CIG Mourns Passing of Former Chief Secretary James Ryan

The Cayman Islands Government today (Tuesday, 19 May) expressed its condolences on the passing of James Ryan, former Chief Secretary of the Cayman Islands.

Mr. Ryan, from Cayman Brac, dedicated 39 years to serving the people of Cayman Islands. He served as Deputy Chief Secretary from 1992 before being appointed Chief Secretary (role now designated as Deputy Governor) in 1994, a post he held with distinction until his retirement in 2004. During his tenure, he oversaw a period of significant transformation for the Civil Service, helping shape the systems, standards and frameworks that continue to underpin government today.

A highly respected member of the community, he was appointed to the Council for the Order of the Cayman Islands and served in numerus capacities after his retirement.

In commenting on the passing, Governor Jane Owen said, “The Cayman Islands has lost a dedicated public servant. Mr. James Ryan gave nearly four decades of his life in service to these Islands, and his contribution to the Civil Service leaves a legacy that will endure for generations. On behalf of the people of the Cayman Islands, I extend my deepest sympathies to his family.”

Premier Honourable André Ebanks in expressing his condolences noted, “Mr. Ryan’s passing is a heartfelt loss not only for the Civil Service but for the Cayman Islands as a whole. He was a distinguished son of Cayman Brac who rose to the highest levels of public service and, in doing so, showed what dedication, integrity and commitment to these Islands truly looks like. On behalf of the Government, I offer my deepest condolences to his family, friends and to the community of Cayman Brac.”

Acting Deputy Governor Eric Bush shared, "Past Chief Secretary Ryan was a cornerstone of the Civil Service during a pivotal period in our history. He led by example, he served with integrity, and he left the public service stronger than he found it. His passing is a loss felt across government and across these Islands. My thoughts are with his family."

As a mark of respect, the Cayman Islands flag on all government buildings will be lowered at half-mast tomorrow, 20 May, for the entire day. Flags will be lowered again for a period to be confirmed ahead of the official funeral. Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.