Cayman Islands Chamber of Commerce
STATEMENT FROM THE COUNCIL  

The Chamber Council is concerned about the local and global implications of the editorial published in the Cayman Compass on 3rd June entitled "Corruption: An insidious creeping crime" and the resulting response to that editorial by the Government, the Legislative Assembly and the wider community. We support the right to freedom of expression as exercised by the Cayman Compass and all local media and as guaranteed and protected under the Cayman Islands Constitution. We also support freedom of expression exercised by those within our community that disagree with the editorial or other content in the newspaper. While we may not agree with what is said or written we believe it is important for everyone to be able to state his or her views, whether that be the Premier, the Editor of the Cayman Compass or anyone else.
 

We do not support, however, the financial sanction proposed and passed hastily during proceedings in Finance Committee on Monday, 8th June in the Legislative Assembly as this sets a dangerous precedent and would negatively impact the important role that a free press plays in our democracy. The Council calls on the Government to repeal the advertising ban immediately.  

 

We are concerned that as a result of the actions of both parties this matter continues to unnecessarily escalate with the effect that it is creating negative international media coverage. This is reflecting poorly on the Cayman Islands and the wider business community and we encourage both parties to act responsibly to resolve this matter urgently. Doing so is in the best interest of the Cayman Islands' reputation which is being unfairly damaged as a result of this matter. It would also be in the best interest of the continued right to freedom of expression by all local media as well as our wider community.

 

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(345) 949-8090
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(345) 949-0220
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4-107 Governors Square

West Bay Road

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Grand Cayman KY1-1102
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caymanchamber.ky

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