Archive for March 22nd, 2013
Ex-YUDP leader joins Scotland and Seymour for BT
(CNS): The former president of the Young United Democratic Party, Richard Christian, has announced his intention to contest a seat in Bodden Town at the 22 May General Election but not with the UDP. The former youth leader, who resigned from the party in January following the arrest of former premier McKeeva Bush and the downfall of the UDP administration, has now joined forces with the two Bodden Town incumbent ministers. Christian said he would be running alongside Mark Scotland and Dwayne Seymour, who were both ousted from the UDP after they supported a no confidence motion in the government in order to force Bush from office after he refused to resign.
“I’ve been mulling over this decision for more than a year after becoming dissatisfied with many of our political leaders; their lack of accountability, disregard for moral and ethical principles and the declining fortunes of our people,” Christian stated. “I believe I possess the character and leadership skills to make a difference. And because I want to see change, I have to help make it.”
Fighting for a seat in the island’s fastest-growing district, Christian said he supports the relocation of the landfill to the district as proposed under the Dart deal, which is still being negotiated.
However, the former UDP member said he would support opening a new improved, properly managed waste facility in any district as he believes the current site has reached its limit. Christian said, “If the EIA study shows that there is no major impact to the environment and government can show a proper business plan on how the new location will be managed and not get out of hand like the current site, I support the new proposed facility in Bodden Town.”
He pointed to the limitations on government finances, saying it was unlikely that the current site could be resolved and the longer it takes to tackle the problem the more detrimental it will be to the environment.
Christian also said he was especially concerned about Cayman’s high-cost of living, rising unemployment, lack of job advancement and opportunities for Caymanians, substance abuse and the need for vocational scholarships and training.
“I know what many families are going through first hand, whether it’s living under rigid financial constraints, challenges of raising a young family or the heartache of having a family member who has a substance abuse problem,” he said. “In order to be a good leader, I believe that you must first be a great servant. My community contributions and achievements have proven that I am a positive role model for our children and an effective leader for our country. People are eager for results, I am eager to work.”
Christian, who is a born again Christian, serves as president of the Newland Heights Resident’s Association, Vice President of the Savannah Primary School PTA and deputy chairman of the Bodden Town District Council, where he coordinates community meetings, community projects, assist citizens with various matters and organizes the annual children’s and senior Christmas parties on behalf of MLAs Mark Scotland and Dwayne Seymour. He also sits on the government appointed National Youth Commission and was on the steering committee for the YMCA Cayman.
With nearly twenty years of experience in the financial industry,Christian said he is well acquainted with accountability, teamwork and professionalism.
“To preserve the rich community and meet needs of a growing population, we need representatives that are accessible, transparent and caring,” he added.