Can it possibly be true? According to very unconfirmed sources, the Cayman Islands government may be looking into a way to sell permanent residency and/or status – this time above the table.
Now, we all know that there are certain people who have bought their way into status and certain others who were somehow granted status by the cabinet when they held a lottery and nearly 3,000 people came up winners for status several years back; but word from the inside is government may be investigating the possibility of actually selling the coveted “PR” and Caymanian status to the general public.
However, this time the government has figured out a way to make the process legal and to direct the money into their general revenue account as opposed to into the pockets of those who would exchange “favours” in order to ensure that others get status.
Either way – it’s selling out; and hopefully it isn't true. And I say that as an ex-pat PR holder who is willing to work for the "right to be called Caymanian" and not just write a check.
Although the actual process of who and how much is not known, at first glance the whole idea of selling status appears to be nothing more than speculation and rumour; but if it’s true I have one message to native born Caymanians: “Welcome to America!”
That’s right – welcome to the dawn of a new generation of a “melting pot” immigration policy. Welcome to the 21st century’s globalization of human capital; we’ve been waiting for you.
Caymanians could be poised for a first-hand look at an immigration policy designed to allow people who really want to be here to stay here side by side with people who have the money to effectively purchase their tenure. Can anyone say "friction" or "resentment?"
Although such a policy would help Cayman more effectively utilize human capital with the requisite global experience to further its mission to firmly entrench itself as a global financial services and tourism industry leader, it's a shame it would have to be done in such a financially stunted and socially insensitive manner.
It’s just sad, if the rumours are true, that the government has to resort to selling out its heritage to accomplish its long-term goals when there are other ways to achieve the same ends.
Oh well, it’s not the first time the government has sold out and it won’t be the last.
I don’t know if the rumour is true, but like I say – there’s a bit of truth in all rumours.
So start saving those pennies now, you Caymanian wannabees – because your future may be for sale – along with Cayman’s past.
The government can’t possibly be THAT stupid… What am I saying? Of course they can be.
Comments