Cayman Premier Studies Ja’s Procurement Procedures

KINGSTON — Premier of the Cayman Islands, Hon McKeeva Bush, is currently in Jamaica as head of a 6-member team on a study tour, lasting November 28-29.

Premier Bush and his team, who are guests of the Ministry of Finance and Planning, will be specifically looking at the Government's procurement systems, inclusive of policies, procedures and legislations, which they have cited as "by far the most modern and comprehensive within the region."

They will meet with a team from the Economic Management Division and the Debt Management Branch (DMB) of the Ministry. Additionally, they will observe the operations of other procurement entities, such as the Office of the Contractor General (OCG) and the National Contracts Commission (NCC).

They met with the Financial Secretary, Dr. Wesley Hughes, Monday morning (November 28), for specific discussions on his role in the Ministry, as the Cayman Islands transitioned, constitutionally, to having a Financial Secretary two years ago.

During their visit, the Premier will pay courtesy calls on the Prime Minister, the Hon Andrew Holness, and Minister of Finance and Planning, the Hon Audley Shaw.

Accompanying Premier Bush are, Deputy Governor, Donovan Ebanks Financial Secretary, Kenneth Jefferson, Deputy Governor (Designate), Franz Manderson and Senior Political Assistant, Richard Parchment.

Premier Bush was elected Premier during the Cayman Islands General Election in 2009 and, in addition to assuming the post of Premier, he also serves as Minister of Finance, Tourism and Development for the current United Democratic Party administration.

By Balford Henry, JIS Reporter & Editor