Quote this week - "There is no right way To do a wrong thing"
HEADLINES
EC$33m
from EU Fund To Develop Montserrat
By Bennette Roach
Following the preparation of a Single Programming Document (SPD) which comprises
the framework for development cooperation between the European Union (EU) and
Montserrat -submitted to the European Development Fund (EDF) in December 2003
and approved in May 2004, Montserrat signed an agreement with the EU commission,
giving it access to the 9th European Development Fund (EDF), to the tune of
€11 million - EC$33 million.
U.S.
to End TPS Shield For 292 Montserratians
By Bennette Roach
The news came fast for an official number of 292 Montserratians residing in
the United States under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program that the
end of TPS was near.
EDITORIAL
Search
Yourself Before Agreeing Cries of 'Corruption' or 'Greed'
SCRIPTURE VERSE
THIS WEEK
The
Last Few Pounds
LETTER
A
Champion's Passing Remarked by a Friend
Phones
Still Out of Service South of the Belham Valley
LOCAL NEWS
Two-week
Series of Events Memorialises R.W. Griffith
Several organisations, including the University of the West Indies School of
Continuing Studies and the Office of the Chief Minister, have put on a number
of events to mark the birth, life and work of Robert Griffith, father of the
Montserrat Trade Union Movement.
Farmers'
Hope to Renew Exports Hung Up on Assent from Antigua
The Montserrat Farmers Association (MFA) is trying to get Montserrat back in
the exporting business, but according to coordinator of the MFA the people in
the Ministry of Agriculture are slow on the matter.
Landing
of 15 Illegal Aliens Earns First Mate $800 Fine
By Anthony Henry
The first mate of a vessel that is believed to be part of a human smuggling
ring was found guilty of breaches of the Customs Act, fined and ordered by the
Magistrate Court at the Government headquarters in Brades to leave the country,
while his captain was freed of all charges.
2004
Vacation Bible School Attended by 100 Children
By Tomeika Jeffrey
Approximately 100 children participated in the 2004 Annual Vacation Bible School
(VBS) which ended on Friday, July 23, said by Miss Ruth Allen, minister at the
St. Peters Wesleyan Holiness Church, to be the largest crowd since the start
of the school in 2002.
Three
Arrow's Manshop Thieves Pay for What They Tried to Steal
By Tomeika Jeffrey
Three adults and a small child were held by the police after they were caught
on August Monday near Arrow's Manshop in Sweeney with goods that were stolen
during the store's big "10 to 1 It's Murder Sale".
Early
Childhood Association Presents First Summer Event
Lady Eudora Fergus described as "A most useful and stimulating Summer School
Programme" what was organized for the first time by the Montserrat Early
Childhood Association, which ended last Friday.
Antigua
Jaycees Honor 'Arrow' During 2004 Queen Competition
Montserrat's Soca Ambassador Alphonsus "Arrow" Cassell was honoured
at the 2004 42nd Jaycees Caribbean Queen Competition last Friday evening in
Carnival City, St. John, Antigua.
Intense
Thunder Storm Causes Brief but Total Telecom Crisis
By Bennette Roach
Montserrat is still feeling the effects two weeks after an "interaction
of an upper level low and moisture associated with a tropical wave kept the
weather conditions active," from early Saturday night into Sunday morning,
causing a drawn out thunder storm which plunged Montserrat into it's biggest
telecommunication breakdown.
Lookout
Primary Awaits Sixth Graders Next Month
The Lookout Primary School will welcome its first batch of sixth graders when
the new school year opens in September, according to Head Teacher of the School
Miss Edith Duberry.
Special
Olympians' Jamaica Showing Prompts Plans for Expanded Training
Plans to expand the Montserrat Special Olympics group and boost training for
its athletes are now top priority according to Mrs. Tammy Foote, professional
occupational therapist and trainer for the special needs children.
Standard
and Poor's Team Visits To Gauge GoM Credit Worthiness
By Bennette Roach
John Chambers and Roberto H. Sifon Arevalo from the New York headquarters of
Standard and Poor's paid a two-day visit to Montserrat last week.
REGIONAL
U.S.
Insurance Fraud Probe Nets at Least 2 Barbadians
By Tony Best
BARBADOS -- More Barbadians could be accused of fraud and money laundering as
investigations into an insurance scam in the United States widens.
Trinidadian
Foresees Shortages In Reliance on Imported Foods
TRINIDAD -- Trinidad and Tobago President George Maxwell Richards warned recently
of a food crisis if more emphasis is not placed on developing food security
and encouraging local production. .
Grenada
PM Tells of Bribery Probe, Declares His Innocence
GRENADA - Prime Minister Keith Mitchell told Parliament this week that the government
will open an independent investigation into bribery allegations against him
that he vehemently denies.
Former
PM Hugh Shearer Dies in Jamaica at Age 81
JAMAICA -- Jamaica began an official period of mourning on Saturday, July 30,
for former prime minister Hugh Shearer, who died at his Hope Pastures home in
St Andrew that morning after a long illness.
SPORTS
TOURISM HIGHLIGHTS
TWELFTH
ANNUAL "MY CARIBBEAN" ESSAY CONTEST
VOLCANO LIMERICKS
Injured
Innocence
TPS
Deadline
EC$33m
from EU Fund To Develop Montserrat
By Bennette Roach
Following the preparation
of a Single Programming Document (SPD) which comprises the framework for development
cooperation between the European Union (EU) and Montserrat -submitted to the
European Development Fund (EDF) in December 2003 and approved in May 2004, Montserrat
signed an agreement with the EU commission, giving it access to the 9th European
Development Fund (EDF), to the tune of €11 million - EC$33 million.
This sum is to be spread over five years for the purposes set out by Acting
Chief Minister Annie Dyer-Howe in her address at a signing ceremony on Tuesday,
July 27, 2004. at the Vue Pointe Hotel.
The purposes are:
· Sustainable tourism,
· The development of private sector activity
· Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Development.
Ambassador Amos Tincani, Head, Delegation of the EU Commission, Barbados and
the Eastern Caribbean was on hand to sign the SPD, along with Director of the
Development Unit Montserrat, Angella Greenaway who signed on behalf of Montserrat.
Mrs. Greenaway said in an interactive presentation, "Under the Single Programming
Document the European Community has agreed to support measures and operations
to develop and support sustainable tourism as it pertains to the 'trade in services'
sector. This sector was chosen to support the established strategic objectives
of the sustainable development plan for Montserrat."
Acting for Chief Minister John Osborne, who was absent from the Island receiving
medical attention in the U.S., Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Housing and the
Environment Dyer-Howe said: "The Government of Montserrat has taken a policy
decision to make Montserrat a mainly service oriented economy. The promotion
and establishment of a more competitive and modern ICT environment to facilitate
and support tourism is critical in the environment of an economy."
The funds will hit the ground in Montserrat after the following steps have been
completed.
The preparation and approval of the Financing Agreement from the European Commission,
which specifies in detail the programmes and activities.
Then receipt of funds for implementation will be advanced through to the government
of Montserrat. Payments will be processed through the local government of Montserrat
treasury systems.
According to the Minister, "the funds allocated under this aid programme
will assist in the development of a well-organized town centre at Little Bay
with the associated development of port facilities pivotal for private sector
development and the regeneration of Montserrat, along with the creation of a
tourism and commercial centre which would significantly reduce the cost of doing
business and enhance the opportunity for business development on Montserrat."
Speaking on the matter of the town center in Little Bay, again on Wednesday
this week in a television interview with the local media, she said she hoped
to see the entire project get off the ground by March next year.
She had some criticisms for the length of time this had taken to achieve in
Montserrat and about EU regulations which could be laborious at times. She was,
however, appreciative. "…but there is a commitment (by the EU) and
it requires some urgency on our part. Sometimes our foot-works are too slow.
. . . We have to be on the mark. . . . There are times when we need to move
faster…
"I believe the $33million over the next five years or so is going to be
significant in a sense in that the areas for spending (are) already earmarked
and one of the areas we want to move quickly on is the provision the infrastructure
in Little Bay so it can make the place more attractive for investors."
The minister said she was hopeful that, "before March next we should see
something happen in Little Bay; we have already engaged the services of a consultant
to carry out the design. He promised to provide that by September or October.
. . . By the end of the year we should have a complete document on the areas
that we wish to develop."
The Minister said further "a (local) company will be established to carry
out the development work in Little Bay."
Montserrat is included in the Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) grouping
as a result of its relationship with the United Kingdom.
Montserrat also benefits from EU Funds where two or more OCT's must submit a
joint proposal before the Project can be considered by the European Commission.
Montserrat participates in the following regional projects
1. OCT information and communication technologies
2. ASYCUDA: multi-country programme (for Customs departments)
3. OCT public utilities water project
From the African Caribbean Pacific (ACP) COTONOU agreement - OCTs are also eligible
to access ACP-funded projects utilising the regional financing envelope available
to OCTs.
1. The Caribbean regional tourism programme
2. Strengthening of medical laboratories in the Caribbean
3. Strategic planning of public services
In her presentation, the Development Unit director revealed that Montserrat
is currently benefiting from EDF grants under EDFVI, VII and VIII.
Geralds airport -- under EDF VI/VII/VIII a total of €8.3 million, broken
down further under the Regional - EDF VI - €2,615,000; EDFVII - €4,000,000
and EDF VIII €1,685,000.
There is the Montserrat Community College currently being constructed, expected
to be complete by September 2004, under EDF VIII - €1,680,000 along with
a further €573,800.
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| Photo:Angella Greenaway and Amos Tincani sign EDF SPD Agreement | Photo:Annie Dyer-Howe Ag. CM gave feature address at signing EDF Agreement |
U.S. to End TPS Shield For 292 Montserratians
The news came fast for an official number of 292 Montserratians residing in
the United States under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program that the
end of TPS was near. No less surprising, three weeks later, in spite of efforts
to change the decision or find new ways of avoiding what seems to be inevitable,
there appears little hope and the disappointments continue.
Now Immigration activists are trying to draw attention to the decision by the
U.S. Department of Homeland Security to send these Montserratians back home
eight years after they were forced to evacuate.
One such person is Marsha Meade, 32, who fled in 1996 when she was pregnant
with her daughter Enya. She and other Montserratians have until Feb. 27 to prepare
for departure.
All this started on July 6, 2004, at 9:47am when the Federal Register in the
U.S. read: "The TPS designation of Montserrat is terminated effective February
27, 2005."
The background of this is that "On August 28, 1997, the Attorney General
published a notice in the Federal Register designating Montserrat under the
TPS program based upon volcanic eruptions causing a substantial, but temporary,
disruption to living conditions that rendered Montserrat unable, temporarily,
to adequately handle the return of its nationals. 62 FR 45685, 45686 (August
28, 1997). The Attorney General also designated Montserrat for TPS due to extraordinary
and temporary conditions that prevented Montserratians from safely returning
to Montserrat."
Since then, the TPS designation of Montserrat has been extended six times, in
each instance based upon a determination that the conditions warranting the
designation continued to be met.
Now the U.S. government argues, "The plain meaning of "temporary"
is "lasting for a time only; existing or continuing for a limited time;
not permanent."
Although they concede the conditions in Montserrat continue to warrant concern,
they based their determination on scientific reports from Montserrat and Britain
which said: that "eruptions of the type that have occurred at Soufriere
Hills generally last 20 years, but the volcano could continue to erupt sporadically
for decades…there is only a 3.2-percent chance that this period of volcanic
activity will stop within the next six months. There is a 50-percent probability
that the volcanic activity will last another 14-15 years, and a 5-percent chance
that the volcanic activity will continue for over 180 years."
(See excerpt from the U.S. Federal Register in box on page xx).
In early July when the news broke, the reaction was one of total surprise, with
officials saying, "this, though not completely a surprise, was unexpected."
Governor Deborah Barnes-Jones said: "The Foreign Office has had hints of
this, but has taken the position that this would have been premature."
All ears were awaiting a statement from the Foreign Office, no less Chief Minister
John Osaborne, who said he was unaware until he heard the news on CNN. "I
don't know what's the reason why they just suddenly change to the decision that
I just heard on CNN this morning."
He confirmed also that, although he is unaware of anything being done this year
about the TPS, Mrs. Vera Weekes has made representation each year for Montserratians
to remain in the TPS.
The CM said then, "I believe that before the end of the week we should
get something either from London or from someone of the High Commissioner's
office in Barbados… I'm sure they are going to write to us."
At the same time the announcement was made information supplied with the notice
advised as follows: Termination of the TPS designation for Montserrat does not
necessarily affect pending applications for other forms of immigration relief
or protection, though former TPS beneficiaries will begin to accrue unlawful
presence as of February 27, 2005, if they have not been granted any other immigration
status or protection or if they have no pending application for certain benefits."
But some persons who have sought information claim that information from Immigration
experts have been discouraging. This is not surprising, because in the days
and weeks following the announcement Mrs. Vera E. Weekes, Assistant Director
and Outreach Coordinator of the Caribbean Research Center at Medgar Evers College,
issued a written appeal for help to both New York senators, Charles Schumer
and Hillary Clinton.
She said she hoped they both could help the almost 300 affected by the ruling
"to continue to live permanently and be able to continue their pursuit
of excellence in this country."
Her plea for Montserratians said, "having suffered tremendous loss, economically,
and emotionally and socially, America gave them that opportunity to build their
hopes and dreams of a future life and that they grabbed at that opportunity.
To be forced to leave now will only add to the trauma that they already experienced
by them."
Later, she stated: ''America is not a cruel country. America has always opened
its doors to human beings who are suffering. To ask [Montserratians] again to
uproot is heartless and unwarranted."
The Boston Globe published a story about the change, having interviewed Marsha
Meade, who said: ''You're talking about a group of people who have jobs, pay
taxes, and are working very hard. What I would like to see is them getting permanent
status."
But Chris Bentley, spokesman for the Citizenship and Immigration Services, said
that such change can be made only through legislation.
There was an effort to change the Montserratians' status a little under four
years ago, via a bill introduced by U.S. Rep. Major R. Owens, Democrat of Brooklyn,
to alter the status of those granted temporary protected status to permanent
status.
But as Mrs. Weekes said later, ''The real tragedy of this is, it (the Owens
bill) fell right in the mouth of Sept. 11, 2001 . . . since then, everything
is anti-immigrant. No one stops to see if there is a soul or a life involved."
But the measure, which was reintroduced in February 2003, is currently languishing
in the House Judiciary Committee and its immigration, border security, and claims
subcommittee. so far no movement has been forthcoming.
Reports from a meeting held on Tuesday, July 27, at the Irish Immigration Center
in Dorchester, described one victim of the TPS decision: "He basically
said the only chance, other than marrying a citizen, is to apply for a job in
my degree discipline, then apply for an H-1-B visa. That would allow me to work
for six more years and live here as a lawful alien. Other than that we would
have to leave as stated."
This person, who prefers anonymity, was both sad and angry and said further,
"We know it's a done deal with the British government and the U.S., that
Britain is now making preparation for those who would like to go over there."
But these folks said they were in the USA in the first instance because they
"didn't wish to go to Britain," and to compound all of this, the latest
word out of Boston, Mass., from another TPS victim, reporting on another meeting
held for the benefit of TPS residents there, is: "We were now informed
that people who intend to go to the UK that all benefits and the program for
Montserratians have expired."
Meanwhile, Richard Aspin, Governor's Press Officer, told The Montserrat Reporter
on Tuesday, "The UK Government has requested a list of the names of the
persons who are affected. An attempt is being made to find out who will eventually
be forced to leave, who are desirous of going to England or return to Montserrat."
Following the meeting a spokesman for the group of TPS persons present said:
"Everyone's case is different, based on how they stayed over in the U,S."
"Not everyone came here directly from Montserrat after the crisis began.
Some had already been in the U.S. on an F-1 student visas, and as such are overstay
students. Others had been here and then overstayed on a visiting visas."
"It's not easy to get a company to sign for you because they would have
to prove why you are the one they should hire instead a resident or citizen."
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| Photo:Chief Minister John Osborne | Photo:Governor Deborah Barnes-Jones |
EDITORIAL
Search Yourself Before Agreeing Cries of 'Corruption'
or 'Greed'
It has been four consecutive weeks and last week became the eleventh week so
far in the year that The Montserrat Reporter did not publish. For this we wish
to sincerely apologise to our sponsors and readers.
While we cannot say that all the problems related to the technical and other
reasons have been resolved, we are working tirelessly to get back to our regular
weekly and perhaps even more frequent publications.
As to our many thousands of on-line readers we have to issue very publicly an
even bigger apology, since we are only too aware of what this means to visitors
to the site, readers, and particularly Montserratians all over the world. We
are aware that The Montserrat Reporter on-line and its website could be the
gateway to Montserrat's future recovery and re-building, providing all the support
and co-operation necessary for this and Montserrat's success is forthcoming.
As we roll out this new issue of the newspaper, we find that there is indeed
so much to discuss and talk/write about, but crowning all the topics, thoughts
and sentiments, questions and solutions offered, they all creep and other times
jump to one topic -- will Montserrat succeed or die all together?
We have heard it said, and we here in Montserrat, have said it ourselves, although
one could wonder if we actually believe it, how "resilient" we are.
We can make no mistake, those who were forced to leave for one reason or many,
as well as those who had gone before, do thank those who have stayed here. They
appreciate, even more than many who have in fact stayed, those who have come
to help us keep the torch alive, by assisting in the rebuilding efforts.
Montserrat, in the meantime, has had to continue as if nothing is wrong with
us. We are called upon to keep up the image we ever had and to take an equal
place in CARICOM and as a member of the OECS states. We even enjoy the privilege
referred to as having an in with the European Union, by virtue of our sometimes
questionable status link with the United Kingdom of Great Britain.
Over the past weeks, as we battle with some of the problems of relocating our
offices to Davy Hill in the north, along with other problems, we also had time
to step back somewhat and observe. As if this wasn't part of our responsibility;
some things certainly became so much clearer.
Right now there is a common phrase that is spoken throughout the media corridors,
the gossip, the concerned and not so concerned, the public and private corridors,
suggesting that "DFID has taken over." And why is this, the question
would come?
Well, it is just a matter of greed, would be the answer. Then comes the explanation
of how this greed has supposedly stopped many of the projects from even getting
off the ground, or from being completed. The result is obvious. Since much of
the economic activity, at this time, and as acknowledged time and time again,
is directed by Government, if the corridors are correct, then it is time for
corrective measures that are direly needed.
But wait, we note that the word corruption is never used; but then we must also
ask, what is the difference? It is also easy to think that this "-----
greed" is only within government circles, but then there is something like
it that exists throughout. This then is obvious if the argument is to hold.
One hears officials referring to officials, both in the public and private sectors,
as being "very mean," stingy and not having any heart for anyone but
themselves.
When the Government/DFID or any NGO hires a consultant and the report comes
in with a proposal, what has become apparent is that it doesn't matter if there
is agreement or acceptance on the ground, it goes, with the shoulder shrugs
and the ensuing lack of interest. Sometimes, evidently, it doesn't go at all.
And where is the greed in this? It doesn't matter, because salaries are paid
any way and life goes on with all the kickbacks and payoffs continuing just
the same.
Just enough, but it is happening all around us. And of course, just like no
single person can practice and benefit from corruption, the same is true for
the circumstances that envelope and stifle us.
Certainly there are things we cannot change, but there are situations and things
we can change, if enough of us realize that we are very guilty of some of the
things we complain about and see in others.
SCRIPTURE VERSE
THIS WEEK
The Last Few Pounds
Luke 14:33
Whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple.
Whatever weight-loss plan you choose, you're bound to lose pounds- at least for a while. But most dieters reach their plateau before they reach their goal, and many get discouraged when the thrill leaves before all the weight does. Many give up a go back to their old ways of eating.
Something similar happens in our Christian lives. When we begin our walk with Jesus, we easily shed many of the sins that have weighed us down. We give dramatic testimonies about being freed from addictive behaviors. Then the attention shifts to another believer, and we discover little sins like jealousy, resentment, and anger don't drop away as readily as the "big" ones. Some of us get so discouraged that we lose sight of our commitment to Christ and go back to some of our old ways of living.
When Jesus talked about the cost of being His disciple (Luke 14:25-35), He wanted those who heard Him to realize that believing in Him and following Him involves more than starting something that is exciting . It means sticking with something that is difficult.
So whether we're talking weight loss or spiritual gain, the message is the same: What matters most is not how we start but how we finish. -JAL
Onward and upward
your course plan today,
Seeking new heights as you walk Jesus' way;
Heed not past failures, but strive for the prize,
Aiming for goals fit for His holy eyes.
Perseverance makes the difference between failure and success.
LETTERS
A Champion's Passing Remarked by a Friend
When Robert Kleeb, B.A., LL.B, J.D., died on July 7th, we - and I include displaced
expats and Montserratians alike - lost a champion who fought for the rights
of the individual; he represented all of us who were unwillingly driven from
our homes.
He and his wife, Beverly Kleeb (Beverly Anderson, M.D.), withstood the tyranny
of governments, suffering deprivations and unnecessary hardship designed to
break their spirit because they were steadfast in their right and determination
to remain in their own home in Isles Bay during the first evacuation in 1997.
In October 2002, the then governor, persuaded by the director of the MVO in
reckless disregard of common sense and reason (not to mention the welfare of
the ousted people and the island's economy), ordered yet another evacuation.
This ill-considered decision, patently grossly unjust, proved to be a great
mistake as well. At that time Bob Kleeb was recovering from a stroke and no
longer had the strength to fight the threatened police action of forcible removal.
Bob was a man of many talents and accomplishments, ranging from preparing and
presenting a case to the Supreme Court of the United States of America to personally
operating heavy equipment in extensive landscaping projects. He had a broad
grasp of things mechanical and electrical and was always well informed and ready
to discuss current or historical events. Although his wit could be acerbic,
I think he genuinely enjoyed the appellation of curmudgeon; he was a trial lawyer,
after all, and could be expected to thrive on controversy.
I shall especially miss Bob's ready appreciation of what passes for my sense
of humor and will remember him as a gracious host and a kind and generous neighbor.
It is good to know that when Bob Kleeb died a month ago - peacefully in his
sleep from coronary heart failure - it was in his own bed, home from exile at
last.
S. Simpson
Phones
Still Out of Service South of the Belham Valley
Dear Editor,
It is now 15 days since there has been telephone service south of the Belham
Valley.
Any persons or businesses considering this as an area of operations should be
aware of this indifferent attitude.
A simple solution would be to provide the few of us temporarily with mobile
phones, but problem solving and customer service do not seem to be a high priority
for Cable & Wireless.
Mrs. R.E. Kleeb
NEWS
Local News
Two-week Series of Events Memorialises R.W. Griffith
Several organisations, including the University of the West Indies School of
Continuing Studies and the Office of the Chief Minister, have put on a number
of events to mark the birth, life and work of Robert Griffith, father of the
Montserrat Trade Union Movement.
The series events, which should have started on Monday, August 2, and end on
Friday, August 13, are being held on selected dates over the course of two weeks.
The events included the premier viewing of the Randy Greenaway video on the
life of R.W. Griffith; an exhibition by the Montserrat National Trust (August
5); a symposium at the Police Headquarters Conference Room (August 6).
Professor Sir Howard Fergus, head of the UWI School of Continuing Studies here,
will release a new book to coincide with activities at the Montserrat National
Trust on August 8. The book is entitled "Volcano Verses." Another
book, "Beneath the Bananas" to mark the centenary of the birth of
Mr. Griffith, will be also be released.
A public lecture scheduled for August 13 will feature a prominent Caribbean
figure, whose name was not released the organisers.
A lay Methodist preacher, Robert Griffith was the son of a manager on Weekes
estate. Professor Fergus, in his book "Montserrat: History of a Caribbean
Colony," noted that Mr. Griffith was "middle-class, with material
means and social influence."
He also gained respect as a champion of the working class. Mr. Griffith won
a place in the Montserrat Legislative Council in 1943. Three years later, he
founded the Montserrat Trades and Labor Union in 1946.
Farmers'
Hope to Renew Exports Hung Up on Assent from Antigua
By Anthony Henry
The Montserrat Farmers Association (MFA) is trying to get Montserrat back in
the exporting business, but according to coordinator of the MFA the people in
the Ministry of Agriculture are slow on the matter.
Claude Browne, coordinator of the MFA, said that a pest risk assessment was
sent to the Ministry of Agriculture this week and it was forwarded to Antigua.
Eight years ago a ban was placed on all fruits and vegetables coming from out
of Montserrat because the island was infested with the Pink Mealy bug. Mr. Browne
said that the bug has been under control for years and now he wants Montserrat
to start exporting vegetables again.
There is one problem, however. The fruits and vegetable would have to go through
Antigua, and for that to happen Antigua would have to lift its ban and a protocol
for shipping the goods to Antigua would have to be worked out.
Mr. Browne said that he has gone to the Ministry of Agriculture about the matter
but "the people who have control over the matter are dragging their feet
on the issue".
Information from the Ministry of Agriculture is that the pest assessment risk
was sent off but Antigua has not yet responded.
Landing
of 15 Illegal Aliens Earns First Mate $800 Fine
By Anthony Henry
The first mate of a vessel that is believed to be part of a human smuggling
ring was found guilty of breaches of the Customs Act, fined and ordered by the
Magistrate Court at the Government headquarters in Brades to leave the country,
while his captain was freed of all charges.
Jacky Jacobs Lewis was fined $800 after he was found guilty of immigration fraud.
Meanwhile Carter Jefferson Maglorie, the captain of the MV Kelly, was freed
of similar charges in the same court on what Commissioner of Police John Douglas
describes as a technicality.
The technicality, as David Brandt defense lawyer for the Lewis and Maglorie
explained, was that the officers who laid charges against the men were not properly
appointed. He submitted to the court that the police had no authority to present
charges under the Customs and Control Management Act of Montserrat without the
prior written consent of the Comptroller of Customs, as they did. Also the Immigration
Officers who featured in the case were appointed by the Commissioner of Police
and their authority could only come from being appointed by the Governor-in-Council.
The men were held after the police received information through their intelligence
network that the men had brought 15 persons in the island illegally. The illegal
aliens also pleaded guilty to failing to report to the nearest customs officer
and were sent back to their respective countries.
Commissioner Douglas informed The Montserrat Reporter that Maglorie and Lewis,
both Dominicans, went to the Salem Police on July 26 claiming that they had
engine problems and needed assistance.
He said while the police were assisting the men he got information that the
duo had landed in the island since July 21 and that they had brought some people
with them. The commissioner said that the captain and first mate had booked
the aliens into a hotel.
The aliens, who included 10 people from Haiti, one from Santo Domingo and five
Cubans, were arrested and revealed when they were interviewed that they had
paid a substantial amount of money to both men to take them from their respective
countries to St. Martin. The Commissioner, however, never ascertained the amount
of money that was paid.
Commissioner Douglas said that Lewis and Maglorie were sentenced to one year
in prison in the British Virgin Islands in 2002 on similar offences. However
the police commissioner promised to tighten the country's maritime border. "We
have a regular patrol in the area; the coast is vulnerable but we'll sharpen
our edges, dot all the I's and cross all the T's," he said.
Boat in distress
Meanwhile the police picked up a man at sea who was in distress. The police
believe that the man was coming to Montserrat to aid Lewis and Maglorie, who
were stranded here with boat problems.
Commissioner Douglas said that the man, Domingo Delgado of Santo Domingo, developed
an engine problem in Montserratian waters. The commissioner said that he got
information that Delgado was on his way to Montserrat to help the two men, who
by then had left the country. Delgado was later sent without being charged,
the commissioner said.
2004
Vacation Bible School Attended by 100 Children
By Tomeika Jeffrey
Approximately 100 children participated in the 2004 Annual Vacation Bible School
(VBS) which ended on Friday, July 23, said by Miss Ruth Allen, minister at the
St. Peters Wesleyan Holiness Church, to be the largest crowd since the start
of the school in 2002.
Organized by the Sunday School Department of the Wesleyan Holiness Church the
five- day session ended with an exhibition and concert where the children entertained
their parents with songs, dances, a recital of scripture verses and skit.
Miss Allen told The Montserrat Reporter during an interview, "Each year
we strive to bring about some spiritual change in the lives of our children.
We feel that it is very important that children learn very early about Jesus
Christ. So during our daily meetings we focused on educating the children about
the Bible, using various methods such as memory verse exercises of different
scriptures in the Bible, songs about Jesus from the Bible, as well as art and
craft projects to develop their artistic skills."
Children from ages 4 to 13 years participated in these activities with the guidance
of a husband and wife team, Anthony and Embler Spencer from Antigua. Mrs. Spencer
dealt with 4- to 6-year-old children, while Mr. Anthony dealt with the 7- to
8-year-olds.
Both Spencers claimed that the children were very much involved in the activities,
even though it was very challenging for them.
"This is not our first time doing this program in Montserrat. We found
the children to be very fast learners, in spite of the difficulties we had in
getting the children to settle down," they said.
Mr. And Mrs. Spencer said they hoped to be back on Montserrat for 2005 VBS.
Other helpers were: Edith Daley, from the programme "Heart to Heart,"
Ruth Allen, Crystal Archer, Eunice Morgan, Menelika Halewood, Asabella Greeves,
Eugence Grant, Randelle Grant and Mary Lewis.
Three
Arrow's Manshop Thieves Pay for What They Tried to Steal
By Tomeika Jeffrey
Three adults and a small child were held by the police after they were caught
on August Monday near Arrow's Manshop in Sweeney with goods that were stolen
during the store's big "10 to 1 It's Murder Sale".
The adults, a man and woman from Guyana and a man from Montserrat were not charged
with larceny because they later paid for the goods. There were no charges involving
the child under age three, whose nationality was not known. The adults were
allowed to leave the country with the infant.
The Montserrat Reporter was told that the group came down from Antigua for the
sale with a plan to rob the store, using the child as a distraction. According
to the storeowner, Alphonsus "Arrow" Cassell, the child was left unattended
and crying, then the women returned to the child and, along with some store
workers and customers, tried to calm the infant. During the commotion the two
men proceeded to steal more than $1,000 in items from the store.
However, some people saw what was happening and alerted the police who apprehended
the thieves not too far from the crime scene in a rented car. Mr. Cassell confronted
them and they agreed to pay for the goods. After they paid up the police escorted
them to the harbour where they board the ferry and left with the child.
"It is the first time we have had such an organized set up with intent
to rob the store. The group was here on Montserrat during Easter for the big
blow-out sale so maybe it was a pattern," he said.
Mr. Cassell said, "It was very disturbing to see my fellow Montserratian
involved in such an act of larceny."
Despite his displeasure, no charges were filed against the group and they were
allowed to board the ferry on Monday afternoon. At the time of the theft, hundreds
of people were in the store shopping.
Early
Childhood Association Presents First Summer Event
By Tomeika Jeffrey
Lady Eudora Fergus described as "A most useful and stimulating Summer School
Programme" what was organized for the first time by the Montserrat Early
Childhood Association, which ended last Friday.
Lady Fergus, President of the Association, rated the programme a success and
pleasing, after a concert and exhibition at the Lookout Community Centre, which
was held to mark the end of the one-week Summer School.
Fifty-six children participated in the programme, which focused mainly on Nursery
School children ages 4 to 6 years and aimed to provide a source of training
for the children in the aspects of performing arts.
The Early Childhood Association was organized to concentrate on children from
birth to age 8; the age group internationally defined as early childhood.
At the concert the children put on a well-packed show for their parents as they
entertained the audience with their newfound skills, through dance, songs, story
telling, gymnastics and a display of art and craft.
Antigua
Jaycees Honor 'Arrow' During 2004 Queen Competition
By Tomeika Jeffrey
Montserrat's Soca Ambassador Alphonsus "Arrow" Cassell was honoured
at the 2004 42nd Jaycees Caribbean Queen Competition last Friday evening in
Carnival City, St. John, Antigua.
A representative of Antigua Jaycees presented "Arrow" with the Caribbean
Award trophy for his outstanding contributions to the development of Soca and
calypso music across the Caribbean.
"Arrow" thanked the Jaycees for their kind gesture, noting that it
was an outstanding Antiguan musician, Clarance Ounkou Edwards of the internationally
famous "Burning Flames," who assisted him greatly on his journey to
international recognition.
He then led the crowd into a musical frenzy with the famous tune "Hot,
Hot, Hot" accompanied by the host band for the evening.
"Arrow" told The Montserrat Reporter later, "It is always a great
feeling to be honoured while you are alive, so I feel that when an organization
takes time out to honour me for contributions done in music for the Caribbean
and the wider world you feel very honoured."
That very night another Montserratian, Miss Francelise White, 2004 Festival
Queen, was also in the spotlight. She was among 13 contestants vying for first
prize in the 2004 Jaycees Caribbean Queen Competition.
Miss White performed a skit about the challenges facing Montserrat's economy
due to the emigration of Montserratians due to the volcanic crisis.
Miss Montserrat did not place among the three top positions, and Miss Antigua
was the winner of the competition.
The other contestants were from Guyana, Jamaica, Antigua, Dominica, St. Kitts,
Cuba, Anguilla, Trinidad and Tobago, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Turks
and Caicos, and Grenada.
The contestants were judged on five segments: swimwear, talent, costume, eveningwear,
and interview.
 |
 |
| Photo:Arrow on stage in Antigua | Photo:Arrow recieves award |
Intense
Thunder Storm Causes Brief but Total Telecom Crisis
By Bennette Roach
Montserrat is still feeling the effects two weeks after an "interaction
of an upper level low and moisture associated with a tropical wave kept the
weather conditions active," from early Saturday night into Sunday morning,
causing a drawn out thunder storm which plunged Montserrat into it's biggest
telecommunication breakdown.
The rest of the Leeward and parts of the northern Windward islands all suffered
similar fate to varying degree, but for Montserrat the resulting overcast skies
with showers and thunderstorms knocked out electricity and caused serious and
continued outages of the island's total communication system.
The damage, described as catastrophic, caused failure to all of the networks
which make up telecommunication infrastructure on the island. This includes
the mobile network, Internet service, which went out for at least 15 hours in
the case of the northern part of the island, and the southern exchange from
St. Peter's south for several days into the week.
Cable & Wireless Montserrat's Chief Executive Officer Neville Dublin said
on Monday last week, "It is the first time that Montserrat has ever been
without its communication system functioning for as long as this."
On Thursday following he said in a statement, "The main telephone exchange
at Sweeneys, which is the nerve centre for all communication systems and services
went into a critical alarm mode due to the severe lightning storm," resulting
in some damage and loss of communications with the Woodlands Exchange. He confirmed
that "the exchange system crashed at approximately 6.00 a.m. on Sunday
morning, making it impossible for customers to make both local and international
calls."
Customer Services Executive Joseph O'Garro explained that "physically the
island is served by two geographic exchanges, one from north to St. Peters,
and the south from there by another exchange located in Woodlands."
Joseph Cassell, Manager Sales and Product Development, said services were restored
to its customers in the northern part of the island late Monday, July 26, and
that Cable & Wireless hoped to have services restored to customers in the
area from St Peter's to Salem by Tuesday July 27..
But while many C&W customers complained during the week, Mr. O'Garro had
also explained that, "although the services have been restored, in some
areas other related and unrelated faults could have developed with individual
land lines."
The Cable & Wireless officials were quick to point out that the "severe
lighting jolts during the passage of the tropical wave on Saturday which caused
serious disruption to telecommunication," and electricity services were
not caused by any volcanic activity. Electricity officials confirmed that power
has been restored island wide, the system suffering from poles falling as a
result of the 67 mm of rain which fell during the storm.
By midday on the following Monday, Mr. Dublin told us, "60 percent of our
mobile, national and international services have been restored. Services were
restored in the northern area yesterday and we expect to have services fully
restored by tomorrow Tuesday."
Montserratians overseas were unable to contact relatives and friends on the
island as among several others one email message from former government press
officer, Cecil Cassell, who resides in London, said "I tried calling all
day yesterday and this morning, I was wondering if something terrible happened."
Antigua and St. Kitts have reported some downtime in their telecommunications
also.
While saying there are still some minor problems to be resolved, the C&W
CEO said that "In restoring services we first had to use our emergency
satellite unit, our only means of communications then, to contact the technical
support division of Nortel Networks, the supplier of the exchange."
He said that they worked with C&W's local staff all day Sunday and were
still working to bring the services back to normalcy. A Nortel networks engineer
came in from Antigua on Sunday, and other technical and hardware support were
promptly provided by C&W Antigua and St. Kitts during the course of the
short crisis.
 |
| Photo: Neville Dublin with Joseph Cassell |
Lookout
Primary Awaits Sixth Graders Next Month
By Tomeika Jeffrey
The Lookout Primary School will welcome its first batch of sixth graders when
the new school year opens in September, according to Head Teacher of the School
Miss Edith Duberry.
Miss Duberry stated this in her School report during the Annual Promotion Day
Exercise on Tuesday, July 13, at the St. John's Anglican Church.
She later told The Montserrat Reporter during a brief interview, "the new
grade will be operating in the auditorium where the school held its weekly assembly
and will class 30 11- to 12-year-old students. However, the Department of Education
is still in search of suitable applicants to teach the grade.
Miss Duberry also highlighted the school's recent Promotion Day Exercise where
144 students gained 50 percent and over passes at the end of the third term
from Kindergarten to 5th grade. Four students graduated from fifth grade to
the Montserrat Secondary School because of the Primary School age limitation,
which the students seemed to have exceeded.
She said, the exercise was held under the theme "The top is reached by
striving," during which six students were selected from each grade and
presented with "Student Of The Year Awards."
This honour is awarded to students for their over-all performance throughout
the school year, to encourage students to strive for higher heights, and to
always do their best, Miss Duberry said.
 |
| Photo:Head Teacher of Lookout Primary Edith Duberry |
Special Olympians' Jamaica Showing Prompts Plans for Expanded Training
Plans to expand the Montserrat Special Olympics group and boost training for
its athletes are now top priority according to Mrs. Tammy Foote, professional
occupational therapist and trainer for the special needs children.
Mrs. Foote was speaking after the athletes' recent performance at the opening
Special Olympics Caribbean Inaugural Games 2004 in Jamaica on July 8-11, where
the group captured nine medals and triggered plans for Montserrat's forthcoming
national games in November and December.
Impressed by their performance when a nine-member delegation of athletes and
coaches represented Montserrat in the inaugural event, Mrs. Foote told The Montserrat
Reporter, "I have gathered lots of information on how we are going to start
training in September for the national games."
The therapist said, "Our first move is to regroup and get more volunteers
to help with the training, as well as recruiting other special needs persons
living in Montserrat to get involved in the group. The training will strengthen
the athletes and better prepare them for the national games."
"We are going to start a training programme in September for track and
field and increase the days for training instead of just working at the Special
Needs Unit," Mrs. Foote said,
She went on to say that, "While we were at the games in Jamaica we invited
other islands to come and participate in our national games," concluding
that they reciprocated by "inviting us to their national games."
Montserrat's performance was considered to be outstanding, winning several gold,
silver and bronze medals. Details next week.
 |
| Photo:Special Olympians return home |
Standard
and Poor's Team Visits To Gauge GoM Credit Worthiness
By Bennette Roach
John Chambers and Roberto H. Sifon Arevalo from the New York headquarters of
Standard and Poor's paid a two-day visit to Montserrat last week.
During their visit, the two Standard and Poor's officials held talks with individuals
in both the public and private sectors, including bankers and managers of Statutory
Bodies.
They also sought the views of members of the local media outlets on Montserrat.
A release from the Honorable Financial Secretary John Skerritt stated, "the
Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Trade is seeking a Sovereign Credit
Rating in an effort to improve the attractiveness of the island for investment."
It is believed that this will add to the Montserrat government's commitment
to accelerate its investment promotion activities over the next five years.
Mr. Chambers, Managing Director (Sovereign Ratings), said investors view the
government as the most credit worthy institution in any country and that any
corporation that would borrow would be less credit worthy than the government.
"If you are looking to lend to a corporation doing business in Montserrat
. . . an investor thinking about buying notes that are issued by such a corporation
. . . your first point of reference will be how credit worthy is the government,"
Chambers said during a media briefing at the end of the talks.
The Standard and Poor's official said by establishing a credit rating the government
can help facilitate private corporations by getting external financing.
He explained: "I think what counts is the strength of the social contract
. . . That social contract is established over decades, over years, and it's
whether or not the government . . . all of its leaders can respond to meeting
the needs of its citizens and to setting the rules for the game in such a way
that people can prosper . . . . The stronger the social contract the greater
confidence that you have that the current policies will continue to be implemented
and eventually strengthened," Chambers concluded.
The Standard and Poor's officials said they will analyze the data and submit
their report to the government of Montserrat
 |
|
Photo: John Chambers and Roberto H. Sifon Arevalo from the New York headquarters of Standard and Poor's |
Regional News
U.S. Insurance Fraud Probe Nets at Least 2 Barbadians
By Tony Best
BARBADOS -- More Barbadians could be accused of fraud and money laundering as
investigations into an insurance scam in the United States widens.
Justice Department officials are claiming that out of the US$200 million American
investors may have lost in the illegal insurance scheme, Barbados was used to
launder about US$20 million and so far two Barbadians have been indicted.
The two are Ian Walcott, who is now in custody in Florida and awaiting trial
in September, and accountant Anderson Marshall, who remains free here. Both
have already been charged along with six Americans.
"You must understand this is an ongoing investigation and depending on
the outcome of the trial and what the investigators find, more Barbadians may
be indicted," said a prosecution source who requested anonymity.
What may have prevented federal prosecutors from bringing charges against other
Bajans, including one woman, is a lack of strong evidence that they knew fraud
and money laundering were occurring and participated in them. If it became clear
they were aware of the fraud and participated, then prosecutors would seek indictments.
The charges against Messrs. Marshall and Walcott are based on strong circumstantial
evidence, said a source.
According to papers filed in a federal district court in Pensacola, Florida,
where the trial is scheduled to begin in September, the illegal scheme was allegedly
masterminded and run by five Americans, David W. Svete, Douglas Kordel, Roger
W. Lange, Kathleen LaFrance and Ron Girardot. Messrs.Walcott and Marshall, as
well as another American, Charme Austin, were not the central figures in the
fraud scheme, prosecutors allege.
They are being cast in documents and statements by prosecution officials as
minor players who may have facilitated the fraud and the money laundering by
using a web of companies they helped to create in order to move money in and
out of the United States, Barbados, Nevis, St. Vincent and elsewhere.
Barbados was said to be the hub of the money laundering. Several of the companies
were in Barbados and Nevis.
"Unfortunately, Barbados was the central point of the money laundering
aspect of this case," said a source.
The charges arose out of what is being called a "viatical insurance fraud
scheme" in which life insurance policyholders sold their policies to viatical
firms. The insured received some money upfront before their deaths, while giving
the companies the right to receive the full value when they died.
Many investors put up money to buy the policies after being allegedly misled
into believing the insured were terminally ill patients and would soon die.
But the policy- holders were healthy Americans and didn't die quickly. It caused
the investors to lose their money.
Trinidadian Foresees Shortages In Reliance on Imported Foods
TRINIDAD -- Trinidad and Tobago President George Maxwell Richards warned recently
of a food crisis if more emphasis is not placed on developing food security
and encouraging local production.
Mr. Richards told the Penal Rotary Club that Trinidad's over reliance on the
energy sector will continue for some time. "Oil cannot go bad but it cannot
be eaten," he said.
He appealed for greater attention to be paid to food production, for both local
consumption and export.
Trinidad's food importation bill for fruits and vegetables increased form $297,165,604
in 1999 to $380,365,637 in 2003.
"That . . .is the cost of importing vegetables and fruits into a small
country that is blessed with fertile soil, weather conditions that can be dealt
with and idle manpower," he said.
"It is amazing that we are importing vegetables and fruit on such a large
scale when we have such a variety of our own. Iceberg lettuce does not have
the nutrition that our regular green leaf lettuce has. We must develop a deeper
appreciation for our local foods and get more involved in production, preparation
and preservation," he said.
Mr. Richards bemoaned the lack of interest in agriculture in the country and
saw it as one way of eradicating poverty.
"I put it to you that as long as there is a patch of ground that is legitimately
accessible, those who are categorised as poor, can be encouraged to bring relief
to their situation by planting short term food crops,"
Grenada PM Tells of Bribery Probe, Declares His Innocence
GRENADA - Prime Minister Keith Mitchell told Parliament this week that the government
will open an independent investigation into bribery allegations against him
that he vehemently denies.
A commission of enquiry will be formed by the island's governor general, he
said.
"I am particularly pleased to announce this," Mr. Mitchell said, "because
after all the allegations and dirty work done by some persons in this country,
I will live to see that this prime minister will be vindicated."
Mr. Mitchell has denied allegations reported by the Miami-based newsletter OffshoreAlert
in April that he accepted a US$500,000 payoff from a German-born man in exchange
for giving him a trade minister position.
Mr. Mitchell has filed a criminal libel lawsuit against Offshore Alert and publisher
David Marchant, who has said he stands by the story.
The government says former trade ambassador Eric E. Resteiner offered to cover
travel expenses for Mr. Mitchell's delegation on a 2000 promotional and investment
tour of Europe and Kuwait.
The government says the man gave about US$15,000 for the trip without hope of
personal benefit. It maintains such actions are common and proper.
It wasn't immediately clear who would sit on the commission of enquiry or how
soon it would begin work. Business and church leaders had called for an investigation.
The Prime Minister said Governor General, Sir Daniel Williams laid out plans
for the enquiry in a statement.
Mr. Mitchell, who declared he had nothing to hide, said several lawsuits had
been brought against people, including House members, "for making allegations
which are unsubstantiated."
Former PM Hugh Shearer Dies in Jamaica at Age 81
JAMAICA -- Jamaica began an official period of mourning on Saturday, July 30,
for former prime minister Hugh Shearer, who died at his Hope Pastures home in
St Andrew that morning after a long illness.
Shortly after news of his passing was publicised, the Government announced that
Mr. Shearer, 81, who was prime minister from 1967 to 1972, would be accorded
a State Funeral.
Prime Minister P.J. Patterson, who was in Grenada for a CARICOM Heads of Government
conference, said Jamaica and the entire Caribbean would be plunged into mourning
by Mr. Shearer's death.
While most of the tributes from political and business leaders drew attention
to Mr. Shearer's years in politics, it was his trade union contribution that
was highlighted most.
"I found him to be a negotiator of the highest order," said Herbert
Lewis, president of the Jamaica Employers' Federation. "He bore no grudge
or ill will and he always represented the interest of the workers."
VOLCANO LIMERICKS
Injured Innocence
How dare those ex-CMs collude
And suggest the world price for crude
Was less justification
Than a coming gas station
For the price increase we pursued?
TPS
Deadline
In the U.S. Montserratians are wary
That their lives soon will be fragmentary;
One permission to stay
Will be taken away;
"Seven years can't be called 'temporary.' "
TOURISM HIGHLIGHTS
TWELFTH ANNUAL "MY CARIBBEAN" ESSAY CONTEST
Montserrat's Zenique Leonard who attends the Brades Primary School is this year's
finalist in the annual "My Caribbean" Essay Contest, which is sponsored
by the Condé Nast Traveler Magazine in cooperation with the Caribbean
Tourism Organisation (CTO).
Zenique's essay is among the 24 chosen from around the Caribbean with the essay
topic being "What is the one thing that a vacation on your island offers
that you can get no where else?"
As a finalist, Zenique will attend the Caribbean Tourism Conference-27 (CTC-27)
in Aruba from October 17 - 19, 2004, along with a chaperone to compete with
the other twenty-three (23) finalists from the other Caribbean countries. At
this Conference, one grand prize-winner and two runners-up will be chosen from
among the finalists.
The "My Caribbean" Essay Contest, now in its twelfth year, is designed
to introduce the benefits of tourism to the children of the Caribbean, as well
as to broaden their spectrum on life's opportunities.
Jus wonderin why
no more ministers don't come out an talk. Is friad dey friad so?
Jus wonderin why dis big, huge, large increase in duty for wines.
Jus wonderin if de powers dat be doh know dat is what a lotta de money-spenders
does drink; like dem tourist and such.
Jus wonderin how come dey take aaf duty on some things like shrimp and ting
because tourist like dem, but dey ehn leave nothing to wash it down with.
Jus wonderin if soon de Spanish dem will run Montserrat.
Jus wonderin if is a certain Gov. Official that giving them de authority or
is it the law force.
Jus wonderin if there is no child endangerment law in Montserrat mek dem de
group who dey say steal from Arrow was sent off to Antigua with de child.
Jus wonderin wha mek de chief always off island on official business and he
never seem to be doing any big for de country.
Jus wonderin why de news report only mention de Guyanese and not de Montserratian.
Jus wonderin why it hard to say and what's new that a fellow Montserratian tryin
to bring down another Montserratian.
Jus wonderin why some people so quick to rejoice in another down fall and dem
a look for sympathy went dem share come round.
Jus wondering Mr. Chief Minister if Montserrat had surplus money in the 1980
where is it now.
Jus wondering when locally elected Montserratians going to have a real say in
what goes on here.
Jus wondering where are the streetlights that are supposed to be on the busiest
roads.
Jus wonderin why is ah "sad day for Montserrat" jus because somebody
get ketch dancing and now have to pay de piper for a little time.
Jus wonderin if people doh realize dat Montserrat join de real worl' long, long
time.
Jus wonderin de fust law of tiefing: "Thou shalt not get caught".
Jus wondering how can di police tighten its maritime borders with only one patrol
boat.
Jus wondering how a man can get fire for bigging up one man and not welcoming
di other.
Jus wondering what is happening out at Little Bay, how some tings an even people
going down hill.
Jus wonderin if some ah dem electronic news people cyan be a little more upbeat.
Jus wonderin a certain one ah dem like a long, slow drink ah lukewarm water.
Jus wonderin if media blood thicker dan water too.
Jus wonderin who really think dey could stop gambling.
Jus wonderin if dey don't know nothing attracts humans as much as "free"
sex and "easy" money.
Jus wonderin if dey forget that there's no such thing as a free lunch.
Jus wonderin if dey cyan see dat the people who want de gambling is de people
who have de money to gamble.
Just wondering if farming is that important how comes the Ministry of Agriculture
no get we start exporting again.
Jus wonderin why de newspaper man interviewer does make them interviewees dem
so uncomfortable. Especially when is big minister an ting.
Jus wonderin why a minister de odder day was defending airport overruns when
nobody been accusin anybody about dat. Yet.
Jus wonderin if de minister doh know he should be tellin and suggestin rather
dan arksin question.
Jus wonderin if some ah dem minister nevah hear de term "De buck stops
here".
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