"We saw several of the volcano emergency shelters and it is regrettable that people should have to live in those very cramped and unsatisfactory conditions." That is how Mr. Tony Faint, director of the Overseas Development Aid (ODA), described the shelters during his 'big tour' of the northern part of the island which took him as far as Little Bay where he visited the site of the new emergency jetty, the St. John's temporary hospital and shelters.
Mr. Faint was heading a very high powered delegation to Montserrat to review the problems surrounding the volcanic crisis we are currently undergoing. The delegation comprised with himself, Mr. Paul Ackroyd, senior Economic Adviser of ODA, Mr. Allan Huckle, head of the Dependent Territories Regional Secretariat (DTRS), Mr. Brian Thompson, head of the British Development Division (BDD) in Barbados, Mr. Andy Bearpark, head of Emergency Aid Division (EMAD), Mr. Frank Black, deputy head DTRS, and Mr. Richard Morris, information officer at the British High Commission in Barbados.
Two weeks ago a visiting reporter from Antigua complained to the Montserrat Reporter that he was accused of 'putting words' in a governor's aide's mouth for suggesting that conditions in the shelters were deplorable. The aide however stopped short of saying that the British Government had provided the funding to improve the shelters, but it was local government that had been slow in moving.
Then it is shockingly incredible when organizations like the St. Patrick's Credit Union responding to the need to assist in maintaining the dignity, pride and comfort of shelters are being told by the ESU to remove such erected divisions in the shelters. Every outside official and visitor to the shelters see them as inadequate but our local officials are seeking to put more people in these already "cramped" shelters.
Mr. Faint obviously did not spare words when he spoke to ZJB's manager, Rose Willock as he described how he felt about what pital...it requires substantial upgrading," he said, mentioning also that he saw a possible site which had been suggested for a new hospital.
He spoke about the major developments that he felt were key priorities, pointing out housing as major, he said: "Talking to the Chief Minister and ministerial colleagues, we did identify housing as one of the absolutely key solutions to the housing problems and these have to involve full participation by the Montserratian people in organizing satisfactory housing... we must make that one of our central priorities."
He also felt that the infra structural facilities in the north of the island should be satisfactory, " in case we lose the town and port of Plymouth; and therefore the jetty project and the fuel terminal are important and it is important to complete emergency power int those are the major priorities.
Mr. Faint said that his visit was extremely useful since he will be responsible in London for trying to respond to and deal with the crisis, expressing his appreciation for the cooperation he received while here.
He agreed that the roads need urgent attention, adding that there are many areas that need mention, school, water are all critical. "There are really a very challenging set of projects of activities that we have to support...we are recreating a community that was predominantly in the south of the island," he said while adding there were plans for activities of upgrading roads.
He had seen Plymouth from the helicopter which had earlier flown over the volcano where he saw a pyroclastic flow down Tar River. He said that he was in Montserrat in 1994 and what a beautiful island it was then, adding "it is a pleasure and a sadness to return."
Rose asked him whether he thought the 25 million pounds was adequate to cover all that work to be done to rebuild Montserrat. He replied, "No, I think there is no question that it would, but having said that it is a large sum of money."
He suggested then that we should look at the priorities and allocate the 25 million pounds. "I don't think that money is main constraint that we face in Montserrat in this task of recreating the community in the north of the island. I think that there are physical constraints which are more serious."
Mr. Faint then made a very telling observation citing: "There are constraints in terms of the capacity to plan, manage and implement projects; the basic constraints I think are in terms of skills and capabilities and I don't think that money is going to be a fundamental problem. If more money is needed I can say with confidence that the British Government will allocate more money.
He took the opportunity to say that the 25 million pounds allocation was the largest Britain has made any where in the western hemisphere, in the Caribbean or Latin America, in Eastern Europe as well as these countries, "and our program in Montserrat is the second largest in this whole region after Russia."
Emphasizing the need for Montserratians to be more involved in control of their destiny and in control of their country, he said, "in key areas it will be necessary to supplement their skills and bring in some people from outside and we are ready to do that. We have to strike a balance, but we do find some skill deficits and we shall have to address them."
Miss Willock asked him about improvement to the food voucher program to which he replied, "we are planning to carry out a social analysis review with the aim of identifying who are the people in greatest need and what is the character of their needs." He added that this is necessary as the financial situation budget of Montserrat is extremely strained making it necessary to make the best effective use of limited resources.
He said he was unable to comment on how the relocation of Montserratians to Britain was going but from what he had heard they were being treated satisfactorily. This contradicts with the front page story which appeared in the New Nation newspaper a month ago in Britain.
Mr. Faint rounded off his direct interview with Rose saying "We have been trying for some time to strengthen our team on the island which is supporting the Governor and supporting the Montserrat government in the implementation of what I think is fair to say a very ambitious development program for such a small island. We have now plans in hand to assign a First Secretary Aid for all of the aid effort including the emergency aid as well as the longer term development side.
He commented that government and EMAD have shown commitment and worked hard paying tribute to the work that has been done, saying, we need to look more to the medium term now as the role of DTRS will become more important.
The plight of British subjects fleeing the volcano-threatened island of Montserrat has been revealed by a New Nation special investigation.
Residents of the Crown colony, who arrived from the Caribbean on after being invited by the British Government, have been ignored and ill-treated by officials since they got here.
And now many of the 636 islanders are 'desperate', confused' and 'need help'.
Hackney MP Diane Abbott expressed 'concern' over New Nation's findings and suggested that if a white British colony suffered a similar environmental disaster, the Government 'would be bending over backwards to help'.
'At times I feel like I've come from one disaster to the next,' said schoolteacher Shirley Kirwan from her run-down flat in north London.
'I came to England because I heard the government was going to look after us,' 24-year-old Loretta Moore complained, 'but they don't want to do anything to help... I'm at my wits' end.'
Sandy Buchan, director of Refugee Action, compared the lack of funding for Montserratians to the 5,000 pounds per head the Government is spending on helping refugees from Bosnia to resettle.
With no official organization to turn to the Montserratian evacuees are being shunted between government bodies, or offloaded onto unfunded community groups.
Janice Panton, of Montserrat Aid Committee '89, described Government efforts as 'inadequate' and added: 'A high percentage of people have had problems.'
Montserratian fleeing a deadly volcano are facing a fresh nightmare at the hands of English bureaucrats.
Six hundred and thirty-six former residents of the British Crown Colony, who are over here on a Government evacuation scheme, are being provided with no official help in getting the benefits they were promised, and that they need to live.
Already traumatized by having to leave homes and loved ones for a strange land, many now find themselves struggling for money, stuck in unsuitable accommodation and reliant on hard-pressed voluntary organizations for support.
The Government response has been inadequate,' says Janice Panton of Montserrat community organization MAC 89. 'We are doing our best but they should set up something official, in the same way that they have for the Bosnians.'
Concern
While the UK spends an average 5,000 pounds per person resettling victims of the Yugoslav civil war, its own subjects are not considered worthy of any expenditure.
Diane Abbott, MP for Hackney, where many of the evacuees are staying, says she is 'very concerned' at New Nations findings, and added: 'If they were white, the government would probably be bending over backwards to help them.' On 23 April this year, after scientists warned the southern part of Montserrat was unsafe, islanders were told that if they could afford the air fare and had friends or relatives in the UK who could initially take them in, they would be entitled to stay in Britain for two years, with full welfare provision. One official release suggested they would be housed within two weeks of landing.
Evacuees, settling mostly in northeast London and the midlands, soon discovered that the process was far from straightforward: Government officials did not draw up the rule changes necessary for benefits to be paid to them until July. After that, many DSS offices remained unaware of the changes and payments were further delayed. People doubling up in relatives' bedrooms were told they wouldn't be housed because they weren't homeless.
And the problems continue. New Nation has met numerous evacuees who say they feel 'desperate', confused and need help to overcome bureaucratic foot-dragging, as well as the refusal of local authorities to consider them priority cases in the housing queue.
'A very high percentage of people have had problems' says Janice Panton of Montserrat Aid Committee 89, one of two unfunded community organizations -- the other is the Montserrat Overseas Progressive People's Alliance. 'In one north London benefit agency it was as high as 90 per cent. It's still the case that they are being very difficult,' she adds.
'Perhaps we weren't as well prepared as we should have been but things are running more smoothly now;' said a foreign office spokesman, 'it was a question of getting the scheme in place as quickly as possible and then working out the details afterwards.'
Alert
'I can see that dealing with the bureaucratic process would come as a shock to them,' he added, 'but it could also come as a shock to British people if we were seen to be giving them preferential treatment.'
But with Montserrat still on high volcano alert, another 63 evacuees scheduled to fly in shortly and more booking passage every day, many Montserratians feel the present hotch-potch of government bodies dealing with their unique problems is inadequate.
Government offices tend to offload phone calls from distraught evacuees to MOPPA and MAC 89.
'We pick up the pieces,' says Panton. 'It would certainly help if someone would give us some money for the work we're doing.'
If Montserratians were fleeing war rather than natural disaster, their situation might be different. Sandy Buchan of Refugee Action says: 'There are reception centres set up for Bosnians arriving in Britain, which help with resettlement and housing. Even if they stay with family living over here, there are special field staff to advise them. 'That's what's probably missing with Montserrat.'
'If a decision was taken to fund them in that way, it would have to be taken by central government,' a Home Office representative said.
Problems
The evacuees' plight has been compounded by false expectations. After leaving camps in the north of Montserrat, where overcrowding, unemployment and crime are rife, many thought coming to England would be the answer to all their problems. The former Montserratian government, voted out of office last month, failed to circulate reliable information on the British government's evacuation scheme, fearing the island would be left deserted. People were therefore not always in a position to make an informed choice about the move.
It was a situation MP Bernie Grant thinks the British Foreign Office happily went along with 'because the last thing they wanted was a large influx of black people into the country.'
He believes if a white British colony, like Gibraltar, was subject to a similar natural disaster, the government response would have been a great deal more efficient.
The UK has an established 5,000 to 6,000 population of Montserratian descent. Last week's figures showed 636 more have arrived since the Voluntary Evacuation Scheme was set up in April.
The Honorable Chief Minister last week invited us to read carefully the Secretary of State's letter to him which dealt with a question about Her Majesty's Government (HMG) policy towards the Caribbean Dependent Territories.
The letter began: 'In the light of recent experience HMG has examined actual or potential problems in the five Caribbean Dependent Territories. Considerable improvements are being made in the administration of the territories and their good government. However, it has become clear that some extension of those powers which may be exercised by HMG may be needed. We will take this into account in our continuing discussions with each of the five governments concerned and make any changes if and when necessary. We attach importance to our continuing friendship and close cooperation with the territories in the interests of their well-being and future prosperity.' (See letter in issue of January 10, 1997).
The Chief Minister, who is the most ready and accepted mouthpiece that we have, didn't think there is any particular threat in the letter to our future freedom to govern ourselves, (except of course we fly our own flag). When he says that Britain will not remove any of our democratic process while he is Chief Minister, could he be saying or at least promising that during his tenure in office, "good governance - etc." will be the order of the day? It is fairly well believed that if nothing else Mr. Osborne brings to this high office the guarantee that he will not knowingly permit the type of corruption that may have been or is prevalent in some other administrations both here and abroad.
In June 1995 just before the advent of our volcanic problems the governors and Chief Ministers of the dependent territories traveled to London where among other matters some Chief Ministers were to raise the matter of the use of reserve powers by island governors, and around the same time we reported that 'here in Montserrat recent decisions within and outside the Civil Service have raised questions as to the limits of the powers vested in the Governor'.
At that time also the Reporter carried an article about the Governor discounting suggestions that Britain had a secret document on the future of Montserrat saying, "The British Government wants Montserrat to be successful, but all the time Britain has responsibility to the United Nations for Montserrat, then the BG is going to require minimum standards of good government. I do not think that has been an issue in Montserrat because the vast majority of matters concluded here meet high standards."
This matter has been raised again in different circumstances throughout
the past year and now here comes this infamous letter. To repeat
last weeks admonition of improving our efficiency, we need to
pay very careful attention to Mr. Faint's words reported in our
front page story today.
Dear Mr. Editor:
I'm writing to let you know my feelings about the letter published last week from Mrs. Carol Osborne. I congratulate Mrs. Osborne for having the courage to publicly express opinions that have been felt by others for some time.
This newspaper has been full of negative comments and remarks which make one wonder if anyone is seeking the truth before they write. And are they ashamed to put their name to the articles that they put to print? And Mr. Editor, not everyone is on the Internet. I did not know who the Editor was! Any newspaper of repute publishes names of writers and lists the editors.
We live on an island, an individual country, but because of the size, the population and to some extent the current problems, it is my feeling that this newspaper should be considering itself more of a "community" type newspaper. It should be the conscience of the community, a watchdog for the people, a catalyst.
Seems to me that too many people have too much time on their hands to make assumptions that are not truthful, and have the audacity to print it with the blessing of the editor.
And it is a poor editor indeed who cannot accept constructive criticism. If the articles going to press are truthful then no one has to worry about forgiving, or being misunderstood. Writers should also be able to withstand the heat if they are making derogatory comments on any subject.
My apologies for not keeping this as brief as I had intended.
Yours truly
(Sgd.) Agnes Lempriere
Following are just a few of the letters recently received along with phone calls overseas and locals all expressing their thoughts and appreciation. Oh yes, there are other views.
Dear Mr. Roach,
I don't know when I have enjoyed an issue of a newspaper (cover to cover).
I found myself smiling and uttering "atta boys" and "right on" and other silent cheers of support for the opinions expressed by your editorial, letter writers, and columnists! What I found was affirmation of many of my own private thoughts and the knowledge of a broader disenchantment with the management of the volcanic SITUATION. (I refuse to honor it anymore with the word crisis. The volcano is not causing the crisis _ people are.)...
There are so many things wrong and so many priorities misplaced
that these actions are surely working against the country. Keep
up the good work. I will do my share to get people to understand
the widespread discontent reported in your paper is truly the
pulse of the island - as I see it.
Resident Expat,
Appreciative
Dear Mr. Editor,
I was an island visitor in 1990 and my family and I fell in love with your beautiful island. Everyone was so hospitable and friendly that we often recall our peaceful visit. I am currently living in the US and teaching elementary school. I have heard much about the volcano erupting and am frightened for all of you.
I would like to keep up with this aspect of the island so that I can teach my students about your lovely island and its physical features. By teaching them, I continue my link and love of the place. Please post as much as possible what is happening there in regards to the volcano. That will help humanitarian aid in getting info and help us all learn and connect.
Thanks
J Tepera
Just read your Dec.13, edition. I visited your island in June 1995 and have tried to follow the volcano situation without much success. Little is reported. I favored your island out of most in the Caribbean and am sorry for the plight of the people. I will add your site to my favorites section.
D Felder
Britain Approved Housing Grant
Earlier this week the government reiterated its pledge to solve the housing problems in the north.
The island has been grappling with this problem since last April 3 when the current relocation began.
With the approval of 2 million EC dollars coming in the form of a housing grant from the British Government it seems as though the government is on its way to solving the housing problem. Portions of the grant is being used to upgrade private homeowners basements to apartment styled quarters which the government plans to operate for the next 5 years placing occupants in these quarters.
Information reaching the Reporter says that the idea was born out of a proposal that was made earlier to the Governor by young man bent on seeing improvements to the deplorable shelter conditions, to use the basements of willing homeowners, to provide housing to occupants of churches etc. which are being used as temporary shelters.
Following the British approval of the funds reliable sources reported that an attempt was made to pass the funds over to willing applicants as a loan. When the people who were being told that the funds would be given to them to complete the construction as a loan, they rebelled the idea and it is now reported that the funds will be made available as a grant.
In the meantime the Honorable Bertrand Osborne has noted that
the money approved by Britain will not be enough to fully solve
the problems of housing. He is however certain that more funding
from the British once the housing improvement drive gets under
way will be made available. He is also reported as saying that
the construction of permanent housing similar to the housing scheme
at Parsons also form part of the long term plans.
More Training for Montserratians
Two more Montserratians are benefiting from training programs at the Burton Raymer Technical Center at the Oswego Country BOCES as part of the ongoing Montserrat/Oswego Partners of the Americas scholarship scheme.
The two students left here late last week, they are Albert Miller a technician and Lynette Skerritt of Montserrat Aviation Services who is following a twenty week program in Travel and Tourism.
In Oswego, they join Carle Edgecombe who is studying music at the State University of New York's campus situated there.
For the three student's funding comes from combination of inputs from Partners of the Americas head office, the Government of Montserrat, the State University of New York, the Oswego County BOCES, the Oswego and Montserrat branches of Partners and the private sector.
Montserrat and Oswego Country New York have been twinned under
the Partners of the Americas program since 1983 and in this time
over 150 Montserratians have been trained in the Oswego area in
a wide variety of technical skills.
The Department of Communications and Works has been making an appeal for owners to license their vehicles. Reports from the department says that the licensing process for 1997 has been very slow compared to previous years.
So far this month only 296 vehicles have been registered, which officials say is normally completed in at least 3 days but predictions are that more persons will come in by the end of January.
The department is also expecting that at least 2700 vehicles will
registered this year and an official says that no grace period
for the people to license will be given after March.
Bullen Named new OECS High Commissioner
Mr. Mario Bullen of Grenada, a former Manager of Montserrat Electricity Services (MONLEC) in the early 1970's and until recently Grenada's Director of Tourism took up duties as the OECS High Commissioner to Canada as of January 14.
Mr. Bullen takes over from Montserratian Miss Laurine Fenton.
The OECS announced Mr. Bullen's appointment on November 26 but
he stayed on in Grenada until a replacement Director of Tourism
was appointed. Mr. Bullen will present his credentials to the
Canadian Government later this week.
Following the death of Mary Farrell of Streathams on the 31 December 1996, the coroner ordered that a post mortem be held into the cause of death.
The results of the post mortem have now been received and following consultation with the Attorney General's Office, Caleb Murraine of Streathams has been arrested and charged with the murder of Mary Farrell.
He appeared before the Magistrate and has been remanded in custody.
Farmers Receive Government Assistance
In an effort to help farmers survive the hard economic times brought on by the volcanic activity, a top local official says that since the last relocation, government has been assisting by purchasing a range of produce from members of the farming community.
Livestock and plant farmers are reportedly benefiting from the scheme and the source says the move by government, has been placing up to $30,000 per month directly in the hands of farmers on the island.
The items being purchased by government from the farmers here
are being distributed to relocated residents at shelters in the
designated safe area of the island.
Government House yesterday announced that H.R.H.Prince Andrew, The Duke of York will make an official visit to Montserrat from February 11 - 13, 1997.
According the release, His Royal Highness will be visiting the island to offer support in the continuing volcanic crisis to Montserratians and to see some of the British Emergency aid projects. During his visit he will visit schools, the hospital, a number of shelters which house relocated islanders and spend some time with the Royal Montserrat Police Force, the Montserrat Defence Force and other emergency assistance workers. His Royal Highness will also visit the Montserrat Volcano Observatory for a briefing on the current volcanic situation.
While here the West Indies Guard Ship, HMS Boxer which patrols
the Eastern Caribbean and which has a watching brief for Montserrat,
will be making a visit to the island at the same time.
An American Geology group is using the volcanic activities here to help further their studies. The group is led by Professor Robert J Carson who said the Montserrat visit will be very useful to his students. He also feels that the real experience with an active volcano will have a greater impact than if emphasis is solely put on what is in the books.
While on Montserrat the group of nine students and the professor visited the Montserrat Volcano Observatory and was updated on the activities of the volcano by scientists working there. They also had a field trip to St. Georges Hill where one of the monitoring instruments is located and again had discussions with one of the scientists.
The highlight of the Montserrat visit was the observation of the glowing lava dome from WH Bramble airport.
at nights. The professor and students were overwhelmed by the experience and appeared stunned by the revealing of nature before their eyes. As part of the four day visit to the island they also traveled around the island looking at the different landscapes and trying to interpret past volcanic activities also examining the rocks found on the island.
A visit to Rendezvous beach was the final activity to what the
student referred to as a trip of a life time.
The Ministry of Agriculture are taking steps to ensure the survival of local agriculture in the face of the ongoing of the volcanic crisis.
There are two projects progressing in the Trants area one of which is being supervised by the local Methodist Community involving 5 acres while the other involves 9 acres and is under the agriculture department. There are also plans to start a project in the Duck Pond area at the top of Nantes River in Salem.
The Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Reuben Meade hopes that between 15 to 20 acres of lands will be made available for farming in that location. He says, "if successful, the effort will see the large scale production of bananas among other crops including dasheens."
He says further that farmers already in the area will be able
to benefit from the initiatives.
Montserrat Association in St. Thomas Elects Officers
The Montserrat Association of St. Thomas/St. John has elected a new slate of officers to run the organization for 1997.
Re-elected as president with an overwhelming majority was Kenneth Allen, while Victor Sydney, proprietor of Victor's New Hideout retained the position of Vice President.
Voted into the slot of recording secretary was Monica Ryan. Roseann Newton was elected corresponding secretary and as treasurer, the group chose Alice Tuitt.
Eddie Donoghue by unanimous vote was re-elected to serve as public relations officer for the association.
Six officers were elected to serve on the executive board of the Montserrat Association. They were Richard Blake, Wingrove Fenton, Annie Meade, Lenore Edgecombe, Debbie Brathwaite and Mary Ryan.
The members of the Association highly praised the outgoing executive board for its excellent work during 1996, especially with respect to its volcano relief efforts for Montserrat. Both Allen and Sydney said that they expect 1997 will be a year when the Montserrat Association will not only be called upon to assist their homeland but also their brothers and sisters throughout the Caribbean.
Prior to Sundays election, the Association heard from a UVI student who requested assistance with payment of her tuition for the present semester and later awarded her $3,000 from its scholarship fund.
Special guest at the meeting was librarian Shirley Lincoln who gave a report of her December visit to the island. It turned out that Ms. Lincoln had been corresponding with some individuals in Montserrat through the Internet. Ms Lincoln will be conducting a drive in her capacity as private citizen, to provide books for the depleted library in Montserrat.
Members of the Association were pleased to obtain a first hand report from the recent visitor to the island and the newly elected president Kenneth Allen and vice president Victor Sydney pledged that the organization would fully support the book drive initiated by Ms. Shirley Lincoln.
1996 was not too bad a year for the Association. "We must now roll up our sleeves and ensure that 1997 is a better year," said Allen who extended sincere thanks to the people of the Virgin Islands for their help to his volcano ravished homeland.
An opinion published in a newspaper by any contributing author is nothing but just that - an opinion held by the author. Should that opinion not be one held by the reader, it does not negate the opinion of the author nor does it make it a biased and or negative opinion. Neither for that matter should the Editor or Publisher of that newspaper be castigated and demonized for the views and opinions held by any contributing author.
A newspaper's role is to inform. Yes, even inform the readers of the contributing authors' opinions just as it informs his contributing writers of the opinions of others through Letters to the Editor. It promotes dialogue. So much so that the Editor invites the opinions and views of letter writers.
Letters to the Editor ought not to be considered negative or biased. In fact, they do show that contributing writers moved letter writers to thought, action and dialogue. And that means that the contributing writers, the Editor and the newspaper are doing a good job. So, do you get it?
The Chief Minister spoke to the housing issue the other day on radio. Good to see plans are a-foot for additional housing. But somewhere in his speech he indicated that a new shelter would be built, with partitions, mind you, to allow for more privacy for shelters. It would seem that the Chief Minister does not get it. We do not want more shelters. We want housing.
People's lives and sanity are being threatened in the shelters, Mr. Chief Minister. A lady was just stabbed. More shelters will increase these kinds of incidents. Don't you get it Mr. Chief Minister?
With all the goodwill, care and compassion that private citizens and community groups put into easing the burdens of shelters it would seem that they don't get it. Because, if we do make the shelters too comfortable, and they should be comfortable, then the Government will never be forced to "get it" and move people into real housing.
When the Devil gets into the Printing Press and allow the most important lines of New Years Resolutions that we make for the Minister of Health on s articles, he don't get it. He does not understand how important it is that Madame Minister grasp the urgency of raising those pit toilets at Gerald's Park and not only replacing them with flush toilets but also ensuring the testing of all users of these facilities for diseases caused by fecal contamination.
But we get it and so should Madame Minister.
Dr Ambeh informed us all that he will not be returning to Montserrat as he will be returning to his own homeland. What a sad thing to happen to Montserratians!! Does this mean that we can all brace for another time when we will be pummeled with more fear-debilitating talk of tsunamis and lateral blasts?
When ever first world inexperience meets with third world professionalism, experience and dignity, somewhere, somehow, someone contrives to trample on third world expertise and force them to make decisions to the detriment of the third world.
But, hey Dr. Ambeh, we get it!!!
It is good that we can have Her Majesty's Other Representative visit our island to get a first hand view of the situation we are in. But it is interesting and rather quite stunning to hear Her Majesty's Other Representative clearly inferred that we do not have the ability, indeed, even the know-how to write projects, carry on the developmental work, et al.
If this is so Mr. Chief Minister, be exhorted, hire competent personnel. Because, if you do not get it Mr. Chief Minister, we do. We understand it is all part and parcel of the exercise of Government from outside. We understand that despite Her Majesty's Other Representative talk of Montserratians wanting to run their own country, that up to now the first world have failed to grasp the notion that the third world is capable of self-government and good governance.
So when Her Majesty's local representative and our own elected
representatives deny the written and spoken word, we want them
to know that we get it. We just hope that they get it. And real
soon.
The following article was prepared for inclusion in last week's issue but was omitted in error. It is included this week as it's relevance is still important.
The article was realised from contributions by the Montserrat Red Cross, Eddie Donoghue, St. Thomas and the Reporter staff.
Over 140 children from shelters, relocated homes, and non relocated homes that are housing relocated persons left Montserrat the weekend before Christmas to spend the holiday period in Tortola and St. Thomas.
The invitation came to Montserrat branch of the British Red Cross from the Women's Guild of Tortola, a women's support group interested in the social welfare and well being of their community. According to the President, Mrs. Cheryl Trott, DR Carol Tuft, a Montserratian Psychologist, was the guest speaker at a meeting in October and among other things she told them about the volcanic crisis and its effect on the people of Montserrat. Immediately, the idea to host approximately 50 children from Montserrat over the Christmas vacation became a reality.
Although Christmas is a time when families should be together, it was intended that this visit would allow the children to release some of the stresses caused by living with an active volcano and enjoy a fun filled Christmas in a family type atmosphere. Parents registered their children willingly, realizing that the trip would have a more positive effect on their children, and that they would enjoy a Christmas which many could not give had they stayed at home.
The Women's Guild set out to raise funds as this was their first major project since its inception just under a year ago. The business community of Tortola gave their full support and before long they had raised $20,000. The numbers quickly grew from 50 to 145 with 5 going to St. Thomas.
The children ranged in ages from 5-16 and stayed with individual families most of whom had children of similar ages.
A number of exciting and fun-filled events were organized for them including a luncheon Christmas party by the Rotary Club and gifts for each child, a day at the movies, two day trips to the neighboring islands of Virgin Gorda and St. Thomas, a beach party by Keetos, a restaurant on the beach and many other activities. The Montserratian children put on a concert on the final evening for their hosts. This was directed by Gertrude Shotte and Desmond Daley, two school teachers from Montserrat.
According to the Director of the local branch of the Red Cross, Lystra Osborne and its secretary Sharon Edwards who visited Tortola for part of the time, the families and people of Tortola opened their hearts and homes to the children. They demonstrated love, caring, concern and patience for the children which was particularly touching.
It is reported that some of the children, who returned home last weekend, are planning a return trip at Easter during the next school holidays.
In a report coming out of St. Thomas, Dr. Eddie Donoghue reported that 133 children joined the 6 from St. Thomas. President of the Montserrat Association there, Mr. Kenneth Allen made the arrangements which included obtaining a waiver for the children to enter St. Thomas without the required fees for visas .
The Taxi Association in St. Thomas gave great support and were commended by newly elected Senator David Roosevelt who said, "I am very glad that organizations such as the Virgin Islands Taxi Association has come out to help."
The children lunched at a 'McDonalds restaurant and according to Allen: "They thoroughly enjoyed themselves and when it came time for them to take the 5 o'clock ferry to return to Tortola, tears came to the eyes of several of the children. Many vowed to return to St. Thomas for a more extended visit."
In the meantime several of the women who were involved in organizing and hosting the children in Tortola were in Montserrat this week for a sad occasion. They were attending the funeral of Mr. Joseph Morgan, who died in Tortola while accompanying the children.
Among them were Mrs. Cheryl Trott, president of the Guild, Carol Trundle and Sylvia Adams members of the organization and its executive committee. They confirmed how the arrangements were made, adding that many churches, banks and other service organizations assisted in making the children's trip a success.
They expressed their nervousness on the morning following the declaration of the 'red alert' here when LIAT was not flying in to get the children across to Antigua. They claimed how they set out to make arrangements with the coast guard and other airlines to assist.
The Montserrat branch of the Red Cross extends its thanks on behalf
of all Montserratians to the Women's Guild of Tortola, DR Carol
Tuft, The Montserrat Association of the Virgin islands, the hosts,
the business community and all those individuals who contributed
in any way to making the visit the success it was. The children
summed it up best when they said on their return to Montserrat
- "It was the best Christmas we ever had."
Governor Frank Savage, now in the final months of his tenure here, has it within his power to leave a legacy which Montserratians will respect and treasure.
Cowards cover up their mistakes. Great men seek to reverse errors which can be directly attributed to them. Governor Savage, having braved the volcanic crisis need not don the mantle of a coward.
His Excellency will recall a report of succession planners, which, if implemented would have put the public service in better shape. Even if that report did not forcefully address the issue of potential successors to the substantive Financial Secretary, His Excellency knows that a society like ours is badly served by Headmaster types who, not only fail to groom promotable and capable potential successors, but whose apparent lack of the great administrators penchants for fading away on schedule, thereby giving way to greater ability and capacity than their own, effectively puts to flight Montserratians brightest and best.
Governor Savage, from all reports, paid great attention to the opinions of Government Ministers in areas which the constitution entrusted to his portfolio and judgment.
In this regard, it is again the journalist thankless task to raise another matter of grave concern. It was not long ago that a Statutory Body's Board of Directors dismissed a manager who openly disregarded the clear and unambiguous directive of the Comptroller of Customs.
Training, like appointments to the public service falls under the Governor's portfolio. Yet the well connected officer, who defied the Comptroller of Custom's directive was speedily rewarded with a training course in the United Kingdom and was readmitted to the public service in the important area of Physical Planning.
Customs Officers accused of undervaluing used vehicles were fired by the Governor on the advice of the Public Service Commission. Their sin was lack of judgment rather than open defiance of the head of an important revenue department.
Physical Planning, always an important and crucial function, has become more important in view of the reconstruction made necessary by the current volcanic activity.
If, as widely reported, His Excellency made the appointment under immense political pressure, he should recognize that such decisions - given the quasi judicial powers of the Physical Planning Department could push the "limits of obedience" over the hill. Failure to reverse that appointment will stain Governor Savage's career.
Earlier this week, the present Minister of Agriculture and Housing went on radio to hold out hope for road improvements in Drummonds and Gerald's following the construction of family units.
It is ironic that less than two years ago, Governor Savage visited that area with the then member for Northern, Ruby Wade-Bramble. She said then, "We are hearing about other roads but I believe that the Drummonds Road is vital to the development of the country." He sympathized with the villagers and although in the midst of preparations for a trip to the United Kingdom, protested to the then Chief Minister and Minister of Finance: "I have seen some bad village roads in Montserrat but there are none worse than Gerald's and I think the people of Gerald's ought to be told when their roads will be fixed."
That Ex-Chief Minister apparently does not subscribe to the theological doctrine "Open confession is good for the soul". Having disregarded the Governor's letter he continued to treat areas like Gerald's with more contempt than Camp Lightfoot in Antigua. His expert knowledge of economic development failed to open his eyes to the vast potential of Gerald's. It took a volcanic eruption that made the southern half of Montserrat unsafe to do the job. Perhaps in the interest of good Government, Governor Savage should have over-ruled Chief Minister Reuben T. Meade over two years ago and used British Aid Funds for road development in the Gerald's/Lilner Hills area.
(Next week - An Open Letter to The Secretary of State)
Overwhelmed is possibly the best way to describe how I feel regarding the response to my "letter to the editor" in last week's paper. I've been telephoned, visited in my office and stopped on the street by as many Montserratians as expatriates, all voicing words of encouragement.
By invitation, Mr. Bennett Roach, editor of the Montserrat reporter, has suggested that I should express my views in a column. Initially, I dismissed the thought but on reflection and with such a persuasive reaction I have had second thoughts.
Would I be qualified, possibly by longevity? At the risk of being too personal let me say where I'm coming from. I first visited Montserrat as a tourist in 1969 and came to live here permanently in 1972 when I married Cedric Osborne, then manager of the Vue Pointe hotel. I have worked at the hotel since 1972 and have raised five children on Montserrat. I am a member of the Montserrat tourist board, a warden for the U.S. embassy, a member of the board of the Montserrat Chamber of Commerce and a youth co-ordinator for the St. Patrick's R.C. Church.
My main occupation revolves around tourism in all its aspects both positive and negative. And because of this I am continually exposed to visitors and residents alike. Maybe I could contribute some informal observations that are not otherwise aired.
The man from Baker Hill is calling for 1997 to be the "Year for Honesty". I would like to commend this pledge and support his position that honesty is the essence for our survival now, during a crisis, and in anticipation of a brighter future.
I would like to add that communication is also essential, honest
truthful communication, so let's chat!
Montserratians fleeing a deadly volcano on their island should have been breathing a sigh of relief when they were offered refuge by the UK on a special evacuation scheme. But as a New Nation investigation has revealed, many of them arrived in the country to be greeted by bungling bureaucracy.
The arrival of 636 islanders over the past year hardly constitutes a massive influx but sadly, the tiny island, inhabited by some 10,000 or so people, has been given false hopes.
While Montserrat is no Bosnia, the British government, should not have made promises they couldn't keep, especially to people already traumatized by their ordeal back home.
The conditions many of these people have been subjected to since their arrival are an absolute disgrace. That one of the evacuees was offered a flat unfit for human habitation gives a true picture of their plight.
The UK spends 5,000 pounds per head on Bosnian refugees and its about time the government addressed the Montserratian situation with a lot more urgency and commitment.
Where are the reception centres that have been set up for the Bosnians, and which help with resettlement and housing? The problems with the DSS need to be tackled so they are fully briefed as to the entitlements of the arriving Montserratians.
Not only have these actions left an indelible mark on those involved, but this whole episode will send out all the wrong signals around the Caribbean and beyond.
Scientists have already warned that another eruption is imminent and it promises to be the most violent yet. Let's hope the Government has needed this warning and will not subject any more evacuees to any more nightmares.
Rockfalls and pyroclastic flows have dominated the activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano this week as the dome of the volcano becomes increasingly unstable. The pyroclastic flows which are mixtures of hot ash, rocks and gas traveling at very high speeds have been flowing down the Tar River Valley and reaching the new delta at sea level below the valley.
The delta itself was seen to be steaming mid week by scientists at sea who were carrying out gas sampling at the time.
The activity has produced huge ash clouds reaching as high as 20,000 feet and these have been blown by the prevailing winds south and westwards. Huge amounts of ash have fallen in Plymouth and surrounding areas making driving treacherous, at one point in the week all checkpoints were completely closed into the unsafe zones. Both the Port Authority and Montserrat Rice Mills withdrew their employees at the height of the activity.
Gas sampling has continued both on land and sea, following a peak last week the results are now showing around 400 tonnes per day of sulphur dioxide which is well below the international levels set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The face of the dome above Castle Peak area has been very active during the course of the week and rockfalls are expected to continue in this area, the shape of Castle Peak has changed drastically because of this activity.
During the week scientists managed to reach the top of Chances Peak and reported that the cracks close to Galways Wall continue to open wider. Galways Wall itself has become more active with increased landslides in this area.
Scientists report that the southeastern face of the dome remains very unstable and further collapses and flows are expected. If a major dome collapse happens it would probably build up over the course of a few hours but is expected to produce very large pyroclastic flows in the Tar River Valley and ash downwind of the volcano. They point out that if these flows are large enough they could be followed by an explosive eruption as happened in mid September.
Throughout the week the alert level has remained at ORANGE. The
civilian authorities are very worried about the amount of material
which has come down Fort Ghaut as it is now very close to blocking
the bridge and the culvert in the Wapping area. This could prevent
access to southern areas and prompted the Governor to express
during the week his concern about the number of people living
in the unsafe zones. A survey is to be carried out to determine
numbers living in these areas.
Jus wonderin if the stress levels are reaching a violent point in the shelters or old men are pretending they are under the influence of alcohol to get at the ladies.
Jus wonderin what the English man meant when he said that the our Government is undertaking an ambitious task.
Jus wonderin when I will stop wonderin.
Jus wonderin why the sports officer confessed to the guide.
Jus wonderin why the young drivers do not learn to drive properly before they try to speed on our small damaged and broken-up roads.
Jus wonderin why the drivers of the big trucks and school buses do not allow the vehicles that accumulate behind them to pass when ever it is possible.
Jus wonderin how only one government minister is always on the radio.
Jus wonderin why members of the different political parties are accusing the Reporter of loyalty to each other of their opponents.
Jus wonderin why none of the good news from the Montserrat Football Association is ever passed on to be published in the Montserrat Reporter.
Jus wonderin where the sense is for persons are still allowed to park their cars at the check point and enter the unsafe zone on foot.
Jus wonderin if the volcano will ever go back to sleep.
Jus wonderin why the officers are not allowed to play domino when they are off duty.
Jus wonderin why the teachers and civil servants are upset about the men in blue proposed increase in salary and benefits.
MORE POWER TO THE GOVERNOR ?
ABSOLUTELY NOT!
The British Government is proposing to make sweeping changes contrary
to the provisions of the Montserrat constitutional order 1989.
This includes giving the Governor, who is appointed, the absolute
power to reject the advice of the people you elect and substitute
his own views instead. Can we the people of Montserrat accept
this?
Many Montserratians are convinced that this will be a backward
step. Your views on this matter are very important. This will
affect you and your children for generations. Come out so that
you can be a part of what is happening. Come out and air your
views. Let us say NO to Britain with one voice.
A panel discussion will be held on radio Montserrat on Thursday
23rd with a call in program to follow. Community meetings are
scheduled to discuss the proposed changes.
Schedule of meetings all meetings will commence at 7:30 p.m. Panellists
will be from within the community with legislators, both opposition
and government.
CORKHILL PRIMARY SCHOOL MONDAY 20
SALEM PRIMARY SCHOOL TUESDAY 21
BRADES PRIMARY SCHOOL WEDNESDAY 22
RADIO PROGRAMME THURSDAY 23 8:00 p.m.
ST. JOHN'S PRIMARY MONDAY 27
Seeks success oriented individual or Company to represent its line of high performance roofing products. Outstanding earnings and growth opportunity.
No prior roofing experience needed. We're professionals in our field with 60 years experience and offer complete training.
Please respond in English to:
H.F.Thomas, Senior Vice President, Southwestern Petroleum, Box 961005, Ft. Worth, Texas 76161, U.S.A
Applications are invited for the post of Information, Education,
Communication (IEC) Officer at Family Life Services.
Applicants should be mature with good communication and computer
skills and at least six (6) Ordinary level passes at GCE or CXC,
including English Language. Previous experience in preparing and
conducting family life education or family planning programs would
be an asset. Applicants should also have an interest in youth
affairs.
The IEC Officer is responsible for:-
Planning, co-ordinating and executing projects and activities within the IEC department of Family Life Services.
Assisting in the preparation of project proposals for submission
to local, regional and international agencies.
Applications, along with a curriculum vitae and the names of two
referees should be sent by February 14, 1997 to:-
AN JOB OPPORTUNITY EXISTS FOR AN
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER AT THE MONTSERRAT TOURIST BOARD
Scope of Work:
The Administrative Officer will be expected to provide the day
to day administrative, financial and supervisory assistance to
Director of Tourism in the maintenance of all office systems and
procedures designed to ensure the efficient and effective operation
of the Tourist board
Reports to: Director of Tourism
DUTIES
1. To assume direct responsibility for the administrative functions of the Board in , but not limited to:
(a) Office administration and supervision of junior staff
(b) Personnel and staff welfare matters
(c) Materials management
(d) The maintenance of office inventories and equipment
2. To maintain the accounting system for the Tourist Board in
an efficient and reliable manner. This includes the responsibility
for preparing the budget and producing all required financial
reports.
3. To be directly responsible for the management of correspondence
and relevant document storage retrieval and dissemination mechanism.
4. To draft responses to correspondence in a timely manner as
requested by Director.
5. To take the lead in making appropriate logistical arrangements
for on island visits of tourism officials and overseas visits
of Tourist Board staff.
6. To function as the executive assistant to the Director of Tourism,
including the handling of the Board's confidential matters as
required.
7. To coordinate meetings and record notes and minutes of same,
as requested by the Director.
8. To handle all other relevant duties as delegated by the Director
of Tourism.
QUALIFICATIONS
The applicant should have:
The applicant should also possess good interpersonal skills and
be computer literate.
APPLICATIONS
Applications, stating qualifications and relevant experience, along with the names of two
referees, should be submitted in writing to:
Insurance Services ( Montserrat ) Ltd is inviting applications
for the position of Insurance Clerk- Typist. Accounting ability
would be useful.
All applications will be treated confidentially and should be forwarded to:
The Manager
Insurance services (Montserrat ) Ltd
P.O. Box 185
Montserrat
with Resume.
Forward all Questions, Comments and Suggestions to: roachb@candw.ag
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