National Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2024

Overview

We are seeking your feedback on proposed amendments to the National Conservation Act. The National Conservation (Amendment) Bill 2024, creates provision to reform the powers and composition of the National Conservation Council, provide for the establishment of a Conservation Appeals Tribunal and provide for incidental and connected purposes. In this consultation period, members of the public have the opportunity to review the Amendment Bill and have their say.

Why your views matter

The National Conservation Act (NCA), unanimously passed in the Legislative Assembly (now Parliament) in December 2013, was a landmark step in safeguarding the natural environment of the Cayman Islands, including our land, water, and wildlife. It has made significant strides in conserving and protecting our ecosystems, plants, animals, and marine life, and contributed greatly to the livelihoods and wellbeing of Caymanians and residents. However, as with any important legislation, it needs to be reviewed periodically to see if it can be improved to better serve our community.

The proposed amendments are aiming to:

• Better balance environmental conservation with the need for social and economic development.
• Ensure the NCC’s power is balanced with the ability of other bodies, like the CPA, to make decisions without undue interference.
• Reinforce Cabinet’s role in governance and decision-making
• The amendments also propose a two-tier, non-juridical appeals process to ensure decisions are reviewed fairly, avoiding lengthy court battles.

Importantly, these amendments are about improving the Act’s effectiveness, clarifying decision-making, and addressing unintended power imbalances.

Your feedback and input will help to ensure that the NCA best serves the people and environment of the Cayman Islands.

What happens next

The information and feedback shared during the consultation period will be collated by the Ministry and a Public Consultation Report will be prepared and presented to Cabinet for consideration.  Thank you for taking the time to participate in this important democratic process.