Cayman minister resigns

Mr. Linford Pierson

Thursday, October 9, 2003

GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands: Citing personal reasons, the Minister of Planning, Communications, Works and Information Technology, Mr Linford Pierson, resigned his Ministry on Wednesday, saying he would switch roles with Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Ms Juliana O'Connor-Connolly.

The exchange of official positions will require the approval through normal constitutional procedures, which is proposed to occur in an election during the Friday, 10 October meeting of the Legislative Assembly. "I would hope this switch has bi-partisan support," said Mr Pierson, "But if not, I believe we have enough votes to carry it."

Mr. Pierson also announced that he would not be contesting the 2004 General Elections, a decision he said he made following "very serious consideration and soul-searching." 

He also said he had indicated to the Cabinet for "quite some time" that he was unsure if he would stand in the next elections, but had advised them he would give notice of his decision well in advance, which was the reason he was announcing the decision now - 13 months before the 2004 General Election. "(This will) allow sufficient time for the Party to find another Legislative candidate to replace me," he said.

Though he would not be specific about the reasons for his decision, Mr. Pierson indicated that health reasons played at part. "As you may recall, I had serious surgery in 2001," he said, "I have to consider my health. Campaigning is very stressful."

Mr Pierson made it clear that he would stay on for remainder of his term as a Legislative Assembly member and serve his constituents in George Town to the best of his abilities.

Also being vacated by Mr Pierson is the post of Deputy Leader of Government Business, which will be filled by the Minister of Health Services, Agriculture, Aviation and District Administration, Mr Gilbert McLean.

Another aspect of the Cabinet shuffle will have the responsibilities for the Ministry of Works transferred to Mr McLean, while Ms O'Connor-Connolly's new Ministry would take on the responsibility of District Administration.

The Leader of Government Business, Mr McKeeva Bush was off the Island on tourism-related business trip in St Maarten, and was therefore not present at the press conference announcing the changes, however, Mr. Pierson read a statement prepared by Mr Bush. "I thank Mr Pierson for his service, not only as Deputy Leader, but also as Minister… I am pleased that he will continue to serve the Cayman Islands as Speaker of the House."

Mr. Bush's statement also thanked Ms. O'Connor-Connolly for her acceptance of the Cabinet post, and welcomed Mr McLean to the post of Deputy Leader of Government Business.

With regards to his new position, Mr. Pierson said the should he be asked beyond the 2004 elections to stay on as Speaker of the House, he would seriously consider doing so. Mr McLean was quick to clarify that point. "If the UDP (United Democratic Party) Government wins the next election, and we expect to do so, Mr Pierson will be asked to remain on as Speaker,"

Dispelling the notion that the move had anything to do with a rift in the UDP, Mr. Pierson said, "I believe the UDP has never been healthier. I predict a landslide victory in 2004."

Ms O'Connor Connolly said she looked forward to her new responsibilities and in bringing a "feminine touch" to the Cabinet. 

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