🌳 UPM considering changes to National Conservation Act

The United People’s Movement (UPM) caucus is reportedly planning to amend the National Conservation Act due to pressure from developers and the Central Planning Authority (CPA). The CPA has repeatedly, and falsely, claimed that the law, the National Conservation Council (NCC), and the Department of Environment (DoE) are hindering development. This comes after the government expressed its desire to introduce a moratorium on Wildlife Interaction Zone (WIZ) licenses, requiring Cabinet amendments to the regulations. However, several UPM members are pushing for more extensive changes that would limit the NCC's powers. 🌲

Despite the pressure for change coming from influential lobbyists, the wider community has consistently shown support for the conservation law and its enforcement through surveys and public meetings. The unchecked rapid development, which many believe does not benefit Caymanians, is not popular. As the general election campaign in 2025 approaches, easing the path for developments that could harm the environment is unlikely to win favor with voters. Meanwhile, officials from the Ministry of Sustainability and Climate Resiliency have stated that while several pieces of legislation were considered during a recent retreat, no decisions on legislative reform have been made at this stage. 🏞️

In a recent case, the CPA blamed the DoE and NCC for adjournments to an application for another hotel building at Morritt’s Resort. However, the DoE has stated that it provided all necessary information for the CPA to make a timely decision. The DoE maintains that the CPA's misinterpretation of the law is causing the delay. The DoE also pointed out that the CPA has had guidance notes since 2016 that provide the 'triggers' for when the conservation law should be applied. The CPA's current approach to the consultation process is creating an unnecessary, time-consuming step, according to the DoE. 🐢