and they come to nothing but MAYBE a commission of Enquiry won't be so easy to sweep under the carpet.
Thanks Ezzard and Alden for standing up for what is right!
For those who keep singing the broken song that Alden and Ezzard do not offer any solutions to create jobs or to increase tourism, please remember when Alden was defeated as a Minister there were only 2,200 people unemployed, check the situation today. When Alden went into office in 2005 as Minister we had 167,000 stay over tourists and that figure climed to 302,000 in 2008. I hope we can reach 300,000 in 2011!
Any Government oppossition, is never really in a good position to make any policy, but it is sad to witness the present UDP Members of Parliament backing the Premiere on every single smoke and mirror scheme he comes up with.
What a sad situation we have, when those that are in charge of Government are "so blind that they refuse to see!"
PPM & UDP both.
And are you suggesting that Alden was responsible for the significant increase in tourists air arrivals during the PPM term ?
You are right on one point…….the UDP has yet to reach the 302,000 air arrivals that the PPM Administration achieved !
To 16.57
I am simply saying when Alden was a Minister (he was in charge of Education) but the PPM had their discussion meetings and he was a Major part of that group. The country was much better off then no matter who the Minister was for what. The PPM was simply speaking the best Administration we have had in 25 years. They were not individualistic and egotistic!
peaceful protest man please keep off the grass!!
Oh really? the best administration? too bad more than half of the voting public disagrees with you. I believe both parties have been equally disapointing and bad for this country; I will personally be taking a hard look at independants in the next election.
You will be taking a hard look at independents ? Not only will you take a hard look but I'm much afraid you'll wind up with some hard luck! I'm an independent and I have been waiting for over 2 yrs since elections 2009 for indepenents to establish themselves like a responsible team or party and present their agenda and begin to build their team or party base. It's kind of late as we are less than 2 yrs away from the next general elections. If the Independents are not going to let themselves be known or their voices be heard then they are expecting you to buy the "kitty in the bag", meaning they expect you to elect them because of who they are! . Be reminded that any individual regardless of their educational level; if they are not bold enough to start a campaign in these forums which is to say the least a platform for all people, then I dare say, there are none that is showing leadership abilities besides Ezzard Miller who has not built an independent base as yet either. They have no members and are not holding any rallies. We do not want people springing on us that we do not know and that have not proven what they can accomplish. If they are scared to speak out against the UDP now then they definitely can not represent you if you elect them.
Since the Independents are not even smart enough to organize themselves professionally they are paving the way for the PPM to replace the UDP in the next election leading the way. While Ezzard Miller is an effective and viable Independent politician he himself will have no choice but to join forces with the PPM's. This is not politics its reality. If he will be premier or deputy premier he must join up with the PPM.
I caution you that if you "look hard" as you claim at independents who are not yet looking hard at what is good for the country and voicing their opinion; that you will be making a very sad mistake in electing a bunch of cowards who can't even sneeze if f necessary.If they can't organize themselves tell me how are they going to organize the country and build the country back.
I see us changing guards again, as they do at Buckingham Palace.
Any independent that jumps into the race last minute that's been quiet for the past 4 to 8 yrs is not worthy of your vote and would be a very big mistake to vote for them. Why? such a candidate would be entering the race only for selfish gain, with their eyes fastened on that big monthly salary and nothing else. If they were interested in the people of this country they would join the discussion and let us know who they are and what they stand for. I admire other politicians who were not elected but still keep a voice in public discussions standing up for what is right those are the people to consider for office. Any candidate that is quiet all along afraid to point out the wrongs of the UDP leadership is unfit to be elected and would be even more disappointing if elected. Choosing such a passive individual or individuals is putting a ring in a pig's nose, you would be recruiting incompetent Cowards who can not run the country..
Lets be reasonable…If they can't show their face, how are they going to stand up to Big Mac? Its time to support Ezzard and whoever he supports and take your mind of independents who does NOT HAVE THEIR MINDS ON YOU AND ME!
anon 19;45
You hit the nail right on the head, where are these independent? like you said…they will come out the last minute…with a long agenda, saying, vote for me, you know i am, and what side the fence i come from, and who my parents are.
You guys need to show your interest in the country at all times, not just when you think it is right to look for a job in parliment, and secure your pensions, it's not about you, it's about the people.and the country… it doesn't work that way anymore….sorry
Come on now Peaceful Protest Man……get your Ministries right. The Chuckster was responsible for the significant increase in air arrivals during the PPM's term not Alden !
As far as I am concerned anyone in the position of political power who gains from that position through corruption, or other illicit means should & must be investigated, & further more if found guilty they should be sentenced to prison & a criminal record. it is as simple as that.
XXX
That is still what they are investigating. Did Mckeeva use his political position and power for his personal gain? Investigation not done yet.
.He is asking for an inquiry, not an enquiry.
One could say he is making an enquiry about an inquiry.
he is not an american… so he must be making an inquiry into an inquiry!
The distinction between the two words is more consistently applied in UK usage, or as we call it "English", so your the comment would need to be "Were he an American, he could have made an inquiry into an inquiry". That would have received bonus points for the subjunctive.
We Americans don't really use "enquiry" at all, looks too British.
And you know what I really like?
Longand patronising descriptions of grammatical slights.
14:36
do not cloud the issues. good governance which is lacking is the key to our future.
if people are removed as you same to think, you must help to elect proven, uncorupt and succesfull people and not those that give away others gifts to them as their own, to stay in power while the majority suffer.
With all these robberies and crime spiraling out of control, is this really the best they can do?? Are you serious??? They making a fuss out of something that happened 7yrs ago…..come on people. nowonder we cant get anywhere…..
I disagree with you on one point- if a crime was committed, you pay the time.
However it is clear that neither the PPM nor Mr Miller has brought forward one idea to improve the situation in Cayman. Not one on crime, not one on job creation, not one on increasing tourism, not one on Social services, not one on gang culture, not one on high cost of living, not one on cutting cost of government and not one on developing our Financial industry.
If PPM or Miller wants to be taken seriously they have to come with SOLUTIONS not tabloid letters they find on their "windscreens".
What concerns me is how the Caymanian electorate seem to go for personalities rather that issues. I have heard it defined as tribal politics.
The previous posted stated fact that Miller or the Opposition have offered NO solutions to the country's financial problems and have only successfully bashed McKeeva.
Why aren't the 22 people who voted thumbs down to this person's observation wondering what Miller and the Opposition whould doto help the country? Instead they simply continue the attack without looking beyond and holding the Independant/Opposition accountable to have some solutions.
So do not think or use you brains just vote thumbs down.
And you my friend has just won second prize in today's Red Herring Tournament Award!
The parties are not real parties. They have no real platforms, just platitudes. The electorate has no choice but to try to figure it out on a personal basis and hope they get character and competence at least. There is no way to tell what you will actually get.
Congratulations my friend!
You just received today's Red Herring Tournament Award in the 9 lb division for throwing out 9 red herring distractions from the issue at hand i.e. an inquiry request that has neen made to the Governor.
To suggest that the time lapse is a good reason to ignore this matter or that there are other more serious national issues needing attention is really irresponsible in itself. In any case, I believe that there is no statute of limitations on official corruption (a lawyer can clarify that). It seems to me that anyone who is falsely accused of this or any serious offence would more than welcome the opportunity to clear his or her name. However, the facts being presented here look highly questionable: 1. Why is a Cabinet Minister personally billing for rezoning — this would clearly have easily arranged through channels dictated by law — and had in fact already been set in motion by the relevant agent — and carries nominal handling fees — not hundreds of thousands of dollars. And why is the Minister getting involved at all? 2. The letter carried in the addenda to this article indicates that the bill is for "rezoning"; however, we hear that the fees were not for "rezoning" (as clearly stated in black and white), but were "real estate" fees. What are the implications of this contradiction? 3. If real estate fees, why is a Cabinet Minister using his office, and his letterhead, to deal with a business transaction that doesn't appear to be related to him (as shown by the Register of Interests) to him or his government office? These questions need to be answered for the public; otherwise, as a budding island-nation, we are sending the message that we accept and even condone official corruption. At the very least, it does not matter to the electorate that put people in office.
I would like to ask Stan if he paid it and what he thought it was for?
…and if he didn't pay it, why didn't Mac sue for it?
IT'S this kind of mentality why we are where we are now, it should have been dealth with decades ago. hopefully better late than never.
remember all bad things start out appearing trivial, ang grow like a cancer that spreads within the whole body if not dealth with immediatly, this country is V e r r y sick lets help to get it well
This is what is wrong with this country today.
We have people in our community that disregard their own commonsense in defense of their politician. They don't seem to care if he/she breaks the law. The walk blind, deaf, dumb and stupid behind their leader no matter what.
This is why we should not have parties because people become brainwashed. They check their brains at the door and never seem to return to collect it.
I do not care if it's Kurt Tibbetts, McKeeva Bush or my own brother. If you have broken the law you must stand against it's consequences. That law is there to protect usfrom people who would rather take short cuts to get what they want in life and usually in the end it's at your or my expense.
THIS CRAP HAS GOT TO STOP!!!!
It peed me off to no end when the politician who I voted for in BT got in by breaking the law. Trust me. Even if he offered me a lottery he would not get my vote. NOT THAT I WOULDN'T TAKE THE MONEY he just would not get my vote.
The precedent that was set for future generations is terrible. And this was done in front of the whole Cayman Islands including our Judicial WHO I MIGHT ADD REFUSED TO DO THEIR JOBS.
If Mr Bush is GUILTY and I say IF he needs to be brought to bear for his crimes and to the utmost and fullest extent of the law. Anything less would be a crime in of itself.
The fact is we must reclaim our posture in the face of the world. We must show them that we have issues like other places but we deal with them.
Punishment for elected officials, government workers and those in law enforcement should be greatly amplified. Swift and severe penalties should be the rule of the day in order to set a clear example. Most law breakers and corrupt individuals never think about the consequences of their actions when they commit the crime. Issuing punishment above the current maximum for these "special" people in our society would help greatly to make others think twice before undertaking to break the law and the public trust. If lying is also involved it should carry a severe sentence of no less than 10 years in prison for each lie once a conviction is obtained. Breaking the law is bad enough but lying about should not be tolerated.
Hate to say it but I agree with you 100% Dred.
ahem, I don't really think robberies willstop if elected officials are allowed to commit crimes. It just doesn't work like that. They are called leaders. They lead us. And In my opinion, it is best if they don't lead us into crime.
What a most stupid comment, a most IGNORANT comment. Because an alledged crime was committed 7 years ago it should be overlooked???? Really? XXXX
Are you saying that ALL crimes that were committed 7 or more years ago must be forgiven, no matter how serious the crime may be? May GOD forgive you child.
If elected officials are committing criminal acts, does that make them any different from those committing robberies? What don't you understand? Do you want the country led by corrupt officials? I'm not saying they are but we need to know for sure whether or not they are. If the leaders are corrupt, you cannot expect to have a peaceful, crime free country.
If I had been Governor I would have called the alleged writer of the letter in to explain his side of it and if he failed to give a full and verifiable explanation, I would have given him two options: 1) Either you publicly relinquish your post while this matter is investigated or; 2) I will publicly suspendyou until the matter is fully investigated and resolved. Then I would have appointed a team of investigators to investigate it and report back within 3 months.
This matter has dragged on too long now and it makes many people wonder of the competence, or incompetence, of those supposedly investigating it.
The next thing I would have done is to have the constitution amended to make clear the boundaries, powers and authority of elected members of the Legislative Assembly to ensure that it is impossible for them to abuse their authority or gain favours or bribes without serious consequencies, such as forfeiture of assets and lengthy prison time.
In fact, I think things would be better if we nationally elected Cabinet and each district elected one representative like North Side and East End. The Cabinet would have one vote collectively in the LA and each District Representative would have one vote. That way, Cabinet would have to explain their actions and gain the consent of the District Representatives to make laws and spend the country's money.
I want my country to remain an honourable place. One where I can be proud to say it is my home.
"The next thing I would have done is to have the constitution amended to make clear the boundaries, powers and authority of elected members of the Legislative Assembly to ensure that it is impossible for them to abuse their authority or gain favours or bribes without serious consequencies, such as forfeiture of assets and lengthy prison time".
That is normally provided for in Constitutions. However, it is already provided for in the Anti-Corruption Law.
The problem is that laws can be changed easily in the LA, but they cannot change the Constitution without the UK's approval. Right now the laws stipulate that certain projects must be done through Central Tenders, is it happening? Is anyone's head rolliing for that. I'd much rather see the very important stuff, such as prevention of corruption enshrined in the Constitution where legislators cannot manipulate it.
Wrong. Any legislation requires the assent of the Governor as HM's representative. At least one past Governor has been known to exercise the prerogative to refuse.
My point was simply that it is not the proper function of the Constitution to create criminal offences and penalties.
Whether it is in the Constitution or in a Law the point is that it requires rigorous enforcenment.
PPM just created a new constitution in 2009. Where were all these ideas then? With greatest respect, most of your suggestions would not work anyway.
I am sure the Governor, nor you, would like to pay for the counter lawsuit should nothing be found out of order or no laws broken.
What we need are honourable people in the house. Nothing wrong with most of our laws.
Simple way to achieve that is go back to the time when we did not pay them and there were no political parties.
Sadly enough this is all we can expect from our Police Department.
Let's look at the Elections issue in GT. It took then 1.5years to report back on teh fact they had no evidence. Which mind you was a stupid excuse and I say EXCUSE because it was a sweep under the rug thing.
1) CNS published copies of the slip passed around.
2) There were witnesses who said they saw who was passing them out.
Exactly what were you want RCIP? An admission of guilt?
BT debacle when the Judicial arm turned a blind eye to the BT elections.
And we wonder why our criminals have gotten so brazen.
The meaning and use of red herrings:
A Red Herring is a fallacy in which an irrelevant topic is presented in order to divert attention from the original issue. The basic idea is to "win" an argument by leading attention away from the argument and to another topic.
Examples:
Topic: Opposition seeks no confidence vote against Govt and questions an alleged real estate bill.
Govt seeks inquiry into Opposition's former school project (10 lb red herring)
Independent member seeks inquiry into alleged real estate bill.
Govt issues opens season for red herring, and dredges up: Dr Hortar Hospital issue (15 lb herring), Shetty Hospital (25 lb herring), various pipe dream projects that theircrystal ball says might happen in the future (51 lb herring).
And the winner is Govt because they have 101 lbs of red herring and 101 excuses to distract from the no confidence motion and to not discuss the real estate bill.
And the Opposition and independent member only have a proposed no confidence vote and questions about an alleged real estate bill.
Anyway. Just give me a card showing where to put my X when they come to pave my driveway…
Does anyone have an idea as to how much carpet would be needed in the event that those responsible decide to just sweep these corruption allegations under the rug?
And can we get the carpet for free??
Anyone one else growing weary with this unending hate-fest? My goodness, we deserve better from those drawing jaw-dropping salaries from the public purse. Is being argumentative, cantankerous and downright ill-mannered (as a matter of course) at all productive? What a breath of fresh air when I hear other MLAs employing balanced and moderate language to press an issue or explain something. They don't appear to feel the need to denigrate those who might not agree with them, and they've got my respect (and vote) any day of the week. Would all those who presently appear to positively revel in hating others, and would even fight the wind I should imagine, kindly submit themselves to some kind of counselling, or failing that give the country a break and resign, please? Thank you. (By the way, Ezzard has a point. It's just his manner that's getting in the way.)
What a warm letter :):) from Mac to 'Dear Stan'
so proud of this fellow right now 🙂 LOL
maybe he should excercise some of this grammatical etiquette whilst in the 'local public arena during debates and (stuff like dat) lol
I have a general problem with Miller. He seems to support the environmentalist in East End dock but has said over and over that Northsiders should be able to dig up their land in the central mangrove swamp. He will not allow that land to be zoned to protect it.
This seems hypocritical at best and thus I am not sure about this matter either. Think this is a rehash of Dr Horter shut down by Mckeeva. Got to be. Unfortunately the country will be the ones to suffer here while they spar on old memories.
The East End Port is not about Ezzard and his policies, its about protecting Caymanians and our environement. Please dont confuse Ezzards goals with the way of life of the East End People.
that rock seem to hit someone…ooops!
The problem I have with Ezzard is his defending the ongoing use of the current landfill when it is obvious it is leaching into North Sound and yet I hear nothing from "Save Cayman" the defenders of North Sound.
His refusal to support the new conservation law is another problem I have with the North Sider. And he talks about the environment like he cares about the snakes and scorpions.
Yes, well lets make sure that this stands for anybody and everybody that runs in government from here on and not just doing it to get rid of one to be replaced by another who becomes the same when in 'power'!
Ezzard is supported by most of the young Caymanian professionals.
Calling for transparency on this troubling letter is yet another great move by Ezzard that enhances good governance.
The need for more independent thinkers like Ezzard in government is obvious. We need to keep this in mind when elections roll around in May 2013.
If the "young cayman professionals" know how rigid Miller's thoughts are they would rethink that position.
You cannot change this man's mind on anything nor reason with him. So as long as he is with you, you are ok but when the tables change its another matter. He is an independent thinker as long as it's his independent thoughts.
now how can ebanks say that this a distraction from the other projects,including shetty hospital. tell me when last you heard anything about shetty hospital. this goverment went to parliment and change every law that they cuold for this project, gave unbelievable concessions and nothing has been done. not even to clear the land ,if they have any yet
Mr. Miller has done the right thing. I am disappointed that the official opposition is not showing more leadership in the fight against all that is wrong in the country.
IF THE GOVERNOR
does not want to do the right thing by the country or the ethical thing to fight corruption alongside the people of the Cayman Islands, then we need to make a NO CONFIDENCE motion against the Governor and have him removed or replaced for being totally ineffective. This matter should be pushed all the way through the British legal and political system, bypassing the FCO who are known to be totally incompetent and asleep at the wheel as the description was made at their involvement in T&C. and taken to the very top of the UK Government.
Thank you Alden and Ezzard for pushing this hard because the people of the Cayman Islands want answers. XXXX
CLEAN UP CAYMAN
Good job Ezzard!
Mac needs to be made to provide clear answers to the people!
the governor too
NATION BUILDING
"We live in a country where a political slush fund is a line item in the budget called "Nation Building". When politicians dare ask what the money is being spent on they are harrangued and ridiculed by Mac as interfering"
This is an extremely important comment made by an anonymous poster under the Viewpoint "Beating political corruption". I think it deserves to be "bumped up" to the top.
12, 000+ dollar a month salaries (plus pensions) for serving politicians is "justified" on the basis that they give much of it away, to pay mortgages, bills etc. for their constituents. Some would say that amounts to vote buying, but it pales in comparison with CI$10,000,000 of "Nation Building" funds, to be spent at the discretion of the Premieron, so it would seem, whatever he pleases, and apparently, without accountability.
$10, 000, 000 – That would be enough to pay each of the 3006 people that voted in West Bay in 2009 an "incentive" of more than $3,300 each to help "build the nation" (or buy refrigerators) if that how the Premier saw fit.
In the meantime, Civil Servants are forced to take paycuts, non profit organizations, such as the National Trust have their budgets slashed to the bone, and efforts are made by the Premier to take the entire Legal Aid budget and put it under the control of the same lawyer who is now threatening CNS with a lawsuit on McKeeva's behalf.
Welcome to the Banana Republic of West Bay.
I strongly believe that the call for an inquiry, is a "red herring" created by Mr. Miller, Alden, and certain members of the PPM to draw attention away from ongoing projects including the Shetty hospital and port developments. The Premier states that he has done nothing wrong, and I strongly believe they will find nothing. The projects will positively stimulate the economy and make the UDP look good. Folks, this is all about party poli-tricks at its best. Obviously, Mr. Miller is along side PPM.
Is about freaking time people realize this is not about UDP or PPM, you need to hold politicians accountable, regardless of party affiliation, just as if they were your employees, these are elected officials, hired to do a job and to do it right(in the interest of the people OF the Cayman Islands). You pay their salaries and more, so question everyhting, the traveling, the favoritism, the deals going under the table, the crime, why the hell they allow all these people to sell drugs in West Bay and other parts of the island… if you keep quiet today your children will suffer the consequences.
At least Mr. Miller is willing to take some sort of acction! And I know there are other people here with balls, so step up!
Thank God some of these guys are not as smart as Fidel Castro, otherwise…
oh this is ALL about UDP/PPM….
You strongly sound like your deep into party poli-tricks and I'm sure you strongly belive what you hear from the "Premeir". As you say "obviously" If he has done nothing wrong he has done nothing to prove it and many, many things that point to doing something wrong. But I'm sure that because you strongly belive in him you must be right. I myself strongly belive that the country as a whole would be better off if he did nothing but give his special"your all fool fool and I'm not" talks and let Government run itself. Obviously this is just my opinion and good luck with yours.
Yes people, be careful with these politricks,
They realise that whenever, and very soon now, these projects that the UDP is supportuing, will stimulate and boost the economy, which the oppositions have no part of.
All the credit will go to the hard working UDP with the forsight and vision, to bring the country out of it's doldrum.
I wonder what they will campaign for, come 2013, when everyone is sailing along, maintaining their family and paying their bills, taking vacations, buying new cars and homes…cheerio my friends!
lets focus on the positive, of where the country is headed and stop being brain washed by these want- to -be politricks.
has he ever said that he did Anything wrong? just curious.
Ongoing project? Shetty Hospital? Where? Who is working on it? What is being done? NOTHING! Smoke and mirrors if you ask me. And if you could find some other forum in which to pucker up to Mr. Bush's backside, it would be greatly appreciated.
You know what from the looks of it it's one expensive darn herring. Maybe its a GOLD Herring.
I don't know about you but if I was someone I would be sweating bullets.
I think we need to create a Anti Hero Square also….I know who I am nominating……
ongoing projects???……where?
Dear Baba-ling Baffoons
This party system has got you with your eyes wide shut; the issue at hand here is right or wrong.
seems like your rhetoric vomit is a REASON? for this much needed/obvious investigative examination taking place man!!!
my favourite breakfast baba-ling baffoons yum!!!
1. Your post is an attempt at "poli-tricks". It would be hilarious if this were not such a serious matter. Anyone who has read the letter objectively recognises that it is highly questionable and may possibly be evidence of a serious criminal offence having been committed. In those circumstances the only proper thing to do is to call for an enquiry if it is not clear that one is already in progress in respect of that matter.
2. There are no "ongoing projects". There are simply memoranda of understanding signed which may progress no further. We have not seen any step being taken by Dr. Shetty notwithstanding that the Govt. has taken steps e.g. passing new legislation to facilitate this project. As far as I understand no land has been purchased for the project to date. In short there nothing from which one would need to create a distraction.
3. History is replete with examples of politicians claiming to have done nothing wrong only later to be found that they did in fact. Richard Nixon said to the American people "I am not a crook". Very recently we saw the protestations of innocence from U.S. Representative Anthony Weiner before resigning in acknowledgement of impropriety. Your belief that "they will find nothing" is simply an expression of your loyalty. Objectively speaking, it means nothing at all.
4. The Premier has acknowledged that he is under criminal investigation by the Police although it is not clear whether this relates to the same letter produced by the Opposition and the Independent Member. Is this an example of "poli-tricks" by the Governor and the Commissioner of Police?
5. Mr. Miller has demonstrated his independence from both the PPM and the UDP Govt. The fact that they share a certain view of this matter simply reflects that they have independently come to the same conclusion and reinforces the point that there is very much something to be concerned about.
The $350,000 was just the balance due according to the letter.
and the key question is:
"Balance due for what?"
Only one service is mentioned in the letter: ensuring Cabinet approvel of rezoning.
The entire Cayman Islands are waiting to see the outcome of this mysterious demand letter to Stan Thomas. We are lucky and should be thankful to have an intellegent MLA Ezzard Miller, who continues to forge ahead for what is right for one and all. Country first, self last. The outcome cannot come quick enough.
16:26
Please stop it, not the entire Cayman Islands..I think more like the PPM and the few that want to remove Mac, you cant speak for all, stop putting statements into other people's head.
Just be careful with who you trust.
Forging with what's right for one and all!..and country first , self last! ha ha ha what a joke…what planet are you on my friend!
AAAAAMMMMMEEEEENNNNN!!!!!!!!
Too right, we DEMAND answers.
Some days ago, on News27, Ezzard Miller cautioned the public that we could be heading into a same situtation like what is going on in TCI (Turks and Caicos Islands). As an MLA, Miller is entitled to pursue the truth and expose corruption if there be any. However, for the record, let it be known that a British dictatorship, no matter how attractive it may seem, will have a negative impact on our offshore financial center and definitely will ruin the reputation of these islands. Anyone wishing a full British takeover to turn us into a welfare territory, does not mean us well. Corruption should be dealt with in the Cayman Islands in accordance to the law – not in accordance to colonial acts. That is not what the United Kingdom is about, and anyone supporting or has hopes of this happening to these islands, are really supporting a "special interest elite or elites."
So whereas people should support Ezzard 100%. If the outcome is not a good one, let us remember the value of our "democratic representation" and basic rights as human beings – right to life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness.
Libertarian if we call for these enquiries and have the fortitude to go through them it shows the British that we can manage our own affairs. The system is working as it should. If we don't it says that we as a people are corrupt and then gives them the excuse to manage our affairs for us.
Well said. I hope that is the case and not use "corruption" as a reason for suspending our Constitution and dissolving the people's elected Cabinet like they did in TCI.
well said …. libertarian is just scare mongering as usual…he would rather us be like haiti or jamaica…..
lol… that is not true… I champion Independence when it is the only option left on the table to ensure democracy and freedom from an oppressive colonial regime. I notice you loosely use the countries of Jamaica and Haiti, well beloved countries where you had heroes who died and fought for their country. They had their reasons for Independence and breaking free. lol… and Haiti was never under the UK's colonial rule.
Note: In February 2010, the eight-page document containing the official Declaration of Independence [from France], which was believed to have been destroyed or thrown out, was found by a Canadian graduate student from Duke University in Britain's National Archives. Coming as it did soon after the 2010 devastating earthquake, the discovery is seen by many to be providential.
Source: Wikipedia
The United Kingdom can still reform her laws that are against the people of the Overseas Territories. Reformation is on the table, because I know the United Kingdom is much more principled than that!
Maybe if you had laws with teeth and men to back them would you have a chance at this reputation you speak of. The past two years have done nothing good for Cayman islands reputation as a offshore financial center, a safe tourist destination, or as a country interested in Human rights. Your sad Circus of a Government just can't seem to do the simplest of things including but not limited to financial records, starting or finishing a project without being taken to court, or basic giving good value for money paid to government. UK rule would not be perfect but it also would not be soooooooooooooooo dumb.
You stated, the "UK rule would not be perfect." My friend, it is more than imperfect, it is morally wrong, undemocratic, and the United Kingdom can do better. There are alot of good people in the UK that value democracy and human rights.
Nice try, if Ezzard wants Mac seat that bad, he is going to have to wait untill 2013, and there is no guarantee,
whats all the impatience about, is it the boost to the economy to start soon? by the UDP blessings.
Are you referring to the loot from the banks and gas station robberies that's coming back into circulation? If Ezzard wants "Mac seat" that bad I'd say he has a very good chance of getting it, thanks to Mac.
Obviously, your head is so far up your a@@ you cant see these projects coming up on the horizon.
"Loot from bank and gas station robberies"… I wouldn't go there…that is bad ass blood money that you speaking of.
Maybe you are just plain stupid to admit that the UDP has started to stimulate the economy, just look at the 5 addition to the primary schools, 90% small and medium contractors doing the buildings.
The 200 plus workers at the Clifton Hunter High School, the majority of them, small Caymanian contractors, and lots more to come for Caymanians. Mr.Miller don't stand a chance in Mac's shadow, much less his seat…sorry my friend.
Try to have some vision and foresight, and stop the hate.
Sorry my friend. Try to have some vision and foresight and stop the hate. Obviously your head is so far up your A@@ that you refuse to understand that the UDP was elected and should have started stimulating the economy TWO YEARS AGO. By every single indication in existence, including our monthly utility bills and the number of bank and gas station robberies, the situation has gotten MUCH WORSE, not better. We are TIRED of listening to promises from the UDP and watching the opposite happen. If the Cayman economy actually does improve by one single iota over what it was when the PPM was in power I will be the first to applaud the UDP. I just don't see it happening. So get your heat out of your A@@ my friend, because the way things are looking SOMEBODY is going to have to fill poor "Mac seat" for him on or before next elections.
Yes, we're forking out somewhere in the region if $100,000.00 per MONTH in salaries and double pensions and all manners of 'perks' to make our country's economic situation worse each passing day, and we actually have people that support and want to see this continue. God help us.
Yes Mac does seem to have a VERY big shadow, doesn't he.
I clearly thought that Ezzard had been out of the spotlight for too long and he clearly needed to do something to het his picture on a CNS story.
Between CNS and Rooster we keep close tabs of Ezzards words of wit and wisdom.
Mr. Miller is just like the other rest of brain dead Politicians….they all getting confuse with the thumbs up in CNS
Thank you Mr. Miller. I am glad that there is one politician who is willing to actually do something to ensure that the questionable is not swept under the carpet.
Oops. Round 2. Ezzard comes out swinging….stiff right uppercut….
Okay Ezzard, let us say an inquiry is called, Mckeeva is found guilty of a crime, news broadcast to the world how bad Cayman Islands has become, XXXX. Victory has been obtained by PPM and Independent member for North Side, and the truth is finally out there. All to say, I just have one question in the midst of the projects to help our economy: THEN WHAT?! Because from the very beginning, I noticed Alden, Ezzard, and team, have not offered any solutions. From day, it was all about getting at the Premier. Where is the people in all of this??? When Mckeeva goes – THEN WHAT?! Alden will replace him??? Ezzard will replace him??? God Help Us!
You raise the vital question that the Independant (hahaha) and Opposition totally ignore and simply vote thumbs down and keep their warm sense of denial securely in place.
They are all obsessed with McKeeva, were these people get in power they would continue to blame McKeeva and their loyal followers would follow them blindly.
Until the followers of the opposition demand some answers from their leadership and Ezzard other than bed and breakfasts in North Side this country remains in trouble.
If you re-phrase your comment as follows then it would be spot on:
"They are all obsessed with [the PPM and Alden], [now that these people are in power] they continue to blame [Alden and the PPM] and their loyal followers would follow them blindly".
Unfortunately Sloccy from Breakers is dead. He would be better for us than what we now have. If you re too blinded by your premier to see that he is making a mess of the Cayman Islands. Look at the idea of closing the West Bay Road. That will seriously inhibit Caymanians from using the beach that we were born with and have been enjoying our life. That is a small bit of the disaster that is the Cayman Islands. Trust me, Misick did better in TCI than our Premier is doing and it hurst me, because at the beginning of his political career, I supported him 100%, because his first thought was for his people (not the people of West Bay only), all the people. Now he is only worried about making things worst instead of better. As long as he and the deputy get their world travels and spend, spend, spend, nothing else is important. The cost of living has increased in these islands by more thn 3 times salaries are not being increased. I guess the Communist Chinese in this little island will tke care of all our problems. If they do not get what they want, they will just shoot us.
20:24
Please explaine to me and the Cayman peolple, what beach is inhibited from us using, since our birth.
Cayman people, no one is taking away our public beach which is located between the Harbour heights condo, on the South and the calico jack bar on the north, the beach north of our public beach belongs to private intity, is this the beach you are trying to claim? i would hope not.
I would hope that Caymanians are not, now stooping that low, to demand the use of people's private property….God help us, if that is the case here.
Lets stop misleading our people, I think God wants us to be truthful to our brothers and sisters.
I await for you to explaine where this beach is.
Don,t want Ezzard as a Premier, I would rather take my chances with Alden.
I don't want the Islands to unravel
I'm afraid you're a bit late for that.
Thank you for those questions, yes God help us.
so you would prefer to maintain caymanian tradition and keep your head in the sand????
corruption and incompetency must always be exposed!
it is also true that ppm and ezzard are not the answer….they are equally as incompetent
God help us if we don't replace McKeeva with Alden or Ezzard.
06:14 what the hell are you smoking?
Whatever it is, it is obviously good for his intelligence, we strongly suggest you try some.
Bit puzzled about this myself. Perhaps someone might care to detail exactly what solutions the opposition is proposing to improve the economy. Or are we to conclude that property tax (and income tax?) is the main feature of their economic recovery package in order to fund government? Problem is, in the absence of specifics one is left to speculate, surely.
Not sure it's simply the case of Mac or the opposition. If McKeeva retires, are we to assume that all those who voted for his party will all of a sudden vote for the opposition? Surely not. I have been quite impressed with a number of the younger MLAs, who appear to be conducting themselves with the sort of decorum and bearing sorely lacking in the conduct of quite a few of the more seaoned parlimentarians. I have to say that they are presently part of Mckeeva's party. I'd like to be able to report the same of the present opposition at some future time, to make for a stronger voting choice, and a better government overall. By the way, I'm an independent voter.
9:06
YOU HAVE TO BE KIDDING, whats the saying LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON. THEY DONT EVEN HAVE THE DECENCY TO support good governance they are clones
This is an obvious attempt at deflecting from the issue. If and when the LA is dissolved and new elections are called each party or independent can campaign and say what they are proposing to improve the economy. The Premier has stated that he has no time to listen to what the Opposition has to say, so it would be pointless to offer anything at this point.
I am not sure which younger politicians conducting themselves with decorum you are referring to. Surely it is not Ellio!
Since this is just spin for the UDP you are obviously not an independent voter.
Who can replace McKeeva you say? I've lost track of the number of times that I have made this offer, but my dog is still available. He is very well mannered, and has no need to travel overseas to boot!
Anon 1436 it seems that you are suggesting that we should just ignore the situation because we dont have anyone to replace him with? Please tell me you did not write that. This is not about Ezzard or Alden replacing the Premeir this is about the possibility that our leader has done something illegal. My fear is that this will ultimately lead to the direct involvement of the UK. Some see this as okay but it scares me and many others.
Oh for crying out loud Ezzard..what up your a$$? On one hand you complain about money being wasted and now you are crying to waste more. Let the police and the governors office do their job and then after that if you are not satisfied call, for your enquiry.
I don't know about anyone else but I am tired of this XXXX negative one upmanship behavior.
Ezzard, you had your time, just like Kurt, Alden and Mckeeva..Come next election I to see a clean sweep for some new fresh and innovative leaders. I am tired of the same old recycled politicians fighting to knock each other out of offie without thinking about what they are doing to this country!
Hold on. Miller's point is neither the Governor nor the Police Commissioner has said that there is any investigation concerning the letter in question so it follows that he cannot wait until they have done their investigation as it may nothing to do with the letter.
Why would this be money wasted? Do you think that if indeed the Premier of this country is guilty of corruption it is not worthy or investigation? Do you also think that the Commission of Enquiry called by the Premier against the Leader of the Opposition is money being wasted, or are you being a hypocrite?
Miller is doing his job.
We want Dred, we want Dred!
We want Bean Counter, we want Bean Counter!
Coalition Dred and Bean Counter!
Look out Beenie Man…..:there:s a song a comin::))
it might be time to go above the governors head….. he has failed us for too long…..
I agree totally with Mr. Miller's actions on this most important matter!
The Premier owes a complete explanation about this letter (and several other matters). And such explanations need to be conducted in a legal setting such as an enquiry by learned legal minds can effect!
Wonderful! Get out the popcorns!
… Premier attacks Alden – Alden attacks Premier – Ezzard attacks Premier – then Premier attacks CNS – then CNS attacks Premier – back and forth… this has been from antiquity…. but no knock-out yet – just local folk with missin teeth!
I call dibs on movie rights!!!!
FFS, Ezzard calls for this, Mac calls for that… Is anyoneactually ever going to do anything they're paid/elected for in Cayman?
Yes, That's what Ezzard is doing. Too bad we can't say the same for McKeeva.
Good Ezzard!
Hold his a*# to the fire…
Miller is sure earning his keep. Do not let up, sir. Do not let anything be swept under the carpet as has happened so often with the words "insufficient evidence". Let us see whether this constitutes a person "employed in the public service corruptly soliciting, receiving or obtaining or agreeing or attempting to receive or retain, any property or benefit of any kind for himself or any other person on account of anything done or omitted to be done, or afterwards to be done or omitted to be done by him in the discharge of the duties of his office".