Just over a week ago it was reported that in a move which it says is intended to protect its own producers from unfair competition, the European Union (EU) has cut by about one half the rice it imports from the Caribbean under a special duty and quota free arrangement. The move will hurt the region's main producers and damage the export revenues of several dependent territories which have been taking advantage of their political status to become leading players in the international rice trade.

Montserrat is among those most severely hit by the actions taken by the EU and this week during a visit to Montserrat, Mr. Ken Boyea, Chief Executive Officer of the East Caribbean Group of Companies met with a European Commission.

Under an arrangement with the European Union (EU) several dependent territories are allowed duty and quota free access to the European market for products which undergo transformation in the territories.

I asked Mr. Boyea what caused this drastic action and what the reduction in quota meant for Montserrat.

He explained that, "During the last year the rice growing countries in Europe mainly Italy and Spain have had bumper crops and they were concerned about the amount of rice coming out of the Overseas Countries and Territories (OCT)s that is mainly Montserrat, Turks and Caicos and Curacao, Bonaire, the Netherlands.

"There was an agreement to put an overall quota on us. The Irish had suggested a quota of 200,000 tons

"The Dutch didn't like that and they have been arguing this position for a long time and the Italians in order to bring it to a head instituted a safeguard measure which was for a quota for a quarter. The quota was based on the 1995 sales. We started mid 1995 and it is not fair for our sales of 1995 be used. Naturally they came out small and we are disappointed that our quota was based on that year. If they were based on the 1996 sales we would have gotten a fairer deal."

Montserrat established rice mills and imported the commodity from Guyana, processing it, and then freely exporting it to the EU. The report last week said that the exports from the dependent territories have grew significantly in recent years, making the Netherlands Antilles the world's third largest rice exporter, after the United States and Thailand, although the Dutch dependency does not produce any of the commodity.

Last year the region shipped 300,000 tons of rice to the EU through the dependent territories, about five times as much as five years ago. The increase became too much for Italy and other southern European countries, which are also rice producers.

Mr. Boyea had some hope in that he said, "the Montserrat Government and the British Government have made very strong representations on our behalf and I have just come from a meeting with some people from the European Commission and I think they are prepared to look at it again, because the present quota of 4,600 tons for four months would not even last us one month and we are not happy we cannot be happy."

Ken Boyea and William Bramble

Manager, Mr. William Bramble of the local rice mills said that the reduction will have very serious implications for Montserrat's economy. The rice mills here trippled the use of our port, not to mention the number of people employed and jobs provided by the mills.

Commenting on his meeting with the Commission Boyea said: "We got over to the Commission that we are the only ones shipping rice to Europe that has long term contracts with our suppliers."

He said that financially it is a big blow: "We have been buying tractors and harvestors and fertilisers for the farmers in Guyana who supply us. We have long term contracts with our buyers in Europe and have made certain preparations which have incurred some expenses already.

"In the end hopefully things will go right I don't think it will just happen overnight I think there will have to be further representation when the Governor and the Chief Minister go to Europe at the end of this month. I myself will go to Brussells early next month to make representation and hopefully things would happen. It would be a disaster.

"We are hoping we are able to come to a solution that would lead to no drastic measures such as closure for any period."

He revealed that they had plans to extend the operations here to include animal feeds, making provisions to do feed mills so that local farmers could have been supplied with chicken feed etc., hoping therefore that things do not turn out to be bad preventing them from carrying out their plans.

Last week's report said that the imposition by the EU of the "safeguard" measures against rice imports from the Caribbean could be broadened to affect other products. And observers say the EU's attack on the rice imports, however, suggests that Brussels will be looking more closely at the use of the unrestricted access through the dependent territories, and will not hesitate to use similar "safeguard" measures against other products.

This past Monday saw what some considered an escalation in volcanic activity when pyroclastic flows sent ash clouds up as high as 30,000 feet dumping ash over the entire island and neighbouring islands.

Mr. Lloyd Lynch head scientist at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) had this to say about the activity which shook up some people, but saw the alert stage remain at Orange: "The other night as soon as the pyroclastic flows started, we despatched a number of people at various places to look at the size of ash clouds which gives an indication of how much material is actually involved. We also have the seismic records which we can correlate the size of the actual wave forms with the size of material being lost. If we get any indication that there is some critical change going on, that is when we will declare our red alert and get people moving."

He explained what happened with the ash, saying that freshly extruded material because of the heat, a lot of it gets convected up in the air. "Monday was a typical example of that. Fairly large volume of material from a freshly extruded material going down Tar River valley, the wind coming up from the east taking up into the air it reaches a height of 30,000 feet and is very hot. When it gets up to that level there is a current going one way and another current going in another direction at a lower level. It helps mushroom the cloud and in that manner you get a very large ash precipitation over a wider area. A lot of ash doesn't mean that no where in Montserrat is safe," he said.

Scientist Lynch was speaking to Bennette Roach about the status of the volcano giving a prognosis. He said that short term we will continue to get further pyroclastic flow activity over the next weeks until the volcano unloads significant proportions of the material inside English crater.

He stated: "Based on the evidence that we have the explosive potential of the volcano is determined by the rate at which the magma comes out of the crater. If we have situations in which magma exceed a certain rate, if the extrusion rate some how exceeds 10 - 12 cubic meters per second there is a potential that it could get explosive."

Once again he explained, "this normally happens if you have a sudden dome collapse and fresh material is exposed suddenly. Sudden dome collapse is something that happens once in a blue moon, it is very rare. The other way is if you have a series of pyroclastic flows like what happened in September when a large portion of the dome was lost then, we could get this type of event."

He said that "these days our activity is more focused on assessing how fast the volcano is putting out material.

LONG TERM that is a bit more difficult: "We can only base our judgment by looking at similar volcanosin other regions of the world. Unzen in Japan is quite similar to Montserrat and that went on for five years. Martinique's 1929 eruption went on for 6 years. Volcanoes that have been growing a dome like this usually take quite a while to get over with."

Mr. Lynch had some words for the public saying that, "What we plan to do resume and make sure that some continuity goes into the program and posters illustrating the correct status of the volcano, not just

restricted to the science but the emergency preparedness aspect of things should be addressed reminding people what to do during ash falls, etc."

"It is also important during times of activity to keep the public of abreast of what is happening. It is consoling to people, it helps them to better prepare themselves for future action. It is a three way affair, (scientists, authorities and the pubic) but the public has to be motivated to go in the direction you are going and what will provide this motivation is a clear understanding of what is happening; provide information at all times making sure you are not ambiguous. Sometimes even the person giving the information is important."

On the other hand one shouldn't look at it on the dark side. We have no tangible evidence to suggest that it will go on for a long time, it could stop by the end of this year.

Lynch spoke about Dr. Ambeh's absence: "Dr. Ambeh has resigned from the Seismic Unit after some seven years of service. We are sorry to see him leave, because this field is quite rare and we spent the better part of three years trying to recruit a seismologist and we still haven't gotten one. He has made a significant contribution and he has accumulated considerable experience and to see it go is tragic for us. He will be returning to the Cameroon."

E. Karney Osborne, Administrative Manager, commented on the matter of visual aid to enhance the public's understanding of the volcanic activity. He said: "The scientists and the administrators feel that if the population had a visual presentation of the dangers of the volcano and they would heed the warnings much better, if they could see what the scientists see."

If there was a great division amongst Montserratians over the recent 'policy letter' from the British Government, it is quite possible that little might have been heard of it. But when the Chief Minister takes the position that the letter may not have been intended for us and that there is nothing to worry about it, the whole matter takes a different colour.

During the past week members of the Parliamentary Association local branch took to the road and held meetings which will continue next week to discuss the matters arising from the letter with Montserratians. The Chief Minister sat on the panel with them and past Minister of Agriculture Charles Kirnon sat with them in Brades on Wednesday night.

It should be stated that the Chief Minister did say that he will not agree with any move by Britain to introduce any measures that will give more sweeping powers to a Governor and that he will represent Montserratians wishes on the matter. But even that last position raises unabated doubts and fears in Montserratians.

What is disturbing, is the CM's failure to discern how the British operates and actually taking a position which is expected only of the Governor in this matter. The Governor in a release from Government House says that "the letter is absolutely clear." But the letter, as many have expressed is far from clear and riddled with inconsistencies. Some have even said it is a very poorly written letter. No, itis not be easy to write such devious letters.

The Governor and Mr. Wallace, adviser to the Secretary of State, who is currently visiting Montserrat to get reactions on the matter, make the point that there are no plans to reduce the powers of the elected Government of Montserrat, but if a dependent territory fails to maintain acceptable standards which are expected by the international community of all independent countries, it may be necessary, after discussions with the Government concerned to take some action which might include an extension to the powers of the Governor to ensure that acceptable standards are maintained.

They should explain to us the reasons why this threat, this 'reminder", became necessary. All of Montserrat perhaps with the exception of the Chief Minister, understand that we must protest the intention now. The Cayman Islands and Turks and Caicos have different Constitutions and in any case special mention was made about us in this side of the Caribbean. A check could well reveal that this is the first time, that the answer to a question about dependent territories (Montserrat) in the British house has been circulated to the public, and there have been many questions.

What an Effrontery!

Dear Mr. Editor,

Perhaps the British should allocate their funds elsewhere and grant Montserrat, independence. Their scientists would be withdrawn, and all residents desirous of returning to their very safe homes will be allowed to do so.

How dare they suggest that we have any real cause for concern, when there are two active soufrieres on a 39 1/2 square mile island, and there have been numerous pyroclastic flows, ash eruptions, earthquakes - all life threatening and a potential for Tsunami waves. As all independent thinkers, anonymous editors and those who are just wandering know, the British are just "alarmists". God forbid that they should err on the side of caution, when there are thousands of lifes at stake.

I read with great indignation of the audacity of the "babyfaced" Englishmen who are trying to control the MVO with their government funds. It appears that they are now at the helm of the EOC also; what effrontery! There has clearly been no evidence of mismanagement of the finances, general incompetence and chaos. The food distribution scheme is more than adequate, and the international media continues to report the excellent living conditions in the shelters. Was there really a need for the interference?

Instead of appointing an executive committee to govern, when we said in a poll that we wanted elections, we had them. Two months later dissatisfaction and criticism are widespread. Perhaps it was the ingenious British disguised as locals who voted.

Perhaps the volcanic crisis will end tomorrow; perhaps there will be major investments in one-third of an island in these unpredictable times, although there were none in better times. Perhaps we are all living in an advanced state of denial which is common to those who undergo traumatic experiences, perhaps.

Evacuee (Name withheld upon Request)

Don't Take Us Back

Dear Mr. Editor

Please allow me some words in your newspaper.

As Chief Minister B. Osborne goes off to England, one would wonder if this is just another tea party.

The Chief Minister stated that Britain has the power to do what ever it wants concerning Montserrat. If that be so why waste our time to ask for more powers to be given to his Excellency.

Mr. Faint on his recent visit to Montserrat concluded that we as Montserratians are short on skills. What brought him to make such conclusion? Could it be the above mentioned statement coming from the Chief Minister.

The Chief Minister is looking forward, to legislation put in place for a well run financial sector. Could it be the same legislation the British used, that caused the biggest banking scandal in this century and the collapse of one of their oldest financial institution?

Mr. Chief Minister enjoy your tea, but please leave the "RESERVED" hanging on the back of the chair. I urge you to be positive, have some faith in your fellow Montserratians. Put the Montserrat pressing issues forward. Unemployment could be a good starter. Little Bay development coming on streams could be an answer.

Do not forget frustrated Montserrat Evacuees in Britain, being given unfurnished apartments. That's not what they were told on "All Fools Day" by his Excellency Savage. That's not what Montserratians call good government. That's not what most Montserratians deserve at the end of a century, that saw the fall of the iron curtain.

Let the British know we only want some of the same money they spent freely in Russia, Africa and little Antigua, we are still a dependent territory.

In 1952 the late R.W. Griffith advised Sir Earl Baldwin we deserve and can manage parliamentary democracy and worked towards advancing constitutional improvement. Forty five years later we have come a long way, please do not take us back.

Bon Voyage

Idabelle G. Meade

Stressed Out and Overworked

Dear Mr. Editor,

I am very concerned about the welfare of our health staff especially our nurses. Any country without a health system is better ofF dead. Since the volcano crises began in July of 1995 our nurses have put all they've got to keep the health system going. They have worked tirelessly day and night, moving the hospital from Plymouth to St. Johns, putting it together and ensuring its continuity. These people have children and families to take care of. Can anyone imagine how stressed out they must be? How over-worked and tired they must feel or does anyone really care about them?

Look at the other organisations for e.g. the police force, yes they work hard but at the end of the day they've got something to show for it. The nurses nothing at all!!!

Imagine Christmas came and went and not even a bonus on their salaries to make themselves and their families enjoy the holidays. Yet the struggle continues for them to feel wanted and needed. Something must be done for our nurses and soon.

We need them.

Concerned

Donations for Red Cross

The Rastafarian community in St Kitts has donated $2000 to the Montserrat Branch of the British Red Cross in an effort to render some assistance to help Montserratians overcome their sufferings because of the volcano.

The group raised money at a solidarity rally/benefit and concert on African Liberation Day held at Independence Square in Basseterre late last year.

When sending the donation, the spokesman for the group David Dabo Penny said that the Rastafarian community of St Kitts earnestly pray that the lives of Montserratians would return to the peace, tranquillity and prosperity that everyone had grown to appreciate before the volcanic crisis.

Director of the local branch of the Red Cross, Mrs Lystra Osborne in thanking the Kittitians announced that the funds will go towards the construction of the Golden Years Home for the Elderly which will be built shortly.

Nurses Stressed Out

"Frustrated and stressed out" are some of the words used by persons working in the health service in Montserrat to describe how they feel about their working environment. They are working in cramped conditions, long hours and without equipment which is left in Plymouth and unavailable. Take for example the persons in the dental department, they are operating from a little two room building which was housing an elderly lady before the volcanic activity started in July 1995. They have one dental chair and a very limited amount of surgical apparatus to operate with. Montserratian children and elderly persons can only get tooth extraction or temporary filling at the clinic. This is taking us way back when tooth extraction was the norm. The Reporter has learnt that most of the equipment that was used in the dental clinic in Plymouth is still there and that is the reason for the temporary filling and extraction service only. The Reporter also learnt that a site was chosen and foundation was laid out for a larger building next to the operating theater in St. Johns, but that is as far as that building went. After 19 mouths of volcanic activity and 10 months of relocation the health workers think it is about time the health of the local persons who cannot pay for private service be taken more seriously.

Lions Charter New Club

A new Lions Club comes to Montserrat on January 25, 1997 when twenty men and women celebrate the charter night of their new Shamrock Lions Club at the Vue Pointe Hotel at 7:00 pm..

During the ceremonies, Lions Past Regional Chairman, Klaus Wenzke will present the members of the new club with their official charter.

Members of the Virgin Gorda Lions Club, who sponsored the formation of the Shamrock Lions Club, will also be on hand to congratulate the new club. "I am proud to welcome these men and women as fellow Lions. Montserrat will be proud too, to have such a fine group serving the community," said Klaus Wenzke. Locally, Lions activities include: walkatons, fund raising, sponsoring people for medical treatment, donating funds to Montserrat Secondary School Library and The New Golden Years Project.

Internationally, the Lions, primary service activity is Sight First, a $130 million-plus effort to rid the world of preventable and reversible blindness. Lions Clubs International is the world's largest service club organisation with 1.4 million men and women as members in approximately 180 countries.

Fort Ghaut Clearing

The Public Works Department (PWD) has begun the task of clearing debris from Fort Ghaut.

Several heavy duty equipment were positioned at the mouth of the ghaut early yesterday morning in a bid to make quick in-roads with the job.

A very large volume of material has accumulated in the area due to recent flooding and ash falls, and speaking earlier in the week Director of Public Works Mr. Vernon White was certain his work crew will be successful with the task.

Official estimates say material in the ghaut is less than three feet under the bridge. White also says that it is important for the area to be cleared before further flooding.

Drummonds Road

Early in 1995 Ruby Wade Bramble who was then elected member for Northern suggested to government that they should complete the road in Drummonds to encourage development. Today questions about the condition of the road have been raised since plans have been introduced to construct about 19 family units in the area.

There are plans to upgrade the public road and funds for the improvement at Drummonds will not come from money allocated for housing as other sources will have to be found.

The basic needs trust fund of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has been cited as a funding avenue for the road enhancement project at Drummonds.

Reports from Government suggest that the project will qualify for such CDB financing.

Aida Visits Again

On Tuesday activities for the visit of the major cruise liner went as planned despite the ashy conditions from the night before.

The German Cruise liner CS AIDA was not deterred and docked in local waters for another in a series of visits to Montserrat. Reports suggest the ash deposits from the volcano in the area served as an attraction to many of the visitors who donned simple designed dust masks and came ashore.

Manager of Emerald Tours, Cecil Cassell says the village fair which was planned to coincide with the visit was canceled as many vendors opted out due to the ashy conditions, but many of the passengers fell into line, using dust masks on several taxi excursions and road biking.

Well Woman Year

Family Life Services (FLS) continues to mobilize for its "Well Women Year" observance which will be officially launched here at the FLS annual general meeting scheduled for the first week in February.

Reports from the organisation say the idea of a Well Women Year has already received the full endorsement of members of government. Executive Director of FLS, Beverley Dewar is optimistic about the event which she says will seek to empower women in their perception of

personal health.

When Well Women Year is launched early next month, it will be observed for the whole year. As part of the observance, there will be a minimal charge for most of the services offered to women during the year.

Animals to be Relocated

The Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Reuben Meade has said that efforts to relocate animals to the safe zone continues.

Concerns over animals in areas directly impacted by the volcanic activity and considered unsafe.

The minister says there are also other moves to protect such animals. "These," he says, "include the overseas sale of animals to Nevis," who is among the islands where animals have been shipped since the onset of the crisis.

Red Stripe Cup Begins Today

First class cricket returns to the Caribbean toady as three first round matches in the 1997 Red Stripe Cup begin at venues throughout the region. Defending champions, the Leeward Islands, kick off the defense of their 1996 crown when they take on Jamaica at the Ronald Webster Park in The Valley, Anguilla.

The Leewards are led by Dave Joseph of Antigua, who enters his second full season as the captain of one of the region's most consistent teams in recent years. Nevisian Stuart Williams will be keen to impress the West Indies selectors with an outstanding season with the bat, and fast bowlers Lesroy Weekes of Montserrat and Hamesh Anthony of Antigua are hoping for the performances that will earn them places in the West Indies team when India's tour of the Caribbean begins in March.

There is no place in the team, however, for the talented Montserratian leg spinner, 19 year old Angelo Bass who was the leading wicket taker in the two trial matches that were played in Anguilla earlier this month. Bass had figures of 4 for 40, 6 for 38, and 1 for 11 in the three innings in which he bowled. Not even the outstanding trial analysis of 11 for 89 in 23 overs and an average of 8.1 runs per wicket could get him a place in a team that is woefully short of young talented players who can be thought of as future test prospects. As if it is any consolation for his accomplishments, Bass has been named as a reserve who will remain in Anguilla and join the team if Nevisian, Warrington Phillip fails a fitness test Friday morning. Phillip, a left arm orthodox spinner, has not been troubling regional batsmen since his 28 wicket season in 1995, and what is worse he did not get a single wicket on his home turf Grove Park, when Trinidad and Tobago leg spinner Raj Danraj destroyed the Leewards with a 16-wicket haul in 1996. Danraj later remarked that he would like to take the Nevis pitch with him all over the world.

There is no place in the Leewards team for Montserrat's fast bowlers Lesroy Irish and Auriel Kirnon who bowled with little luck in the trials. Irish in particular was fast and aggressive and bowled with the pre-season fire that should have put him in the team. Instead, 32 year old Antiguan pacer Jenson Joseph has been recalled leaving the young Irish to wonder if his turn will ever come.

The full Leewards team is D. Joseph, S. Williams, M. Liburd, K. Arthurton, S. Joseph, C. Tuckett, R. Jacobs, R. Powell, H. Anthony, L. Weekes, J. Joseph, J. Maynard, W. Phillip. Standby. A. Bass.

The New Look Cricket Association

The Montserrat Cricket Association, MCA, held the long awaited Annual General Meeting Wednesday evening and if the tone of the meeting is any indication of the intentions of the leading cricket administrators and supporters, the game should get a much needed shot in the arm.

The new executive is headed by William H. Bramble II who is his first term as President. The First Vice President is former LICA and MCA executive member S. A. W. 'Tony' Maloney, the Second Vice President is long serving MCA executive member Colin M. Riley, the Secretary is Health Inspector Beresford Lewis, the Treasurer is former MCA Vice President Franklyn Pond, and the Public Relations Officer is Barclays Bank employee, Joseph Greenaway.

The meeting was well attended and in the absence of outgoing president, I. Barrington Browne Snr., a report of the 1996 activities was tabled by Vice President Colin Riley. A comprehensive coach's report was also presented by 1996 Montserrat Senior Team coach, Fitzroy Buffonge. The report was well received by the members several of whom asked for similar reports to become a standard feature at future AGM's.

The executive must get to work immediately as the local leagues and youth programmes begin shortly. Montserrat's participation in the LIAT Leeward Islands Tournament must be organized. The 1997 tournament will be similar to 1996 with Montserrat playing all of its matches abroad due to the unavailability of Sturge Park.

Basketball League Postponed

The 1997 league of the Montserrat Amateur Basketball Association, MABA, has been postponed for a second week. The league which was set to begin on Saturday, January 25 at the Salem Basketball Court, has been reportedly hampered by the preparation of the lighting at the venue and the late arrival on island of uniforms for most of the teams.

League officials are optimistic that the league will begin the following week when most of the problems will be ironed out. Ten teams are scheduled to compete in a league which has a new format as this year the first round will be round robin and the second round a playoff for which the top seven teams will qualify.

Basketball has become the leading sport for young men in Montserrat in terms of participation, but the lack of experienced former players to fill executive positions and to become qualified officials has hampered the development of the sport. These aspects of the game are still being handled by active players and while their efforts need to be commended, urgent steps must be taken to help the game to a stage where it offers the abundant talent in the island the opportunities it deserves.

Sometimes, whether by design or just plain old poetic justice, we deserve what we receive. Most times we get what we pay for. But unfortunately, at other times we do not deserve what is foisted upon us by the acts of other players. It is at times like these that one can be moved to agree with the notion that democracy is unhealthy for the masses unless it is guided democracy. While this may seem to be a convoluted and highly suspect arrangement, there is a message in all this madness.

Let us assume that many of your brethren are allowed to vote on their own initiative for what seems to be a fine upstanding citizen, filled with the fear of God and goodwill to all men. This quite clearly is the very essence of what is supposed to be democracy. Assume further that this fine upstanding citizen is successful at the polls and becomes leader of the citizens. Not necessarily because this citizen has favour with the majority of citizens but because ....well......it just worked out that way.

Before you ask if the above scenario is democracy at work, throw in for good measure, a British Dependent territory and a plan to increase the powers of veto of this dependent territory's Governor.

Add to it that 99.9% of the citizens of the territory have vociferously indicated total rejection of this magnanimous offer by the British Government. Then crown it with the very real and very frightening fact that the leader of the citizens find no fault or concern with the British Government's offer and can publicly state that even if a Governor has this kind of power that it does not mean that such powers will ever be used against the citizens of the territory.

Now, you may ask if the scenario is democracy or whether guided democracy is a convoluted arrangement or a viable alternative.

If you assume that the very painful electoral process undergone late last year was to ensure democratic government by the people for the people, then who are the people that the Leader of the Citizens are representing? Is this leader of the citizens listening to the stentorious voices of the citizens or was the Leader Acrowned Lord of all?

The answers to these questions may hopefully lead to the realisation that the citizens of the Territory must clearly become engaged in not one, but two figurative wars. One against the British Government and one against the Leader of the Citizens.

It would have been a healthy exercise if this was nothing but a case study in a class room. Then we would have all been able to tear up our mythical Leader of the Citizens and dispose of it in the trash can as was so ably suggested by a bright and informed young lady. Instead we are faced with a very real situation where our Chief Minister still holds the views he expressed in 1989 with respect to British Government's increasing 'interfacing' with the desires of Montserratians as expressed in the views of our elected officials. Yes, our Chief Minister should and can hold views and opinions of his own, but when he seems to flout the wishes of the people whom he is supposed to represent in the face of mounting evidence that clearly indicates their sentiments, then we have a very real problem.

It would seem that as clearly heard in the first public debate on the matter, that members of his own Cabinet, nominated members, opposition members and members of his own party are not in agreement with his views. Our Chief Minister has clearly heard from the large turn out that it is not the desire of the people to have the British Government countermand the wishes of Montserratians as expressed by their legislators. There was nary a voice in support of his views.

And even in the face of all this dissent our Chief Minister still came away from that debate steadfast in his views.

Our fear, on the eve of his visit to Britain, unaccompanied, mind you, by any dissenting voices, is whether what he will say to the British Government, is the wish of Montserratians. To what will he commit and bind you and your children?

Will he say that it is acceptable that Montserratians continue to live with the life threatening toilet and bathroom facilities at Gerald's Park? Will he say that we are happy to live in cramped, socially unhealthy and terribly uncomfortable conditions in the shelters? What will he request on our behalf? Will he represent us?

How then do we solve this problem? We do have 3 options. From votes of no confidence to civil uprising, to educating our Chief Minister in the ways of democracy.

Elect your option but always be prepared to accept the consequences.

It was a troubling experience to read the Man from Baker Hill's article asking that we declare 1997 as the YEAR OF HONESTY. Being Honest - is it something that comes naturally to Montserratians, and others who live here?

Having lived with this volcano situation, I think that I can cope despite the scary moments and just like many of you, I've said I am not really afraid, but am I being honest?

If I am not afraid, why is it that when I leave this island to which I've clung, that I sleep longer and more soundly? Am I not afraid while here? Am I being honest when I give the answers that I do? Am okay man!

Lots of times we look for big things to show who or what we are, in expressing our honesty! We forget that it is the many little acts of honesty which make us honest individuals. So also would an honest nation be made up of many honest individuals.

Would the men in this society say they are honest in maintaining two and three women knowing there is no 'future' in the relationship for any of these women? It is also true that the women are not honest with themselves for continuing in such relationships. What are you asking Mr. Baker Hill Man?

In these hard economic times many workers are lucky to be still working. Whether with government or with the private sector. Workers are expected to give an honest days work for an honest day's pay. Hiding away, going out, and such other time wasting things when work is there to be done and for which you are being paid could never be said to be honest.

When you look at it, were the 28 persons who stood for election in November being honest when they made the various offers to us? Did they really have the community's interest at heart with the offers they made? What have they been doing since? Have they offered any ideas on how to run things?

Being mindful that the Bible says "We have all sinned and fall short of God's mercy" so to have we all involved ourselves in both small and great acts of not being honest when we should. Let us not continue the practices and set about being honest with ourselves, our country men, and our God.

The politicians also need to be honest with us. They should not give work to one or two contractors when another nine (9) cannot get one, single job because they support other political views. You are elected to serve all of us. We expect you to be fair and honest in all your dealings. Moreover, $250,000 spread amongst (15) individuals would spread through the economy better than if it went into the pockets of just two persons. Once the standard of work meets the grade, share it honestly.

We hear from time to time that a lot of people owe the government" a lot of money". Can these people claim to be acting honestly when they are not paying the money they owe?

Why should some people render to Caesar what is Caesar's and other people not do the same?

The Mighty Sparrow in one of his calypsoes suggested that honesty is for the rich and not for the poor! I wonder what he really meant.

Is it that you are economically rich then you can do what both scripture and civil law say you do? You pay your bills as correctly charged and not act underhanded by just paying as you should?

Are those persons with lesser economic means free of the morals obligation of being honest in paying those dues correctly charged to them? Is honesty only applied to economies? Shouldn't we all be honest in all we do whether rich or poor? Would the poor man, having been dishonest for a period of years then act honestly after becoming rich?

It may be tough and you may be laughed at, but I would agree that being honest and doing the "right thing" is the best way. One should not just join with the multitude to do evil.

As we debate this infamous British letter and the implications it has for our ability to govern ourselves, let us take the Moral High Ground. It is the opportune time and the Man from Baker Hill has hit the central chord. We can be and must practice Honesty even though the British are speaking through both sides of their mouth, simultaneously.

How can we have greater democracy by increasing the number of elected members by removing local nominated members while giving the Governor more power yet than are our elected people put together? Is this democracy and honesty British style?

Sir,

Since I am not afforded the opportunity of an interview in connection with the issue raised in your most recent letter to Montserrat's new Chief Minister, I seek through this column to record my concerns and to seek clarifications.

Your emphasis on HMG's decision to increase the Governor's powers connect your stated goal of ensuring good government, not primarily to the orderly progress and development of Montserrat but to the purpose of enabling HMG to discharge its international obligations.

You have left me to wonder, Sir, if the progressive successors to Arthur Creech Jones and Ian Mcleod do not believe that the attainment of good government in the Dependent Territories for the benefit of the people of those territories puts HMG in the best possible position to discharge its international obligations.

Your letter gives the distinct impression that HMG has been well informed of happenings and transactions which are the hallmark of bad government. That reality presents as great a challenge for us as the volcanic crisis but it does not help the democratic process to keep us in the dark. Monarchist though you are, it is my expectation that as an enlightened Englishman you will find no difficulty in going along with Thomas Paine's assertion that "It is in high challenges that high truths have the right of appearing."

You made specific mention of "money laundering and drug trafficking"; but since HMG's extradition treaty with its international partners includes the Dependent Territories those who pursue such activities ought to be aware that there's no hiding place in Montserrat and the other dependencies.

HMG has always reserved the right to decide on the appointment of the holder of the office of Attorney General. The Governor is the supreme boss of the English-led Royal Montserrat Police Force. The existing Letters Patent gives the Governor extensive powers for effective control.

It is regrettable that HMG will not enter into dialogue with the people of Montserrat on these matters. Any extensive review will show that HMG's constitutional muscles have been only flexed when a few US tax dodgers complain that that they had been cheated by some local smart Alec politician or lawyer.

Your Governors, either accidentally or incidentally, have over the past sixteen years given us the impression that they enjoy seeing official wrong doers escape the fate they deserve.

It has been to their satisfaction and relief that motions of No Confidence based on absolutely clear ethical violations have been defeated. Governors who cannot be held accountable for Ministerial ethics or lack of them have declined to use their powers to dismiss Ministers because of some misguided fear that the collapse of a government would harm their careers.

You may be advised that Governor Turner was a notable exception but you will find that he impressed us as a somewhat prejudiced man more obsessed with a personal vendetta than in assisting the orderly development of democratic government.

An objective review will prove that HMG has short changed the people of Montserrat on this matter of "good government". To cite just one example, when the population united to protest the politically motivated deportation of an Anglican Priest, HMG assured the governor it would enforce the deportation with Royal Marines. So stupid were the allegations against the Priest that the Attorney General, in outlining the government's case emphatically noted that the charges were written by the government's politically appointed Public Relations Officer.

The Public is unaware of any attempt by HMG to prevent the conclusion of agreements which are inimical to the interests of Montserrat. The press has never been aware of even a faint approving finger from HMG when irregularities which negatively affect the territory's finances are brought to the fore. This peculiar silence has encouraged the perception that journalists are mischievous, boat-rocking trouble makers.

We have observed the Iran-Contra and Gingrich hearings on Capitol Hill and we are aware that our systems cries out for an enforceable code of Ethics.

What Sir, is the point in touching on the electoral system when either through frivolity or puerility, your law enforcement machinery turns a blind eye to mal-practices which will continue to mesmerize our society whether the number of elected members are increased to nine, eleven or thirteen? Why not revise the penalties and pursue enforcement in a manner which will put wrong doers behind bars for ninety-nine years?

Finally Sir, I urge you to abandon the notion that good government could be achieved by vesting additional responsibility in a governor whose performance cannot be inquired into by a court. Great Britain, having long abandoned the theory of Divine Right should not seek to impose it on Dependent Territories.

If good government calls for sanctions against Customs Officers who demonstrate poor judgment it should demand even more profound and legally enforceable sanctions against governors whose poor judgment and failure to effectively use their constitutional authority properly and promptly only perverts our system of government.

What has your intelligence services discovered? Has there been evidence of politically facilitated money laundering and drug trafficking? Has there been evidence of any misappropriation of relief supplies or funds from any source? If so, why not disclose the full facts to the public after beefing up the constitution with anti-corruption provisions which will put the wrong doers out of business forever? Is it not obvious to you that an arbitrary constitutional approach to a solution can never be as effective as a developmental approach which in addition to enlightening the public, will be a no escape dragnet for the Burgesses, the McCleans, the Philbys, the Blunts, et al?

In 1947, Harold McMillan, as Foreign Secretary, insisted to his regret that "the principle of self determination cannot be universal application." Clement Atlee, in approving the suspension of British Guiana's constitution in 1953 insisted "the essence of a limited constitution is that it should have checks." Nevertheless, you should not, on the verge of the twenty first century, come up with a policy which has its philosophical roots in the Conservative Party's Gobineau Club.

Less than two months ago there was a traffic accident in which the passengers of the vehicle suffered fatal and bodily injuries. Today one of those passengers is still very ill and he will not be able to resume normal life for some time.

Incidentally, all the passengers, including the driver were employees. Significantly, the accident arose out of and in the course of their employment. Therefore if Social Security contributions were paid for the employees, compensation and medical expenses would be paid on their behalf for the loss of life and injuries. But only if .... if Social Security contributions were paid - and if none were paid for the unfortunate employees, the cost to the relatives could not be measured in dollars and sense.

Since 1971, when the National Provident Fund was established, there were several employers who did not deduct and pay contributions for their workers. Today there are still some employers who do not deduct and pay their employees contributions to the Social Security Fund. This horrible act hinges on dishonesty that will have severe social implications for employees; because if workers are injured in the course of their employment, they will receive no compensation and when they retire they will receive no retirement benefit.

Unlike the Social Security Benefit which is paid for by each employee's direct contribution, Social benefits such as Police protection, Education, Health care and Road maintenance are paid for mainly by taxes collected at Customs and Inland Revenue.

It should therefore be very plain to see that dishonesty with respect to customs duty and income tax will result in shortfall in revenue and severe social implications.

Yet it is alleged that some employees of government are assisting importers to defraud the government of customs duties. This is very unfortunate for the people of Montserrat. This type of dishonesty assisted by Civil Servants will result in reduced social services at a time when we need it most.

I believe that most Montserratians are aware of the funding which the British government makes to our monthly expenses. These funds are available to us because the British Government collects taxes from its citizens.

Yet here on Montserrat, we pay hundreds of thousands of those funds to persons as rent income and it is alleged that we do not deduct adequate taxes from these payments.

This is also very unfortunate for Montserratians, because we need to collect every available taxes to help ourselves. I am certain that if we were to apply the tax laws to the rent paid by Government each month, we can add 200 needy adults to the list of food stamp recipients.

Each day as we drive on the road from north to east we can see the damages to the road and the resultant high cost of road maintenance. These damages could only be caused by very heavy vehicles - constantly using the roads. The question therefore is, should we reconsider the road tax which is charged on these vehicles in relation to the damage they do to the road.

The purpose of this article is to draw attention to some social implications of dishonest acts or careless omissions such as non payment of Social Security Fund contributions and alleged collusion by customs officers with dishonest importers.

I sincerely hope that our Government will look into non-compliance with the Social Security legislation by dishonest employers. Because our country cannot afford to stretch its scarce dollars to pay for medical care that should be provided for by Social Security.

Finally, I want every Montserratian to realise how far reaching acts of dishonesty or deliberate acts of omission can be, whether the acts are against a poor employee or against the nations purse. Because reduction in the level of social services will affect all of us; whether we use all the services here on Montserrat or use only the roads to journey to the airport to seek medical services abroad.

During the course of this week, the activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano has been centered around further growth and collapse of the lava dome accumulating inside the crater of the slowly erupting volcano since November 1995.

Since the first week of January, the crater became filled to capacity with dome material. It has been shedding the excess lava through a series of dome collapses from the south eastern end of the volcano where there is a break in the crater rim.

The dome collapses led to pyroclastic flows on Monday evening of this week at around 6:30 pm a series of pyroclastic flows started producing ash clouds reaching as high as 30,000 feet. Pyroclastic flows are a mixture of very hot gasses, ash and rocks traveling down the mountainside at very high speeds. This week's flows went down the Tar River Valley and reached the sea at the bottom of the valley. The Tar River Valley area including the closest village Long Ground have been evacuated and residents relocated since April 1st 1996.

The pyroclastic flows were preceded by a swarm of VT's which usually signify that magma is trying to reach the surface from shallow depths below the volcano's crater. The ash produced by the flows was caught in the prevailing winds and was blown over a wide area of Montserrat and the neighbouring islands of Antigua and Guadeloupe.

Scientists at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) headed by chief scientist Lloyd Lynch of the Seismic Research Unit of the University of the West Indies later observed and reported that the flows originated south of Castle Peak and traveled via the base of Perches Mountain into the Tar River Valley causing trees to be set ablaze at the base of the mountain.

Since then the rockfall and pyroclastic flow activity has slowed down considerably but the swarms of VT's have continued. The dome has grown considerably over the course of this week and yesterday (Thursday) scientists were reporting that there is now a largeangular flower shaped extrusion made of very blocky material with several cracks running through it from top to bottom. Scientists have been out in the field all week carrying out surveys to assess the dome growth rate. It is now estimated that the dome has a volume of 33 million cubic metres.

The dome is reported to be very unstable and further collapses could occur at anytime leading to more pyroclastic flows and ash clouds which once again would probably be blown by the prevailing winds. If the pyroclastic flows are large enough and there is a substantial collapse of the dome scientists report that there could be an explosive eruption similar to the one in mid September.

During the week Montserratians have been busy cleaning up the ash from homes and workplaces. The Public Works Department are busy cleaning the volcanic debris from Fort Ghaut the major Ghaut that runs through the centre of the relocated capital Plymouth in an attempt to keep it free for rainwater which often flow down it from the mountains.

It was reported during the week that some 7400 residents are left in Montserrat and living in the northern safe zone of the island, of these 1200 are reported to be living in public shelters.

Agriculture officials are reporting that they are making every effort to get more land in the northern areas of the island under production to grow fruit and vegetables for local consumption.(GIS).

Jus wonderin how come the volcano alert level did not go up to red Monday night after the huge ash clouds.

Jus wonderin what is causing the increase in violence in the shelters.

Jus wonderin what is the latest news on the roads from Richmond Hill to Foxes Bay and the one from Molyneaux to Cork Hill.

Jus wonderin why the food vouchers were so late this month and when will the amount per person increase.

Jus wonderin if more of the money that will be spent on the new jetty at Little Bay could be spent on island.

Jus wonderin if the UK Government thought that we would not respond like Turks & Caicios and Cayman Islands because of the situation we find ourselves in and exchange our rights for aid.

Jus wonderin who will be the Public Relations officer for the new government.

Jus wonderin if a certain young lady is given special permission to enter the unsafe zone and is usually transported by special escort.

Jus wonderin if some members of Parliament are fighting for their political supporters to be given job positions that are now vacant.

Jus wonderin who takes care of our mentally sick brothers and sisters who are still in the unsafe zone.

Jus wonderin if the expired goods that are sold in the supermarkets may soon cause an out break of some terrible disease.

Jus wonderin if the ash from the lady on the hill could be used for any special reasons or product.

Jus wonderin if it is true that ZJB technicians are not being compensated for their visits to the unsafe zone and if that is the reason why the station is only operating on FM.

And I can't help wonderin what is wrong with the most powerful radio station in the Caribbean Radio Antilles.

Jus wonderin when will Richmond Hill be sent back home.

Jus wonderin if it would be fair to say we have recorded our first directly related volcanic death in Trials.

Jus wonderin if any action is taken against the men who are responsible for the teenage and adolescent pregnancy in Montserrat.

Jus wonderin if the conduct of some of the school bus drivers are monitored by the Min. of Education.

FAMILY SERVICES VACANCY

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 programmes 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 interational agencies.

Applications, along with a curriculum vitae and the names of two referees should be sent by February 14, 1997 to:-

THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

FAMILY LIFE SERVICES, BOX 118,

WOODLANDS, MONTSERRAT, WEST INDIES

Tourist Board Vacancy

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:

1. A professional qualification such as a Certificate in Business Administration.

2. At least five years experience in the field of administrative work

3. A knowledge of accounting and financial management.

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:

The Chairman,

Montserrat Tourist Board,

P.O. Box 7, MONTSERRAT

Confidential: Administrative Officer

Applications should reach no later than January 31,1997.

TENDERS

Tenders for the sale of Montserrat Quarry Products Ltd. are advised that the tender period has been extended as follows.

Documents will be available for collection at the Public Works Department until 30 January 1997.

All tenders must be returned to The Chairman, Central Tenders Board, Ministry of Finance no latter than 12:00 noon on the 26 February 1997.

Tourist Board Vacancy

MV Freda W.

With all machinery including main engine 405 H. P.

Rebuilt new March 1996.

Class Bureau - Excellent condition.

3 generators, all Lister Blackstone engines

Speed 10.5- 11 knots

Port of Registry, London, England Gup 428.

Dead weight 600.

Crew quarters, kitchen and storage rebuilt new.

Includes: 15 ton telescopic crane Mac Gregor, hatch covers, 2 hatches - I hole.

Negotiable - asking price US $400.000

Present trading-Caribbean.

Forward all Questions, Comments and Suggestions to: roachb@candw.ag

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