iNews Briefs & Community Events (From BIG FISH 95.5)
UK: Corbyn ‘hopelessly misinformed’ about tax havens – Tony Travers replies
From BBC
IMAGE: Getty Images
[Labour Party Leadrer] Jeremy Corbyn earlier said the UK should consider imposing direct orders in crown territories including the Cayman Islands to make sure they don’t become “a place for systemic evasion and short-changing of the public”.
But Anthony Travers, the chairman of the Cayman Islands Stock Exchange, told Anna Foster on 5 Live Drive that Mr Corbyn’s comments were “hopelessly misinformed”.
Over the last 15 years the legislation that has been passed in the Cayman Islands provides for complete tax transparency for HMRC and the IRS and for other EU tax authorities and indeed for law enforcement. So there is no secrecy with regard to transactions in the Cayman Islands whatsoever and I think the position here needs to be distinguished from jurisdictions like Panama where there is no such transparency. The suggestion that there is any sort of covert or non-disclosed activity in the Cayman Islands is redundant. Tax haven is a redundant expression when it comes to the Cayman Islands.”
For more: http://www.bbc.com/news/live/business-35944316
Cayman Islands cancels centralized ownership and transparency meeting
From reddit
Following the leak of the 149 reports of Mossack Fonseca yesterday the Cayman Islands (a British Overseas Territory), infamous as being a tax haven and known to be used among famous figures such as Mitt Romney, was going to hold a conference detailing a more “centralized” platform of ownership rather than a UK-preferred central republic registry. It also wanted to promote greater transparency between the ownership of the companies registered in the Islands. After learning about the leak, it was cancelled.
The Cayman Reporter wrote:
“In the Cayman Islands, this G20-led initiative to promote greater transparency on the beneficial ownership of companies registered in the Cayman Islands, prompted the PPM-led coalition to introduce a centralised platform for beneficial ownership rather than the UK-preferred central public registry.
“In an interesting turn of events, a previously scheduled press conference hosted by the Cayman Islands Ministry of Financial Services, Commerce and Environment, headed by Cabinet Minister Hon Wayne Panton was scheduled to be held on Monday (4 April) at 10am.
“However, following the news of the data leak of Mossack Fonseca, the media was informed that this press conference would not be taking place, with no indication when a new date would be scheduled.”
The Cayman Islands Monetary Authority which is the “primary financial services for the Islands and manages its currency board” is also owned by the Rothschild family.
For more: https://www.reddit.com/r/conspiracy/comments/4dfui5/cayman_islands_a_tax_haven_was_to_have_a/
Policy makers meet to discuss attainment of SDGs for the Caribbean
From ECLAC
Pursuit of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) will be the main focus of discussion at a meeting in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, on Tuesday 05 April 2016. Policy makers, representatives from regional organizations, and civil society groups are expected to attend.
The eighth meeting of the Technical Advisory Committee of the Regional Coordinating Mechanism (TAC/RCM)for implementationof the SIDSsustainable development agenda and SDGs in the Caribbean will be hosted by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) at its subregional Headquarters in Port of Spain.
Representatives will also consider ways to strengthen the TAC/RCM, as part of effort to re-invigorate the regional body to enable it to more effectively carry out its mandate.
The RCM was established by the Caribbean Development and Cooperation Committee (CCDC) in 2006, at the request of Caribbean governments, in order to support the implementation of the sustainable development agenda of Caribbean SIDS was mandated.
The RCM facilitates a coordinated approach among Caribbean countries towards achieving the development goals as outlined in the three SIDS platforms: the Barbados Programme of Action, the Mauritius Strategy and the SAMOA Pathway.
Horse gets titanium horseshoes thanks to 3d printing
By Christine Erickson From Mashable
A lucky horse received new titanium horseshoes, thanks to the power of 3D printing.
Scientists with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation custom-designed the horseshoes, shown in the above video, with the hopes that they could improve performance in horse racing.
Using a 3D scanner, scientists measured the horse’s hooves; then, shoes were 3D-printed and fitted onto the animal. The printing process took less than 24 hours, and cost around $600, according to creators.
The titanium shoes are designed to be lighter than traditional horseshoes, which are made out of aluminum. Although they come with a higher price tag than standard horseshoes, which range anywhere from $100 to $300, scientists believe the additional cost is worth the reduction in weight.
PhilPapers design contest
The PhilPapers Foundation is announcing a design contest open to the public. Participants are invited to submit designs for a new logo and header for PhilPapers.org. The Foundation is offering a prize of CA$4000 for the winning design. The deadline for submissions is April 30, 2016. For more details, see this page: http://philpapers.org/design_contest.html
A $2 Million Mercedes Benz for this Prime Minister
From Caribbean News Service
PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad – A new Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W222) valued at $2 million has been purchased for the official use of Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley.
Local media reports say the vehicle was acquired through local dealer Sterling Services (Battoo Brothers) Ltd and was at the company’s Sackville Street, Port of Spain, garage up to yesterday, being customised for official use.
Interviewed at the Hyatt Regency (Trinidad) hotel in Port of Spain yesterday, Rowley said he presumed if the Office of the Prime Minister orders a new vehicle, it would be for official use. (Trinidad Express)
For more: http://caribbeannewsservice.com/now/a-2-million-mercedes-benz-for-this-prime-minister/
2016 Deputy Governor’s 5K Challenge
The 2016 Deputy Governor’s 5K Challenge will be held on Cayman Brac on Sunday, 17 April and Grand Cayman on Sunday, 24 April.
The event aims to raise $50,000 to help Cayman Heart Fund in its drive to buy a new ambulance, and is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Registration takes place in Cayman Brac on 7, 8, 14 and 15 April from 8.30 a.m. to 3 p.m in the District Administration Building. In Grand Cayman, registration takes place on 7, 8, 14 and 15 April from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and 21 and 22 April from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Government Administration Building.
Visit www.odg.gov.ky/DG5K for the registration form and further details.
Glen Inanga Piano Recital for Cayman Islands Arts Festival Scholarship Programme
Cayman Islands Legislative Assembly date set
GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands – Following the agreement of Cabinet at its meeting on Tuesday, 22 March, 2016, the Premier has asked the Speaker of the House to summon the Legislative Assembly to meet on Monday, 25 April, 2016.
Government is expected to present several bills for debate and passage, including:
• Statistics (Amendment) Bill (2016)
• Standards in Public Life (Amendment) Bill (2016)
• Accountants Bill (2016)
• Companies Law (Amendment) Bill (2016)
• Limited Liability Companies Bill (2016)
• Legal Practitioners Bill (2016)
• Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill (2016)
Also to be dealt with are various private member motions and parliamentary questions.
Children’s Film Competition Registration Extended
The Cayman National Cultural Foundation (CNCF) has extended its registration deadline for students wishing to enter their short films in the Young Image Makers (YIM) competition.
Budding filmmakers can now submit their entries now through Wednesday, 13th April, 2016.
The Foundation is allowing students more time over the Easter holidays to work on their films.
Interested persons can submit films to CNCF offices behind Harquail Theatre by 5.00 p.m. Registration forms can be downloaded at www.artscayman.org/young-image-makers , for more details, email [email protected]
Cayman Islands Humane Society Book Loft March Monthly Sale
50% Sale on all books
Self Help
Spiritual
Parenting
Biographies
Sport’s
+
Buy 1 CD Get 1 FREE
Tel: 946-8053
Location – next to ALT’s on North Sound Road
Art through Cancer- Cancer through Art
Thu April 7 – May 12
Internship with Prosperity Capital Management
This internship is being offered by Prosperity Capital Management Ltd, as part of the National Internship Programme. The role offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and experience of accounting as well as some specifics of the funds industry. Various practical training sessions will be offered combined with the daily hands-on experience. The internship opportunity is available for those studying finance or accounting at a local college/university. Email [email protected] or call 945-3114 for application forms. Deadline is April 24th 2016.
Cayman Islands Meals on Wheels Annual Coin Collection Drive
Please note that the Meals on wheels Coin Collection drive will be held this year a little later on May 27th and 28th. volunteers will be outside all supermarkets on the island as well as Kirks Home Centre and AL Thompsons hardware. for those companies that see heavy traffic i.e. banks, collection boxes will be available for that week.
For more information please don’t hesitate to call
Pat Bazell-Taylor
916-6249
British Airways Nassau / Grand Cayman Aircraft Changes from July 2016
By JL From Airline Route
British Airways starting 01JUL16 is increasing capacity on London Heathrow – Nassau – Grand Cayman route, as the airline plans to operate 3-class Boeing 777-200ER aircraft, instead of 767-300ER.
The airline operates this route 4 times a week.
BA253 LHR1030 – 1450NAS1605 – 1640GCM 777 57
BA253 LHR1035 – 1450NAS1605 – 1640GCM 777 1
BA253 LHR1045 – 1505NAS1605 – 1640GCM 777 3
BA252 GCM1830 – 2100NAS2225 – 1200+1LHR 777 57
BA252 GCM1830 – 2100NAS2230 – 1205+1LHR 777 13
For more: http://airlineroute.net/2015/11/23/ba-nasgcm-jul16/
COMMUNITY EVENTS (Date Order)
WED APR 6
Wednesday 6th April is Quiz Night
CARE – Cayman Animal Rescue Enthusiasts
Why not get a team together and join us for the first Wednesday of every month for Quiz night at PD’s!
If you are unable to make it but would like to help spread the word about our Quiz, please click the attached image to download the flyer to share on your office notice board.
THU APR 7
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat
The Cayman Drama Society presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat with shows on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday from April 7th through April 24th at 730pm. There will also be matinees on April 17th and 24th at 5pm.
SAT APR 9
Human Society’s Bargain Blow Out Book Sale
The Cayman Islands Human Society’s Bargain Blow Out Book Sale is Saturday (9 Apr) from 9am until 4pm outside AL Thompson’s Main Entrance.
Meals on Wheels Orange You Glad Gala
The Meals on Wheels Orange You Glad Gala is offering sponsoring and advertising opportunities on Saturday. The event is April 9th from 6pm to midnight at the Marriott Hotel. For more information call 949.3905.
Click image to enlarge:
Guardians Alive 5/10K Walk Run
The Guardians Alive 5/10K Walk Run is Saturday (9 Apr) from 6 — 8am starting at Cayman International School.
MON APR 11
Communicating Effectively
The Chamber of Commerce is hosting Communicating Effectively by Terry Carson on Monday and Tuesday (11 & 12 Apr) from 9:00 a.m. — 4:30 p.m. at their office in Governors Square. Register online at www.caymanchamber.ky
TUE APR 12
Week of the Young Child Pajama Party
The Week of the Young Child Pajama Party is Monday (11 Apr) from 6 — 8pm at Gardenia Court in Camana Bay.
WED APR 13
Bookends Club
The Bookends Club’s next meeting is Wednesday (13 Apr) from 630 to 730pm at Books and Books.
Young Image Makers competition
The Cayman National Cultural Foundation has extended its registration deadline for students wishing to enter their short films in the Young Image Makers competition. Budding filmmakers can now submit their entries now through Wednesday (13 Apr.) Interested persons can submit films to CNCF offices behind Harquail Theatre by 5.00 p.m. Registration forms can be downloaded at www.artscayman.org/young-image-makers , for more details, email [email protected]
SAT APR 16
Culture at the Cinema Man and Superman
Culture at the Cinema featuring Man and Superman is Saturday (16 Apr) at 7pm at Regal Cinemas.
Camana Bay’s Slow Food Day Food Revolution Kids Culinary Challenge is Saturday (16 Apr) from 1230pm to 2pm in Gardenia Court at Camana Bay. The Farm to Table dinner is at 7pm on The Crescent.
Chamber of Commerce’s Earth Day Clean-Up
Volunteer for the Chamber of Commerce’s Earth Day Clean-Up on April 16 from 7a.m. — 10 a.m. Resources will be provided while supplies last. Register at www.caymanchamber.ky
Earth Day Island Wide Roadside Clean-Up
The Chamber of Commerce’s Earth Day Island Wide Roadside Clean-Up on April 16. Anyone interested in sponsoring or participating can contact Nikita Durrant at reception@caymanchamber.
SUN APR 17
Dr. J. Hugh Cummings Memorial 5K Walk
The Annual Dr. J. Hugh Cummings Memorial 5K Walk is Sunday (17 Apr) at 6:30 AM.
TUE APR 19
Seafarers Association General Meeting
The Cayman Islands Seafarers Association wishes to inform all Members that there will be a General Meeting, on Tuesday 19 April 2016 at 7:30 PM. in the Seafarer’s Hall, 11 Victory Ave. Prospect.
April Events at Camana Bay
This is the month to experience all things local with the return of Slow Food Day, a full-day event celebrating Cayman’s home-grown food scene. You can find your next treasure at a car boot sale, get your kids to fall in love with reading during a weekly book club or take some time for yourself and enjoy pampering opportunities with Eclipze Hair Design & Day Spa’s 23rd anniversary celebration. With Mother’s Day approaching, you can also celebrate early with a special Mom & Me cooking class and a family portrait session.
Here is a quick look at our special events:
Tai Chi
Sunday 3 April
8:30am
The Crescent
Simplifying Healthy with Saucha
Tuesday 5 April
6-8pm
Eclipze’s 23rd Anniversary Open House
Friday 8 April
10am-7pm
Eclipze Hair Design & Day Spa
Guardians Alive 5/10K Walk and Run
Saturday 9 April
6-8am
Cayman International School
Car Boot Sale
Saturday 9 April
9-11am
Cayman International School
Diary of a Wimpy Kid Book Club
9, 16, 23, 30 April
1-2:30pm
Starfish Village
Week of the Young Child Pajama Party
Monday 11 April
6-8pm
Curry at Home Cooking Class
Wednesday 13 April
6-8pm
The Bookends Club
Wednesday 13 April
6:30-7:30pm
Books & Books
Slow Food Day
Market & Chef Demonstrations
Saturday 16 April
10am-12pm
The Paseo, Gardenia Court and Bon Vivant
Slow Food Day
Food Revolution Kids’ Culinary Challenge
Saturday 16 April
12:30-2pm
Gardenia Court
Slow Food Day
Farm-to-Table Dinner
Saturday 16 April
7pm
The Crescent
Culture at the Cinema
Man and Superman
Saturday 16 April
7pm
Regal Cinemas
Burger Beer Bash Cooking Class
Tuesday 19 April
6-8pm
Floetry
Wednesday 20 April
6:30-7:30pm
Books & Books
Rotary Science Fair
Saturday 23 April
10am-3pm
The Arts & Recreation Centre
Budding Chef Cooking Class
Pizza Mania
Saturday 23 April
12-1pm
Bon Vivant
Cuisine of the Sun Dinner
Thursday 28 April
7pm
Ortanique
Mother’s Day Portraits
Saturday 30 April
10am-1pm
Gardenia Court
Mom & Me Cooking Class
Saturday 30 April
12-1pm
Bon Vivant
