Nominations are underway for the annual Order of the Cayman Islands awards and honours, which will be presented on National Heroes Day in January 2013.

Invited by the National Honours and Awards Committee, any member of the public can make a nomination for a resident of the Cayman Islands, living or passed away, for one of three sets of awards. Nominations close at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, 31 October.

Premier the Hon. McKeeva Bush, OBE, JP, endorsed the call for nominations: “We have long maintained that the greatest asset in the Cayman Islands is our people. So what better way is there to celebrate our people than by honouring the most deserving in the community?”

The Premier added, “Living among us are everyday heroes who deserve recognition for their work and contributions to the development, success and general well-being of our people and our Islands. Their selfless actions positively impact the lives of many others besides the immediate beneficiaries and such action is definitely worthy of emulation and appreciation.”

“As part of nation-building, my office ensures we give credit where it is due for the contributions of our people, and we continue to promote such recognition.”

Outlining the awards’ nomination process, Committee Secretary Ms Patricia Ulett said nominations are being called for:

The Medal of Honour, under three categories: Commander, Officer and Member;

The Medal of Merit, under two categories: Gold and Silver; and

The Long Service Award.

“Criteria, nomination forms and guidelines will be available online for printing at http://uit.gov.ky/pls/portal/url/page/mtehome or as printed copies at the Government Administration Building main lobby and all district public libraries,” she said.

“Completed forms should be submitted to Secretary, National Honours and Awards Committee, PO Box 106, Ministry of Finance, Tourism & Development, Grand Cayman KY1-9000. If selected, candidates will be sent a letter asking them whether they are willing to accept the honour,” she added.

For further information, email [email protected] or call 244-2152/244-2453 or mail the Secretary at the above address.

(GIS)  Photos: GIS