Government cuts planned driver's licence hike as fees take effect
Revised DVDL fees start today at three times the current cost for non-Caymanians, down from an eight-fold rise, as the auditor general warns housing remains unaffordable.
The government softened its controversial driver's licence fee plans at the last minute, with the Cayman Compass reporting that the eight-fold increase for non-Caymanians has been cut to a three-fold rise under a new two-tier structure implemented from 1 September. Cayman Marl Road notes the revised schedule also introduces discounted rates for Caymanians buying longer-term licences, while the Cayman Independent has confirmation of the final fees.
Housing dominated the policy agenda. The auditor general has warned that housing is unaffordable for many in Cayman and that government policy has had little impact, according to the Cayman Compass, including for those who qualify for affordable housing schemes. Cayman News Service reports a Development and Planning (Amendment) Bill, 2026 that would allow Cabinet to change planning rules as part of the Public and Affordable Housing Policy and 10-Year Strategic Plan. Separately, four draft laws covering health, vaping and the environment are out for public consultation, with the Cayman Independent reporting the proposed public health law would expand Cabinet's emergency powers.
Employers should note a Grand Court judgment finding that workers who provided services to Stingray Tours for more than ten years were in law employees, and therefore entitled to statutory benefits, per the Caymanian Times and the Cayman Independent, which reports the workers never received paid vacation or sick leave.
In the professions and property, the Cayman Compass covered debate over private equity stakes in offshore law firms and the implications for equity partner career paths. Cayman Marl Road reports a $32.4 million three-storey STEM education building proposed at Camana Bay by Cayman Shores Development Ltd, due before the Central Planning Authority on 2 September. Nominations for the 2027 National Recognition Awards, honouring contributions to financial services, close on 4 October. Police and government have both renewed warnings over Google Meet and SMS phishing scams.