Cayman Islands

Cayman Islands Announces Inaugural Heritage Month May 2026

The Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage announces the inaugural Heritage Month in the Cayman Islands, to be celebrated from 1-31 May 2026 under the theme 'Threads to Our Traditions'. The observance encompasses Emancipation Day on 4 May and includes heritage showcases, performances, community events, and educational experiences across Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac.

King's New Year Honours 2026 Nominations Open Cayman Islands

The Governor's Office of the Cayman Islands has opened nominations for the King's New Year Honours 2026, recognising individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the community, profession, or public service. Nominations are accepted from any member of the public via email, post, or in-person delivery to the Government Administration Building. The Cayman Honours Committee will review submissions and forward selected nominations to the UK for final determination.

Immigration Amendments Effective 1 May 2026

Cabinet has approved commencement orders for amendments to the Caymanian Protection Act, passed by Parliament in December 2025 and March 2026. The four regulatory instruments commencing 1 May 2026 include the Caymanian Protection (Fees) Regulations 2026, which consolidates all immigration fees into a single framework with a tiered approach, plus three additional amending regulations covering temporary work permits, business visitors' permits, and arrangements of convenience.

George Town Landfill Fire Downgraded to Critical Incident

The Cayman Islands Fire Service has downgraded the George Town Landfill fire from a Major Incident to a Critical Incident as of 18 April 2026. CIFS remains in operational command with support from the Department of Environmental Health, which continues monitoring environmental and public health impacts on neighbouring communities. Isolated smoke activity is being managed at the northwest corner with seven personnel deployed on site.

Multi-Agency Welfare Checks for Fire-Impacted Cayman Communities

Multi-agency teams from the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service, Cayman Islands Regiment, and Health Services Authority began conducting welfare checks on April 17, 2026 at 3:00 PM for residents of communities near the George Town Landfill fire that started on April 16. Teams will continue until all community checks are complete, with an evaluation scheduled at end of day. A public health advisory was issued with smoke exposure guidance and health symptom monitoring instructions.

George Town Landfill Fire Under Control, Extinguishment Efforts Ongoing

The Cayman Islands Fire Service confirms the George Town landfill fire is under control. Equipment challenges and intermittent smoke have slowed extinguishment efforts, with approximately 50 personnel engaged in the response. The Department of Environmental Health is conducting air quality testing, and one lane of the Esterley Tibbetts Highway has reopened with a 20 mph speed limit. No new compliance obligations are imposed.

No Bus Fare Increase - Directive Issued to Operators

The Cayman Islands Ministry of Planning, Lands, Agriculture, Housing & Infrastructure has advised that no public bus fare increase has been approved by Cabinet. The Public Transport Unit has issued a formal directive to all omnibus operators requiring immediate removal of fare increase notices from vehicles. Operators must ensure fare tables reflect only the approved rates established by the Public Transport Board.

George Town Landfill Fire Contained, Highway Reopened

The Cayman Islands Fire Service and Department of Environmental Health provided an update on the George Town Landfill fire. Fire crews contained the fire with no visible flames remaining; hot spot monitoring continues. The Esterley Tibbetts Highway has reopened. The landfill will resume operations tomorrow from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm with restrictions including single-vehicle tipping and waste inspections.

Immigration Board Appointments Announced for Cayman Islands

The Ministry of Caymanian Employment & Immigration announced appointments and re-appointments to four immigration boards: the Work Permit Board, Caymanian Status and Permanent Residency Board, Business Staffing Plan Board, and Cayman Brac and Little Cayman Immigration Board. All appointments are effective until 31 December 2026. The announcement lists both re-appointed and newly appointed members for each board, including chairpersons, deputy chairpersons, and members.

George Town Landfill Fire, CIFS Containment Efforts Continue

The Cayman Islands Fire Service continues containment efforts at the George Town landfill fire, which was reported in an active fill area near Esterly Tibbetts Highway. Multiple fire resources including Tankers and a trailer pump are deployed, with police drones monitoring spread. Esterly Tibbetts Highway is closed between roundabouts. Residents are advised to stay indoors, and Marie Martin Primary School is closed on April 17.

Larvicide Treatments Scheduled for West Bay Peninsula

The Mosquito Research and Control Unit (MRCU) announces larvicide treatment operations along the West Bay Peninsula on 17 April and 20 April 2026. Low-flying aircraft will apply larvicide to targeted wetlands to control Aedes taeniorhynchus (black salt marsh mosquito) populations ahead of seasonal tidal hatching cycles. The treatments aim to reduce mosquito numbers and community impact, with each application effective for approximately six weeks.

Free Parenting Programmes Across Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac, Apr-Jun 2026

The Family Resource Centre, a unit of the Department of Counselling Services, announced free parenting programmes for families across Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac from 22 April to 25 June 2026. The programmes include the internationally recognised Triple P – Positive Parenting Programme and virtual sessions on topics including teenagers and screen time, parenting children with ADHD, and effective parenting strategies. All programmes are free with childcare and dinners provided to remove participation barriers.

Cayman Islands Landfill Fire Declared Critical Incident

The Cayman Islands Fire Service responded to a major landfill fire following a 911 call at 12:54 p.m. on April 16, 2026. Station Manager Ian McLaughlin formally declared the incident a critical incident due to the scale, complexity, and potential environmental impact. The public is advised to avoid the affected area and be mindful of potential smoke drift affecting nearby communities.

George Town Landfill Fire Suppression Operational Update

The Cayman Islands Fire Service issued an 11:00 p.m. operational update on the George Town Landfill fire, reporting steady progress in containment efforts with continued suppression and hot-spot monitoring. The Esterley Tibbetts Highway remains closed between the Butterfield Roundabout and the Jay Bodden Highway, affecting commuters from West Bay and Seven Mile Beach. Several nearby schools will close on 17 April, and the Department of Environmental Health reports elevated air quality readings in the Lakeside area.

Public Health Reviewing Positive Cholera Laboratory Result

The Cayman Islands Ministry of Health and Public Health Department confirmed a single laboratory result positive for Vibrio cholerae and cholera toxin markers in a patient who has recovered from gastrointestinal illness. Clinical presentation did not meet criteria for severe cholera. No evidence of community spread or outbreak has been identified. Public health teams have heightened surveillance, are conducting water testing, and are monitoring close contacts as precautions.

DoA, CUC Partner to Repurpose Vegetation Material for Agricultural Use

The Department of Agriculture (DoA) and Caribbean Utilities Company (CUC) have entered into a partnership to redirect chipped vegetation material from powerline maintenance away from landfill toward agricultural use. The vegetation material will be delivered to a DoA-designated location where it will be processed into mulch or incorporated into composting operations. Farmers and members of the public may collect the material for soil improvement purposes. This voluntary initiative aims to support environmental stewardship and strengthen local agriculture through more efficient use of organic materials.

WORC and DLP Investigate Immigration and Work Permit Irregularities

WORC (Workforce Opportunities & Residency Cayman) and DLP (Department of Labour and Pensions) acknowledge recent media reports of alleged immigration and work permit irregularities involving specific individuals and businesses under the Immigration Transition Act. Both departments confirm they are actively investigating credible allegations and taking appropriate actions including investigations, administrative measures, and referrals for prosecution where evidence exists.

Parliament Final Meeting of 2025-2026 Session, April 29

The Cayman Islands Parliament will convene its Fifth and final Meeting of the 2025-2026 Session on Wednesday, 29 April 2026 at 2:00 PM. MPs will consider several Bills including the Airports Authority Amendment and Validation Bill, Auditors Oversight Amendment Bill, Health Practice Amendment Bill, and Proceeds of Crime Amendment Bill. The meeting will also include Ministry reports, Private Members' Motions, and Parliamentary Questions.

Eighty-One Civil Servants Earn Professional Certifications

Eighty-one civil servants were recognised at the annual Professional Certification Programme Awards Ceremony hosted by the Cayman Islands Deputy Governor's Strategic Reforms Implementation Unit. Honourees from the 2025 cohort received internationally accredited credentials in project management, business case development, and change management. Three ministries were commended for the highest participant numbers. Since the programme's launch in 2018, 348 civil servants have earned 602 professional certifications.

Finance Minister Engages Sixth Formers on Economics and Careers

Cayman Islands Finance Minister Rolston Anglin addressed sixth form students at Cayman Prep and High School on economics, career opportunities, and public finance management. The Minister discussed the role of the Ministry of Finance in setting budgets, economic planning, and the importance of the financial services industry to the national economy. Students were encouraged to consider careers in accounting, law, economics, business, technology, and public policy within the Cayman Islands.

Top Civil Servants Honoured at 2025 Employee of the Year Awards Ceremony

The Cayman Islands Government will hold its 2025 Employee of the Year Awards ceremony on April 16 at the Kimpton Seafire Resort. Twelve Employee of the Month awardees representing various ministries will be recognized for exceptional performance and dedication to public service. The event marks the final Employee of the Year ceremony under Deputy Governor Franz Manderson before his retirement in July.

Bulk Waste Collection, Grand Cayman, Begins 4th May

The Department of Environmental Health (DEH) announces the Annual Bulk Waste Collection service for Grand Cayman beginning 4 May 2026, with collection scheduled over four weeks across West Bay, George Town, Bodden Town, and North Side/East End. Sister Islands collection is scheduled for the week of 25-29 May 2026. The DEH warns that illegal dumping carries penalties of 6 months imprisonment and a minimum fine of $500.

47 Native Trees Planted at Caribbean Haven Centre in Bodden Town

The Cayman Islands Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability planted 47 native, medicinal, and fruit trees at Caribbean Haven Residential Centre in Bodden Town on April 2, 2026. The initiative, part of the National Tree Planting Programme, commemorates the centre's 25th anniversary and themes of renewal, resilience, and hope. Tree species include the critically endangered Cayman sage, medicinal plants such as leaf of life and vervain, and fruit trees including mango, guava, pomegranate, and mulberry.

Dr. Mark Paramlall Appointed Deputy Chief Medical Officer

The Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability has appointed Dr. Mark Paramlall as the Cayman Islands' first Deputy Chief Medical Officer (DCMO), effective March 2026. The newly established position strengthens senior medical leadership within government and supports national public health oversight. The DCMO holds statutory responsibilities under the Mental Health Act, 2023, Public Health Act, 2026, Health Practice Act, 2026, and Pharmacy Act, 2024.

Cabinet Approves Advisory Trade Commission and Trade Development Framework

The Cayman Islands Cabinet has approved the establishment of an Advisory Trade Commission (ATC) and Terms of Reference for a Trade Development Framework, both administered by the Ministry of Tourism. The ATC will be chaired by Mr. Wil Pineau and include public and private sector representatives to assess trade processes and recommend policy improvements. A Request for Proposals (RFP) has been issued for consultancy services to support framework design and implementation, with submissions due 4 May 2026.

Gloria McField-Nixon Appointed Deputy Governor

His Excellency Governor Jane Owen announced the appointment of Mrs Gloria McField-Nixon as Deputy Governor and Head of the Cayman Islands Civil Service Designate, effective 8th July 2026. The appointment follows a rigorous open recruitment process and succeeds Franz Manderson, who concludes a 44-year career in public service. Mrs McField-Nixon brings nearly 30 years of senior public-sector experience, including 20 years as Chief Officer.

Government Reshapes Business Staffing Plan Board to Focus on Caymanian Employment Outcomes

The Ministry of Caymanian Employment and Immigration announced repositioning of the Business Staffing Plan Board to shift focus from routine permit processing toward strategic Caymanian workforce development. Workforce Opportunities & Residency Cayman will assume permit service responsibilities to ensure uninterrupted operations. The Board will instead concentrate on employer accreditation frameworks and addressing structural factors contributing to Caymanian underemployment.

Move it Cayman National 12-Week Movement Challenge Launch

The Cayman Islands Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability launched 'Move it Cayman,' a 12-week national movement and wellness challenge starting March 29, 2026. The initiative provides participants with an activity calendar featuring free and discounted partner offerings, plus access to the TeamFit app for tracking movement, forming teams, and earning points. Registration remains open for all Cayman residents.

47 Native Trees Planted for Caribbean Haven Residential Centre's 25th Anniversary

The Cayman Islands Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability planted 47 native, medicinal, and fruit trees at Caribbean Haven Residential Centre in Bodden Town on April 2, 2026, marking the facility's 25th anniversary. The National Tree Planting Programme included critically endangered Cayman sage, traditional medicinal plants, and fruit trees. Residents and staff will maintain the planted trees as part of their recovery programs.

Llewellyn House Relocated, 150-Year-Old Home to Be Restored

The Cayman Islands Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage partnered with GT One developers and multiple agencies to relocate the 150-year-old Llewellyn House from Elgin Avenue to the Bobby Thompson Roundabout on April 5, 2026. The historic structure, donated by the developer for preservation, will be restored to reflect traditional Caymanian architectural style. The project involved coordination among Public Works Department, National Trust, Ministry of Planning and Infrastructure, FLOW, CUC, and Royal Cayman Islands Police Service.

Dr. Mark Paramlall appointed as Cayman Islands' First Deputy Chief Medical Officer

The Cayman Islands Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability has appointed Dr. Mark Paramlall as the territory's first Deputy Chief Medical Officer (DCMO), effective March 2026. The newly established senior medical leadership position will support statutory public health responsibilities under multiple health acts and coordinate with international bodies including PAHO, CARPHA, and WHO.

Premier's Easter 2026 Message

The Premier of the Cayman Islands, Hon. André M. Ebanks, issued an Easter message to the public on April 3, 2026, offering seasonal greetings and reflection on the Easter season. The message encourages residents to pause, rest, worship, and spend time with family during this period. This is an informational public announcement with no regulatory or compliance requirements.

Garbage Collection Suspended Good Friday

The Cayman Islands Department of Environmental Health announced that garbage collection services will be suspended on Good Friday, April 3, 2026. Landfills in Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman will also close on this public holiday. Residential collections will resume Saturday, April 4, 2026.

CINWS reps attend Orlando hurricane conference

Three representatives from the Cayman Islands National Weather Service (CINWS) attended the National Hurricane Conference in Orlando, Florida from March 30 to April 2, 2026. The conference brings together regional and international partners to discuss hurricane preparedness, forecasting advancements, and disaster response coordination ahead of the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season starting June 1.

First Beach Signage Installed Under Public Beach Signage Project

The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism's Product Development Unit has installed the first of fourteen planned beach signs at Smith Barcadere on Grand Cayman. The double-sided signage promotes safe and respectful beach use, communicating standards such as no littering, no loud music, no unauthorised commercial activity, and pet control requirements. The initiative aims to enhance visitor experience and environmental stewardship across the islands' public beaches.

George Dixon Park Final Construction Phase Begins in East End

The Cayman Islands Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture and Heritage announced the commencement of the final construction phase for the George Dixon Community Park redevelopment project in East End. The Ministry broke ground on March 26, 2026 for multi-sport courts and a walking/cycling track. Project completion is anticipated by December 2026.

Parliament Management Amendment Bill strengthens Opposition leadership

The Cayman Islands Government gazetted the Parliament (Management) (Amendment) Bill 2026, providing the Leader of the Opposition with a dedicated office and staffing to fulfill constitutional functions. The Bill increases the monthly constituency allowance from $5,000 to $6,500 and allows upgrades from constituency assistant to constituency manager positions across all 19 constituency offices. The amendments took effect retroactive to 1 January 2026.

Moderate Mosquito Activity Expected Over Easter

The Mosquito Research and Control Unit (MRCU) of the Cayman Islands Government issued an advisory on 1 April 2026 warning of moderate mosquito activity over the Easter weekend. The advisory recommends residents and visitors use EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, or IR3535, and wear protective clothing. Pet owners are reminded to maintain heartworm prevention during Heartworm Awareness Month.

Fake AI Video Warning - Public Advisory on Misinformation

The Cayman Islands Government issued a press release warning the public about a fake AI-generated video circulating on social media that falsely depicts Premier André Ebanks promoting fake AI technology registration. The government is urging citizens not to share misleading content and to verify information through official government sources.

Michele Bahadur Appointed Deputy Chief Officer (Financial Services)

The Ministry of Financial Services and Commerce (MFSC) of the Cayman Islands announced the appointment of Mrs Michele Bahadur as Deputy Chief Officer (Financial Services), effective 1 April 2026. Mrs Bahadur brings over 25 years of experience in financial services, including roles as Director of Policy and Legislation and Director of Stakeholder Engagement at the Ministry, as well as service at the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority.

Good Friday Liquor and Music Restrictions

The Cayman Islands Department of Commerce and Investment issued a reminder to liquor, music, and dancing licensees regarding Easter period restrictions. On Thursday, 2 April, alcohol service must cease 10 minutes before closing, and alcohol sales are prohibited on Good Friday, 3 April. Music and dancing must end at 11:59pm on Thursday, 2 April. Hotels and restaurants with appropriate licenses are exempt.

Health Practice Amendment Bill 2026 Consultation

The Cayman Islands Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability opened a public consultation on the Health Practice (Amendment) Bill, 2026, inviting feedback from healthcare practitioners, stakeholders and the public. The Bill proposes sector-wide professional standards and an overarching framework under which individual professional Councils would develop codes of practice specific to their profession. The legislation aims to strengthen patient safety, professional accountability and regulatory oversight across the Cayman Islands healthcare sector.

Fuel Sector Regulation Transfer to URCO

The Cayman Islands Cabinet has approved drafting instructions to consolidate fuel-sector licensing and regulation under the Utility Regulation and Competition Office (URCO), transferring licensing authority from the Department of Commerce and Investment. This structural reform addresses fragmented oversight across over 400 regulated sites and establishes a unified, sustainable regulatory framework with clear enforcement authority.

Caymanians in Careers campaign launches, highlights tourism sector

The Ministry of Caymanian Employment and Immigration (MCEI) launched the 'Caymanians in Careers' campaign on March 30, 2026, to showcase Caymanian professionals across various industries and highlight career pathways available in the Cayman Islands. The initial phase focuses on the tourism sector, featuring Caymanian workers and their career journeys to inspire other Caymanians and inform students and job seekers about industry opportunities.

CBC Visa Regulation Amendments for Border Security

The Cayman Islands Cabinet approved amendments to the Customs and Border Control (Visas, Entry and Landing) Regulations, effective April 2, 2026. The changes introduce new visa requirements for nationals of Peru and Venezuela (for entry and transit) and in-transit visa requirements for Haiti and Dominican Republic. New exemptions were added for cruise ship passengers and operational crew members.

Crisis Management Framework Circular Issued

The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) has issued a Supervisory Circular outlining its commitment to implementing a comprehensive Crisis Management Framework across the financial services industry. The circular emphasizes the importance of such frameworks for stability and resilience, with detailed rules and guidance expected in Q1 2025.

CIMA Circular: AML/CFT Supervision of Virtual Asset Service Providers

The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) issued a circular detailing its approach to Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) supervision for Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs). The circular outlines the risk-based approach, including on-site inspections and desk-based reviews, and the use of technology like the Strix SupTech software.

Crisis Management Framework and Recovery Planning Guidance Update

The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) has updated its guidance on crisis management and recovery planning. This circular reaffirms CIMA's commitment to implementation, building on previous consultations and technical assistance, and aims to embed a structured crisis management framework within the Cayman Islands.

AML/CFT Weaknesses Found in 81% of Registered Persons

The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) reported that 81% of Registered Persons inspected between January 2022 and March 2024 showed weaknesses in their Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) controls. While improvements were noted in employee training and oversight, significant deficiencies persist, requiring RPs to strengthen their policies and procedures.

Virtual Asset Act Amendments Effective April 1, 2025

The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority (CIMA) is implementing Phase Two of the Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) framework effective April 1, 2025. This brings new licensing obligations for entities providing virtual asset custody and trading platform services, along with amendments to the VASP Act including updated definitions and enhanced prudential requirements.