Fuel Cost Review Committee – Hon. Johany Ebanks, MP (at head of table) L-R Hon. W. McKeeva Bush, JP, MP; Hon. Katherine Ebanks-Wilks, MP; Ms. Barbara E. Conolly, NP, JP, MP; Mr. Bernie Bush, MP; Ms. Nordra Wilcott, Assistant Clerk, Mr. Christopher Saunders, MP; Hon. Dwayne Seymour, JP, MP; Hon. Kenneth Bryan, MP

George Town, Grand Cayman – March 4, 2024 – Minister Jay Ebanks, the dedicated leader overseeing the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport & Development, continues to prioritize the well-being and quality of life for the people of the Cayman Islands. His latest initiative, the establishment of the Fuel Review Select Committee, underscores his commitment to finding practical and sustainable solutions to pressing issues facing the nation.

The Fuel Review Select Committee was formed during the Second Sitting of the Third Meeting of the 2023-2024 Session of Parliament on Tuesday, February 27, 2024, through Government Motion No. 5. This critical step towards addressing fuel costs in the Cayman Islands demonstrates Minister Ebanks’ proactive approach to governance and his dedication to serving the interests of the community.

Under Minister Ebanks’ leadership, the Office of Utility Regulation (OfReg) falls within the purview of the Ministry, providing a crucial platform to tackle issues related to energy pricing and regulation. Through the establishment of the Fuel Review Select Committee, Minister Ebanks aims to explore alternative, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly energy solutions that will benefit the citizens of the Cayman Islands.

The Committee convened its first meeting in camera (private) on Friday, March 1, 2024, at the House of Parliament, where the agenda included discussions on scheduling and terms of reference. Chaired by Honourable Johany Ebanks, Minister of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport & Development, the Committee comprises eight members of parliament, reflecting a diverse range of perspectives and expertise:

 1.  Hon. Johany Ebanks, MP (Chairman)
 2.  Mr. Christopher Saunders, MP (Member)
 3.  Hon. Dwayne Seymour, JP, MP (Member)
 4.  Hon. Kenneth Bryan, MP (Member)
 5.  Hon. Katherine Ebanks-Wilks, MP (Member)
 6.  Hon. W. McKeeva Bush, JP, MP (Member)
 7.  Mr. Bernie Bush, MP (Member)
 8.  Ms. Barbara E. Conolly, NP, JP, MP (Member)

Minister Johany Ebanks, the Chair of the Committee, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating: “The establishment of the Fuel Review Select Committee marks a crucial step forward in our efforts to address the pressing issue of fuel costs in the Cayman Islands. By bringing together a diverse group of experts and stakeholders, we are committed to conducting a comprehensive review and developing practical recommendations that will benefit our community.”

The primary purpose of the select committee was to review the cost of fuel in the Cayman Islands and to make recommendations to the house on how to reduce said costs. Minister Ebanks and his team are committed to conducting a comprehensive analysis and engaging stakeholders to develop effective strategies that will alleviate financial burdens on the people of the Cayman Islands.

Once the Committee has completed its work, it will submit a comprehensive report to the House of Parliament, outlining actionable steps to address the issue effectively. All committee meeting schedules and tabled reports will be made available to the public through the Parliament website<https://parliament.ky/>, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the process.

The establishment of the Fuel Review Select Committee marks a significant milestone in the 2023-2024 session and underscores Minister Jay Ebanks’ unwavering dedication to advancing the interests of the Cayman Islands.

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About the Ministry of Planning, Agriculture, Housing, Infrastructure, Transport & Development (PAHITD):
Under the guidance of Honourable Minister Johany ”Jay” Ebanks, The Ministry of PAHITD is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and economic prosperity of the Cayman Islands through comprehensive planning, sustainable agriculture, efficient housing solutions, and critical infrastructure and transport development. Our mission is to create a resilient and thriving future for all of the Cayman Islands residents and visitors.
(www.gov.ky/pahi/)