Job troubles at key resort
(CNS): Reports of local job losses and allegations against the owners for circumventing labour laws at a leading resort in the eastern districts are stirring up concerns and conflict in government and with local politicians. Documentation seen by CNS shows that government has been investigating allegations that the management at Morritts Tortuga Club in East End is falling foul of immigration and labour rules and has been sacking Caymanians without cause. But while the director of the labour unit has documented serious concerns about the new management practices, Deputy Governor Franz Manderson has dismissed many of the allegations, which are all also denied by the new management team.
Morritt's had been heralded as a shining example of a resort that was not only employing a significant number of local people but one which also had a solid and experienced Caymanian management team.
However, in June of this year an application wasmade for a temporary permit for the owner’s son-in-law, Christopher Johnson, for the post of Operations Manager, a job which was already filled by local worker William Connolly.
Although Morritt's claimed Connolly was not being sacked but moved to assistant resort manager, according to correspondence between Director of Labour and Pensions Mario Ebanks and senior immigration officer Bruce Smith, when the permit was approved, Connolly was sacked.
Ebanks wrote that following a site inspection at the resort it was “the unanimous observation” of the inspection team that the problem was Johnson, who, Ebanks stated, appeared to have sacked Connolly without cause and then began terminating other local workers. Although Ebanks believed the inspection team had delayed some of the layoffs, he described Johnson as adamant about the need for more terminations.
Alongside the concerns of the labour unit that people were being removed without reason and without management following the correct processes for sacking workers, EzzardMiller and Arden McLean, the local MLAs whose constituents were being impacted, raised concerns with the governor and deputy governor over the situation.
Miller told CNS that he had an interest because both his wife and his brother, Jerris Miller, had worked at the resort and had both since resigned as a result of the management changes and the job terminations. Nevertheless, he said that he still had an obligation to his constituents who had lost their jobs from the resort to get to the bottom of what was going on. He and McLean raised concerns with the relevant authorities, but with little response to his letters and complaints to the Business Staffing Board, he took the issue to the governor.
In what appears to have been a more than four month probe over a stack of allegations into the goings on at the popular East End resort, the deputy governor recently told Miller and McLean that there are some issues but the main trigger of the complaints, which was the permit granted to Johnson, was legal. He said that officers who granted the permit did not know at the time that a local worker was actually in the post when the application was made.
Among the many allegations made it seems that around 20 longstanding Caymanian employees have lost their jobs. But the main issue appears to be that a once strong local management team, publicly and loudly praised by the owner, David Morritt, in the wake of the opening of ‘the Londoner’ last year, has essentially been removed by, it is claimed, Johnson. Then, in what appears to be a shake-up, various other members of staff in a variety of posts have also lost their jobs.
The resort has denied the allegations that it is not adhering to labour laws and a spokesperson for Morritt’s said the company had been an “outstanding corporate citizen for the last 25 years” and still employed over a hundred local workers.
In a statement to CNS the spokesperson said, “In addition to being one of the largest financial contributors to East End, it boasts one of highest percentages of Caymanian employees of any company in Grand Cayman, with a staff comprising over 100 Caymanians out of a total staff of 125 persons. It is unfortunate that false accusations are being circulated about Morritt’s, apparently for the personal and political gain of those parties that have been disseminating the misinformation.”
Denying any wrongdoing, the spokesperson added that the firm was fully engaging with the authorities as they investigate the resort.
“Because of the seriousness of these false accusations, Morritt’s has not only been cooperating with the government but has been proactive in seeking counsel and advice from the government at the highest levels, including within the Departments of Immigration and Labour. Fortunately the government confirmed last week, after conducting a lengthy evidentiary review including a comprehensive review of our permit applications, personnel records and conducting interviews of our staff, our management and our stakeholders, that these allegations have no basis in fact and that Morritt’s has been and still is operating in compliance with the laws of the Cayman Islands,” the spokesperson added.
Despite that claim, in his letter to Miller last month Manderson raised a number of issues that could still give cause for concern and indicated that there were other complainants filled and witnesses willing to speak up, leading to ongoing enquiries. But he had still concluded that there was nothing illegal in any action taken by government and that the Morritt's management actions also appeared to be in order.
Miller told CNS that he was deeply troubled by the hesitant position taken by the government authorities and that the power and influence of the resort was undermining what should have been a more thorough investigation into what has happened. But even the usually very out-spoken Miller hasbecome reticent about whether his advocacy on behalf of his constituents is assisting. He said that another four local workers were recently terminated and it appears that the more employees complain about what is happening, the more local people are losing their jobs.
While the situation at Morritt’s remains less than transparent, the battle faced by local workers continues across Grand Cayman and each week CNS receives reports of more and more problems faced by local workers. But many believe it is not just employers attempting to circumvent the laws meant to protect Caymanians in the workplace that is the problem but that the lack of enforcement by government authorities facilities the bending of rules by employers.
In his letter to the governor Miller said, “It is unfortunate, regrettable, embarrassing and shameful that I am unable to evoke any semblance of moral or ethical 'rightness' from the statutory authorities as a legislator on behalf of those people whom I have been elected to represent. These are the matters that breed violence, crime and revolution … in democratic societies when it becomes obvious that their elected leaders are neutered and made in-effective by the same government agencies to protect and defend them.”
Category: Local News
Well I would like to comment on some of my own personal experiences on this and I'll just accept the beating that posting your opinion on CNS gets you. I happen to own a timeshares at Morritts and stay there 3-4 weeks out of the year. I do have to agree that most of the employees I see there are not Caymanian, but I will also say that we’ve met plenty of Caymanians that work there some nice and some not so nice, my wife and I tend to remember each face from Visit to visit and I can contest that the ones I got to know that are friendly and greet you with a smile on their face are not the Caymanian employees, I remember them by face as well, one in particular was a front desk clerk that completely ignored us while we were waiting to be checked in opting to first help the fairer skinned guests that came in after us I also noticed that when I came down to the front desk he walked in the back room as soon as I walked through the front door as if he could be bothered, yet he jump we he saw a different looking person if you know what I mean.. I guess that goes to show how some people show prejudice against people that have the same color skin as themselves.
Another example was the Caymanian cashier at Fosters across the street that stood behind the register talking on the phone while we waiting nearly 15 minutes staring at her back. She finally huffed and turned around and started checking us out with a serious attitude. Not saying that this is the norm for Caymanian employees but not everyone that gets fired or losses their jobs means it was discrimination, sometime people just deserve to get fired, and being Caymanian should not make you immune from that, however a lot of people seem to think it should.
I also give you another example, years ago on our second trip to Cayman, we met with a really nice Caymanain Concierge, who keep trying to convince us to take a day trip to visit the turtle farm, when we said we’re we not interested her response was it’s only 25 dollars. When I inquired about chartering a boat for the day her response was well that’s 650 Dollars can you really afford that. My Wife and I were both so insulted but didn’t blame Mr David for her ignorance, it just shows that the world is full of prejudice but in my lifetime I’ve faced it mostly from people that look just like me.
I believe this, I never stayed at Morrits. But I do see that Caymanian tend to disregard and ignore the dark skinned tourists while they are quick to suck up to the white ones. Probably becuase they assume the black people are all broke. This is a form of predjudice that is rampant, people that hate thier own kind. Caymanains that always think they are better that Jamaicans or African Americans need to look in the mirror and ask what's so different about me..
So … is everyone on here really going to let slide the previous comment?:
Original post:
"I am an expat, but I honestly believe that there is a conspiracy at the highest levels of government to destroy the Caymanian people. Continue at your peril, you fools."
Reply:
"Its not a conspiracy. They (Caymanians) are not that smart. And neither are you. For an expat."
We are all grown and we know the standard western prejudices what underpin comments and mindsets such as this. Many of you are transplanting the typical poison that has seen your home countries and cities endure the most brutal of human conflict and suffering.
Unfortunately, this is the mantra and ethic that seems to dominate the Cayman workforce today.
The future of Cayman and her forthcoming generations is not looking bright folks, and quite frankly, a major reason is the attitude and prejudice that so many of the new arrivals have packed and brought in their suitcases.
Instead of broadening your mind and confronting your fears, so many of you have opted for the despicable and easy way out of simply following the typical playbook of the western world.
Yes, let us ignore the lessons of the Civil Rights Movement in the USA, Apartheid in South Africa, the Brixton Riots of London, and The Macpherson Report, right?
It appears as if many of our expats aka immigrants fail to understand that they have emigrated to a predominantly Brown / Black country and therefore will be surrounded by such people. Nevertheless, it also appears as if many of these same immigrants intend to exist in the Cayman Islands with as limited as posiible interaction with native (the ""native"-nazi's"" can have a field day with that one) Caymanians.
However, may I remind the room that racism, prejudice and segregation has NEVER successfully safeguarded one's family from eventually becoming mixed. Yes, your precious little blonde-haired, Cayman Prep School-educated Suzie may one day bring home an ebony-skinned McField boy from "Central" – what say you then?
(I grew up in the 80's and my extended family is very mixed and features a broad range of "races", nationalities and colors. In fact, it is hard for me to identify "full Caymanian" first cousins, (I myself happen to be the child of an immigrant / expat). That being said, I am proud to say that not only was that never realized as we grew up and shared this wonderful country, it is also true that no one cared!)
*Honestly, if you have relocated your family here and such a thought repluses you, then Cayman is really not the place for you – or the household that you lead. I say this because your mindset is simply unsustainable and quite dangerous to the host community.
My point is, the societal friction and segregation that now exists in Cayman is getting out of control. It is also now manifesting itself by way of trends in disenfranchisement, opportunities, promotions and economic power of the country. World history has shown us on countless occasions that this is never a good thing.
– Whodatis
I'm not surprised that you didn't let it slide. However, anytime someone makes sweeping generalisations about any nationality, colour, or crede, it is usually not something that deserves the dignity of a response.
I agree with the basis of your post.
However, when there is clear evidence of sweeping generalisations extending beyond a blog thread and into the very fabric of the society, I believe it warrants a discussion.
The color of skin does not have anything to do with the 'happenings'. It is all about who can and cannot be 'controlled'. Surveillence and firings. IPhones and IPads. Caymanians are the most loyal.
Excelled yourself this time Whodatis- the most bigoted, racist, politically incorrect blogger on here gives a lesson in racism and attitudes..classic.
Umm … ok.
I hear you, but I challenge you, and your many supporters, to forward evidence of the many charges you have laid against Whodatis. (Otherwise you're all just blowing hot air I am afraid.)
*Btw, we have a saying around here that speaks to thrown rocks, pig pens, and squealing. Do any of you know that one?
Well, how about this from your post:
" Yes, your precious little blonde-haired, Cayman Prep School-educated Suzie may one day bring home an ebony-skinned McField boy from "Central" – what say you then?"
It would be difficult to know just where to start with the many racial prejudices and stereotypes embodied in this one sentence. You appear to have absolutely no capacity for objective self-assessment, so I look forward to yet another of your blanket denials.
Thanks Whodatis, well said. Apologies for not responding to the ignorant comments but it is now pervasive.
"I myself happen to be the child of an immigrant / expat" – after all those times you have denied being half-Caymanian! Or is Caymanianness matrilinear? Do tell.
PS It is oafs like you who foment division with your chip on your shoulder rabble rousing.
Actually, I hope you "do tell" of a single instance of when I "have denied being half-Caymanian!".
Seriously … I'll be expecting a reply.
Until then …
The immigration board handling Johnson application fell asleep at the wheel and they should apologize.
Rubber stamping these types of permit without proper due deligence is the norm. Persons in government continue to be rewarded for mediocrity, they continue to believe that they are the authority and act as if they know it all.
When I was appointed to work permit board I swore an oath to confidentiality but everytime I hear these big wigs open their mouth it makes me want to call them out and reveal in detail the numerous times during their tenure when they turned a blind eye and left our system on its head.
God help us all in the Cayman Islands, THE revolution is coming.
Our labour board is an absolute waste of Government money anyway! They claim to be there to assist Caymanians but yet discourage, ignore and downplay any reputable employment claims a Caymanian brings against an employer. This island is a waste.
The labour office is not a waste my friend, they can only do what the Labour Law allows them to do. The Labour Law has ZERO teeth or repercussions for this sort of behaviour. Dont blame the officers hired to enforce the Law, Blame the legislators who have failed this country with giving us a Labour Law that has meaning and enforceability. We need a NEW and revised Labour Law, but guess what, we will get none as governments are controlled by special interest groups i.e. Chamber of Commerce, who dictate what Laws are needed.
Forget attacking the expats for getting jobs.We need to start attacking our too passive government who have the mentality of ” cayman kind” so far up their ass. Those caymaninans without work need to go to every industrial service(s) and demand a job! If that doesn’t work then call it out on the radio. Shame them. If it’s one thing a business doesn’t like is bad reviews. And although I like franz, I think he too needs to stop siding against his own. And again, don’t blame the foreigners for looking to save a buck from taxes we’d do the same if we moved to the “kindest” island on earth. Like the native Americans so well be the caymanian…..
Get real. You cannot force a company to give you a job. All that is possible is to lobby government for supposed unfair employment practices and push for more steingemt policing og work permit renewals and/or permissions.
Perhaps surveillance should be looked into. Is that how they know which employees are 'talking', hence, get fired or forced to resign…
If someone is terminated wrongfully, all they have to do is go to Tribunal. There is no mention in the article of anyone taking Morritts to tribunal….hmmm….maybe the people who were fired deserved it and so they went quietly. I've been there on weekend staycations and been approached by staff to buy drugs so i'm sure they need to do some serious housecleaning
This sounds like BS. I am sure if you were approached by staff to buy drugs you would have reported the matter.
i did report it to the resort and i'm pretty sure the person was terminated…hence my original comment
Well then they did the house cleaning on your report and cleaned out who needed to go. Sooooo that does not mean that there are others there that need to be cleaned out.
Those who 'realize' are let go….by firing or forced to resign……for the entire reign of the Kingdom of Morritt's, 25 years?
Perhaps all the fired employees went directly to where they had to go……to report. Unfair firings of Caymanians? Why would anyone 'let that go'. They lost their jobs, their livelihoods for no reasons given? For 25 years of loyal service, without being written up once? Hmmmm. Redunancy is a much misused term. By 'them'.
When the resort changed to Iphones and IPads is when MAJOR surveillance started. It had been in place prior.
Morritts Is a blessing for many folks whom otherwise would not have a job.
Just imagine if they deciced not to rebuild after Ivan.
pray they rebuild after the next storm
Also there are quite a few special needs people working at morritts that in itself should count a lot
I work at Morritt's and there are NO special needs people working there, neither part time nor full time. Perhaps this is the line they gave to immegration for "special favours" but you should check your facts before posting ………. unless you work for Immegration too!!!!!!! They do not appear to ever check the "facts" put forward by their friends.
I never noticed any 'Special Needs' people working there……
No special needs people are you kidding me ? I live in east end and I personally know many of them and I am proud that they have jobs.
I call them special needs to just be polite.
Criminals, deviants, mentally challenged what title do you prefer?
Perhaps you are a special needs person .
Criminals, deviants…are 'special needs'?
Your last sentence was also inappropriate.
The morale of employees on all levels is not good. The feeling is that no one is sure 'who is going to go next'……the Kingdom needs to stop what they are doing to innocent people. Why are they doing such things? What is the motivation? Does not sound 'honest' to me……
Caymanians need to wake up and realize that the only solution to the widespread industrial issues across many sectors being faced are Labour Unions.
Every country has them. They are the only way to balance the power of big business so that the little man is fairly treated.
A Union is simply an organisation that represents it's membership. Ezzard and Arden step up to the plate you are the natural leaders for such a body.
Business has their own Union, and it's called the Chamber of Commerce.
The other solution is for certain Caymanians to improve their skills and attitudes in order to become valuable employees. Continuing to perpetuate a sense of entitlement (which is what Arden and Ezzard are doing) will only result in the frustration that leads to the crime that is becoming more and more common on our precious island.
And what of the Caymanians with high skills and excellent attitudes whose careers are destroyed because they stand in the way of an expat?
This notion that an equally qualified Caymanian will be passed over for hire in favor of an expat is an absolute fiction. The reality is that all things being equal, an employer will favor a Caymanian over an expat for no other reason than they can save a work permit fee.
What qualified Caymanians are concerned about is not an expat taking their job (again, this rarely if ever happens). Our source of disgruntlement comes from our unqualified counterparts that have jobs not because they deserve them but because the fearmongers in our country (like many of you posting to this site) intimidate employers into hiring them and retaining them. Do you know how demoralizing it is for those of us who sacrifice to improve ourselves?
Valuable employees, and honest, loyal, are what they have proven to be. Not valued by a resort who embraces dishonesty.
It is terrible that such a key business is having its management interfered with by meddling politicians and bureaucracy.
Thankfully the Government is looking into such issues. Morritt's is NOT a Kingdom. With Anarchy within that Kingdom. Going downhill fast. If the family wants to sell, please let it be known already and be done with it. Please stop hurting those who are honest and loyal workers.
Perhaps Mr Johnson isn't so gooey eyed over those who cannot keep pace with international hotel standards and identified a weakness in his business model. It is for Caymanians to prove that they are the equal of their opposite expat colleagues and up their game to compete in a high expectation jobs market.
The Caymanian management team and staff that was there won an award for the Best Timeshare in Latin America and the Caribbean, they must have done something right.
The reports in the press, on the job they did on the recently completed Londoner Hotel, were also very complimentary towards the Caymanian staff and managemenmt. I also read that they published occupancy rates during the slow season was in the 80%'s and in the season it was in the 90%'s
They also boast of a 75% Caymanian staff, so at least in this instance, it appears that Caymaians are able to perform, and able to work with work permit holders when given the oppurtunity.
They did nothing right. It was a sales gimmick to promote when II, Interval International, took over the exchange 'program' from RCI. Paid to do so. Anyone who travels, anywhere, is well aware that Morritt's certainly is NOT #1. A 'top' resort it could be, has potential, family interferes. Not what they want………
He has a Hotelier background? lol…..family money is the driven
lol…..not what you think at all. Johnson has no experience in hotel industry.
I don't know if Johnson has a hotel background but if he had the good sense to bring back Willy Geiger who had been with the resort years ago, he did a great thing. I believe Geiger has a lot of hotel experience.The last resort manager, a man by the name of Miller, was as I understand it was a mainteance man who David Morritt hired for i don't know what reason. He was one of the worst we've had at the club and ive owned their for 22 years. we've had alot of managers at the resort and hopefully we finally found the right one
Keep pressing Ezzard and Arden. If they have cheated the system, those responsible shouldbe prosecuted and deported, no matter how much money they have. It is time for an example. This immunity from our laws has to stop!
Caveman economics will send people back to living in caves.
Not only do we problems with expats getting jobs over Caymanians, the new thing now is Foreign common labourers, mostly from Jamaica marrying young Caymanians then opening businesses not knowing what they are doing. These young girls take their money, party, pay their bills while their foreign husband is stupid enough to continue working here and giving her money….I think Immigration better take a long hard look on all the so called all of a sudden marriages, especially when rollover is around the corner or upon them….
same happens in the USA hence the movie Green Card.
And there you can see the basis of Cayman’s problems. Based on the thumbs up/down right now it appears a full third of CNS readers do not believe our laws should actually be applied.
More "managed" than "not applied".
11 thumbs down? There you have it, there are 11 management staff to fire! There are all family or friends and don't be surprised if haft are your own Caymanians.
Haft? What's 'haft'?
It is a bit of a shaft.
Are you one of the management ?
Do tou mean the immunity that politicians appear to have?
Agreed. ButI think the one of the main points of the article is that despite a 4 month long investigation, they determined that nothing illegal was done.
They were all aware of the significance of filing for a work permit when one was already in place for William Conolly, Operations Manager. Facts are facts. Clever to think they could get away with it, and they did? Hmmmm….easy to check with Management on all levels…All knew what was transpiring. Hence the resignations of key Caymanian employees. The Kingdom.
I am an expat, but I honestly believe that there is a conspiracy at the highest levels of government to destroy the Caymanian people. Continue at your peril, you fools.
Its not a conspiracy. They are not that smart. And neither are you. For an expat.
Not Corporate Conspiracy?
So for you Caymanian = stupid, and expat = smart (with exeptions, obviously). Your attitude is a major part of the social divide in Cayman. And you got many more thumbs up than down. No wonder Caymanians feel dscriminated against.
You left out, "I am an ungrateful, ignorant troll" in your self description.
Been happening for quite some time.
Being an expat does not give any validity to your ridiculous post.
So now the hotel industry is taking up where the law firms left off! Government is a sick joke!
They already started. Just like the law firms etc Caymanians are being let go, not hired but they are hiring their token black West Indian status holder, so not racist right?
still putting up with black folk
just not the local, native balck folk.
Lucky Jacans, Trinis, Bajans etc etc they have joined the white folk and taking Caymanians out, what a joke.
I'm a mixed one myself and see that if I didn't have that other West Indian parent would get no help from my Caymanian relatives.
What a racist ignorant bigot. I suppose you also believe it's only been people of color who were ever slaves in the course of human history and forget to remember Africans sold their own people into slavery. Clearly the enslavement of those who were not Roman during that epic isn't on your radar, or the enslavement of millions of Jews. Clearly you forget that there are plenty of multiple generational Caymanians who have pale skin and as you admit to yourself those of mixed blood in fact that was one of the wonderful things about Cayman unlike so many other places people were people and having generations who mixed and blended with people from all walks of life resulted in a unique blending of people now you trot out a black versus white non-issue when this is more likely about change management I.e., the management wants a certain performance standard and old timers don't want to change how they do their job and you can't touch us. It's called keeping up with trends in the hospitality industry something every hotel and resort must do on this island if we are to remain viable in our products. Or should we go the route of dumbing down and become just like the public sector in the private sector? All businesses need team members who are willing to change as the business model changes when they get to the point where they're unwilling to change unwilling to perform the duties that are required to the business can remain viable than the employer should have the right to replace that individual or those individuals with others who are willing to play by the new set of rules that's called free enterprise and business 101
Certainly an employee needs to be let go, by any means, when they start questioning…history proves
What are they hiding? Where are the MFs, Maintenance Fees, and why are so many units in disreppear, unihabitable? The family does not care, never did.
That chip on your should must get quite cumbersome.
They are not conserned with Caymanians or the law. Their only goal is to sell time share for as much as they can get by any means possible. I myself have been lied too, and robbed of money due me by a heavy drinking food and beverage manager their (an arogant ex-pat that replaced a good hard working Caymanian mother). My phone calls and e-mails were ignored over this and other issues . I was dismissed for no reason and was not even give a trumpted up reason. It took seven weeks to get a small part of what was owed me. The food and beverage manager should be sent to re- hab and then home and the Caymanian given back her job.I think all other managment jobs should be held by Caymanians too. Is that not the way it is supposed to be? The lame excuse that they can not find qualified Caymanians is still being used. Even if it were true and it is not, it should be their obligation and goal to train them. These are tough times buisness's should not be allowed to operate like the carpet baggers they truley are on Cayman soil. Hire Caymanians, treat Caymanians right or go away. There is sunshine and salt water every where the reason tourists come here and especially the reason they come back is becuse of the pepole the get to meet and have fun with, the real people, the native people… CAYMANIANS!
AMEN!
youre a complete idiot
It's the Caymanians that are the most intolerent of foriegnors, so I think you're wrong on that note..
Wasn't Ezzard supposed to match all unemployed to available jobs last year when the TLEP expired? Surely not all TLEPs applied for residence. Ezzard, how is that project of yours going?
If you did match them all as you said you would, unemployment would not be a problem still, would it?
This us vs them talk has to stop. It's not helping neither expats nor us Caymanians. I am tired of political promises which never materialize.
I trust RP means repugnant person, you are so quick to critize Ezzard. SOme of the persons being illegally terminated at Morritts are the very one he helped find jobs for. What have you done lately to help anyone even yourself.
I think he is also still working on building the hospital in the swamp lands, only 30 mill so far spent.
Bring back NACE – Calling on the Docta….come on back from Blue Fields Doc.
Manderson! really?
And maybe, just maybe there was good reason for some of the sacking to take place. From what I hear there has been a bit of money missing. Maybe more than a bit actually. Just sayin……let's wait for the facts. Maybe some people wouldn't like the facts to come out though.
Maintenance Fee monies?
Some of the poolside units are unihabitable but never shown to DOT……no upkeep…..lots of complaints on Trip Advisor, Cayman Islands Commission on Timeshare Reform and other avenues.
With all due respect when a hotel or tourist accommodation makes application for its license or renewal DOT DEH and Fire all decide what they want to inspect not the owners or management so if units aren't being inspected blame the inspectors first that is their job and if they are inspecting and letting it slide then go after them for corruption or failure to do their jobs!
Government will never intercede to correct any alleged unfair hiring or dismissal practices involving a work permit holder. They depend on the work permit fees!
What's new here? Duncan Taylor's son was slotted into a hospitality job without any relevant qualifications as was Martin Bridger's son. It's not what you know it's who you know.
And as for the WPB? A total joke with members rubber stamping applications they or their families have undeclared vested interests in.
Trust me, the Financial Sector is no different. There is full discrimination going on there. The Expats gets all the preferential treatment and the poor local has to watch what they do, what they say and who they talks to. They are there to slave work and shut up. Its like you are walking into prison instead of workand that is not a healthy way to feel. The upper management has their spies watching you, taunting you and back stabbing you just to find an excuse to kick you out the doors.
Oh really? Not where I work. Expats fired and sent home, and half our Caymanians (by no means all), roll up when they want, start with a 45 minute breakfast, 1.5 hour lunches and another hour late in the day, chatting on the phone the rest. And the little work that is done, generally needs to be done again. Fire them? I wish, too much fear of retribution, and all it does is keep the vicious circle going. Firing is the only way they will ever learn the value of real work. The mollycoddling going on now is just making the entitlement issue worse. Wake up Cayman, this is the real world!
These trouble have been ongoing but of course you would not expect any better from the Labour Department or Immigration. They are all puppets on a corporate string. And why would the deputy governor even need to get involved. The DLP, Immigration, NWDA are not allowed to do their job properly without interference from the "higher ups" because we cannot offend the rich investors and they must be permitted to do as they please.
How can a permit be considered much less approved for someone when a Caymanian is currently employed in the same position???? ….Left hand doesn't even know there is a right hand much less what the right hand is doing….sad. Sadder still is that we are becoming extinct…..not because of foreigners, but because of the ineptness in more than one government department but particularly Immig. and its subsidary Boards.
It cannot, except in truly limited circumstances, for the simple and fundamental reason that there is no need for it. In any event, applying for a permit without disclosing relevant material factors is most certainly not legal. If the facts were hidden from immigration that does not make the subsequent permit legal. It compounds its illegality. For anyone in authority to suggest otherwise is truly frightening!
I wonder, if the has been anything less than the required honesty in dealing with immigration, will there be any prosecution?
(the question is of course rhetorical -we know we don’t enforce our laws – they are just there to placate the masses).
They knew. Before applying….took a long time to apply, trying to circumvent law…….got away with it….for now.
Imagine the DG would be so bold to make such a statement. It goes to show that common sense isnt so common after all.
How stupid? Who wouldn't have asked if the position was vacant, before going ahead and approving a work permit to fill what wasn't vacant. Grow some balls, don't bat them.
There are more of you every day and your becoming extinct? The real problem is yournot keeping up with the rest of the world in education and job skills period. No other reason and still the reason some Caymanians are not getting or keeping jobs. If you can't do the job you will have to be past over for the business to work.
You are not educated! Your. You’re. Past. Passed.
The "passed" is correct, but the "you're" is not.
And yet I have never been turned down for a job. I guess I forgot to mention attitude dude. I may be passed but I am right Bobo.
Not the original poster but my read of their comment was them having an issue with the WP board granting a permit to the owner's son-in-law for a position that was already filled by a Caymanian. I'm not sure how anyone can support that scenario. If Morritt's wanted to re-organise the staff then they can do so within the law, it might take a bit longer but there's a right way to do it.
As the article indicated and as another commenter correctly pointed out already, it appears Morritt's did in fact comply with the law.
Wow. That must be pretty murky management if Jerris resigned from a good job. The man always had the labour law booklet in front of him. Good job Jerris, stand up for the people and now you can enjoy more time with the catboats.
This type of work permit games should be our Premier's primary concern! We have far too many good qualified (with excellent references and work experience) locals being tossed over for cheaper expendable labour.
Come on…the recruiters know their business is to place white collar expats even if a qualified local is better suited. (A good white collar local will stay in the job so the recruited position is now off the placement company's books?)
It is a losing game unless we ENFORCE THE LAW. However, Dear Polticians, that means a little less in work permit fees and growing some balls to do what you were elected for.
Sack ALL Immigration Board Members and start fresh working with the NWDA, then and only them will the people respect you Alden.
(Same sad games apply in Civil Service with expat contracts Franz…..)
What qualifies you to sit on the immigration board if any qualifications are required? The boards are made up of polititian's family members and friends that look forward to getting free brurger king every Thursday. I have personally heard a board member takling down on Caymanians. Now if that is going on how can we expect caymanian to find work?
Moreover why should Cayman allow such an individual to be on a board representing the interests of the people and the country. They need to take a serious look/investigation into the board members as they are selling this country out. Then they need to look at these hiring agencies as some strange things are going on there. Have heard Caymanians have themselves listed with agencies and have jobs come up that they are qualified for but nothing send in for them. PS it would be interesting to know how many expats are working for them?
Typical "he said/she said gossip" and we believe everything. Wait for the facts before tasting your shoe.
It is time that politicians and government stop dictating to employers who they must hire. A company should be able to hire the most qualified and experienced candidate available.
At the end of the day if the company fails, will the politicians and government take responsibilty?
If you want to hire whomever you please, then go and setup your company in a country where that is allowed. In most countries the government will have some say in your hiring practices.
Not
In fact, in ALL countries the government has total say when it comes to employing foreign nationals!
The politicians are not dictating who anyone can hire. They are however dictating (under a system of fair and transparent laws) which foreign nationals can come and live in my country and on what terms. They also expect applicants to tell the full truth or face consequences. There is nothing wrong with that. Every single country on Earth operates on that basis.
Come on…the recruiters know their business is to place white collar expats even if a qualified local is better suited. (A good white collar local will stay in the job so the recruited position is now off the placement company's books?) – Run that past me again, the recruitment company, who get paid each and every time they place someone into a job, want to ensure that a longer term employee is placed to prevent the job coming up again (and their being able to charge another recruitment fee?) How exactly does that work, again?
Simple- expats average 3 years in job befits getting promoted, change firms, decide to go home. So a Recruitment firm has multiple opportunities to fill that same position a few times. Good ROI and good to keep the revolving door going around.
if a suitable local is hired and they work out – they stay with the firm and recruiters lose.
Sorry, but being married to a very qualified local I see the games the recruiters play. The worse offenders are trying to get into afinancial firm or law firm. The doors are shut at every management level for Caymanians (no matter how good the CVs and references)
it is a real shame that we are not grooming locals and that politicians and Boards are rubber stamping permits without question.
XXX
Recruitment Agencies make money as long as a Expat stays in the job as they get the placement fee and subsequent fee for ensuring Cayman CVs never reach the company that is renewing the permint as they act for the company to get the permit renewed. This way imigration never knows that a Caymanian applied and the company can say no Caymanian applied as the agency did not pass the CV on I have seen this in practice and can see no end to this sweet relationship as I have seen some of the lavish gifts the agencies give to the HR staff. My advice send a seperate email to Imigration when you apply for a job, if everyone does this and imigration does its job then the cycle can be broken.
stand up for the people …..so you quit..how is that making a stand?
more time with the catboats….maybe thats why he quit befiore he was pushed ?
Disgraceful behavior but Immigration and BSPB are a joke.
DG condones the madness so Caymanians suffer. Bring back the Caymanian Protection Board now before we become extinct.
There is a reason why things become extinct. When something can not function in the world as it is.
I hope you remember that when you complain about Caymanians eating turtle meat!
Ezzard and Arden are the only mla's brave enough to do the right things and defend us caymanians the rest are cowards afraid of they shadows. Dont worry in 2017 we going to show them and treat them exactly how they are treating us. Time longer than rope!
Um, Ezzard has not returned any of my emails about a qualified white collar local in George Town.
Mr. Miller if you are willing to stand up for the people, stand up for all the people and not just those in your District. If soneone emails you from your radio show appearance you should respond.
We are all in this together.
Politicians need to be neutered, because they don't know how to handle power and when they get unfettered power, we all know what happens. An elephant on a stampede isn't half as bad. And for Mr. Miller to suggest someone getting sacked breeds violence, crime and revolution is very worrying, because we see what politicians did in our neighboring country. I am sure that if it had been Miller as the employer who found himself in that position, he'd be the first puffing out his chest and saying no government is going to tell me how to run my business! My point is simply this: Politicians should sit down with both employers and employees and hash out a labour law that creates a fair set of rules to govern both employers and employees, then we wouldn't have these issues. But, politicians have all the answers until they are elected and then they just want to weild a big stick until the UK says, "Come on boys, you're getting out of hand now." As a born and bred Caymanian, I will NEVER ever vote to separate from the UK to give our local politicians unfettered power. They are too dangerous. They will have to learn to work with and get along with the UK.
Well said, totally agree with you 100%!
Interesting, but umm … have you spoken with an average Brit lately?
If you were to repeat what you have posted to a Brit today he may look at you as if you're nuts.
Anyway, I suggest you grow a pair – be them nuts or coconuts.
Who the heck willingly signs up for an infinity of servitude?
Moreover, who the heck "thumbs up" such sentiments? Wait … never mind, I know.
😉
Hey Whodatis, heard about the missing BILLION DOLLARS? What would a Brit say about that? Unaudited governmental accounts as the norm, think this happens in England?
Don't know if it does. However, when the Brits can simply print-another-pound out of thin air it hardly matters does it?
Personally, I would take an unaccounted (which by the way does not necessarily translate into stolen, misappropriated or missing) 1 billion dollars over an economic system that is centered and dependent on the aforementioned tactic.
Moreso as the allegedly "guilty" CIG ministries are booming and producing some of the best results in recent memory.
Just sayin …
Everyone but the fools. Good news is Thankfully we outnumber the fools. Bad news is they are in charge here.
Ah hear ya deh uncle T its people just like you why we are in this mess now and why we have to rely on Politico's to try and get some measure of justice, because or so called government and UK protector simply has its very own agenda. Its people just like you who's blind faith and loyality in our UK Lord who let it happen too. Until you become a victim then you will sing a different Tune. You and many keep using Jamaica as an example but ask yourself this who ruled Jamaica and who educated the same very politicians who ran it to ground. Who's rule cause them to seek independence in fact why did they leave??? Get yourself educated before you go running off ya mouth with your Plantation manager propaganda and ideology.
Err Jamaica was the diamond in the crown before independence. Their new leaders managed to screw it up all on their own, and they have a much bigger gene pool than here. Go for independence and sign Caymans own death warrant.
Just remember a few things, Cayman is a dot on the map; no man is an island; the whole world is integrated now. If you think Cayman can exist in isolation, you are the uneducated one, Uncle T. If you consider the big picture, you would understand. And if you look at Jamaica as you suggest and claim the Jamaican's who ruined Jamaica were trained by the British, as if our politicians wouldn't do us the same thing, you are mistaken big time. I don't know how ignorant you may really be, but this Jackass ain't taking any chances with my future. I have considered all the things that can go wrong with independence and I am not prepared to take the risk.
When Jamaica became independent the island was still ran by the same mixed European group who made sure they kept the Jacan accent to make the African Jamaicans feel united, meanwhile party system came in and tore them apart yet the political parties they fought each other for were not even headed initialy by the African Jamaicans.
What's surprising is that Caymanians are hell bent on bending over backwards for Jamaicans to completely run Cayman BUT they have the English fooled into believing Caymanians hate them. Go learn teh history people and don't just read what the political parties tell you to read.
One can choose an act or action however the problem is that you have no choice as to the consequence.
Are you done prostrating before the UK, buddy? Because you just gave them a bit too much praise there. Why do you feel compelled to stroke their ego like that?
You may not have a choice.
Not sure about all the permit issues, I would investigate who they are hiring to replace these people. That being said, I've been to Morrits a few times for lunch and they have some of the worst customer service on island so maybe some of the layoffs were neccessary.
Sadly those incharge are too busy denying credit card charges but yet they attended the Carnival at the same location.No worries just another day another Caymanian pushed from the work place.