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Clare Short Resigns Post And is Promptly Replaced

Compiled from dispatches

Clare Short resigned Monday as Britain’s Secretary of State for International Development and was promptly replaced by Baroness Valerie Amos.

She had earlier threatened to quit the post she had held for six years over differences with Prime Minister Tony Blair's policy on Iraq, which she called "reckless," but remained in office through the brief war.

In her resignation letter to Mr. Blair she wrote, "I am afraid that the assurances you gave me about the need for a U.N. mandate to establish a legitimate Iraqi government have been breached."

She accused Mr. Blair and Foreign Secretary Jack Straw of "secretly" negotiating a U.N. Security Council resolution, which she said contradicted assurances she had given to lawmakers.

"This makes my position impossible," the letter stated. "I am sad and sorry that it has ended like this."

Mr. Blair's official spokesman dismissed her assertion.

"I am not aware of any assurance the prime minister has given that has not been kept," said the spokesman, briefing reporters on condition of anonymity.

Shortly thereafter, in the House of Commons, she used her resignation statement to launch a scathing broadside against the "presidential" style of the New Labour government.

She told MPs trust was being undermined and party loyalty strained by the kind of errors seen over Iraq.

Ms Short also complained that she first learnt of the detail of a new U.N. resolution on rebuilding Iraq from BBC News Online, when her department is supposed to have a key role in the country's reconstruction.

She said the drafting of the resolution had been shrouded in secrecy.

That suggestion was rejected by Foreign Secretary Straw, who said the U.N. process was open and that the draft resolution would give the U.N. a "vital role".

And Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon told the BBC that he simply did not recognise Ms. Short's description of a government she had served in for six years.

She said her position was made impossible because the draft new U.N. resolution now being discussed at the Security Council does not give the U.N. its promised central role in rebuilding Iraq.

She called the UK's position "totally dishonourable."

"I cannot defend it. It is wrong in international law and for the rebuilding of Iraq and it breaches the promises that the prime minister gave to me," she told BBC News.

Ms. Short said the UK Government was supporting the U.S. "in trying to bully" the U.N. Security Council into adopting the resolution.

Mr. Blair was not in the packed and tense House of Commons to hear Ms. Short go well beyond Iraq in her bruising attack.

"To the prime minister, I would say that he has achieved great things since 1997," she said.

"But paradoxically, he is in danger of destroying his legacy as he becomes increasingly obsessed with his place in history." 

 Earlier, Downing Street said Ms. Short's five-minute phone call to Mr. Blair had been "perfectly cordial."

In a cordial letter acknowledging her resignation, Mr. Blair said, “Our record on aid and development is one of the government's proudest achievements and I would like to thank you for your role in bringing that about. . . . .

“Had you stayed on, there was clearly an important job to be done in the continuing efforts to bring about the reconstruction of Iraq.

“My commitment to that effort remains as strong as ever.”

Ms. Short's replacement, Guyana-born Baroness Amos, is the Foreign Office minister who has been the government's spokeswoman on international development in the House of Lords.

The speed with which Baroness Amos was appointed to succeed Ms. Short suggested her departure was no surprise to Number 10.

The Baroness becomes the UK's first black woman cabinet minister and -- unusual for a departmental head -- will tackle her brief from the House of Lords.

The draft resolution at the center of Ms. Short’s complaint would give U.N. approval to a U.S.-British occupation of Iraq for at least a year and give the Americans and British control of the country's oil wealth for rebuilding the country.

Under the plan, the United Nations would appoint a coordinator to advise the U.S.-British coalition, mostly on humanitarian issues. Spain and Britain co-sponsored the resolution.

Ms. Short raised eyebrows when she failed to turn up for last week's important vote in the House of Commons on government plans for reform of the health service. She later said she had made a mistake over the timing of the vote, which the government won despite opposition from 65 lawmakers from Blair's own Labor Party.

CDERA Brings Emergency Response Board to Montserrat

The 13^th Meeting of the Board of Directors of the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA) began this week with an official opening ceremony at the Governor’s House in Palmhurst on Tuesday evening.

At the opening ceremony, His Excellency Governor Anthony Longrigg, whose responsibility includes that of disaster preparedness and emergencies, expressed his appreciation to the CDERA Board for choosing Montserrat to keep their meeting.

He said that the subject of disaster management is of increasing importance to the British Government, and that “everybody in the Department for International Development (DFID) and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) are extremely well-aware of the vulnerability of the Overseas Territories, particularly Caribbean Overseas Territories, to disasters of varying types, which we have to be prepared for.”

He pointed out that all Governors or the Caribbean Overseas Territories are under instructions by the FCO to have a personal objective related to disaster management.

“My objective for this year is to finish Montserrat’s national disaster plan, complete with a secondary set of disaster plans for particular areas,” Governor Longrigg said.

CDERA Coordinator Jeremy Collymore said the meeting represented “a significant opportunity to envision what it is that we seek to have our policymakers do . . . and also to give them a first hand view of how vulnerable the Small Island Development States (SIDS) of the region are,.”

Mr. Collymore pointed out that the region is presently preparing a Comprehensive Disaster Management Programme (CDMP), which seeks to make a strategic link between disasters and development.

Mrs. Sarita Francis, Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Chief Minister, echoed the remarks of Governor Longrigg, noting “the Montserrat experience has shown and taught us that we live in a region that is not only prone to hurricanes, but also earthquakes, droughts, volcanic activity and flooding, all of which have devastating effects on our economies and our people.”

Mrs. Francis said that even “though Montserrat has a world class observatory, early warning network system, a fully staffed emergency center shelter management programme, we cannot afford to be complacent.”

Mrs. Francis said her Government’s commitment to the objectives as it relates to disaster preparedness and management plan in the Montserrat Sustainable Development Plant is further seen in the allocation of the EC$4.4 million dollars of the current budget to disaster management, which includes monitoring the Soufriere Hills Volcano.

The three-day meetings were conducted at the EOC’s headquarters in St. Johns and went deep into the final day.

EDITORIAL

"Clare Short’s Post-departure Remarks Strike Familiar Refrain in Montserrat"

Wow! Coming from London, in association with the Evening Standard: “Ms. Short dismisses the common claim from the Left that the Prime Minister is America's poodle, saying he is far more passive than a pet dog -- being a fig leaf, instead.

" ‘I mean these poodles jump off, get off their lead and jump about. Fig leaves just about stay where they are.’ She says the French and other critics could have been talked round given more time and adds: ‘Fig leaf No 2 is 'blame the French'."

Ms. Short must have heard about David Brandt’s statement in relation to what some think was just a “made up” relationship between herself and our Chief Minister. Brandt had said to CM Osborne, “I will never become a lap dog, a little poodle, licking the hands and feet and posterior of the British…So, I urge you to stop being a poodle and try to end your career as a tiger, fighting along.”

No one can deny that Ms. Short has ended her ministerial post of Secretary to the Department of International Development (DFID) in Her Majesty’s Government under Prime Minister Tony Blair like a tiger. Dr. Lowell Lewis must feel like an angel listening to Ms, Short as he himself has, not publicly but quite privately, sounded his own accusations, some similar to Ms. Short’s. "A big chunk of me is relieved," said Ms. Short, on her resignation, saying she could not abide "the strain of defending things you don't believe in." These words were quite similar to those of Dr. Lewis when he first heard that he was about to lose his post as Minister of Communications and Works.

There are strong views that say, “Such a disrespectful statement, (the first quote above appearing in the Evening Standard) makes it quite clear what the lady thinks of the President of the United States. Unfortunate remarks emanating from honorable members of the presumed honorable home of parliamentary democracy.’

Dr. Lewis would see this and undoubtedly cringe that he most likely could not bring himself to say things likewise, although he felt himself in the very same position.

It is difficult to believe, after listening to Ms. Short and how critical she has been of her own government, that there was reciprocity in the relationship that exists between herself and John Osborne, as described by our Chief Minister. We will of course not forget her denial of our CM’s statement that she withheld aid from Montserrat because of her dislike for a former chief minister, while contending that she did have a good relationship with the present government.

The CM’s continued descriptions of this good relationship, and his intentions and reasons for visiting London, once more must come under scrutiny following his pronouncements to BBC interviewers.

A month ago the Government Information Unit (GIU) here reported that “Chief Minister Osborne travels to London for talks with the Secretary of State for International Development, Hon. Clare Short…talks will focus on future development projects and financing for the island…During his trip to the UK, the Chief Minister will hold a series of meetings with Montserratians throughout the country to hear their concerns and interests.”

This week the CM is heard to say that he was just having a courtesy visit with Ms. Short. In another interview, after he had repeatedly said, even here at home, that plans are being put in place to encourage Montserratians to come back home, he announces: “We are not telling people to come home . . .  those people who decide to come home will be accepted…“

How can we help asking again, “Who is fooling whom?” But what is new anyway?

It is possible that Ms. Short never really knew the true situation in Montserrat neither from us nor her advisor;, the fact remaining that she had chosen not to do like several of her counterparts and visit the Island.

When the BBC asked us this week whether a visit from her would still be welcome, it was easy to answer yes, because Montserratians are (foolishly or otherwise) a forgiving people. An analysis of Clare Short after her resignation suggests she will be missed, sespecialy since the non-elected Baroness Amos, who took over from her, has only recently snubbed hurting residents of Montserrat with the support of the Chief Minister and the Governor. Ms Short is expected to still have some influence in the DFID ministry and now may have more time to develop that personal relationship our CM boasts about to the good of Montserrat (for a change).

SCRIPTURE VERSE THIS WEEK

Nights of Anxiety- Read Matthew 6:25-34

The Psalmist wrote, “Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” –Psalm 42:11(NIV)

I couldn’t sleep; anxiety made me toss and turn in my bed. I could not stop thinking about the financial difficulties that waited for me the next day. I continued to pray for several days but nothing happened. God seemed deaf to my prayers. My anxiety grew until my fears became suffocating.

I got up and read familiar scripture passages. I read Matthew 6:27: “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” By being anxious I would not add days, money, health, or peace to my life. As I continued to pray, I let the voice of Christ calm me down.

When I saw the sun on the horizon, I cried. I felt absolutely incapable of solving my financial problems. But in spite of that, I had not died in the night. My soul will wait, and I will continue to praise God.

 

Prayer: Thank you God, for Jesus’ words that calm us and give us hope for a new day. Amen

Thought for the Week: The night is not eternal for those who trust God.

Orlando Lima Coutinho (Santa Catarina, Brazil)

Prayer Focus: Small Business Owners

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Laws of Physics Are Well Established

Dear Editor,

I thought my teaching days were long over, but apparently certain individuals on Montserrat need a refresher course in some basics of Physics and Earth Science.  It might be news to some individuals, but volcanoes and hence pyroclastic flows are HOT!  We do not need to be reminded of this each week in scientific interviews.  As for "ENERGETIC," this can easily be explained by Newton's First Law of Motion stating that an object once in motion tends to stay in motion until acted upon by an outside force.  In other words, it goes in a straight line until something causes it to turn or to come to a halt.  In the case of pyroclastic flows, GRAVITY keeps them moving downward until they reach the flat at the bottom of the hill. At this point MOMENTUM takes over until friction and other forces bring the object to a halt.  GRAVITY could once again enter the picture here if the object should have to climb a hill or embankment where gravity would slow the object.  But where is this unusual?  If a section of the dome should collapse and send a mass of material down a side of the mountain, colliding with loose material already on the side of the mountain, there will be a cloud of material released into the air.  What makes this so energetic?  Not once in a number of years have I heard anyone refer to explosive events nor to bulges leading to lateral explosions. These would be ENERGETIC.

 People (scientists and others) are describing pyroclastic flows coming down the Belham Valley and 1) reaching the sea and 2) doing so in 3 minutes as shown from "past experience."  Sorry, but there has been no "Past Experience" to use this example, EVER!  Never in the history of this island has a pyroclastic flow come down the Belham Valley to the sea.  This has been stated numerous times by other scientists who have studied the geology of the island.  Using the pyroclastic flows that have gone down other flanks of the dome is not valid since the slopes and other factors are entirely different.  We have been told that a pyroclastic flow coming down the NW flank will suddenly do a 90-degree turn to continue down the Belham rather than continue in a straight line (see Newton's Law #1 above), thereby defying the laws of nature. Have these scientists discovered new laws of physics? 

Very often I hear some of these same people try to compare the situation we are in with the Boxing Day event in St. Patrick's.  Some also state that it took almost a year for that prediction to occur and therefore our present seven-month wait might not be in vain. The Boxing Day event cannot be compared to any other event on this mountain.  One theory has it that the Galways soufriere was undermining the wall to the point that sooner or later it HAD to collapse.  Another is that cracks in the wall, possibly caused by earthquakes, caused it to fail.  Due to the weakening of the wall, it finally just slid out from the bottom and rushed to the sea burying everything in its' wake. With such a mass of volcanic material rushing away at such force, there had to be a massive surge cloud doing additional damage.  Why would any intelligent and thinking person not see this coming?  Why would this same person expect a similar event on the North or Northwest side where no soufriere is weakening the base of the wall nor are there any cracks in the wall?  With each and every pyroclastic flow and rock fall going down these sides, the mountain continues to be more stable and reduces the risk of a large collapse. Peter Dunkley has stated numerous times that the volcano is more stable than it has ever been, so why is this "big event" going to occur?  They also state that "it might occur," that during a heavy rainfall a large part of the dome "might" collapse.  We have had rainfalls in the last seven months in excess of 3", yet no major collapse.  How much will it take MVO?  6", 9", 12"; you must have some number in mind, or is this just one more "might", "maybe", or "could"? Why is it that any "collapse" used for reference for this theory has always occurred on the NE or Eastern side? 

One of the arguments for closing off such a wide area on the flanks of the Belham is that a surge cloud could reach 200'-300' in height and do all sorts of harm.  Yet it has been stated in some reports that a pyroclastic flow coming down the Belham would be traveling at only 20 mph at the Belham Bridge, at most.  How can a flow at that paltry speed create a surge cloud to go to 200' or more?  It is impossible by every law of science. 

It has been stated by Dr. Krebs that what the MVO staff is using is "Voodoo Science"; let us get back to Textbook Science !

Paul Breuer

A Cautionary Tale About Walking in Montserrat

Dear Editor,

Whilst walking in Montserrat, be aware, there are pitfalls even in the unlikeliest of residential areas. Proceed with caution at all times as you stroll along admiring the scenery. Should you on your journey be startled out of your reveries by marauding dogs snapping and barking at your heels, take note of these guidelines, they may be of help.

DO NOT under any circumstances be tempted to pick up a stick, stone or consider aiming a swift kick at the offending attackers (try to bear in mind there are no bad dogs, just bad and inconsiderate owners).

NEVER try to summon the attention of said owners, as this will certainly bring about a verbal attack concerning one’s race, class or colour of skin! Yes, even on Montserrat confrontations under these circumstances should, on your part, be avoided at all times.

REFRAIN from any verbal counterattack, unless it’s diplomatic. Remember the definition of diplomacy is having the ability to tell a person to “Go to Hell!” in such a fashion that the journey is considered enjoyable every step of the way! Should you not trust yourself to be a diplomat, be dumb! This ensures you will have nothing to reproach yourself for later. Your dignity remains intact.

NOW, fellow walkers, provided your legs will still enable you to extricate yourself from this dangerous situation in which you find yourself, turn tail, (no pun intended), even if this means one has to forego one’s swim at the beach. Head for the nearest police station A.S.A.P and COMPLAIN.

DO make it an official complaint as it will then be on record and will help the next unfortunate person who finds himself/herself in the same unfriendly situation. A police officer will heed your tale of woe and act upon it; the offender will be warned, moreso should you relate the fact that you have had insults hurled at you, long range, concerning your class, creed or colour. After all, we are living in the same Caribbean aren’t we? All of us “foreigners” by choice.

TAKE HEART; do not be offended by such rudeness. Bear in mind abuse of this nature comes from ignorance, lack of education and a lack of social skills. Manners maketh man!

This unsociable behaviour should not be tolerated on Montserrat, considered to be one of the friendliest of islands. Sadly the “old colonial attitude” still shows itself from time to time. Do we have to accept it? I don’t believe so. STAND UP for yourselves and others in a dignified way; help stamp out this disgraceful attitude once and for all.

Linda Green

LOCAL NEWS

Marine Patrol’s Shamrock Is Launched at Little Bay

The Royal Montserrat Police Force’s new patrol boat, the Shamrock, described as a cross between a Ferrari and a Land Rover by Sean O’Reilly, Commander of the British Military Advisory and Training Team (BMATT) Eastern Caribbean, was commissioned by His Excellency Governor Anthony Longrigg’s wife Margaret on Thursday afternoon at the Montserrat Port Authority Pier at Little Bay.

Mr. O’Reilly said the recently acquired 36-foot aluminum hull vessel is extremely well built, extremely fast and, from BMATT’S perspective, very capable.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Simon Morson, speakimg on behalf of the Commissioner John  Douglas and the RMPF, expressed his happiness at acquiring the boat, which, he said, “is very important to our efforts in providing a comprehensive service to the community.” He noted that because of the lack of a proper patrol vessel, the RPMF’s marine capability suffered a severe handicap. That was made worse last year, after the former Shamrock was involved in an accident resulting in the destruction of the vessel.

His Excellency Governor Longrigg urged the Marine Unit to properly maintain the boat, as he had had a great task in convincing the British Government that there was a great need for a boat for Montserrat.

BMATT was responsible for rendering technical assistance to the RMPF, in their acquisition of the boat.

The boat, which was delivered in Montserrat on the 12^thApril this year, cost approximately EC$500,000 and was paid for by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) under its Good Governance Fund.

It was built at the Ambar Marine yard in Theodore, Alabama, U.S., and came with a spare set of twin 225-hp outboard engines, lifting harnesses and cradle for storage during hurricane seasons and maintenance periods.

Police Commissioner John Douglas said, “The new vessel will once again give the RMPF invaluable search and rescue capabilities and allow us to resume regular patrols to maintain safety at sea and to counteract any illegal activities.”

Mrs. Longrigg followed launching tradition and broke a bottle of champagne on the bow of the boat.

Members of the media and officials from the Governor’s Office went aboard the Shamrock for a trial run on the seas. 

Volcano Memorial Fund Is Officially Under Way

A “Volcano Memorial Fundraising Committee,” comprising Paul Morris, Claudia Skerritt, Leslie Sweeney, Johnny Wyke and Jadine Glitzenhern, held a news conference Wednesday morning at the Government Training Center to officially launch a Memorial Fund in memory of the 19 people who lost their lives as a result of the volcanic eruptions in June 1997.

Police Superintendent Paul Morris, spokesperson for the committee, said the fund is a result of a need identified by the group to establish a lasting memorial for those who died. He linked this to the emphasis being placed on development of “volcano tourism,” stressing that “we should never lose sight of the tragedies that many Montserratian families suffered.”

Mr. Morris said the group proposes “to have a locally identifiable memorial be erected at a prominent location which will provide a lasting and dignified mark of respect to those who lost their lives.”

Committee members have been in contact with members of the bereaved families and said “the vast majority have been very supportive.” They added that it is their intention to be sensitive to the views and concerns of those bereaved.

The Committee explained that the Montserratians both at home and abroad would decide the design and the location of the project, and would share ownership of the project by assisting in the fundraising activities.

Mr. Morris said they are hoping that local groups such as the Girl Guides, Brownies, community centers, sports groups, churches and Rotary initiate their own events, which would contribute to the fund.

Asked whether they will consider the results of the Inquest held into the deaths of those who did lose their lives on June 25, 1997 and work on the idea of getting compensation for the families of the deceased, the members said it was early yet to say what direction they will take, but hinted a willingness to take suggestions on board.

The aim of the Committee is to initially raise EC$50,000 for the Fund. An account, # 7115382, has been set up at the Bank of Montserrat. 

WesternUnion Bouquets Brighten Mother’s Day

Last Sunday the Western Union money transfer service made surprise Mother’s Day visits to all the churches in Montserrat, providing elderly women with bouquets of flowers.

Ms. Mary Lewis, manager of the local Western Union and the person responsible for putting the activity together, said that Western Union’s main office decided to prepare a special treat to show its appreciation for all mothers around the world.

“Each country was responsible for organizing an activity to celebrate mothers, and on behalf of the local Western Union, I decided to surprise the mothers with bouquets,” Ms. Lewis said.

A special gift was also presented to the oldest mother in Montserrat, 102-year-old Mrs. Jane Louisa Gerald of the Cavalla Hill Methodist Church; the gift presentation was made by Reverend Roselyn Morgan at Mrs. Gerald’s home in Upper Brades.

Ms. Lewis said, “On Monday morning may of the mothers who received gifts and pastors called the office to extend their gratitude.”

Nurses Week Activities Stress Friendly Warmth

Under the theme ‘A Friendly Smile, A Warm Embrace, A Gentle Touch, Nursing Means so Much’, the nurses of Montserrat celebrated their week with a number of activities.

The week began with a church service at the St. John’s Anglican Church on Sunday.

Ms. Roslyn Tuitt, President of the Montserrat Nurses Association, gave a radio address on Monday in which she urged all nurses “to continue to demonstrate the fundamentals of love and caring for the whole person through a friendly smile, a warm embrace and a gentle touch.” 

An exhibition was held at the St. John’s Health Center, where knitted crafts and a mixed variety of dishes were displayed and sold. These included cooked channa and cheese cake, table centers and artifices.

The exhibits were donated by the nurses and their family members.

A blood screening exercise was carried out today at Government Headquarters.

The weeklong celebration culminates tomorrow night with a Nurses concert at the Bitter End Bar.

Strategic Plan to Confront HIV/AIDS Launched Here

Montserrat is in the process of developing a Strategic Plan to deal with its Response to HIV/AIDS.

The Ministry of Education, Health and Community Services officially launched the Strategic Planning Exercise for the National Response to HIV/AIDS on Monday evening at Tropical Mansion Suites.

The program was prepared in collaboration with the Caribbean Epidemiology Center, (CAREC), Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

At the launching of the programme, key officials both from CAREC and the Ministry of Health gave brief outlines of the importance and relevance of such a plan.

His Excellency Governor Anthony Longrigg cautioned the health officials and other participants about becoming complacent in their efforts to keep the “island in the relatively safe position it is,” as it relates to the HIV/AIDS virus.

Dr. Joseph Hawes, Chief Medical Officer, said the major limitation faced by health workers is “the inability to get a true count of the number of HIV-positive people, as testing is done on a voluntary basis.” and he noted that a strategic planning exercise could address this area, and hence increase the number of voluntary testing done on the island.

Dr. Hawes emphasised that understanding all the interrelated elements, not only the care of the afflicted but also their well-being, would lead to a pathway of success.

Nicola Taylor and Jennifer Pierre, CAREC officials, presented a synopsis of their findings about the Montserrat situation.

Ms. Taylor stressed that the battle to deal with HIV/AIDS in the region is even greater now, notwithstanding the fact that the region is constantly under threat of new and emerging public health problems such as the recently discovered virus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) “HIV/AIDS should not be relegated to the background, because the fact still remains that the our incidence of HIV/AIDS is the highest in the Western World and we are second to sub-Saharan Africa, when we look at AIDS globally and the very viability of our Caribbean economy remains under threat,” Ms. Taylor said.

Minister of Health Mrs. Idabelle Meade said in her keynote address that the Caribbean HIV/AIDS Task Force under the chairmanship of CARICOM was established in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the region, a Caribbean Regional Strategic Plan was developed, and at the 22^nd Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM Montserrat pledged its support for the work of the Pan-Caribbean Partnership.

She said that given Montserrat’s population size, “HIV/AIDS with its high death rate and impact on social and economic well-being of a country, must be kept away from our shores, and if not, that we have a strategic plan.”

Minister Meade reiterated her Government’s “obligation to its people which is taken quite seriously, and we pledge our support within the resources available to us.”

A two-day workshop followed the official opening at the Lookout Community Center on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Tropical Mansions Staffer Contests Her Suspension

Miss Tessa Francis complained to the Labour Department about what she described as poor management and disrespect shown to employees at the Tropical Mansion Suites Hotel after being suspended from the job Thursday of last week

She said Iverson Galloway, one of the managers of the hotel, angrily suspended her after she replied to an order that he was not her boss, that she answered to Mrs. Merle Galloway, the supervisor of her section, who was off island.

The Montserrat Reporter spoke to Adrian Galloway, a manager at the hotel; who said, “Ms. Francis was not dismissed; instead she was suspended for indiscipline.”

Mrs. Denise Philip of the Labour Department said, “an investigation was carried out and is currently on hold because Mr. Galloway is off-island.”

Tae Kwon Do Club Tests Members’ Skills and Focus

Grandmaster Hyunok Shin of South Korea graded 21 students from the Montserrat Tae Kwan Do Club Wednesday night on their fighting skills and techniques used, when they took their semi-annual examinations at the St. Peters Anglican Church Hall.

In the two-hour test of skills, strength, determination, chi forces and focus were the game of the day, along with moments of hushed silence and long exclamations of oohs! and aahs! There was loud clapping by parents and guardians and wives, who came to see their loved ones vie for coveted belts, each of a higher degree ended with all the students passing the test.

One student, Joel Osborne, who was vying for his first, first degree black belt finally earned it after the audience encouraged him to regain his focus following a lapse in concentration, which caused him to make a series of mistakes.

Grandmaster Shin presented all the students: Khenou Blake, Elrod Chalmers, Berkley Chambers, Luke Edgecomb, Alan Farara, Zephan Joseph, Jesse Lea, Ja’Keel Nicholson, Je’Van Pelty, Glenford Phillip, Nino Shorte, T.O Shorte, and KasJuan Sullivan, Davisha Tuitt, Jermaine Wade, Dillon Weekes, Denecia West, Dion West, Adella White and Theodeore Woodley, Holder of a 3^rd degree black belt and judge from St. Kitts, Bernard Sargeant; 2^nd degree black belt Leonard Lynch, and 1^st degree black belt Gary Lynch, both local teachers and judges, assisted Grandmaster Shin with the undertaking of the examination.

Chief judge, Grandmaster Shin is the holder of a 9^th degree black belt and is the supervisor of the United Chung do Kwan, which has schools in New York, St.Martin, St.Kitts and Montserrat. 

Anne Ryner (Miss Petty) Celebrates 100 Years

Miss Anne Ryner, known as Miss Petty, who lived in Flemmings, Salem, and now resides with her son, Wanford Ryner, in the United States celebrated her 100^th birthday on Monday.

Miss Petty is the mother of the late John Ryner, who was a popular taxi driver and tourism ambassador, and Peter Ryner, who still lives in Flemmings.

Her cousins include Catherine Tyson in the U.S., Anne Daley,

Gertrude Farrell and Mary Daley Rock in London, and  Dan Daley, Sonia Daley and Mary Daley in Nevis.

According to a release from the Government Information Unit, (GIU), statistics from the 2001 Census show that there were five centenarians on Montserrat as of May 12, 2001, when the last census was conducted.

There are three centenarians who reside at the Golden Years Home;

Isley Bobb, will become 110 years of age next month, Miss Katherine Sydney will become 100 next month, Miss Margaret Boatswain will become 102 in December, and Mrs. Elaine Mason, who celebrated her 100^th birthday last March.

Miss Jane Louisa Gerald who lives in Upper Brades, celebrated her 102^nd   birthday in April.

Mrs. Dorothy Hogan from the Hillview Home will celebrate her 100^th birthday in August.

Disabled Backhoe Damages St. Peters House, Hurts Driver

On Monday evening, George Allen arrived home in St. Peters to find a backhoe “parked neatly” in his house.

According to the police, the backhoe, owned by Keith Thomas of Olveston and driven by Clare Ryan, was traveling southward on the St. Peter’s public road, (in the area known as Church Hill), between 6 and 7 p.m. Mr. Ryan told police that he was near the Wesleyan Holiness Church, the drive shaft fell off.

Mr. Ryan said he dropped the bucket in an attempt to slow the vehicle, but lost control and ran into Mr. Allen’s house at the junction of Virgin Islands and the main road.

Mr. Ryan went to the Casualty Department, where he was examined and treated for his head and toe injuries, after which he was discharged.

Extensive damage was done to Mr. Allen’s house and to the bucket and other parts of the backhoe.

In other traffic news, Inspector Ezra Greer said that from January to May 2002, as compared to the same period this year, there is a decrease in traffic accidents. However the damages and injuries from the accidents so far this year surpassed those of last year.

Special Olympics Week Raises Funds for Trip to St. Kitts Games

Last Friday the Special Olympics groups started their week of celebration with various fund-raising activities as well as games and snacks.

The activities commenced with a radio broadcast on the Rose Willock programme on Friday at 8 a.m., followed by a radio telethon on Wednesday morning, where a total of EC$ 435 was raised.

Mrs. Heather Daley said, “$6,600 is the total expense for the eight persons traveling to St. Kitts on Friday.”

Restaurants also helped in funding the trip to St. Kitts for the Special Olympics games by adding a dollar to the original cost of a meal, by which one restaurant raised $80.

Later that afternoon there was a Bocca Tournament at the St. Peters Ground in which two persons of the Fire Department, the Police Force and the Defense Force, along with eight persons from the Special Olympics group, participated.

The match was a three round match where the Fire Department took first position with a total of 21 points; followed by the Defense Force in second position with 19 points and the Police Force in third position with 18 points.

Mrs. Daley said, “The game was a success and on Friday the athletes are expected to leave the island for St. Kitts where His Excellency the Governor will escort the group to the Ferry.” 

Boy, 9, Falls From Rear Of Halted School Bus

It was little more than three months back that The Montserrat Reporter published an article, “What’s up with the School Bus System?” (February 7, 2003) in which concerns were expressed by school children about the crowded buses.

On Wednesday it was reported that a 9-year-old student fell out of a school bus that was traveling from the Lookout Primary School somewhere between Lookout and Judy Piece.

According to eyewitness reports the child was standing at the back of the bus since all the seats were filled.

His bag reportedly was caught in the emergency door and when they opened the door to enable him to free his bag, the weight of the bag caused the child to fall backwards through the opened door; he sustained no injuries but his was bag torn.

When The Montserrat Reporter contacted Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education Eugene Skerritt, he said that he still did not have all the details regarding the accident and as such could not confirm how it happened until the Ministry’s investigation is complete.

Sir Howard Named Patron  For Commonwealth Studies

The recently established Association of Commonwealth Studies has invited Professor Sir Howard Fergus to be Patron of the founding conference, which takes place in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on the 26-27 May, according to a press release from the University of the West Indies: School of Continuing Studies.

Under the theme “The Health of the Commonwealth,” professionals and academics from the Commonwealth countries including Australia, Canada, England, Nigeria and Zambia will present various papers on subjects, including HIV/AIDS, health and gender, education and health, themes in business and education, health and citizenship, and historical and Literary Perspectives on the Commonwealth.

Professor Fergus, the only attendant from the Caribbean, will address the conference in his role as patron. He will travel from Anguilla where he has been invited by the U.N. Committee on Decolonization to present a paper to their regional seminar on constitutional advancement in two British Overseas Territories in the Caribbean.

REGIONAL NEWS

Regional Development Bank Signs 8-million Euro Aid Pact

BARBADOS (CMC) -- The Barbados-based Caribbean Financial Service Corporation (CFSC) has signed a loan agreement for 8 million euros (US$9.16 million) with the European Development Bank (EIB).
The money is to assist the CFSC in providing funding for various projects involving small to medium-sized enterprises throughout the region.
"This facility from the European Investment Bank . . . will allow us to fund ongoing activities, both loans and equity in Barbados, the OECS, Guyana and provide expansion into new countries such as Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, Belize and the British Virgin Islands," Hazel Highland, CFSC's Managing Director, said at Tuesday's signing.

She added that the funding was a statement of confidence in CFSC's role as a provider of developmental funds to regional enterprises.
Highland revealed that since CFSC's establishment in 1989, the Bank has disbursed over US$90 million in direct lending to 260 projects in 10 countries.
This, she said, resulted in the creation of some 1,500 permanent jobs and the generation of about US$86.6 million in foreign exchange.
Jean Louis Biancarelli, EIB's Director General of lending operations, hailed the Bank's partnership with CFSC and pledged the EIB's commitment to assist the development of the regional private sector.

Canada Contributes Millions To CDB Basic Needs Trust Fund

ST. KITTS (CMC) -- Canada has formally announced it is contributing nearly CAN$40 million (US$29 million) to Caribbean Development Bank's Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF).
Susan Whelan, Canadian Minister for International Cooperation, has announced in Ottawa that $38 million will be channeled through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) to the BNTF.
The CDB and the Canadian Government formally signed the agreement in Basseterre yesterday at the end of the two-day 33rd Annual Meeting of the Board of Governors of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).
"The Basic Needs Trust Fund, the Caribbean Bank's successful flagship poverty-reduction initiative, engages the people directly affected by its programs and works to ensure local ownership," said Minister Whelan.
Launched in 1979, the BNTF Programme is managed the by Caribbean Development
Bank and provides resources targeted at improving conditions in rural communities which have become trapped in poverty.

Antigua Minister Resigns  Cabinet Post in Challenge

ANTIGUA (CMC) -- Junior Information Minister Rupert Sterling has tendered his resignation from the cabinet of Prime Minister Lester Bird as controversy surrounds whether or not he and another senator had been validly appointed to the Upper House.
Attorney General Gertel Thom filed an application in the High Court here Last weekend seeking a declaration that Mr. Sterling and Linton Thomas of Barbuda were not validly appointed to the Senate.
The order also calls for both legislators to vacate their seats and further restrains them from sitting or continuing to sit in the Senate. 
According to the High Court application, both men should be disqualified from sitting in the Senate under Section 30 (1) of the Constitution, which reads that "no person shall be qualified to be appointed as a Senator who is by virtue of his own act, under any acknowledgement or allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state."
Both mwn are citizens of the United States.
In his letter of resignation, Mr. Sterling said he had taken the decision to resign in light of the ongoing developments surrounding his legality as a Senator. He said he felt it was in the best interest of the country to relinquish his senatorial appointment.
He told the Prime Minister that he did not believe he had contravened any law by sitting in the Upper House of Parliament, adding that he plans to clearly establish this beyond any doubt by the use of the judicial system.
He said the court was the appropriate forum for such a declaration even though he recognised it would be time consuming.

Montserrat Among Islands To Feel Regional Earthquake

TRI NIDAD (CMC) - An earthquake of magnitude 6.0 on the Richter scale was reportedly felt in several islands, including Antigua, St. Kitts, Martinique, Montserrat and St. Vincent early Wednesday.
The Seismic Research Unit in Trinidad said the earthquake was located about 350 km northeast of Barbuda at 18.28°N and 58.88°W.
The earthquake occurred around 2:03 a.m. at a depth of 26 kilometers.
The Unit has called on residents who felt the quake to make an official report.

Jamaica Opposition to Demands Vote on Caribbean Court of Justice

JAMAICA (CMC) --The main opposition Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) is maintaining its opposition to the establishment of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), insisting on a national referendum to decide whether it should replace the London-based Privy Council as the country's highest court of appeal.
Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, JLP Leader Edward Seaga said the CCJ would fail to repair Jamaica's "broken-down" justice system, as he renewed his party's call for a national referendum to decide whether to create such a "lesser brand of justice."
Prime Minister P.J. Patterson has already brushed aside calls for the referendum and last week the Senate approved a resolution on the CCJ without the support of the opposition.
The CCJ, to be based in Trinidad, will also act as disputes adjudicator for the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) being established by regional governments to counter the changing global environment characterised by mega trading blocs.
The governments of Barbados, Belize, Guyana, St. Lucia and Trinidad and Tobago have already ratified the CCJ agreement.
Mr. Seaga said he was confident that Jamaicans would reject the regional court that he characterised as a self-serving, "flag-waving" exercise, dismissing suggestions that it would bolster Jamaica's sovereignty or cultural identity.
He told legislators that the CCJ would be extremely costly and warned that it would function under a "political shadow" despite efforts to insulate it from political pressures.
Two weeks ago, the Patterson administration announced it would push ahead with the CCJ without a referendum.
But the Opposition Leader said his party "will not accept any other course than to be guided by the people in a referendum".
Mr. Seaga dismissed arguments that the Privy Council was against capital punishment saying "the Privy Council has upheld convictions on hanging on many occasions".
In the 1993 Pratt and Morgan ruling, the British law lords upheld that it would unlawful to carry out the death sentence on a convicted prisoner more than five-years after the sentence was imposed, leaving the state to ensure that all appeals and petitions to human rights bodies were completed in that time frame.
The debate has been adjourned until next week Tuesday and the Opposition Leader has served notice that he intends to move a resolution calling for a referendum to decide on whether the CCJ should be Jamaica's final court of appeal.

Former IMF Director Appeals For Aid to Developing Countries

ROME (CMC) -- The former Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) called Tuesday for long-term assistance from developed countries and long-term policies from developing countries to tackle the roots of hunger and poverty.
Speaking to the Committee on World Food Security, meeting at U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters, Michel Camdessus, the Honorary Governor of the Bank of France, stressed the importance of clean water and said that an increase of $100 billion a year was needed to bring safe water to the 1.1 billion people who now do without.
Mr. Camdessus said that primary responsibility for bringing safe, clean water to people in the developing world rests with the developing countries themselves and that the most important thing developing countries can do is to have a water policy.
He urged developing countries to report publicly on how they intend to achieve the Millennium Development Goals adopted by U.N. member states in 2000 and urged them to establish transparent governance.
He had this advice for developed countries: official development assistance for water needs to be doubled, and it needs to be carefully targeted to the poor.
Mr. Camdessus called FAO's Special Programme for Food Security "an excellent example" of carefully targeted development assistance.
"We may have lost a battle against hunger," he said, "but we have not lost the war. We have available many resources and strategies we have not used sufficiently, so far."
He cited the "amazing potential of research" and the untapped potential of more decisive participation by women in all decision-making processes regarding food and the Millennium Development Goals.
Mr. Camdessus repeated the call by French President Jacques Chirac for developed
countries to adopt a moratorium on export subsidies on goods destined for Africa for the duration of the Doha round of World Trade Organization agriculture negotiations.

Dominicans Are Talking About General Elections

DOMINICA (CMC) -- Although general elections are not constitutionally due until 2005, a number of Dominicans have been declaring their intention to contest the polls as independent candidates.
The latest declaration has come from Cuba-trained medical practitioner Dr. Albert Severin, who, according to this week's edition of The Sun Newspaper, plans to contest the northern Portsmouth constituency now held by Ian Douglas, nephew of the late Prime Minister Rosie Douglas.
"I think the people of Portsmouth are tired with the Douglases, I think the people want a change," he told the newspaper.
He said while members of the Douglas family have served the island well, "there's a time when you need a certain kind of representation (and) I think this is the right time."
The Douglas family has held that constituency since 1951 when Robert Douglas, father of the former Prime Minister Rosie Douglas, was elected to Parliament. Since then, his brother Michael, a former Finance Minister, has also held the seat.
Dr. Severin told The Sun "Ian Douglas is my very good friend and I respect him a lot, but I think he has been very disappointing.  Virtually we can say we don't have representation any more".
Other individuals who have already stated their interests in contesting the polls are former Attorney General Bernard Wiltshire, former Agriculture Minister Arthie Martin, President of the Public Service Union Sonia Williams and former President of the Dominica Hotel and Tourism Association Bobby Frederick. 

Bank of St. Lucia Sees Profits Down Sharply

ST. LUCIA (CMC) -- The East Caribbean Financial Holdings Company Ltd. (ECFH) has blamed bad loans for a decline in its profit margin that slipped significantly from EC$13.8 million (US$5.1 million) in 2001 to EC$3.5 million (US$1.3 million) last year.
ECFH is the parent company of the Bank of St. Lucia (BOSL), a merger of the National Commercial Bank and the St. Lucia Development Bank.
ECFH Managing Director Marius St. Rose told shareholders on Tuesday that an EC$9.4- million (US$3.4 million) increase in provisions for doubtful debt was the main reason for the decline in net income.  
He said provisions for bad loans increased from EC$3.5 million (US$1.3million) to EC$12.9 million (US$4.8 million) during the fiscal year.
"If it had not been done the level of net income would have been exactly at the same level as in the previous year," he said.
Mr. St. Rose said that the increased cost of doing business was affected by the introduction and application of stricter international accounting standards and the difficult economic climate, which made it difficult for many borrowers to service their debt obligations.
He said in addition the ECFH undertook a more thorough assessment of the portfolio it inherited.

St. Kitts Office Established By Stanford Investment Fund

ST. KITTS -- Kennedy Bryan, head of the Stanford Caribbean Investment Fund’s new Basseterre office in the Sands Complex, said his initial duties include meeting with key players, including potential project planners.

Mr. Bryan, who is also Property Development Manager, said that R. Allan Stanford, head of the Stanford Investment Group, sees the Caribbean as a place abounding in opportunities, hence the establishment of the US$20-billion investment fund.  He said that benefits abound not just for the company but the planners and the country itself.

In a short interview Mr. Bryan explained that 60 percent of the fund goes toward tourism- related projects, while the other 40 percent goes toward infrastructure-related projects.  Examples of tourism-related projects would include developments such as hotels and luxury condominiums, while infrastructure-related projects include bridges and sewage systems.

In addition to meeting a set of internal criteria, Mr. Bryan cautioned prospective recipients that the fund should not be viewed as a lender for debt financing.  Instead, he said, it would look at viable, profitable projects – not merely in terms of monetary gains but in terms of benefits to the society as a whole. He said that there was no specific monetary allotment per country but that each proposal would be investigated on an individual basis.

Mr. Bryan said that offices were also established in Grenada, Barbados, Dominica, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. 

CARICOM Leaders Urge Post-Iraq Reconciliation

ST. VINCENT (CMC) -- Caribbean Ministers of Foreign Affairs are of the view that although the region's position on the war in Iraq was at variance with an international coalition led by the United States, "these differences of opinion should not lead to prolonged tension or damage to the excellent relations which the CARICOM democracies share with these major partners."
A communique issued at the end of their May 8-9 meeting here emphasised the need to heal rifts in international relations triggered by the Iraq crisis and called on all states to rely on the strength of diplomacy in reconciling differences without rancour or retribution.
The Ministers said they were convinced that a genuine commitment to democratic principles would facilitate the process for a renewed spirit of cooperation, collaboration and trust among states.
They were also of the firm view that the efforts of the international community should now be focused on the future. In this regard, they emphasised the urgency of implementing a comprehensive programme for the reconstruction of Iraq, giving priority to the humanitarian plight of the Iraqi people, adding that in this effort, the United Nations must be accorded a central role.
The communique said that Ministers also strongly reaffirmed the continued relevance of the United Nations in the maintenance of international peace and security and renewed their commitment to work with like-minded states to reassert the value of multilateralism and to strengthen the role of the United Nations as a forum where all states, both large and small, could play an equal part.
The Ministers identified as a priority, the strengthening of ties with traditional friends and a reinvigorated dialogue based on shared values, friendship and openness with historic allies, particularly those in the hemisphere. 

St. Kitts/Nevis Minister Warns  Of Recruiting Drain on Nurses

ST. KITTS (CMC) -- St. Kitts and Nevis Health Minister Dr. Earl Asim Martin has warned that the recruitment of trained Caribbean nurses to Europe and North America is posing a real threat to the survival of adequate health care in the twin island federation and the wider Caribbean.
"The recruitment is a real threat to the survival of our health care delivery system" and the region "cannot underestimate the severe consequences to our health care delivery system, should mass migration of nurses continue unabated," he said.
In a radio broadcast at the start of  "Nurses Week" at the weekend, Dr. Martin said it was heartening, however, that his island was still "very fortunate to have a cadre of experienced and competent nurses to provide care to our populace, especially when we consider the several challenges."
He said the challenges include "the ongoing persistent and systematic efforts by several international agencies in North America and Europe to recruit large numbers of our nurses."
Dr. Martin said as a result of the government's collaborative efforts with the Caribbean Nurses Organisation (CNO) and Johnson & Johnson, one of the world's multi-national corporations, "in dealing strategically with the matter of recruitment and retention of our nurses," he was optimistic of the chances of success "given the commitment and involvement of our nurses.
Dr. Martin said that despite the growing phenomena of HIV/AIDS, chronic diseases, as well as mental and physical disabilities, there was an increased effort to enhance the capacity of the Federation's health system to achieve significant measurable improvement in people's lives.
He said Government would increase the involvement of nurses in policy and decision-making and establish the appropriate monitoring system designed to correct "real or perceived workload imbalances" in the sector. 

Catholic Leaders in Caribbean Worried Over Church Dropouts

TRINIDAD (CMC) -- Leaders of the Catholic Church in the Caribbean are concerned over the number of worshippers who have left the church in recent months, Archbishop Edward Gilbert said here on Sunday.
Father Gilbert said that the leaders met recently in the Bahamas to discuss the problem and came to the conclusion that "the reason why they had left the Church was because their needs were not (being) met."
He made the disclosure as he delivered the homily at the annual La Divina Pastora celebrations at Siparia.
"I am deeply concerned about the large number of people who have drifted away from the Church. It is a serious concern and the Church needs to examine itself in that matter," he said.
Father Gilbert said he believed "the needs of these people were not being met by the Church" and said that part of the problem was that the Church never allowed its followers to deepen their relationship with God.
"You can't have it both ways, you must look at your own life to see if you have a commitment to God and not try to reach him through the back door," the U.S.-born head of the Roman Catholic Church here said.
He told the congregation "we have to encourage people from their earliest years to begin to develop a relationship with God. We are children of God, as a result, our lives must manifest the Father, Son and Holy Spirit."
At the end of the two-hour long mass, the statue of La Divina Pastora was carried from the Church for the traditional procession through the streets of the village as parishioners sought to touch the statue of the patron saint they believe can grant requests and prayers.

CARICOM Expresses  Concerns About Cuba

ST. VINCENT (CMC) -- Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Foreign Ministers have expressed concern over the conduct of recent trials of citizens arrested by the Cuban government, but have stopped short of agreeing to any censure of the President Fidel Castro regime by the hemispheric community.
In a statement issued at the end of their two-day meeting here on Friday, the Ministers recalled that Cuba had been and continues to be subject to hijackings and terrorist activities organised by external groups hostile to the Castro government.
While not disputing the right of governments to respond to threats against the state or to the criminal act of hijacking, the Ministers said they were, however, "deeply disturbed" at the severity of the sentences imposed by Havana.
In this regard, the Ministers urged the government of Cuba to ensure greater transparency in its criminal justice system and to promote more open debate and discussion in order to further social, political and economic progress.
The Ministers also strongly appealed to the Cuban government to show clemency towards those recently imprisoned.
The CARICOM Ministers' position has already been conveyed to the Special Ministerial Envoy of Cuba who met with them on Thursday in St. Vincent for what the statement described as "a frank exchange as befitting relations among friends".
 Over the past two years, the Caribbean has been strengthening its ties with
the region's only Communist state, including signing a free trade agreement
with the Cubans and opening its arms to hundreds of Cuban professionals
working in the Caribbean under bilateral agreements.

Competing Barbados Parties Promise Millions in Tax Relief

BARBADOS (CMC) -- In the lead up to the May 21 poll, both major political parties are going all out to woo the electorate, with promises coming from their respective platforms at the weekend of "millions of dollars" in tax relief.
Addressing a mass rally attended by scores of Barbados Labour Party (BLP) supporters on Saturday, Prime Minister Owen Arthur disclosed aspects of the BLP's manifesto, which was released on Wednesday.
Mr. Arthur said the document, entitled "Third World to First World, No Less than the Best," takes into account a phasing out of import duties, in keeping with World Trade Organisation (WTO) requirements and at a cost of Bds$170 million (US$85 million) to the Treasury over 15 years.
He said that Value Added Tax (VAT) would be removed on all computers and all computer supplies.
In addition, he said, the top rate of corporation tax would come down to 25 percent, while the corporation tax on small businesses would be reduced from 25 percent to 20 percent.
The BLP leader also promised that persons who own chattel houses would be exempted from paying land taxes.
"Our manifesto will tell you that we intend to exempt properties - in the first instance, chattel houses and poor people's houses worth $155 000 (US$77, 500). I will give you the first $125 000 (US$62,500) property value free," said Arthur.
"I will put a cap on the top to stop land tax from being a hardship in this country," he added.
Additionally, he said the BLP manifesto would include measures to provide housing for all, as well as new roads, recreational facilities and resource centers for every parish.
Meantime, the opposition Democratic Labour Party  (DLP) officially launched its manifesto, a "Fair Share For All," on Sunday, promising millions of dollars in tax relief if it is elected.
The DLP proposes to increase the tax-free income from Bds$15,000 (US$7,500) to $20,000  (US$10,000) from January 2004 and to $25,000 (US$12,500) from income year 2006. It would also reduce the lower marginal tax rate to 20 percent from income year 2004 and the upper marginal tax rate to 35 percent.
The plan also calls for a reduction in taxes on housing and the removal of VAT on funeral expenses and sporting goods, among other things.
Over a five-year period, the tax relief measures are estimated at Bds$210 million (US$105 million).
While the BLP has already questioned the DLP's ability to finance the plan, DLP President Clyde Mascoll described the manifesto as a "comprehensive, well thought out document," containing programmes which can be implemented once government wastage is contained.
"Once the economy grows, and it will over a five year period, the new DLP administration can anticipate more revenue. As a consequence, the measures which we proposed in the manifesto become rather more affordable.
"That was the trick in the proposal," Mascoll, who is an economist, said.

Barbados Political Debates To Be Broadcast on CBC

BARBADOS (CMC) -- The first in a three-part series of political debates, involving representatives of the two political parties contesting the May 21 general elections here, will be televised on state-run Caribbean Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) on Monday night.
Organisers say the first debate will focus on "International Affairs," while the second to be aired on Wednesday night will deal specifically with "Law and Order and Governance".
Barbados Labour Party Leader and Prime Minister Owen Arthur is also due to face off against Democratic Labour Party President Clyde Mascoll for a leaders' debate on Monday, May 19. The hour-long live discussion will be aired on local television between 8:15 and 9:15 p.m..
This will be the third time that CBC will be organising debates involving the political leaders. Debates were previously aired during the 1994 and 1999 general election campaigns.

Sir Ronald Sanders Lauds Baroness Amos’ Promotion

LONDON, CMC - Sir Ronald Sanders, Antigua and Barbuda's High Commissioner to London, has hailed the appointment of Britain's first black female cabinet minister as an outstanding example to disadvantaged persons.
In a letter to Baroness Amos who was Monday appointed as Britain's International Development Secretary, Sir Ronald said, "You have overcome obstacles of race and birth to rise to the highest heights of human endeavour.  As such, you are an outstanding example to disadvantaged individuals everywhere".
Baroness Amos was born in Guyana and became a Baroness in 1977.  She served in the Department for International Development under Clare Short in the first Blair Government in 1998.  In 2001, she was appointed Parliamentary Under Secretary of State in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
Sir Ronald recalled that he and Baroness Amos have worked closely over the last two years, particularly in the organisation of the UK-Caribbean Forum of Foreign Ministers and in creating new machinery for strengthening relations between the UK and the Caribbean.
Recalling Baroness Amos' working career, which started as Chief Executive of the Equal Opportunities Commission in the UK, Sir Ronald told her in his congratulatory letter, "No one could help but admire your hard work, diligence and commitment, but Caribbean people in particular will take great joy in your appointment."
Baroness Amos replaces Clare Short who resigned as International Development Secretary over differences with Prime Minister Tony Blair concerning the handling of Iraq at the United Nations. 

Regional Development Bank Signs 8-million Euro Aid Pact

BARBADOS (CMC) -- The Barbados-based Caribbean Financial Service Corporation (CFSC) has signed a loan agreement for 8 million euros (US$9.16 million) with the European Development Bank (EIB).
The money is to assist the CFSC in providing funding for various projects involving small to medium-sized enterprises throughout the region.
"This facility from the European Investment Bank . . . will allow us to fund ongoing activities, both loans and equity in Barbados, the OECS, Guyana and provide expansion into new countries such as Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, Belize and the British Virgin Islands," Hazel Highland, CFSC's Managing Director, said at Tuesday's signing.

She added that the funding was a statement of confidence in CFSC's role as a provider of developmental funds to regional enterprises.
Highland revealed that since CFSC's establishment in 1989, the Bank has disbursed over US$90 million in direct lending to 260 projects in 10 countries.
This, she said, resulted in the creation of some 1,500 permanent jobs and the generation of about US$86.6 million in foreign exchange.
Jean Louis Biancarelli, EIB's Director General of lending operations, hailed the Bank's partnership with CFSC and pledged the EIB's commitment to assist the development of the regional private sector.

SPORTS

FEATURES

‘May You Live All the Days of Your Life’ – Jonathan Swift, 1738

By J. Donald Brandt

The private secretary to Baroness Amos almost certainly faces a sharp increase in demands on his time. Now that she has become Secretary of State for International Development Valerie Amos she will be even more too busy to reply to aggrieved correspondents’ complaints to her boss Jack Straw.

One advantage of Mr. Fletcher’s third-hand reply to Montserrat’s excluded petitioners is that it establishes how indelibly inscribed on every level of HMG’s vast bureaucracy is what has now become the mantra of British-subsidized science: “Safety of life must be paramount.”

The patronizing tone of the letter clearly suggests that Mr. Fletcher’s or the Baroness’s understanding of the administration of Montserrat’s volcanic crisis is based solely on the gospel according to Anthony Longrigg. Mythic cases in point: “The Governor took the decision to extend the Exclusion Zone only after careful consideration of the scientific advice and in consultation with the Chief Minister and other members of the Government of Montserrat”; “views not only of the MVO but also an internationally respected panel of scientists”; “on past experience (large pyroclastic flows) could reach the Belham area within about 3 minutes.” (emphases added.)

Montserratians know all about life, not solely because of the ability of an amazing number of them to remain active and alert well beyond the biblical “three score years and ten.” Unlike their British nannies, they realize that life is something more than a beating heart and functioning lungs. Most of them recognize it more in the dictionary definition of life as “the physical, mental and spiritual experiences that constitute existence.” If only our British “protectors” did.

None of us still here need reminders, thank you, that the volcano quickly snuffed out 19 lives on June 25, 1997. That event is constantly recalled with deep sadness.

What we would remind the British government, however, is that soon after that event, thousands of Montserratians were persuaded by a generous financial relocation package to evacuate the island. Many of them went to Britain, where housing, health care and education were readily available, all of which was fine with Clare Short, former Secretary of State for International Development. Whatever elephants Montserratians were to be given there, the gold, silver or brass plating would be paid for by the budget of another government department, not DFID.

Was safety of life paramount there? Far too many – sadly many more than 19 – healthy but elderly Montserratian evacuees confronted an alien northern climate and a disrupted community life that they found insufferable, and their vitality quickly faded away. All the cemeteries in Montserrat could not have accommodated the number of evacuees who succumbed or will succumb to the traumas of relocation.

This embittered resident of Montserrat is left with one stark realization: In little more than a moment, 19 lives were destroyed by the volcano. In nearly six years, many hundreds of lives have been extinguished or devastated by Britain’s policies to “protect” us from the volcano.

Last weekend, the commencement speaker at the small college from which the writer graduated more than a half century ago told this year’s graduates: "Knowing what is right, believing what is right and acting on what is right; and in the process, overcoming risk, not surrendering to risk, that is life's secret."

Now there is an authentic prescription for living.    

A View From the Outside - # 22

By Ken Walter

Cheers & Jeers To/For:

1.     Cheers for the original Constitutional Commissioners for their efforts to begin the process of having a new constitution written.

2.     Cheers to the Bank of Montserrat for their 15^th anniversary and for being such good corporate citizens and community supporters.

3.     Jeers to the MVO, our #1 tourist attraction - no place for visitors to sit outside, offering only two tours per week and completely closed to visitors on weekends.

Another Economic Development Suggestion:

There can be no doubt that the British and Montserrat governments have written off the southern part of Montserrat as a permanent “Exclusion Zone.” Even if the volcano were to enter a period of remission, using the MVO definition of volcanic activity there are only two kinds of volcanoes: “live - actually erupting or have the capacity to erupt in the future” and “dead - no longer have the capacity to erupt,” thus it is obvious that the Soufriere Hills volcano will be forced to retain it’s “live” designation for generations.

I would like to propose a concept for using the volcano - Montserrat’s only real developable resource, to create a fast track scheme for the generation of substantial and sustainable income generation. This would be to nationalize all the land south of a line that follows the current east/west path of the Belham River, but allow continued personal ownership of all habitable properties that have been spared direct volcanic destruction. This plan allows Montserrat to develop the southern part of the island without incurring any expense, need for loans or grants and at the same time not be burdened with any additional personal or property liability issues.

How, you say! Lease this “nationalized” land to a private international venture capital company or property development consortium to oversee the building and operation of a volcano adventure park and expat community. The major terms and conditions for this deal would be as follows:

1.     All infrastructure development - roads, buildings, etc. would be their sole construction and maintenance cost responsibility, as would the building of hurricane- and volcano- proof emergency shelters.

2.     By virtue of the lease agreement they would be required to provide all essential services to anyone who wishes to live in their existing homes located in the designated habitable zone area. Owners would continue to enjoy the right to sell their houses.

3.     The MVO would be given complete and unrestricted scientific access and would be required to provide volcanic activity data to the development organization, but neither they nor any other agency would have any authority regarding land use.

4.     The lease agreement terms would call for the development and operation of a full facility volcano adventure park and resort, thus maximizing Montserrat as a tourist destination.

5.     While this would be a gated facility, guests and Montserratian employees would have free access movement to and from the northern zone.

6.     Essential services -- electricity and water -- would be sold by current Montserrat utilities to the development organization at single metered border distribution points. The development company would then be responsible for continued service distribution and sales, including maintenance and repairs and the building of new facilities as required.

7.     I would suggest that Montserrat charge a fixed annual lease fee - say 25 percent of the Inland Revenue tax that would have been collected had there not been a volcano and resulting “Exclusion Zone”, plus 5 percent of all gross “Adventure Park” receipts. The sale by Montserrat of other products and services would be in addition to these charges          [i.e. co-op advertising, etc.]. 

8.     In return the development company would be provided unfettered land use and be exempt from the payment of any and all taxes, license fees, import duties, etc. usually charged to companies north of the “Park” land. It would be expected that all “tourists” would arrive using regular Montserrat gateways, but the development organization would be allowed to build and operate their own freight dock facilities and operate their own heli-port or fixed wing airport for business/employee use.

9.     The lease agreement would be written to completely indemnify the Montserrat and British governments of any and all personal and property liabilities associated with the development organization’s operations.

Here, then, is a means to develop Montserrat’s #1 income resource, mitigate the fears and concerns relative to legal responsibility and liability associated with a self-development. Also this plan negates any need to subject Montserrat Civil Servants, emergency services or other personnel to potential volcano-related dangers, as there would be no requirement for them to enter the facility. At the same time all the issues relative to the “Exclusion Zone” loss of homes can be resolved to the mutual benefit of the home owners and governing bodies. Neither the Montserrat nor British government will be subject to any “park/facility” project construction, support or administration burden, other than monitoring financial statements and collecting the revenue generated by this minimal risk venture. As we say in business “a win-win deal”!

These “Views From the Outside” are presented as motivational food for thought. As an entrepreneur, business manager, and management consultant with over 35 years of hands-on experience, as a NYS Certified Mediator & Arbitrator and an elected municipal government official for the last 15 years, I feel I can speak with some authority. My goal is to hopefully generate some of the sparks that kindle the desire to act proactively - now, not reactively after opportunities are lost.

Alliouagana Singers Draw Warm Praise and Gratitude

by Stanley Patterson

Praise ye the Lord, Praise God in His sanctuary: Praise Him in the firmament of His power.

The above psalm could have set the scene for the very entertaining evening of praise and thanksgiving, which took place on 23 February 2003 at St. Paul’s by the Alliouagana Singers. The church was packed.

Make a joyful noise unto God. All ye lands. In this case the land was Montserrat. Montserrat is one of the beautiful pearls that majestically lie in the calm blue Caribbean Sea. When the volcano started belching out its fury of fire, dust and ash, it soon became too dangerous for to remain in the area. Some of its citizens, therefore, were forced to leave their homes and families to start a new life in foreign lands.

Some have migrated to Britain, but they have not departed from their culture, nor the unity and love which have been fostered in them. Be hold the psalmist eulogises, ( Psalm 133:1) How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!                                                                                                                                                      A strong desire, therefore seemingly, to maintain a unity and cooperation has been the genesis, and services as a catalyst, of this highly talented choral group.

They concert started off with “Let’s just praise the Lord”. That theme was enacted in each song. There was a harmonious mixture of gospel songs, popular folk songs, and Negro spirituals songs – all sang almost in segue. The vibrant tunes had the congregation clapping and swaying to their captivating melody. The subsequent colourful ethnic clothing combined with popular tune ”One Love”, was greeted with an ecstatic ovation.

The deep rich voices of the male section were exhilarating as they sang, “Down by the Riverside”. It was very delightful listening to that inspiring song “ You’ll never walk Alone”, sung by the soloist. Her tender dulcet voice added charm to the song. “By the rivers of Babylon , there we sit down and wept, when we remembered Zion”, is a well known song. It is poetically penned by the Psalmist (Ps 137:1); beautifully sang by the choir; and immensely enjoyed by an appreciative audience.

The concert was, indeed, a success. It was entertaining; it was a ray of sunshine – several perhaps – giving warmth, and brightening up an otherwise dull, cold winter evening. The congregation applauded each song lustily; at the end they applauded ecstatically. The concert ended as it started, praising the Lord and finally with prayers and thanksgiving.

However, if the performance was in a different venue, instead of a church- like a theatre, for example,- which lends itself to less restraining emotion, no doubt the audience would be shouting more! More!! More!!! It was a performance one would like to see again.

God luck to the group. May they, in unity, continue performing for a very long time, and go on from strength to strength.

We are especially grateful to the Alliougana Singers for generously contributing £500 to the Church from the proceeds of the evening. Thank you.

The Alliougana Singers

The Alliougana Singers is a London based choral group comprising of Montserratians singers and musicians, most of whom relocated to the United Kingdom as a result of the volcanic situation on the Caribbean Island of Montserrat, West Indies. The group evolved from a strong desire amongst these individuals to utilize their musical talents and to bring to Europe, the enriched sounds of Caribbean Music.

Successful performances of Gospel, Contemporary, Folk, Negro Spirituals and Caribbean music have been staged in Leicester, Birmingham, Slough, London and at the 2001 Caribbean Expo at Excel Centre in Docklands. In February 2002, the group proudly participated at the Royal Albert Hall in the “Reaching Out For Africa” Charity event sponsored by Patti Boulaye and friends. Our most recent performances were held at the Millfield Arts Theatre in Edmonton during Black History Month in October 2002, at the St. Marks Methodist Church in Tottenham in December 2002 and at the St. Paul’s Church in Tottenham on the 23^rd February 2003. The concert at St Paul’s was dedicated to the memory of the founder and former Director of the group Ms. Beverly Dewar .

Mr Stanley Paterrson, a prominent member of St. Paul’s Church wrote in a recent article published by the church  in April entitle “The Apostle 2003”,  the above article about the performance at the church.

Further scheduled performances include those at the Finsbury Park Methodist Church on 3^rd May 2003 and on the 17^th May at the Trinity at Bowes Methodist Church in Palmers Green. 

TOURISM HIGHLIGHTS

Montserrat To Implement Standards In The Tourism Industry

Groundwork has begun for the implementation of Standards in Montserrat’s tourism industry.  Product Development Officer of the Montserrat Tourist Board, Mrs. Jadine Glitzenhirn, is coordinating the Standards project, which is being funded by the Caribbean HRD Program for Economic Competitiveness (CPEC).

As part of the groundwork, Mrs. Glitzenhirn visited Dominica on an observation mission from Thursday 8 May to Monday 12 May to take a look at their NISE Model the Nature Island Standards of Excellence and to see ways in which Montserrat can adopt a similar model to suit our needs.  This visit was organized to coincide with the visit of the Norwegian Dawn a 2,000-passenger cruise vessel, which was the last vessel for the season. 

While there, Mrs. Glitzenhirn was able to see first-hand how they handled the visit of the vessel from the selling of tours, organizing of taxis and the dispatching of the visitors on buses.  She was also afforded the opportunity to sit in on one of their training sessions, which is conducted every two weeks for the duration of the Standards program in order for persons to be certified.  She noted that a criteria for becoming fully accredited whether as a vendor, taxi driver, tour guide, or otherwise, all persons must attend and pass all sessions after which they will become certified.  They are then given an I.D. for one year only, following which they must participate in follow-up training.          

Mrs. Glitzenhirn remarked “It was very interesting to see aspects of Dominica’s NISE Model at work and to see the drive and enthusiasm of those involved in the industry to adopt such a model.  Everyone concerned seriously took part in the training sessions, something that we too should take seriously in order for us to be competitive.”

VOLCANO LIMERICKS

Another Shortfall

CM Osborne must be stewing

Over the future he’s viewing,

His affectionate Clare

Will.no longer be there

When next he goes aid a-wooing.

On Second Shot

With BBC CM had the gall

To call his trip nothing at all,

No efforts were made

To ask for more aid;

‘Twas only a ‘courtesy call.’  

JUS WONDERIN

Jus wonderin' why de ferry still leaves from de Deep Water when de cruise ships finished for de season. 

Jus wonderin' who's making de money.....

Jus wonderin why the Chief did not see fit to have a meeting in Leicester where a lot of Montserratians also reside.

Jus wonderin if the Chief’s meeting in Birmingham was designed as an attempt to pamper Clare Short since Birmingham is her constituency and Montserratians in Birmingham can therefore vote for her.

Jus wonderin now that the Short lady resign what will happen to we CM.

Jus wonderin if she might seek a job on the Emerald Isle.

Jus wonderin if with the change of management, we will get more assistance from London.

Jus wonderin if the CM getting mixed up with the words ‘help’ and ‘pretense’ about Clair Short

Jus wonderin if the CM and the new Secretary Valerie Amos, will have such a good relationship like her predecessor, Clare Short.

Jus wonderin why all de other areas suffering from water shortage except de Woodlands area.

Jus wonderin if is because certain people living there.

Jus wonderin if Tropical Mansion now feeling de squeeze and if dat is why de employees dem feeling de pressure too.

Jus wonderin if Lady Belle tryin to do like some reporters - always late.

Jus wonderin now that the road finally finish if them drivers would use it to race, like they do on some the others.

Jus wonderin if the traffic boys keeping an eye out fuh the truck drivers and they load of obstacles.

Jus wonderin now that gambling legal, if prostitution will get the same status.

Jus wonderin how many of dem men clamoring.

Jus wonderin if some of the men who does buy commercial sex, don’t realize that the big meal that they eating does cost plenty money to prepare.

Jus wonderin why them people who go to basketball on the weekend don’t dispose them used condoms properly.

Jus wonderin if they don’t know Monday morning is school fuh the little children.

Jus wonderin if the health lady will take any action to deal with this matter.

Jus wonderin why the basketball area don’t have no bins anyway.

Jus wonderin why education for children so expensive, like the school boards  don’t know that them same children could go London and get the same education fuh free.

Jus wonderin why so much lawmen resigning from the force.

Jus wonderin why Beekay want fuh do nursing at 31.

Jus wonderin wa she do with de teddy bear wha mark I Love You dat she get from dat special sweetie.

Jus wonderin how she coulda go to de party wid de boss and he flowers.

Jus wonderin if is because dem have de same sign and wha number he be in de deck of cards.

Jus wonderin if he a wan dun-do to let de finance carry de letter to de wife. 

Jus wonderin why some of the socialite wives does behave so when they on the cocktail circuit.

Jus wonderin if dem people who changing dem swimming pool water every day not wasting water too.

Jus wonderin if  they got a problem with the head man.

Jus wonderin why the organiser didn’t commission the new police boat in the morning.

Jus wonderin if they feel we like the tourists from Europe, like roast in de sun.

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