Dart CEO We Are Here to Stay
One of Caymans investor profound investors, Dart Enterprises, issued a statement Tuesday emphasising its long-term commitment to the Cayman Islands.
“Despite the uncertainty, Dart remains committed to the Cayman Islands, our home for almost 30 years,” he said in a statement released in response to questions from the Cayman Compass.
Construction projects ready to resume
VanDevelde said Dart is “ready and prepared” to resume its construction and development projects, including new residential and office space at Camana Bay and the expansion of the Cayman International School, as soon as government gives the green light.
The construction sector has been earmarked as one area of the economy that could be opened up once the virus is deemed to be under control within Cayman’s borders.
Dart’s projects alone will help put 350 people back to work on construction sites and inject $115 million into the economy, VanDevelde said.
He said the developer was also exploring “other opportunities” that could drive economic activity and help Cayman out of the downturn.
Silver linings
The statement praised government for moving quickly to protect citizens and said Cayman was in a relatively strong position to contain the virus.
“While we are still in mitigation mode, discussions are already underway between private, public and non-profit organisations to determine how we can aid the country to rebound,” VanDevelde added.
He said Dart was prepared to support relief efforts, as well as to play its part in promoting sustainable economic activity that could help provide jobs and stimulate economic activity.
“Although there are tough times ahead, and COVID-19 remains a fluid situation,” he said, “we have no doubt that the Cayman Islands will weather the storm, and like any storm, there will be silver linings.
“Throughout history, pandemics have brought pain, but they have also marked new beginnings. We have a collective opportunity to rethink what matters, challenge the status quo and re-imagine our future. ”
