A group lobbying for a cruise pier development in the Cayman Islands has hailed a decision to move forward with a public referendum on cruise berthing infrastructure.
The Association for Cruise Tourism (ACT) celebrated what it says is a victory in getting lawmakers to agree to hold the public referendum.
ACT Executive Program Manager Ellio Solomon said: “This is exactly the outcome ACT has worked tirelessly to achieve. “It is a major step toward aligning Cayman’s cruise berthing infrastructure with modern standards.”
“By refusing to bow to pressure from those who disregard the livelihoods of thousands of Caymanians connected to the cruise tourism sector, our leaders have ensured the democratic process is upheld,” he added.
The Caymans’ continued reliance on tendering has stalled any cruise traffic growth and cruise tourism has actually been declining.
The ACT says it is essential to develop a permanent berthing pier for cruise ships to safeguard jobs reliant on cruise tourism.
Cayman Deputy Premier Bryan said: “This bill is more than just a piece of legislation. It is a promise to our people that their voices are valued in guiding future decisions.”
With the referendum now set to take place in April, the ACT says it ‘remains focused on ensuring that the interests of Caymanians remain at the center of all discussions surrounding the future of cruise tourism.’
A cruise port has been proposed several times over many years but has until now always stalled due to environmental concerns and overall costs.
