Source: The Association for Cruise Tourism (ACT) in the Cayman Islands

Ellio Solomon, Executive Program Manager of ACT

ACT Urges Leaders to Give Caymanians Their Voice, Support Cruise Pier Referendum

CAYMAN ISLANDS (January 3, 2025) – The Association for Cruise Tourism (ACT) in the Cayman Islands is calling on local politicians to defend democracy by ensuring the people’s right to vote in the much-debated referendum on cruise berthing. ACT emphasized that any attempt to block Caymanians from voicing their opinions is an attack on the people and is unacceptable.

Delivering a New Year’s message to the people of the Cayman Islands, Ellio Solomon, ACT’s Executive Program Manager, said, “Denying our people their democratic right to vote on an issue as critical as cruise berthing infrastructure is not only unjust – it’s a direct affront to the principles of fairness and transparency that underpin our society.” 

Solomon added: “Blocking this referendum silences the voices of Caymanians and undermines the very foundation of our democracy. Every citizen deserves the opportunity to shape the future of our islands, and any effort to prevent that is simply unacceptable.” He urged leaders “for the love of country” not to use political convenience as an excuse for delaying the referendum on cruise berthing infrastructure, a move which could jeopardize Cayman’s long-term economic stability and growth. 

Solomon stated that the latest claims from opponents of the cruise pier are nothing more than fearmongering aimed at creating confusion and stalling development: “We cannot allow political maneuvering to hold our country’s future hostage. Modern berthing facilities aren’t just about infrastructure – they’re about preserving jobs, strengthening our economy, protecting the environment, and keeping Cayman competitive in an evolving global tourism market.”

The former parliamentarian warned that continued inaction on this long-debated issue would risk pushing Cayman into economic stagnation: “We cannot afford to fall further behind … and while politicians may face challenges with the current minority government, the voices of all Caymanians – not just a privileged few – must be heard.” He also pointed to the vulnerability of the financial services sector, the backbone of the Cayman economy, to shifting global policies: “We must take bold, decisive steps now to secure Cayman’s future. The next generation will thank us for it.”

Noting that hesitation perpetuates uncertainty and weakens trust in the tourism sector, Solomon stated, “This is the time for leadership and vision, not excuses. We’re seeing growing support across our communities, and they deserve the chance to decide Cayman’s path forward.”

Solomon also criticized the campaign of misinformation spread by anti-pier activists. “Opponents refuse to engage in meaningful dialogue, instead relying on scare tactics and propaganda,” he said. “Their silence on securing an extended consultation period speaks volumes. Despite clamoring for more time on this issue, we’re now hearing nothing but crickets.”

He further noted that calls for cruise berthing infrastructure have spanned more than a decade, with successive governments advocating for its development. “You don’t get 15 years of elected officials supporting this project unless it’s a critical need for Cayman’s future,” Solomon said.

While critics argue that such pivotal decisions should be deferred to the next government, ACT views this moment as an opportunity to build public understanding of the cruise industry’s role in the Cayman Islands’ economy. 

In 2025, ACT will intensify its public education campaign to highlight the benefits, challenges, and long-term impacts of cruise tourism.

“The cruise pier debate isn’t just about infrastructure – it’s about safeguarding the future of our tourism industry and ensuring all Caymanians benefit,” Solomon concluded. “Now is the time to unite, act decisively, and make informed choices that secure Cayman’s prosperity for generations to come,” he noted, while passionately imploring, “Give the people a voice and a choice – it’s the least a thriving democracy like ours can do.”

About The Association for Cruise Tourism (ACT) in the Cayman Islands

The Association for Cruise Tourism (ACT) represents a coalition of stakeholders dedicated to the sustainable and responsible growth of the cruise tourism industry in the Cayman Islands. With members across a broad spectrum of the local economy, including tour operators, merchants, restaurants, bars and transportation providers, ACT advocates for the businesses, entrepreneurs and local stakeholders who benefit from cruise tourism, ensuring their voices are heard in decisions impacting this crucial sector. ACT is also dedicated to educating the public, advocating for balanced policies, and supporting initiatives that drive economic growth while benefiting all residents of the Cayman islands. For more information, visit actcayman.com.

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