Deputy Governor Franz Manderson has delivered his final Christmas and New Year’s message to the Cayman Islands civil service, extending warm greetings and reflecting on his years of service ahead of his retirement in 2026. He noted that this year’s message carries “special meaning” as it will be his last Christmas address as Deputy Governor, after announcing his retirement earlier this year.​

Thanks for service and resilience

Mr. Manderson expressed deep gratitude for the work, progress and relationships built across the civil service, saying he is especially thankful for the partnerships and connections he has shared with colleagues over the years. He praised civil servants’ professionalism in supporting a new administration, providing stability, continuity and sound advice during a period of political transition while keeping essential services running smoothly.​

Commitment during challenging year

Highlighting 2025 as an important year for the islands, the Deputy Governor commended staff for their readiness and compassion as the country prepared for and safely navigated another active hurricane season. He said he has seen first-hand their dedication, resilience and determination to make lives better, along with the respect shown to customers, teamwork, and willingness to go above and beyond in their roles.​

Tribute to the civil service

Mr. Manderson described the relationships formed in his role as among the greatest privileges of his career and credited civil servants as the source of the service’s strength. He said he has been honoured to serve alongside them and emphasised the pride they take in their work, calling that pride well deserved.​

Christmas wishes and call to rest

As the festive season begins, the Deputy Governor encouraged civil servants to rest and recharge, spend time with loved ones, check on neighbours who may need support, and make space for what renews their spirit. He said Christmas reminds the community of hope, generosity and the simple joy of being together, values he sees reflected daily in the civil service, and he closed by wishing all civil servants and their families a blessed Christmas and a peaceful, joyful New Year.

Watch the full message here.