Coalition for Cayman (C4C)

The Coalition for Cayman was a political grouping, which claimed it was not a political party, formed to support independent candidates in the 2013 General Elections (before single-member constituencies were introduced).

The C4C chairman was local lawyer James Bergstrom. In December 2012, when the C4C Committe was first revealed, it was announced that Bergstrom and Jude Scott would be co-chairs of the group, but after Jude Scott declared his intention to run as a candidate, he resigned.

Committee rules stated: “No individual who has declared as a political candidate or is a sitting MLA or is actively involved in a political campaign to elect a political candidate may be on the executive committee or serve as the chairperson of a subcommittee or working group.”

Other initial members of the committee were Kris Bergstrom, Clarence Bothwell, JC Calhoun, Jacqueline Haynes (later a candidate), Randy Merren, Johann Moxam, Gary Rutty and Emmiel Scott. Paul Peene was later involved.

The C4C supported eight candidates: Winston Connolly, Jacqueline Haynes, Roy McTaggart, Sharon Roulstone and Jude Scott, who all ran for seats in George Town, and Tara Rivers and Mervin Smith who ran in West Bay.

C4C National Priorities Plan for the Cayman Islands 2013

In a statement, the C4C said: “Even independent thinkers in a party are stifled by party leaders who put party first. That is why we are looking for independent candidates with integrity and proven leadership qualities that will put the people of the Country First.”

Three of their members were successful in their races and joined the PPM-led coalition:

  • Tara Rivers never joined the PPM but nevertheless served in two PPM Cabinets.
  • Roy McTaggart joined PPM in December 2015 and later became leader of the party.
  • Winston Conolly quit the government benches in early 2016 and did not run for re-election. 

C4C announce committees formed to review CIG actions, Oct 2013

Conservation Law

In the National Plan, the candidates said they would pass a National Conservation Law if elected. “The natural resources of the Cayman Islands should be protected and managed responsibly to ensure that future generations inherit a healthy and viable environment.”

However, after the elections, the C4C objected to the National Conservation Law, even though its elected candidates voted for it.

C4C on government spending

Highlights of the letter from Bergstrom on public spending:

“All non essential services currently provided by the Government should be moved to the private sector.”

“It is essential that the members of the civil service have their pension and health benefits aligned to those offered in the private sector.”

“One of the Coalition’s founding principles is ‘a belief that it is the responsibility of individuals to provide for themselves, their families and their dependants, whilst recognizing that government must respond to those who require assistance and compassion’. 

Education

In the 2013-2017 administration, Tara Rivers, although still an independent was given the education ministry in the PPM-led coalition government.