Environmental Judicial Review in Grand Cayman

Stephen Tromans QC and Deok Joo Rhee appeared before the Grand Court of the Cayman Islands in one of the first environmental judicial reviews in that jurisdiction, and one of the first cases worldwide concerning regulation of genetically modified organisms.

They represented Mr Dwene Ebanks, a resident of Grand Cayman, in judicial review of a decision by the National Conservation Council to permit the release by the Cayman Mosquito Control Research Unit of 22 million genetically modified mosquitoes as a measure seeking to reduce the mosquito population and the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

The arguments related to lack of adequate risk assessment and public consultation as well as constitutional and human rights issues. The hearing took place on 19 July before the Hon Mrs Justice Mangatal, who has reserved judgment and extended the stay previously granted in respect of the first release.

Further details of the case are on the web-links below:

Cayman News Service

The New York Times