Scary, the Scarier, NOW DIS-MAY-ING
by Bennette Roach
It was bad enough with Old Towne and then Salem. It was because the scientists didn't know; because volcanology is an 'in-exact science'. (It is now nearly six months that people were chased out of Old Towne and Salem.)
Two and a half years later, dealing with the same volcano, because of the scientists' uncertainties and the chief scientific adviser's reliance on the scientists' "inherent uncertainties", he is recommending that all life move to the extreme north, little more than 25 percent of the whole island.
While I cannot state that there will never come a time during this volcanic eruption that it will not be necessary to evacuate and relocate from the area demarcated as area 3 on the map provided; and while I note that there isn't an order to move but a 'strong recommendation', it does seem almost ludicrous that people should move for risks that are low, described as the possibility of 'an adverse event occurring at a frequency of between 1 in 10,000 (0.01 percent) to 1 in 1,000 (0.1 percent).
Strangely, a letter from the Governor adds, "the need to move is now more urgent."
Sir Robert May, for not only suspect but obvious reasons, stretched the direct presentations of Dr. Young, Dr. Baxter, Prof. Sparks, all who have spent months working here with our volcano as well as other scientists. As a keen observer puts it, "There seemed to be no scientific rationale for his recommendation, other than the intuitive reaction, that a greater distance from the volcano provides more safety. For the same reasons he accepted some of the information and rejected others, to put pressure on our Goverment and people, also the Governor.
Chief scientist Ritchie Robertson updated us earlier this week saying: "The situation hasn't changed a lot from last week, but it seems that we are getting into having a lot of_for example, last night we had a big rock fall or pyroclastic flow type signal. It might be that we are beginning to get bigger events on the south side.
It is still in the south, it doesn't seem to be anywhere else. It seems to have large block on the talus in the south. Bigger pieces will start to fall off and it will produce some flows, some larger rock falls.
It's not changing in the sense in the way it's growing or what it is doing basically but it is probably getting into a slightly more active phase than where it was, say, since the 26th December. We expect it to build back up slowly and start having these kinds of events. Hopefully it is still growing in the south and it will stay there, but there is no guarantee it will not switch around to the north or somewhere else. We are watching it everyday and if it switches - we will know."
The scientists have answered truthfully repeatedly to the question that to date there has been no sudden destructive activity from the volcano.
The Governor did ask for plans to relocate. That perhaps is the most reasonable thing in his letter. However that leaves the big question and, of course, poses the big difficulty that has been facing the island since August last year, perhaps since July 1995. What kind of plans is one expected to make at this time
With no available housing and business space in sight, should we be looking for permanent housing and temporary business space? It is too early to say or even think that life will not go on again normally as far South as Richmond Hill. Such thoughts, however, will not be as ridiculous as those who entertained them for St. Patrick's, even though it was the lack of proper information that might have encouraged them.
St. Patricks police station Before and After the devastating pyroclastic flows of Dec. 1997
Professor Wadge in his mid-80s predictions is said to be still on target, having said that our next volcanic eruption might impact as far as Belham. Our scientists have said that he is at least 95 percent correct, the other 5 percent being a slight difference in the order of some events.
The medical experts have not been able to tell us definitely what the resulting health risks are, except to state that the ash contain cristobalite, a toxic form of silica which can cause silicosis following prolonged exposure. The leaflet says that silicosis is an untreatable, irreversible condition (How much and how long will do this - no one has said.)
Based on what the scientists have said, the leaflet misleads the public saying:
"Had an event of similar size to the Boxing Day collapse occurred on the northern side of the dome and travelled down the Belham Valley, much of Salem would have been devastated and hot surge material could have affected parts of area 3."
DTs to Receive British Passports
Early this week, a story from British newspapers reported that by Robin Cook, the Foreign Secretary, had plans to grant full UK passports to around 160,000 inhabitants of its dependent territories. These are Anguilla, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, the Pitcairn Islands, the British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, St.Helena and the Turks and CaicosIslands.
Mr. Cook's proposal is to extend full UK nationality to the British Dependent Territories, which he had hoped to announce, but he ran into a forceful intervention by Jack Straw, the Home Secretary, putting the matter on hold.
The British newspapers reported that the dispute again set Cabinet colleagues against each other, but officials later denied the reports, saying that there were no splits. "There is no question of any split between Robin Cook and Jack Straw. The foreign secretary is still considering the various options," a foreign office spokesman said. It was reported that the Home Secretary (interior minister), Jack Straw, wanted more time to consider the idea.
Robin Cook was responding quickly to the position, seeing that the territories in response to his letter were in agreement on the passport idea. (See article Dependent Territories Meeting).
Montserrat's government is also in favour of the idea and earlier this week reacted as follows:
"Following reports in the British media that the United Kingdom Government is contemplating the granting of British Citizenship to residents of its dependent territories, the Government of Montserrat issues the following statement:
Observers in Montserrat, wanting to be fair-minded about the issue, say that less that 10 percent of the 160,000 would migrate, sharing the view that most of those who would benefit are unlikely to want to settle in the UK.
There are those who see that Mr. Cook is making the proposal because he wants to tighten up the relaxed financial regulations in the territories which have seen many become offshore tax havens., saying he sees citizenship as a bait to force through tough measures.
On the other hand, the newspapers report that Mr. Straw's position is that the granting of passports is a major step which demands much more detailed discussion with other departments. He is also worried that Hong Kong citizens might try to claim the same rights retrospectively.
It has been well perceived that Britain was waiting for the change in the Hong Kong situation before making this move, so that any delay now, must be for other reasons than have been expressed.
It is also believed that it could no longer be fair to continue to refuse full British citizenship to all dependent territories' citizens, given that people on the Falkland Islands and Gibraltar already had British passports.
"Make the Point - Bring them Home"
In August last when the activity was in the north end of the dome, the fear of threat to Salem then was from activity up to 10 times as great as had been experienced. Even now the scientists are saying that it would take something up to 2 times as big as December 26 (coming directly down Belham) to possibly impact Salem. We note, too, that we have not been given a full report on what might have taken place in that southern disaster from the mountain, which reportedly was not normal, taking all the conditions that prevailed into account.
The scientists, who Sir Robert May have so well remind us to be civil servants, are not saying anything different or new now and have long dropped their cautions about threats to Belham River. But they caution this can change any time.
They are the ones we must try to trust. Once we understand those risks and can live with the caution that the time may come, and if it does, we will be advised accordingly.
To ask us to consider evacuating area 3 NOW, is asking us to further reduce the population of Montserrat and indeed the core existence of the island. Who needs to spell out the consequences of such a move. Plans to commute from Antigua daily must be disastrous. Such thoughts cannot be entertained without those that prepare us to close down the island.
The scientists and Government have agreed, and there should be no further delay to follow the suggestion to enter into discussion with the people concerned, all matters relative to the development of the volcano, the risks and the consequences of what is required should evacuation become necessary. Anything less will be further transgressing the idea that the people should understand the risk and be part of the decision as to how much risk they are willing to take, rather than force under the pretense of saving lives.
If that had been allowed to develop, many of the 4,300 people who have evacuated the island since August 1997 would still be in Montserrat. According to DFID, while boasting about their œ51 million commitment, there were about 7,800 people on island six months ago. But because the 'authorities' including government, had fallen so far behind anticipating what was happening or about to happen, or what the scientific advice was, the British Government was allowed through DFID to put its main plan into operation successfully.
And maybe, just maybe, if Clare Short had not thrown a bomb instead of a stone, the plan might have succeeded completely. Instead she caused the BG, who, according to Prof. Steve Sparks, misunderstood the scientific advice, to go into a corner, and seek reconciliation, giving us time think.
Even so, they have succeeded largely causing delays, postponements and holds on projects, which further engendered their deep-seated preferences. If the BG wishes us to believe that there is no continuation in their earlier plan to evacuate the entire island, there must be a better attempt at discussions with the remaining people on Montserrat, particularly those facing no urgent risks that would force them to leave the island.
It is time that the scientists explain fully what the uncertainties are about the volcano, not just to us, but particularly to those who feel pressured into making recommendations, void of proper understanding of all the circumstances. Dr. Carter must be taken seriously when he said: "...there are some who have been overwhelmed by the amount of change...and it's part of the reality of humanity here that has be recognized and taken into account...and it has to be a rational response, whatever it is..."
The BG had promised and agreed to assist relocated persons to return to Montserrat, not on a willy-nilly basis, but by a method to be worked out. Now they have reneged on their promise and, based on what they are saying, will do so only when the scientist say it is safe. Based on performance we know what to expect. Our government must therefore immediately seek to put in place some scheme, if necessary out of funds they have received from all over the world, to bring back home willing, suitable persons who would qualify and return to help with building the work-force required to rebuild what is left of this paradise. Oh yes, we should not be looking for people simply willing to face the risks of our volcano, but for those who already know that it is better to face the risks here than those outside where they have no identity.
From the Online Feedback Section
Just wanted to say GOOD JOB! I'm sorry it took an active volcano to make everyone aware of Montserrat and its beauty. I pray that everything settles. As we know God works in mysterious ways and wish that he can put an end to this. It's sad for a lot of us young folks to think there soon might be no Montserrat to visit.
Our kids are not going to see the actual beauty that Montserrat had, and so on.
I don't want people to think that us young Montserratians are not aware or concerned. For we are VERY concerned and aware. Actually we would like to know more about what is going on. We, in America, especially Boston, do not hear much. We depend on you out there to help inform us.
Anyway, I must stop. I want to thank you for trying to keep us in touch. I hope that you or you all can keep us informed, so we can keep a lot of people up here informed, even regular Americans who inquire.
Thanks again and good luck.
A proud young Montserratian,
Addison Wendell Harris Jr.
email = Harris_Wend@bentley.edu
Dependent Territories Meeting a Success
Montserrat was represented at the Caribbean region Dependent Territories (DT) meeting by Hon. Chief Minister Mr. David S Brandt; Hon. Minister of Agriculture, Trade and the Environment Mr. P. Austin Bramble; Hon. Financial Secretary Mr. C.T. John, and local businessman Mr. Kenneth A Cassell, a former Permanent Secretary.
CM Brandt upon his return from the meeting said, " it was a huge success," and that he was looking forward to the follow-up meeting scheduled to take place in London later.
The meeting of the six territories on January 22-23 was to discuss as a group the various options put to them by the United Kingdom (UK) with respect to future UK/DT relationships, and other areas of mutual concern.
Mr. John reported as follows:
Constitutional Status
Two of the regional Dependent Territories - namely Bermuda and Cayman Islands - are not requesting any constitutional change. The other four Territories require constitutional advancement which will make for greater internal self governance. In this context, there should be:
<- Hon. Financial Secretary Charles T. John
(a) no curtailing of the principle of UK responsibility for economic development of its dependent territories;
(b) positive steps by UK in agreement with the Territories, to assist their advancement politically, economically and socially;
(c) a procedure enshrined whereby the dependent territories can initiate constitutional change through local democratic processes;
(d) freedom for dependent territories to seek economic assistance from friendly countries; and
(e) a major review of the methods by which the UK informs, consults and agrees on matters which affect the economic and social well being of the dependent territories.
Citizenship
(a) Representatives of five of the regional dependent territories favour full citizenship rights in the UK for their citizens.
(i) having the right of abode in the UK with access to the European Union for the purpose of obtaining tertiary education, employment, professional experience and medical attention;
(ii) visa-free access to the UK as currently exists between UK and third countries, and
(iii) no taxation of dependent territory citizens in the UK unless they reside and work there.
(b) The same five representatives do not favour reciprocal right for abode for British and European Union citizens.
(c) The British Virgin Islands (BVI) reserves its position on the matter of citizenship at this stage but wishes the option of access to the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) for purposes of education medical services and professional experience.
Nomenclature
All six of the Regional Dependent Territories have expressed a preference for the term United Kingdom Overseas Territory (UKOT).
Additional Terms
In addition to the items proposed by the British Government, the Regional Dependent Territories wish to discuss some additional items, including European Tax Code, Training for Disciplined Services, Status of Passports, Visa-free Access, Negotiations of Air Transport Agreements and the Montserrat Crisis.
The delegates were unanimous in expressing their grave concern at the increasing tendency of the British Government to impose decisions on the Dependent Territories in the Caribbean without consultation or, in some cases, without the agreement of the countries. The meeting was of the opinion that many of the decisions taken by the British Government had the potential for affecting the Dependent Territories socially and economically. Consequently, a letter was sent to Foreign Secretary Cook requesting a meeting with him in London to discuss this grave concern.
Mr. John reported further that a letter was also sent to the chairman of the Dependent Territories Association requesting that an item called UK/DT consultation, be included on the agenda for the February 1998 meeting.
He gave some of his thoughts of what he termed, "the impressive nature of the Bermudan Society."
He said: "Every activity is planned to the minutest detail and then expertly executed. The society is orderly and the environment is immaculately clean. Many regulations abound."
Giving an example he said: "A household, no matter how large, can have only one car. Hence if two persons who both had cars get married to each other, one of those two cars has to be disposed of Yet for all the regulations, there is no grumbling; every one seems to understand and accept the regulated orderliness." He closed by saying: " Bermuda is way ahead."
From Mr. John's report on the meeting there seemed to be little or no difference among the DTs from the position Montserrat took in its own response to the British Government, except in the instances where Montserrat said the timing was not appropriate because of the dire circumstances faced presently.
It has already been reported that the British Government has agreed to the renaming of British Dependent Territories to British Overseas Territories, which is not quite the same as what the Territories are suggesting. It was also reported in London this week that the Rt. Hon. Mr. Robin Cooke was getting ready to announce the rights of DTs to British passports. (see story in this issue).
St. Vincent Prime Minister Visits
by B. Roach
The Rt. Hon. Sir James Mitchell, Prime
Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines made an afternoon
visit to Montserrat on Thursday, during a diversion from his
visit to St. Kitts for the Monetary Council meeting which was
also attended by our own Chief Minister.
Sir James though unable to fill his extremely busy schedule while here after arriving at 1.30 p.m., flew by helicopter over the destroyed south of the island, paid courtesy calls on the Governor, the Aid Management head, Mr. Doug Houston, the Chief Minister and other ministers of Government. He was unable to visit the Caricom Village, having to make his helicopter flight out of Montserrat at 4.00 p.m.
He held a short press briefing during which he expressed his pleasure to have made the visit, but expressed also his sadness, stressing the fortitude of the Montserrat people.
He was asked about the OECS help as big brother to Montserrat on the international scene in the face of their own need for good representation with their economic and banana crisis. He said: "In the plight of Montserrat this small support takes very tangible form in what we do in the representation in which we make on your behalf. You are not an independent country, so we have access to various places where we can carry the message on your behalf. And also we will see what we can do within our own budgetary constraints."
The Prime Minister said he was pleased that he was able to assist earlier with the ferry Admiral Bay, which he understood was a welcome contribution to the island.
He talked about their own budgetary constraints where their banana income has been cut by half from $100 million, but they will always see how they can help the Montserrat situation, which he earlier said has to be the worst disaster that has hit any Caribbean island.
by B. Roach
Newly aquired Hot Mix plant still needs a few small parts before it is commissioned
Mr. Peter O'Neil of the Aid Management Office (AMO), referred to the new hot-mix plant as "the eagerly awaited hot mix plant that I am sure we are all waiting for."
Mr. O'Neil was representing his boss, Mr. Heuston of the AMO, at the Groundbreaking Ceremony at Brades for the new temporary Government Headquarters offices.
This hot-mix plant is like a ghost in the minds of most residents Anyone who uses the roads anywhere in Montserrat must have conditioned themselves to the reality that we may never see the roads or any of them resurfaced.
However, after the Groundbreaking ceremony, Minister of Communication and Works, Rupert Weekes, told the Reporter that the plant will soon be in operation. He said "The hot-mix plant is awaiting one small part when the gentleman will return to commission it."
The plant , which has been ordered for well over a year, has been on island for months, but has been waiting to be assembled, after which more waits and delays for different parts and even the oil to put into the machine, have kept if from being put to use.
Meanwhile, the Public Works Department have discovered that they can ease motorists' pain by pouring concrete, thus patching a few roads here and there, even in the buffer zone.
Completion of Geriatric Shelter
by Bennette Roach
At an official handing-over ceremony of the new Geriatric Home located just below the present St. John's hospital, it was referred to by His Excellency the Governor Anthony Abbott as Phase I of the St. John's Hospital Complex. The event took place on Wednesday morning. All the ministers of government were in attendance, as well as officials from the hospital, Aid Managemnt Office and several other officials, including staff and residents of the home, along with other citizens in the community.
Miss Alfreda Meade led with an opening prayer after introduction by the master of ceremonies for the occasion, Mr. John Skerritt, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Health.
The Governor gave the first address in which he thanked Skerritt for a graphical description of events from the start of the volcanic crisis leading up to the present event. He revealed the other two phases in the project. "Phase 2," he said, "will be the conversion of the metal structures into temporary wards."
"Phase 3 of the conversion will be the main block, to complete wards in the main block.," he concluded.
The Governor did not finish before he expressed a concern that many have held in Montserrat since the evacuation program began. The Governor said he was, "well aware of the shortages that exist for special needs cases_ I believe it is far from ideal that special needs cases must be evacuated back to places like the United Kingdom. That is far, far from being the best solution."
Mr. Peter O'Neil gave a brief address during which he said, "It is actually one of the few projects that the Aid Management Office has directly managed."
He expressed pleasure that the project had reached the present stage and that one need not look back and say that anything could have been done differently, so far in the project.
The Hon. Minister of Health Mrs. Adelina Tuitt gave the feature address. She reminded listeners that in most of her addresses she has promised hope in the midst of the crisis, but she said, "Hope can only be achieved by the systematic conversion of words into appropriate action and desired results. This facility is only a small step in the fulfillment of that hope."
Mrs. Tuitt said as she walks through the facility, she is "comforted and inspired by the faces of satisfaction" reminding her of the smiles and the "quality of care our senior citizens have been accustomed to prior to the crisis."
Suggesting that the problem of health care for the elderly is not peculiar to Montserrat, but all over the world, she said: "The elderly persons with special needs have been dominated by tactical plans geared at resolving immediate needs or coping with crisis as they occur."
Mrs. Dorothy Greenaway is manager of the facility and who received special mention for her untiring efforts by most of the speakers, gave a report on the operation of the special needs shelter, as the facility should be more correctly named. She gave an account of what happened since the first order to relocate senior citizens with special needs. She said at the first go only six people arrived, but noted that the facility now housed 44 and can house at least 10 more. Mrs. Greenaway said that the criteria for persons to be housed there are that they should be relocated senior citizens and have a condition, which require special attention. These persons must be unable to care for themselves if placed in an ordinary shelter.
Mr. Darnley Estwick gave the vote of thanks and following this, visitors were afforded a tour of the four wards, and refreshments.
RMPF Officer Excels in Barbados Course
Cpl. Steve G. Foster of the Royal Montserrat Police Force recently finished at the top of a class on police administration in Barbados.
The course, "Management and Decision Making in Police Organizations," was held Nov. 10 to Dec. 5_ with 15 officers from 10 countries taking part. Cpl. Foster was the only participant from Montserrat.
The corporal ranked first on the basis of his performance in four examination areas, scoring three A's and a B+.
Governor Announces Transfer of Permanent Secretaries
Although put in motion over a week prior, on Monday, 26th January, 1998, His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Tony Abbott, issued the following release confirming the movement of Permanent Secretaries within the Public Service as follows:
Gov. Abbott also confirmed that a Private Secretary to the Chief Minister is to be appointed.
Assistance to Montserrat Reaches Over £50 Million
On Wednesday the Department for International Development (DFID) in London issued a release expressing the following:
"The latest package of assistance to help Montserratians deal with the volcanic crisis on their island has brought the total amount committed by DFID since July 1995 to £51 million.
This week DFID has agreed to fund projects to help start up small and medium scale businesses on Montserrat and Antigua. It will also contribute towards the running costs of the Government of Montserrat for the first quarter of 1998.
The help - nearly a million pounds in all - for small and medium scale businesses will be available on both Montserrat and Antigua. It will assist people wishing to start their own businesses, which will be a source of employment on both islands.
Over the last two and a half years, the funds from DIFD have provided essential infrastructure for the inhabitable North of the island, including power and water supplies, education facilities, a jetty, new roads and a housing programme. Hospital services have been improved and special accommodation for the elderly and disabled has been built.
On Antigua, a £3 million package to give Montserratians access to health and education is well under way.
All Montserratians have since August 1997 been offered the choice to leave and move to other parts of the Caribbean or to the UK, with financial help from DFID to relocate if needed. 4,300 people have taken up the offer of help to relocate, and 3,500 have remained on Montserrat.
In the last two years, DFID has contributed £16.4 million towards the running costs of the Government of Montserrat."
The above release includes the word 'committed'. That has been referred to by many here, including the Chief Minister, as being a bad word. It is quite impressive but the Reporter expects to receive information from the Aid Office here that will set out just how much of this £51 million has in fact been spent in, or in respect of Montserrat, and how. Of concern to Montserrat residents is the mortgage scheme.
Civil Service Employees of the Year 1997
by Claudia Roach
Permanent Secretary, Administraton
L to R Claudia Roach, Miss Charmaine Wade, Miss Beatrice Samuel
At a joint dinner party held on January 3, 1998, for Treasury and Administration Department staff and their families, two Officers were named employees of the year - one from each Department.
They are Miss Charmaine Wade, Clerical Officer in the Treasury Department and Miss Beatrice Samuel, Senior Clerical Officer in the Department of Administration.
Miss Wade's award was presented by the Accountant General, who highly commended her performance over the past year. Miss Wade, she stated, had been called upon to perform dual roles as revenue and payment cashier, and had borne the extra responsibilities with good humour and dedication, being willing to go beyond her required working hours to get the job done well. Miss Wade's work brings her into direct contact with the public for several hours each day, and can be highly stressful and demanding. Yet, she maintains a calm, pleasant demeanour at all times, and is unflustered under pressure.
The Accountant General paid tribute to the hard work, energy, and dedication of the entire staff of the Treasury Department in her brief presentation, and stated that several other officers vied for consideration for this award. However Miss Wade's unswerving dedication to her job, while bearing additional responsibilities throughout this year, needed to be recognised and honoured.
Miss Samuel was chosen to receive her award in recognition of her dedication, exemplary conduct and deportment and high standard of performance. The Permanent Secretary, Administration, in presenting the award, explained that the choice of a single officer as 'Employee of the Year" proved to be very difficult in view of the performance and dedication of all the staff in that department. However, the demands on department services caused by the volcanic crisis had created an even heavier workload for Miss Samuel in particular, and she had exerted herself with patience and diligence, in order to maintain the quality of service to the public and to ensure that her work within the department was accomplished. Miss Samuel, she said, was a good team player, always willing to assist, and had sacrificed her leisure hours on many occasions, coming in even on weekends to help get the job done.
Colonies Told - Remove Gay Sex Laws
Cana - Britain has told its Caribbean dependent territories to repeal laws banning gay sex, the Cayman Compass newspaper said Friday. The paper quoted an unidentified British Foreign Office spokesperson saying the instruction does not apply to any immigration laws, only to sex between gay couples The announcement comes two weeks after gay rights groups in the U.S. and Britain protested a Caymans government decision not to allow a cruise ship of 900 gay men to dock in the islands.
It is believed that when when the Rt. Hon. Robin Cook comes to Montserrat in February, he will be sure to raise the subject.
Government Offices Ground Breaking
by Bennette Roach
On Monday of
this week Brown & Root Ltd. conducted a Ground breaking
Ceremony of the temporary Government office at Brades with their
public relations officer Mr. Anthony Maloney performing the
functions of master of ceremony.
The Hon. Chief Minister David Brandt was on hand at the end of the ceremony to turn the first shovel of concrete into the prepared foundation after officially declaring the construction site open. This followed a program which included an opening prayer by Christian Council Chairman Fr. Victor Peters, who invoked God's blessing on the project; a description of the project by Brown & Root manager, Mr. L. Bedford, and remarks by Mr. Peter O'Neil of the Aid Management Office and Permanent Secretary, Administration Mrs. Claudia Roach. The Chief Minister delivered a short address just prior to declaring the site open.
Mr. Bedford said: "This project highlights a very healthy and growing partnership which combines the expertise and project management of B&R with the considerable skills of Montserrat tradesmen and workers.
The manager of the construction company described the project as, "yet another project, funded by DFID managed by Brown & Root and most importantly implemented by the men and women of Montserrat."
He said that the site consisted of three acres, "which has already undergone the earthworks."
He said that the work is to produce, "11 separate buildings using 100 prefabricated porta-cabin units to house the majority of the government offices." These, he said, will come complete with "major utilities of water, electricity, bathrooms, lunchrooms, communications and everything required for proper government."
Mr. Bedford pointed out that "The units are prefabricated imported units but thereafter all the work, the labour material to complete this project is locally sourced and provided including additional support services work by Monlec, Water Authority and Public Works Department."
"The challenge, "he said, "is to deliver a quality product in a fast track program within the constraints that we are very much aware of on the island at present to be finished by the middle of March."
Mr. O'Neil began his remarks by expressing his 'jealous' impression of the site: "From here we can see Little Bay right through Central Hills. But also I see the amount of projects the amount of projects the Aid Management Office has been involved in. We can see from this point the new generating station (Monlec), the W&W warehouse, the hot-mix plant, the Davy Hill houses, the jetty at Little Bay."
Mr. O'Neil commented on the delay in the start of the project saying, "It seems a long time since this project has been approved, but as most construction projects of this type the length of the project is more concerned with the identification of location and purchase of land_"
He said he hoped that the momentum of this project and other engineering projects coming on stream in the next few months, the water project, the new pipe line from St. Peter's to Dick Hill, the strengthening of the electricity distribution network, the eagerly awaited hot mix plant, "will keep us busy within the few coming months, when these visible schemes will encourage us into participating in the building of a new Montserrat, the new island in the sun."
Mrs. Claudia Roach, in welcoming the commencement of the works, recalled how almost five years passed, before proper accommodations for civil servants offices were established following the destruction of Hugo. She mentioned the stress of having moved so many times between Cork Hill and St. John's since the start of the eruption.
Highlighting some of the problems experienced currently she stressed also expressing anxiety: "Renting is expensive even though offices are cramped and there are no storage facilities for critical documents. It is therefore easy to understand why we are very anxious to have the temporary Government Headquarters speedily erected."
CM Brandt in his address thanked the British Government for their support but reminded, "These are temporary accommodations, and I hope, and I will strive to see that this is the last temporary accommodation of this scale that is put down in Montserrat. I would like to thank the British Government for their assistance in this regard."
Mr. Brandt went on to state that he feels for people who have had to go from place to place to conduct their business and for civil servants, who work under difficult conditions; that he has, "had to put my people's case to them in private and in public, but that does not mean I do not appreciate what they are doing."
He then put a call out to civil servants to remember that they, like politicians are servants of the people and not their masters, hinting also that his Government intends to train people for vacant jobs rather than waiting to fill a vacancy when a position becomes available.
He declared the construction site open and moved to turn and pour concrete in a prepared foundation nearby, marking the commencement of the works.
All the other Ministers of Government were present at this ceremony as well as contractors and other businesses.
Brandt Calls for Changes in Civil Service
by Bennette Roach
Chief Minister David Brandt delivered a
short feature address at the Ground breaking Ceremony of the
Temporary Government Offices at Brades on Monday, 26th January.
The CM, while thanking the British Government for their continued
assistance, recalled that he has often put the people's case to
them, adding, "but that does not mean I do not appreciate
what they are doing."
After addressing his government's concern for the difficult times the civil servants and people generally experience because of the scattered locations of government offices, he called on civil servants to join the government in the new Montserrat and to remember that like politicians they are servants. He said: "The civil servants and public servants must regard themselves as servants of the public and not masters. We are here to provide a service to the people and in several instances people have complained over the years that public servants, including politicians, have not been delivering this kind of service. The time has come for this to cease."
But Mr. Brandt also had another message for the civil servants when he said: "We believe in the new Montserrat that all Montserratians be given a fair chance. In the past people have just been promoted to positions, and in some instances, I am not ashamed to say that there might be misfits."
Mr. Brandt went further to say, "What we want to do is to start to train people for positions that are becoming vacant, so that when the position in fact becomes vacant we have people to fill those positions rather than waiting for when the position becomes vacant and put someone who is not suited to fill it. This is not fair to the public. We must regard government as a business. This government wants to have a new look."
It was no surprise when Government House later issued a release reporting some shuffling of some permanent secretaries to different ministries. It was notable that one of these shifts was the P S from the Chief Minister's office to the Ministry of Communications and Works, while the release announced that, "a Private Secretary to the Chief Minister is to be appointed." (See Government House Release).
Rumours earlier had said that the civil servants were displeased with some pending actions that might affect them and it is now believed that this shuffle and pending appointment might have been the source of the discontent.
Brandt went on further to say: "In the UK the PM of England adopted this policy (appointing his own advisors) when he was elected and this government believes that this a good policy. What I want to stress is that civil servants must regard themselves as serving the people and the government of the day. It is their duty to advise ministers and government but they are not the government."
But so as not to make it appear that this was an all-out attack on the civil service, he said: "We as the government will make sure that they (civil servants) have good conditions of work, that they have a good salary and we will do all we can so that we can work together for a better Montserrat. You have your role, we have our role. We have been elected to govern the country, and at a time like this I feel all of us should work together to develop the country."
As the CM rounded up his address, it seemed he was not talking to civil servants but making a general call to all when he said: "If we have talent we should not try to use that talent destructively, we should not be creating strife with the people; all of us should put our talent together so that we can put a proposal that comes from all of us to the British Government."
Government Denies Advice Leaflet
by B. Roach
Chief Minister David Brandt and his ministers have denied involvement in the production of the leaflets 'Advice to Residents of Montserrat, being circulated throughout the island.
Last week the Governor told the Reporter that in an effort to ensure that every resident on Montserrat was fully aware of the risks involved in being here, an agreed leaflet was prepared.
He said, "DFID, the chief scientific adviser and the chief medical officer had a had in amending it and that the Government of Montserrat also and an opportunity for input."
The Leaflet that is being distributed here says that the Governments of Montserrat and Britain asked the MVO to assess the likely development of the eruption of the Volcano and the risks it posed for the population of the island. After briefly setting out the assessments and the health risks, the leaflet issues under the heading 'Advice' - After studying the implications of these assessments the Government of Montserrat wishes to offer residents of Montserrat the following advice.
The ministers of government declare that they were consulted and agreed, on the need to advise and inform residents, as they stand ready to do, but they had nothing to do with the document that claims to be coming from them and is being widely circulated.
by B. Roach
Arriving by the only means of air
transport to Montserrat, Miss Jacqueline Mussington of Antigua
alighted from a helicopter to a welcoming party comprising the
Resident Tutor, Dr. Howard Fergus, the Hon. Chief Minister, the
Minster of Education, Miss Alfreda Meade, and the organising
committee.
Miss Mussington was making the historic visit to Montserrat bearing the University of the West Indies' (UWI) torch as part of what Dr. Fergus called a 'signal regional event' . The torch began its journey in Trinidad and will end up in Jamaica, the founding home of the University back in 1948. The torch represents the symbol and motto of the University, which is "A light rising from the West," light being the symbol of learning.
In a very brief but impressive ceremony the torch was passed by Miss Mussington to Miss Delina Lynch with the words, "I give you this torch, symbol of Enlightenment and Progress for which our University stands and of the sacred trust which binds it to our people."
Miss Lynch accepted the torch with these words: "I take this torch in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of our University, and pledge support to the principles of Enlightenment and Progress to which it is committed."
Brief remarks came next on the program with the Resident Tutor congratulating Miss Mussington for being part of the historic event and saying: "We in Montserrat take great pride in the fact that in spite of the volcanic crisis, we have persevered and our participation in this signal regional event is now a reality. I would like to think that this is a symbol of our courage and resilience which we as a people bring to our current tribulation. And the world indeed, even the people who assist us, would do well to accept these signals and intimations."
He went on to thank the Committee for its energy, its support and creative thinking, giving special thanks to several members for their contributions, including the MVO for its complimentary ride. He took the opportunity to make a special announcement of the teleconferencing distance system being brought back on track, thanks to Cable & Wireless, "that enlightened sponsor of culture, whether it be cricket or education" and pointing out that "it was local management that had the vision to accommodate us, is an enormous source of pride, inspiration and sustenance to me."
He mentioned the C&W manager , Mr. Vernon Dublin and his staff, saying like the poet he is, that he cannot praise them too highly for, "in this midnight of our despair, they are beautiful glimmers of hope and stirrings of morning."
The Hon. Chief Minister David Brandt in his brief address, reflected that over the past 50 years the UWI has provided a higher education that has led to a higher standard of living across the region; that their programs have benefited the region; and have built a greater sense of Caribbean unity and oneness. He made special mention of early graduates and educators, such as Dr. Fergus, Dr. George Irish, Major Vincent Browne, Dr. Halmond Dyer , Miss Dorcas White and Mrs. Olive Edgecombe-Howell.
He expressed pride that he too can claim being a graduate of the University, pledging because of the role of the University, Montserrat's support and commitment to keeping the University strong through the 21st century. "Just as over the 50 years of UWI's life there have been those who have worried about the institution's chances of long term survival, I am also full of hope for the long term survival of both Montserrat and UWI, that both will go forward into the new millennium, meeting all the challenges and overcoming them."
As a point of note, Mrs. Adelina Tuitt the Hon. Minister of Education, said that the University provided many Montserratians with the opportunity to further their education. "Indeed the University has adequately fulfilled its mission to unlock the West Indian potential for economic and cultural growth by high quality teaching and research aimed at meeting critical regional needs and has ensured that its degrees, diplomas etc. have met regional and local requirements."
Following these addresses Miss Alfreda
Meade, a UWI graduate herself, was called upon to launch the
ritual run and pass the torch to the first runner, one of
Montserrat's most talented athlete Miss Valerie Samuel. Miss
Meade, allowed a few remarks before passing the torch, said:
"The survival of the UWI for 50 years as a regional
institution is indicative of what can happen when we as a
Caribbean people make a desperate effort to work together,
despite the various problems which confront us, and threaten to
fragment us."
She expressed deep pleasure that, "not even a destructive volcano was able to prevent Montserrat from participating in this historic occasion," following which she passed the torch to Miss Samuel saying: "I take great pleasure in passing you this torch as a symbol of Enlightenment and Progress."
So began the run through St. John's, passed to several graduates of UWI, and finally to Miss Lynch, who will bear the torch on to St. Kitts, the next stop for the torch as it journeys to Jamaica.
The JWPT asked to help Montserrat
THE Jersey Wildlife Preservation Trust (JWPT)has been asked to help to preserve the animals and birds of Montserrat.
The report is taken from an article by Christine Herbert in the December 4, 1997, Jersey Weekly Post.
The article described Montserrat as a tropical island - which covers an area slightly smaller than Jersey - and reported that it has been severely affected by the eruption of a volcano and two-thirds has been declared unfit for human habitation.
The report came following a visit by JWPT international director John Hartley, who recently visited Montserrat. He said that the capital, Plymouth, had been destroyed and many of the main services had been discontinued, including the airport and also that the population has dropped-from 12,000 to about 4,000.
The Weekly Post article continues: "The Montserrat government has asked the JWPT, together with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and the World Wide Fund for Nature, to assess the survival prospects of the wildlife, including the island's national bird, the Montserrat oriole.
Until now the JWPT has had no specific involvement with the island, although it has been working for some years to protect species unique to other Caribbean islands, including St Lucia and Jamaica.
Mr Hartlev said that following the initial assessment, a plan would be drawn up to monitor the affects on birds. reptiles and plant life and to train staff living in the island to carry out measurements for themselves.
One of the species most at risk is the 'mountain chicken', a large edible frog found only in Montserrat and Dominica. Because frogs have damp skins, they are particularly sensitive to the acidic dust coming from the volcano, Mr Hartley said.
And one of the threats to the oriole is the destruction of forest vegetation which supports the insects and fruit on which they feed."
"Meanwhile, the experts are recommending the monitoring of existing oriole populations and breeding in the 1998 season.
Unfortunately, the main stronghold of the oriole has already been destroyed by lava flows and ash, with only around 100 of an estimated 500 pairs surviving in the sheltered Centre Hills. The JWPT will also be drawing up emergency procedures in case they need to establish a captive population, either in Jersey or on one of the other Caribbean islands.
Mr Hartley said: 'If it appears that the future of thc oriole is directly threatened, birds could be caught for a breeding programme, and then returned to their natural habitat when conditions have improved."
Eye Safety During Solar Eclipse
Here are some useful tips:
by Hilton Samuel
The volcanic crisis in Montserrat has dealt a deadly blow to tourism in Montserrat, according to Miss Earnestine Cassell, Director of Tourism on the volcanic-hit island.
"The crisis has had a serious negative impact on tourism in Montserrat. Our tourist arrival figures from 1994-1997 have dropped from 30,000 visitors annually to less than a 1,000 in 1997," Cassell said in an interview with the Reporter.
Commenting on recent travel advisories and warnings put out by the U.S. Consulate in Barbados and the British Government, Cassell said it is customary for governments to warn their citizens of adverse conditions that exist in various destinations.
"The responsibility lies with the tourist to decide whether he wants to take the risks or not. Some people do take the chance, because for them seeing a place in turmoil or seeing a volcano erupting is a part of the thrill on a vacation," Cassell said.
Warnings and advisories, she said, also cause airlines and travel agencies to refuse to take tourists to destinations earmarked as dangerous.
"This is one of the reasons why we have so much work. We have to go out and let people know what the true situation is, because the international media, although doing good, can also do a lot of harm. When the media carry a story that is hyped up and sensational, with pyroclastic flows rushing through certain areas, people get the impression that this is happening to the entire island. Nobody focuses on the part of the island where life goes on as normal, because that is not sensational and that does not sell news," Cassell explained in her Olveston Office.
Efforts to counteract such negative publicity, she says, are costly and involve a lot of resources, which her department is short of at this time.
"It takes a lot of money, time and staff to do that and we are short on all three," she explained.
While conceding that most of the tourist attractions on the island have been destroyed in the south of the island, Cassel told the Reporter that they are working on a strategy for developing the tourist product in the North.
"Given the situation as it is, given the few resources we have, we are now trying to come up with ways to improve the product in the North so that not only visitors but Montserratians can come back and enjoy it," Cassell said.
Hiking, swimming and volcano sight-seeing are some of the things that Cassell said are in the pipeline for tourist development in the North.
"There are existing hiking trails in the North, but they need a lot of work. They need bushing clearing and tagging. That takes a lot of work. It takes manpower, it takes material, it takes finances," she said.
Cassell said the department is in the process of taking advantage of the volcanic attraction of the island.
"Last weekend a delegation went up to Antigua to meet with hoteliers, travel agents and tour operators. There has been a lot of interest from visitors to Antigua, both from visitors from the cruise ships and tourists in the hotels there, about coming to Montserrat," she said.
The trip was an attempt to organize sight-seeing day trips to Montserrat.
"We are trying to tap into that market. If we can provide a service for these people to come into Montserrat in the morning, go on a hike, dive or even eat at a restaurant, they will be spending some money in Montserrat. That will help the economy," Cassell explained.
Cassell said that the existing travel arrangements with ferry and helicopter services present a number of problems.
"We have spoken to the requisite authorities and hotels in Antigua who currently send people down to Montserrat for day tours. They have expressed tremendous support for the initiatives that we are putting forward," she said.
Cassell revealed that tours have been organized and a familiarization trip has been organized with operators in the neighboring island.
"They will be able to see the product for themselves so that they can sell it better," Cassell said.
The support of all Montserratians is what Cassell said her department is looking for. She explained that persons who want to be a part of the program could contact the department for more information.
"Tour guides, taxi drivers, souvenir and food vendors, or anyone who wants to be in any way connected with these day tours could contact us here," she concluded.
Conlusions from Dr. Leo Galland's 30 Years of Research
From the Magazine Bottom Line
Throughout my 30 years as a medical doctor, I've been trying to answer one simple question: How do some people regain their health quickly after an illness while others take such a long time to recover?
Gradually I came to realize that the answer had little to do with individual ailments, but instead depended more on the strength of a person's "four pillars of healing." When these emotional and physical pillars are strong, they improve the chances of bouncing back quickly especially that time of year, when we are more prone to catching a virus.
Here's how to strengthen your four pillars of healing to give your body a fighting chance-and all year-round. .
.#l :YOUR RELATIONSHIPS
There are two types of relationships that are critical to good health.
At the same time, strong emotional relationships often increase self-esteem and perceived self-efficacy, which allows someone to cope better with symptoms and daily stresses, and stick to a healthy lifestyle.
#2: EXERCISE/REST/NUTRITION
Thirty minutes of some physical activity three times a week-even if it's walking-and getting enough sleep each night contribute to long-term physical and mental health. You'll know you're getting enough sleep when you can wake up without an alarm and feel refreshed. By staying fit and well rested, you are better able to fight off illness and recover faster if you do get sick.
Nutrition also is very important.
Omega-3 is found in the meat of wild animals that feed on grass and leaves but is most concentrated in flaxseed oil and fresh, smoked or canned fish - especially salmon, sardines, albacore tuna, herring, mackerel and rainbow trout.
I find it easier to take Omega-3 supplements, rather than trying to get all I need through food. As a daily supplement I take one tablespoon of flaxseed oil (about 10,000 mg). Or you can take three capsules of fish oil (about 1,000 mg each) each day. I also take 400 mg of vitamin E, 2,000 mg of vitamin C and 100 mcg of selenium. For best absorption, take these supplements with a meal.
#3:YOUR ENVIRONMENT
For an environmentally safe home:
#4:DETOXIFICATION
Detoxification refers to your body's ability to purify and protect itself from internal and external toxins. The liver is the main organ for filtering and eliminating toxins. For the liver to work well, your intestines must be healthy. The intestinal tract contains a huge number of toxic bacteria If your liver is not in good health, it may be overtaxed. To avoid common threats to a healthy liver…
While taking these painkillers from time to time is perfectly fine, taking them daily for a week or more can cause problems. One baby aspirin per day is safe for people whose doctors advise them to take it to protect against heart diseases.
Big danger…to your liver comes from mixing acetaminophen and alcohol. Serious liver damage has occurred in people who have had just a few drinks while taking prescribed amounts of Tylenol. Also, one adult aspirin per day triples the risk of serious intestinal hemorrhage.
Flu Danger
Self-treatment of flu can lead to pneumonia.
Bottom line: See your doctor if you have the flu or any upper-respiratory infection. Get a flu shot every year...and if you are over age 65, get vaccinated against bacterial pneumonia.
Leo Galland, MD, is a doctor in private practice in New York who specializes in treating undiagnosed and difficult-to-treat illnesses. He is director of the Foundation for Integrated Medicine, a nonprofit organization for educating people on integrating conventional and alternative medical therapies,
142 Fifth Ave., Third 'd., New York 10011.
Dr. Galland is author of The Four Pillars of Healing How the New Integrated Medicine-The Best of Conventional and Alternative Approaches-Can Cure You
by Dr. Howard A. Fergus
The Independent on Sunday (25/1/98) carried the caption, "Last Outposts of Empire are Denied British Passports." The reference was to the alleged move by Foreign Secretary Robin Cook to grant full UK passports to the citizens of Montserrat and 10 other dependent territories. (Gibraltar and the Falkands already enjoy this status). Very likely it was the Montserrat crisis that precipitated this move, but it was reportedly opposed by Home Secretary Jack Straw.
Colonised by the British in 1632, Montserrat fell under the proprietorship of the Earl of Carlisle. In 1664 it became a Crown Colony with limited representative government; the poor and the slaves were excluded from any participation in government. Some advance was made in 1852 when elected members in the island's combined Council and Assembly were in the majority. However by 1866 there was a setback when the Assembly was abolished and was not restored until 1936. The next stage was the introduction of adult suffrage in 1951, to be followed by ministerial government in 1960.
Montserrat has been a crown colony for over 333 years but its "British" passports do not give its citizens automatic entry to the UK. Repeated efforts by local politicians to have this situation changed were always met with the idea that the millions of Hong Kong would have had to be included.
Robin Cook proposes at last to change the status quo for these mere 150,000 persons ranging from 61,000 in Bermuda to 58 (note this Montserratians) in Pitcairn. But Mr. Shaw has reportedly raised the Hong Kong argument again even after the return to China. For the moment, we may end up with a change of name -British Overseas Territories - but not a change in status.
Advice to Residents of Montserrat
Introduction
In November 1997 the Governments of Montserrat and Britain asked the Montserrat Volcano Observatory to assemble an international team of senior scientists to assess the likely development of the eruption of the Soufriere Hills Volcano and the risks it posed for the population of the island. The team's reports were validated by the British Government's Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir Robert May. The full reports are available for consultation by members of the public at the Public Library and copies can be obtained from the Governor's Office.
Volcanic Assessment
The assessments are intended to cover a six month period (given the unpredictability of volcanoes a longer time-frame is not feasible) but may have to be revised in the light of future activity. They examine a number of scenarios ranging from a decline in activity to an explosive event 30 times larger than those which have already occurred. The report concludes that the most likely outcome is that the eruption will continue at levels comparable to, or slightly larger, than those observed so far. However, more extreme events cannot be ruled out. The longer term prognosis is that the volcanic activity will continue for several months and probably a few years.
The risk assessment based on the assessment of the status of the volcano and its hazards suggests that in terms of fatalities the individual risk to people living north of Lawyers River (areas 1 and 2 on the map) is "minimal", "low" for those in North Olveston and Woodlands (area 3), "moderate" for anyone in the Salem area (area 4) and "high" in the remainder of the exclusion zone (areas 5 and 6).
Health Risks
There is also a risk to health from exposure to volcanic ash, of which the ash from pyroclastic flows is the most dangerous. Ash from the volcano is known to contain cristobalite, a toxic form of silica which can cause silicosis following prolonged exposure. Silicosis is an untreatable, irreversible condition. Children, particularly young children, whose lungs are not yet fully formed and who tend to disturb ash during play are at the greatest risk from this hazard. Exposure to ash varies widely across Montserrat. Ash fall in the north (areas 1 and 2) has been comparatively light but areas 3 and 4 have at times been subject to heavy ash fall. People living close to busy roads or working outside also have greater potential exposure.
Advice
After studying the implications of these assessments the Government of Montserrat wishes to offer residents of Montserrat the following advice:
No-one should live in the Salem area or any other part of the exclusion zone.
The risk to Salem is real. Had an event of similar size to the Boxing Day collapse occurred on the northern side of the dome and travelled down the Belham Valley, much of Salem would have been devastated and of area 3. Although the scientists at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory have made great progress in understanding the volcano and predicting its behaviour there can be no guarantee that there would be sufficient warning of a major event to allow the evacuation of areas south of Lawyers River.
People are strongly recommended to leave the north Olveston/ Woodlands area. Anyone deciding to remain should be fully aware that they are at greater risk from volcanic activity than those living north of Lawyers River.
Although the risk of volcanic activity affecting this area is lower that in Salem, major events can happen without warning, leaving insufficient time to move people to the safety of the north. Measures are in hand to move government offices to the north and businesses, which attract people into the area, are being encouraged to relocate. Those living in area 3 should relocate and fully understand the risks of not doing so.
Volcanic ash poses a risk to health. Those living south of Lawyers River are subject to greater exposure and thus greater risk. Children are at particular risk and should not live in area 3.
This is necessarily a very brief resume of the scientific assessments and their implications. Residents are encouraged to consult the full reports. The Government of Montserrat will continue its programme of public information aimed at disseminating the findings of the reports in more detail.
NB: The terms used to describe levels of risk in this note are based on the following table:
Negligible: an adverse event occurring at a frequency of less than one in a million
Minimal: an adverse event occurring at a frequency of between one in 1 million and one in 100,000
Very Low: an adverse even occurring at a frequency of between one in 100,000 and one in 10,000
Low: an adverse event occurring at a frequency of between one in 10,000 and one in 1,000
Moderate: an adverse event occurring at a frequency of between one in 1,000 and one in 100
High: an adverse event occurring at a frequency of more than one in 100
hot surge material could have affected parts
by Elizabeth Piper-Wade
Montserrat, Oh! Land of splendorous beauty
What pray tell is to become of thee?
There's no guns and knives, for war has ceased;
Where your natives and all people now live in peace.
Your body's being so terribly scarred.
By the ongoing venting of a mountain marred
Because of a once dormant volcano now come alive
Like the stinging of wasps from a disturbed beehive
Oh! Montserrat. Land of splendorous beauty
What pray tell will your people see?
At the end of this volcanic test
Ash and pumice fall, pyroclastic flows, what's next?
Could you pass this test by mother nature's hand?
Will we see you after all this, proudly stand?
And we with a joyous cry, shout out and say
Right here is where we are going to stay
I got the inspiration to pen these words as I was waiting for a First Aid review session to begin. I was sitting on the lawn over-looking the Old Towne, Lime Kiln area at McChesneys.
Elizabeth Piper-Wade
The Eclipse and Your Precious Vision
Doctors and ophthalmologists are concerned about people taking the risk of looking straight at the sun as it is blocked by the advancing moon. Looking straight at the tropical sun during this eclipse can burn the retina, the fragile membrane in the back of the eye that senses light. Even a quick glance can lead to permanent blind spots or complete vision loss. Doctors warn there is no treatment for the vision-impairing scars or blindness that can result from staring directly at the eclipse.
For about an hour before and after the total phase the Sun is only partially obscured. This is when it is dangerous to look directly at the Sun. Normally the Sun is too bright to look at anyway. But during the partial phases, the Sun does not appear as bright, and you may be tempted to look directly at it. DON'T DO IT! The danger of damaging your eyes does not depend on brightness. As long as any portion of the Sun's disk remains visible it can still cause eye damage.
The lenses of your eyes act as tiny magnifiers; if you look at the partially eclipsed Sun, its rays are focused on the retina of your eyes and can burn them. This is the same sort of thing that happens when you use a magnifying glass to focus the sun to a pinpoint on paper or leaves to burn a hole in them. The only difference is that it is your eyes that would be burned. Part of the danger lies in the fact that the retina is not sensitive to pain; you would not even feel it happening. But a retinal burn is permanent and irreversible, producing a blank spot in the most vital part of your vision field.
Our special correspondent subscriber Dr. Roy Bishop writes us the following:
The safety rule is simple, but is not appreciated by everyone, especially children: Never look at the dazzling surface of the sun, either directly with the unaided eyes, or through binoculars or a telescope. To do so one risks permanent partial blindness, and this can occur almost instantly in the case of telescopic viewing. Viewing our sun is just as dangerous on any clear day, but at the time of an eclipse people have a reason to want to look at it - and often resort to dangerous methods.
Next week we will continue with more from Dr. Bishop in our series on the February Eclipse and the cautions we need to take on that day and other days in our dealings with the sun.
by the Silent Observer
After reading the report of the preliminary assessment of volcanic risk on Montserrat, instead of a document that is clear and coherent, we are left with what Sir Robert may or may not think. What he seems to think is that these alarmist scientists are not scary enough.
It seems as if the good parts of the report are not bad enough and the bad parts are not bad enough. The fact that they are all so willing to terrify what is left of the population on Montserrat makes one wonder what it is that the British Government really wants of us.
The underlying feeling one gets while reading the report is the lack of sincerity, along with the fact that Dr. Simon Young wants the area between Lawyers Mountain and Belham River empty - no ifs and no buts.
To put the whole report in a nutshell , move north of Lawyers River and you become immortal - or to put it more bluntly, the nearer you are to the governor's villa, the safer you are.
Let's not forget that the headlong rush to Lawyers River is not to save lives but to lower the headcount, so as to make the evacuation process easier for the British - if I am wrong I apologize. Everything else that has happened since, is the side effect of this covert operation that went bad. So to save face the British are going through the pretense.
The British and Montserrat governments, with the help of the Aid Office (who else?), wanted a report. So, like a wealthy car manufacturer, they went out and commissioned the parts to get the kind of car they wanted. In this case, however, they wanted a risk assessment report that suited them.
How do you put out a risk assessment?
You get experts. You need a seismologist with extensive knowledge of earthquakes and volcanoes; a doctor in occupational medicine. You must have someone from our friends in DFID to fix things, an expert in volcanic gases; a geologist; a seismic technician; a geophysicist; another two geologists, of course, (you can't have too many of them, after all it is a report to show the whole world). Then add an environmental scientist, a volcanologist - a fellow from the Royal Society no doubt - an engineering geologist, someone from Hawaii - they have a beautiful volcano over there. Include a mathematician - you must get the figures right, you don't want them to be misread like last July, and last of all another trained volcanologist.
Fifteen trained good men who are expected to complete the analysis and report to HMG and local government on the current state of the volcano and the risks it poses for the next six months to 15 years.
It took this accumulation of talented experts from Dec 2 to 5 and half the rain forest to say exactly what Simon Young wanted to say - move North of Lawyers River.
What is a hired gun?
The fact that all these knights care so much about us here in Montserrat gives me goose pimples. Maybe the governor can get them to cut some of the money donated to Bosnia for house building in Montserrat. After all we did not burn down our own houses during a campaign for ethnic cleansing.
What is more, is the reason the report had to go to the chief scientific adviser political rather than scientific?
Knowing the housing situation, it could be safely assumed that CM David Brandt would not want to get any nearer to Little Bay, so the order has to come straight to London.
Sorry Mr. Brandt, now you know why the extra holidays - to check you.
They decided long before the report was finished what would be in it. You don't think that anything that happened here last July was accidental. Of course there is a commitment as long as things are safe. And who decides what is safe? The scientists who wrote the report.
There is no secret plan to depopulate the island. A British MP said so, and they are such truthful people.
Chief Minister David S. Brandt's Address
Delivered at the UWI Torch Bearing Ceremony
Address given by the Honourable Chief Minister David S. Brandt at the Passing of the Torch Marking the 50th Anniversary of the University of the West Indies - 29th January, 1998
Ladies and gentlemen, it is with a deep sense of pride and hope that I receive this torch today, as part of a series of activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of the University of the West Indies.
I'm reminded, of course, of the time honored tradition of the Olympic Games, where the Olympic Flame is always kept burning and the torch is passed from country to country. This practice has become to symbolize the very best of human endeavors and of brotherhood. It symbolizes the pride of those who work hard to be the best they can be, and it also symbolizes the hope of people every where that through contact and communication we can find ways to make this world a better place to be.
This flame reminds me also of the seminal role, fire has played in the education and advancement of mankind. Without the discovery and prudent use of fire, mankind would probably still be in caves, and certainly the technological wonders which we enjoy and take for granted could not have happened.
So this passing of the torch throughout the Caribbean is an apt and fitting ritual to mark the important milestone of one of our regions most vital institutions. As I said before, it is with both pride and hope that I accept the torch on Montserrat.
I am proud of what the University of the West Indies has come to represent in the region and of its many great accomplishments during its first 50 years of existence. Much has been, and will be said of UWI in this regard, although its significance is so self evident that perhaps little needs to be said of it. But on an occasion like this, it is difficult for those of us who know and love the institution not to reflect on its accomplishments. I will site just three of these.
First, in the past 50 years, the University of the West Indies has provided higher education to thousands of persons who would not otherwise have been able to get a higher education. Thousands who would have had to work for slave wages were given expanded choices and opportunities, which in turn led to vastly higher standards of living across the Caribbean.
Second, many of the programs conducted by UWI have directly benefited the region. We need only look at the important work the University of the West Indies has done on Montserrat since the volcano began erupting in 1995. Our own UWI scientists have worked along with other scientists from England and around the world to study and Monitor the volcano and document their findings. As a result, the world's knowledge of volcanoes has increased dramatically and, not just Montserrat or the region, but all of humanity benefits from this.
Third, the University of the West Indies has helped to foster a greater sense of Caribbean Unity. It has helped to promote a greater sense of oneness. It has brought people together from all over the Caribbean, who have formed long-life friendships. Out of this has come a greater sense of one people with a common history, culture and destiny. This is no small accomplishment. The challenge of the new millennium is to build on it. To increasingly turn our concentration away from the things that divide us to those that unite us. To those that establish common ground and purposes. This is the way we will build a stronger, more united Caribbean.
I am proud of the role Montserrat and Montserratians have played, in the first 50 years of the University of the West Indies. Many of our educators have done good work there, including our own Speaker of the House and Resident Tutor, Dr. Howard Fergus, Dr. George Irish, Dr. Halmond Dyer, Major Vincent Browne, Dorcus White and Olive Edgecombe-Howell. Many of our youngsters were trained at UWI as Teachers, Lawyers, Doctors, Engineers, Scientists and have taken their place in the world in almost every field you can think of.
I am proud also of the fact that I too can say I attended and am a graduate of the University of the West Indies. I was not born into wealth or privilege with even a wooden spoon in my mouth, to say nothing of a gold or silver one, but the University of the West Indies help to make positive impact on the circumstances of my life. For this reason, if for no other the 21st Century, I want it to remain a well-spring of knowledge and opportunity for Caribbean young people from all walks of life, be they black or white, rich or poor, African or Indian or Chinese. Be they from Jamaica, Trinidad, Anguilla or Montserrat.
The University if the West Indies has played an important role in the Caribbean in its first 50 years and now we must give renewed consideration of how it is to function in the new millennium.
To be certain, the new millennium brings with it a host of new challenges. I am told that with the quantum advances in technology, the very nature of learning and pedagogy has no choice but to change radically. I am told that as the world's economy becomes driven more and more by information and knowledge, knowledge itself will become an even more precious commodity. I want you to think about this for a moment. Knowledge, not land and factories; not silver and gold and dollars, but knowledge. If this is the case, and I have no doubt that it is, then the role the University of the West Indies has played gathering and imparting knowledge, becomes even more crucial than it ever was before.
For this reason, I pledge today, Montserrat's fullest support and commitment to keeping the University of the West Indies strong and healthy into the 21st Century.
There are those who worry about Montserrat's long term possibility of survival. Just as over the 50 years of UWI's life there have been those who have worried about the institution's chances of long term survival.
But I'm also full of hope today. Full of hope for the long term survival of both Montserrat and the University of the West Indies. Full of hope that both will go forward into the Century meeting all challenges and over-coming them. Long live Montserrat. And long live the University of the West Indies.
Jus wonderin if those in authority at Look Out will listen to the local contractors and use some additional colors other than white on some of the buildings so that there will be some variety and individuality rather than another "white Davy Hill".
Jus wonderin if the planners will use their good sense and set aside an area or areas at Look Out for a community building or at least a recreational area for the children before it is all built up and too late.
Jus wonderin why common sense does not prevail and the barrier at the Nantes River be moved south 30 yards. This would allow shopping, easy ingress and egress and eliminate 90 percent of the work for the checkpoint police.
Jus wonderin why government encourages residents to shop in Antigua by giving half price fares on weekends on the ferry instead of supporting local shopping to help our local economy and support our local businesses.
Jus wonderin if it is because some of the Indian stores in Cudjoe Head change their prices by the minute and by the customer upwards every day.
Jus wonderin what secondary back up system exists for the sewer package plant at Davy Hill.
Jus wonderin should the sewer break down what kind of disaster would be created at Carrs Bay for fish and the beach and how long an effect it would have.
Jus wonderin if the government is serious about its commitment to the island and why they are so hesitant to use local and other advisers, even those who offer their services free!
Jus wonderin if the ash available in abundance cannot be put to some good use.
Jus wonderin if the new police commissioner will return the tyranny of the former commissioner or continue to work in the best interest of Montserrat, like the outgoing commissioner who just served three months with us.
Jus wonderin why the Reporter reports that the Governor says that the leaflet was worked on by DFID, the chief scientific adviser, and the chief medical officer when the leaflet says it is the Government of Montserrat offering the advice about moving into the quarter of the island left.
Jus wonderin how under the present circumstances they don't want us to believe that we are being squeezed off the island.
Jus wonderin if anybody will remember the warnings of elderly genocide in this column.
Jus wonderin what number of expatriate residents the British consider tolerable in their vision of Montserrat's sustainable development.
Jus wonderin whether the Government of Montserrat or HMG will have first claim on all those forcibly "abandoned" villas.
Jus wonderin if officially designated "alienated" areas will have to be "un-alienated."
Jus wonderin how many day trip visitors from Antigua will urge friends to follow their example after enjoying the scenic sewage disposal site at Little Bay.
Jus wonderin if road re-paving will begin before erosion undermines that handsome new curbing and guttering between Hilltop and Cudjoe Head.
Jus wonderin why this one police officer (female) who complains about everything about this crisis, is adding to the stress of people visiting the exclusion zone area of salem, particularly causing people to walk-in rather than allowing them to use their vehicle.
Forward all Questions, Comments and Suggestions to: roachb@candw.ag
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