Mac turns down UN invite
Posted on Tue, 04/05/2011 - 18:54 in Headline News
(CNS): The Cayman Islands’ premier has turned down an invitation to host the United Nation’s Special Committee on Decolonisation annual seminar here, his office revealed on Tuesday. Despite a release from the United Nations stating that the meeting would be held in Cayman next month, officials from the premier’s office said that McKeeva Bush had written to committee chairman, Francisco Carrion-Mena, on Tuesday morning stating that it would not be possible for his government to host the meeting. Although no reasons have been given as to why Cayman is refusing the invitation, officials said the CIG had never agreed to have it here in the first place. The UN “had jumped the gun” when it said the meeting would be held in Cayman, officials added.
In his letter to the UN committee’s chair the premier reportedly offered his appreciation and gratitude for the invitation to host the annual meeting but turned it down without explanation.
The UN had released the information at the weekend indicating that the Cayman Islands had been selected following consideration of a number of factors in selecting the venue, including the political situation and logistics of several countries in the Caribbean. CNS has contacted the UN Decolonisation Committee to ask why it believed the CIG had already accepted the invitation and where the apparent miscommunication occurred and is awaiting a response.
The news that the meeting was planned to be held here had received a warm welcome from local activist group, the People for Referendum, which pointed to the importance of holding these meetings in the remaining colonies or non-self governing territories (NSGT).
The local group, which supports the idea that the Cayman Islands should move away from its current colonial status, said the matters discussed by this committee directly relate to the governance relationship between the territories and their respective administering power. The group said that holding seminars in the territories helps to educate the people about the governance options that the UN resolutions obligate all administering powers make available to the people in the territories.
The group said the decision not to hold the committee's seminar in the Cayman Islands after all will deprive Caymanians of a valuable educational opportunity on governance. “Whether we like it or not, in 1945 and again in 1960 it was the UK that put the Cayman Islands on the UN Non-Self-Governing Territories list; the UK was one of the six member states that drafted the establishment of the UN Special Committee on Decolonisation and they also drafted the governing rules between the Administering Powers and Non-Self-Governing Territories,” the PFR said.
“One of these rules requires annual reports on each territory; these annual regional seminars are part of that reporting process when each territory's government, civil society organizations and individuals have an opportunity to talk with the members of the UN.”
The group added that it was still important that Caymanians understand how their future is being discussed at these multinational meetings and that the public exercise their right of free speech.
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This is a missed opportunity
The Uk / Cayman government is
keep the populace in the dark
***** @ Comment 16:11 - The
***** @ Comment 16:11 - The UK "government" per se does not reap any real benefits from these islands. But the UK' private sector, those making the bucks and have influence in parliament do reap the benefits! I feel because the UK is getting alot of pressure from the UN, they are preparing now through this Premier to lead us into Independence. That explains why they want us to have a tax system here, that is why the Premier is engaging in major projects and talking about oil refinery here, that is why he is printing new dollar bills with his signature, and in building a new cruise berthing facility. All of these things is what a country do that is Independent! But meanwhile, I feel because of their history of colonialism, they will somehow drain the country of its wealth before they push us into independence. It sounds sinister, but there is proof that they did this before to other colonies that went Independence. The UN is pressuring them on human rights, and they will not give in to the UN, hence, look what they did to TCI. Just out of one man's corruption case, they caused the terrible downfall of TCI's economy and without the people's consent terminated their precious democracy. I felt that was done on purpose. I also feel that their next move would be to declare Independence on TCI after they are weak and vulnerable. From their history, I realize they had tried to do the same thing to Cayman, but could not get a good corruption case with Judge Henderson carrying his complaints to Britain and their lack of evidence. Also, certain interest groups are at them for tax evasion and Cayman's name is called as one of the culprits. They, the Government don't want us without ruling over us! Hence, they will rather hurt our economy by causing our Premier to rush to make it better by engaging in massive projects and placing us under deadlines. It is the oldest trick in the book. But that's how I see it - anyone that sees differently may share their own.***** Libertarian
But how? At the moment,
But how? At the moment, there are a good few privately owned British (and American) companies earning substantial sums globally in offshore business, yes, but these companies are operating in independent nations as well.
These companies (both the local offices and their global counterparts) would stand to lose a great deal of profit if a tax system were implemented, so I doubt many would be pushing for that. And even if a tax system were to be implemented, neither private companies nor the UK government would stand to gain anything. Taxes recovered would be used here in Cayman for our own purposes -- or am I wrong?
Just trying to understand the specifics...
I they wanted Papa Mac to
It is said none are more
This would have brought much
This would have brought much needed cash to Cayman! What a shame. But I guess Mac and his entourage already have a trip planned for that week anyway.
The one thing our fearless
First off I buy the idea that
First off I buy the idea that we don't want to become independent. So let's get that out of the way. Lets look at a few points though
1. The U.N. is pushing for all countries who are regarded as "colonies" to be freed.
2. The U.N. have said that what they are not happy with, in terms of the U.K. is that it is either you are independent or you take their options - not yours.
3. This meeting will take place if we host it or not.
4. In the end it will be the U.K's choice if we are independent not ours. However the upgrading of our constitution takes us one step closer towards the possibility of independence. The question will always be what will be our relationship after that time. And their are options but it would appear as if the U.K. will not offer them all to you.
It is not the UK's choice
It is not the UK's choice whether we are dependent or not. If we ever determine that we are capable of determining our own future, the UK will step aside.
Maybe not anytime soon, but one day we will be ready.
I cannot see the UN stance
I cannot see the UN stance as a good one for our TINY island. We do not have the infrastructure to be Independent and we only need to look at our failed island neighbors to see this. The fastest way to shut down our finance industry is to make us go independent and stand on our own dollar (hilarious, we would not survive the global competition for one week)
The UK and UN are not keen supporters of Cayman and our islands as a venue would have political spin doctors spewing out their message, not ours. I'm NO fan of Mac's, but this time I agree to keep the UN politricks from stepping on our soil to discuss our demise (er, um "Decolonization")
Interesting how the media is
The U.N. did not invite
Sorry but such statements
Even if the conference was
Its maybe for the best, we
Guys, Are you thinking that
Guys,
Are you thinking that maybe we have all missed something already?
The governors office is supposed to host such events.
The governor is sitting back not showing his face at all and he should be taking the lead in such matters.
I think we have already gone through the process of self determination with Big Mac at the wheel. All that's left to be done is to announce the date of Independence!
Who is going to pay for us to buy our freedom from the UK Dart? He doesn't have that much money!
IT WILL COST TRILLIONS OF POUNDS!
Just watch the way things are going
No involvement of the governor means we already have a President, the premiere's title is just a visible
Good stuff for Austin and
Good stuff for Austin and Gilbert!! Boy Mac you sure keeping Hurley's entertainment in business..How much they paying you?
Mac, of course, we are not
Turning it down was wise. Can
Turning it down was wise. Can you imagine the outcry if we hosted it and then people asked, and found out how much it COST us to host it? And trust me - it would not be cheap!!!
I would much rather they
I would much rather they hosted it than blowing 50,000 to go to Spain for vacation. (oops cell phone conference)
As I see it, the UK gives us
Yes, that is right.... What
Yes, that is right.... What about our option to
Remain as we are?
My vote is NO to Independence and PLEASE your Majesty do not leave us to suffer our own politicians!!!
If not for the Queens photo at Goverment offices and the Post Office I would cringe to think Big Mac was my only "leader".
I remain a Caymanian Loyal to the crown, just as m grandfather and great- grandfather were!
In truth, I don't suppose the
In truth, I don't suppose the UK gives much thought to Cayman at all, except on those occasions when our local laws and constitution land them in hot water over human rights issues or our "tax-have" reputation (I know it is not an accurate reflection, but that is how we are often portrayed in the foreign press) is splashed all over the papers. What exactly is the benefit to the UK from holding Cayman as a dependent territory? I would guess it means a lot of administrative work, some diplomacy headaches, and little else. It isn't like we're paying taxes in the UK.
Sorry...should have read
Sorry...should have read "tax-haven."
To those giving thumbs-down, I am curious to know what benefits you feel the UK reaps from continuing to hold Cayman as a dependent territory. Just honestly curious...not attacking.
Spoiled children do not offer
Spoiled children do not offer much help to doting parents.
You are an idiot....do you
@ Libertaran - you although
Considering the ongoing
Considering the ongoing geopolitical climate of the world today - this was a sound decision by the Premier and CIG.
There is too strong possibility of a negative reaction by way of rampant speculation, not to mention malicious fear mongering by our competitors, to allow such a forum to take place in the Cayman Islands today.
Wrong place, wrong time - simple.
I support this particular decision.
Whodatis 04/06/2011 -
Long time no sword cross, so
Long time no sword cross, so it is disappointing that I have to agree with your position, although I don't know if we got there by the same route!
There is every chance that a vocal minority in favour of independence and motivated by an unknown agenda disguised as patriotism, would hi-jack the media and present to the world an image not reflective of the wishes of the majority of Caymanians. There is only potential downside in this for the islands.
How many on this thread understand that from the UN's point of view, maintaining the existing relationship with the UK is not an option? The UN recognises only independence, free association or integration as solutions. Maintaining the status quo is not recognised as a solution, so the likely will of the majority of Caymanians is ignored on ideologic grounds from the outset.
The meeting will be held
The meeting will be held whether it be here or somewhere else. Only the dumbest of the dumb would suggest that it is best not to listen to someone who is discussing your future.
This is just another example of Macdinejad making decisions without consulting with anyone, or only consulting with people dumber than himself. Although, it's hard to imagine where he can find people of that calibre at short notice.
My objection is not to the
My objection is not to the meeting itself, and you have raised valid points however, for the Cayman Islands to host such a forum at this time only creates the potential for more (immediate) harm than good.
I would encourage the Cayman Islands to be present at the discussions - but I do not support the notion of us hosting the event.
The attitudes of the world have reverted back to the same old rhetoric within the last 2-3 years. A quick analysis of the sociopolitical concerns at the forefront today (USA, UK, EU) clearly confirms this sad state of affairs.
Furthermore, so long as the money is 'not right' in the world this is the way things shall remain.
Therefore, who knows how long it will be before we can 'safely' explore the idea of seeking our independence.
We did not create the rules or design the game - we are but mere players on the board.
Until the masses get their minds right we are more or less limited to within the boundaries of their mindset.
For example, as we can all see by the comments on this thread - even many (expat) folks who are living in this country and ought to know better than aligning us with half a century old fates of regional countries have opted to raise these ridiculous and irrelevant fears.
Tell me now - what hope is there for an investor half way around the world that has never set foot in this country to maintain a fair and balanced opinion of this predominantly non-white, Caribbean island nation surrounded by, yet worlds apart from, arguably 'failed' nations.
(By the way, I am for the moment ignoring the hypocrisy of the 'failing / failed' status of almost every 'great' western nation, as well as the way in which these very nations have 'helped' bring our 'failed' neighbors to their current position as I compose this post.)
What a pile of meandering
What a pile of meandering horse manure. My points were very succinct.
1. They will hold the meeting and we have no say in that matter.
2. Why not have it here where everyone can hear for themselves what they are saying?
You seem to imply that if it is better for Cayman if it is held elsewhere and we send delegates who can return with a watered down UDP version of the proceedings to spoon feed the uneducated voting masses.
The business of the UN Committee is not to tell us to go independent, but instead to tell us about our options.
The UK says there are two options, independence or status quo. The UN says there are other options including free association with limited self-governance. Despite the best efforts of Billy Adam, Pastor Al, Sophia Harris et al, more than 50% of the electorate have no clue than the UN has been pushing the UK to offer other options.
In the same way the UK can exert influence over us, the UN can exert influence over the UK. By having the meeting here, the proceedings could be reported on locally and by the UK press, thus leading to a better informed electorate.
I believe our main source of
I believe our main source of conflict here is that you are focusing on a domestic / national perspective on the matter, whereas I, on the other hand, am focusing on the perspective of outward / international fears and concerns.
Even if all you have said is actually true - it will not go a long way in the everyday life of the real world.
As for "the UN can exert influence over the UK" - I would not advise anyone to make a decision with such a notion as their insurance policy.
If the UK managed to illegally co-invade another nation based on a pack of maliciously orchestrated lies, killing hundreds of thousands in the process, all in the face of the UN (and the rest of the world) ... just imagine how easy it would be for them to wreck all that we have going on here?
What would be our available recourse thereafter? A lawsuit via the relevant international UN courts and procedures? The damage would have long been done.
For all those who like to
For all those who like to rant on this issue stay tuned to Super Tuesday to listen to Independence Ezzard whine about this seminar not being held in Cayman.
I suspect many people don't care about this seminar but they love another reason to bash McKeeva.
I think everyone knows by now
Agreed...the meeting would
I guess the UN didn't get the
okay am a little bothered by
The thing that is not being
The thing that is not being said here is the message that would be sent to the financial community - the Cayman Islands is entertaining the idea of independence. I dont agree with bush generally but this time he got it right.
So keeping the UN out to
***** CNS: "The group said
***** CNS: "The group said that holding seminars in the territories helps to educate the people about the governance options that the UN resolutions obligate all administering powers make available to the people in the territories." Simply stated, the UN was to come here to educate the people of the Cayman Islands on their basic human rights and the options available towards pursuing these rights from being infringe by an administering power such as the UK in coalition with certain members of our local government. This had nothing to do with pushing the Cayman Islands into Independence like how some people would like to surmise. Colonialism has to do the UK' FCO and her Governors treating the people of these islands as "subjects" and not as equals to the rest of the United Kingdom. The Turks and Cacois Islands is an example of colonialism disguised as a "good cause towards good governance." The UN's visit would had simply educate the public of their options and options of self-determination, because in reality, are Constitution is cleverly set-up to ensure that we are not guaranteed full representational democracy. People, read the document for yourself and you will see the colonial powers of the Governor (for Her Majesty's Interest) against the people's elected representation. There is no guarantee to ensure representation and hence the document is immaterial in terms of our democratic rights. If what I am saying is not true, prove to me that I am wrong! Do you want this to happen to us where the administering power can just undermine the people's democracy - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLEPz0Pl1xY&feature=player_embedded
I have just viewed the video
I have just viewed the video @ the link posted. You are undeniably correct. It is soothe saying hypocracy at it's best. All in the same breathe the Turk's & Caicos governor contradicts himself, midway through 'we must focus on sustainable development' end part 'we must safeguard fundamental assets for future generations'. In definition,sustained can contrast significantly from sustainable,but ultimately,obviously it means the same thing. It's the usual looping of words,post shifting,subtle non-sense we accept from the Uk,under the guise of good governance.
The video on youtube just
Do not worry my good folks,
The best snub I've seen way
He turned it down so that it
He turned it down so that it will be held somewhere else which means he gets to travel again. It's been at least a week since he has been on a plane so he needs to get back in the air.
you know, i never thought
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