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National Trust Premieres Video on Past 100 Years

War Memorial in 1950

On Wednesday evening this week the Montserrat National Trust (MNT), formed in 1969, proudly presented its first version of a video production, "100 Years in Montserrat."

In creating this production the Trust used black and white photos and postcards dating back to the 1900's and before, along with present day photos and information. The video is intended to depict Montserrat's past and present history.

The Trust put on a viewing of the video on February 2, 2000, at 6 p.m. at the Pelican Room at Vue Pointe Hotel. In introducing the video, Mrs. Sarita Francis, president of the MNT, introduced the function and gave a brief outline of the production. She paid tribute to the "pioneers and those who worked hard together to keep the organisation together."

She mentioned the move from the Sugar Mill museum of several items and large collection of photographs.

Name the Item in the picture on the left.  send answers to webmaster@montserratreporter.org

Do you know any of the members of the Netball team featured on the right?

She said that MNT presently is mostly a group of expatriate Montserratians, as she called them, who are helping to keep the Trust well and alive. Mrs. Francis paid special appreciation to former Montserrat Governor Frank Savage, who donated many pictures and postcards, which were used for the video and the exhibition which followed. She revealed at the same time that the Trust was publishing a book, which is due to be released later this year.

Dr. Howard Fergus was asked to give brief comments in which he offered congratulations to the Trust and authors of the video for conceiving and executing the idea. He made reference to the many publications on Montserrat in learned journals all over. He said there were songs and cultural products that have "economic value, not just for their psychological value, but they can embrace the tourism product," contributing to our wealth.

Roman Catholic Convent on George St

Bethel Methodist church in Bethel (was destroyed by pyroclastic flows in 1997)

Mr. Ben Baker from Michigan put the video together. Information from the Trust, of which Steven McNamara is director, says that there are several hundred feet of footage still available for other video productions.

The St. John's and Brades Nursery Schools this week were the beneficiaries of gifts of books brought to Montserrat by Vincentian Mrs. Jeannette France.

Mrs. Lynette Hobson L and Miss Rosanna Ryan R receiving books from Mrs. Jeannette France

Mrs. France is the Field Executive Trainer of the Girl Guides Association for the English-speaking Western Hemisphere.

In attendance at this handing over to the head teachers of both nursery schools were Girl Guide officials in Commissioner Mrs. Oeslyn Jemmotte and Mrs. Angella Skerritt, deputy commissioner of the Montserrat Girl Guides Association along with Miss Geraldine Mason, a Brownie's leader. Also present were Education Officer Mrs. Eudora Fergus and teachers of the nursery school.

Mrs. France said the gifts were the result of a pilot project of guides and rangers from Barbados, St. Vincent and Trinidad and Tobago, who decided to either donate or raise funds to purchase books for their partners across the waters. They piloted the project but it involved other islands in the Caribbean.

She said it was an indication of the community spirit of the guides and rangers and shows the appreciation for the understanding of the necessity and importance of "early childhood training."

Both head teachers, Mrs. Lynette Hobson from St. John's Nursery School and Miss Rosanna Ryan of the Brades School, expressed appreciation to Mrs. France for delivering books, saying that the books will help provide for the basic education for the training of the kindergarten attendants. They said that they will ensure that the books are put to great use.

The silence is almost deafening, but there are many who sit by and wait for the next person, usually the editors and commentators, to carry the banners of complaint and criticism. They are also expected to have the answer to every problem there is, especially those that they manage to discern.

Then there are the others who feel affected and become offended, because they think themselves as the untouchables while they carry out their duties and functions without regard to or for the ones they serve. There are those too who serve no one, although they are even servile, carrying out instructions and directives as if they have no brain or commitment of their own.

There are also the others who would have us believe that they are servants, honourable, respectable and honest, when in fact they are steeped in deceit, selfishness, greed and meanness to boot.

So where did this seemingly angry outburst come from? It is none of the above but just a wake-up call for all and sundry to really pay attention. It's been a long road, the last trek going into five years, and it seems as though the volcano is not done yet. It is giving us that one last chance to learn and understand who and what we deal with and how to cope with them (successfully?).

We may go about trying to fit faces to the descriptions, above but we need to be careful here, because while there are faces to fit them easily, it is not a safe or good thing to sit in judgment. There is a little saying that when you point a finger at someone there are four pointing straight back at you.

Yet attention must be paid in order to avoid our next state becoming worse than the last, and so on! People must look forward to more than mere existence and sustenance. Very soon we can expect to be briefed as to how our next general election will be conducted; perhaps the campaign will start, and maybe the silence will be broken. And then what should we learn from that? What will the electorate be told? That there will be or there is a better life in store…if…?

Ah! But there is much that can be said and done now that will lighten the burden before those sodden with plum and diplomacy laugh even more broadly in the near future.

It is not by chance that a question will be asked in the British Parliament today, about the need to ask the Secretary of State for DFID "what discussions she has had with the Government of Montserrat regarding conditions on the Island of Montserrat and the need for some residents to relocate to the United Kingdom." Dr. Jenny Tonge will be asking several other questions regarding the state of the volcano, the ash situation, general health matters, education and general conditions of Montserratians here and in the UK.

The questions are definitely in the interest of Montserratians, but they are not coming from thin air. The idea never did change. Mind not the question: "who will spend so much money if they have ulterior motives?"

Some people become quite ruffled when their plans are disturbed, but there are others whose plans are usually so very well contrived, that either way is fine.

The scientists tell us there is little if any need for concern with the growth of a new dome, at least for now. But even if it were to continue, it would never reach the magnitude of, say, 1997. We can also reason that it can do what it did before, impacting those areas already devastated, leaving us to do nothing more than stay away. The ash may be inevitable and that could be a nuisance, since it will serve as an excuse to delay the return to areas south of Belham.

However, for Bramble Airport, it is a different story, so with our need to try to do better than merely exist or only sustain ourselves and against relocation, this is no time to be quiet.

[Abraham's] faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what

James 2:22

In today's Bible reading, the people of Israel whine about their circumstances. They refuse to see God's daily care for them as a gift. Instead, they complain about what they perceive to be their misfortunes. They are to look to God. Instead, they become wrapped up in their daily routines.

God expected the chosen people to take an active role in their journey from bondage to freedom. Their deliverance was not just a matter of what God could do for them, but what they could do for themselves!

We are also required to take an active role in what God is doing in our lives; God expects it of us. We are not to sit back and whine about how bad things are. We are to look toward God to find the true life that only God can give passivity can lead to self-centeredness, selfishness, and feeling sorry for ourselves. Taking action leads to a closer and more joyful walk with God.

God's answers to our prayers are often a nudge to do something practical. Instead of taking dramatic intervention in our lives, God asks us to take action.

Prayer: Holy God, help us to always look to you and to your guidance in our lives. Give us the courage to act according to your will. Amen.

What is God nudging you to do?

Lauran Heidenreich

Prayer Focus: For Courage To Act On God's Call In Our Lives.

Miss Noliyanda Williams, District 7030 Rotaractor Representative, is first holder of this office to have visited Montserrat in seven years, according to local Rotaract president Lyndon Kirwan.

Miss Williams was the guest of the Rotaractors' senior Rotarian counterparts at their weekly Wednesday lunchtime meeting usually held at the Woodlands beach house.

The young Guyanese woman, who resides in her homeland, visited Montserrat primarily to pay a courtesy call, a part of her duties and part of a tour which takes her to all the islands in her district, covering 23 clubs. It is hard going for her trying to make all these stops, but "it is an experience worth having," she said.

Miss Williams had managed to schedule her visit to Montserrat so she could attend a Rotaract meeting, usually held on Tuesday evenings.

The National Development Foundation Montserrat Ltd (NDFM), the principal business support organization on island continues its commitment to the business community of Montserrat in providing finance, technical assistance and training.

To this end, the NDF will be conducting a one-week workshop March 13- 18, "How to start a business and succeed, coupled with exploring business opportunities in Montserrat".

The workshop will be conducted by Sandra Glasgow, Director and Training Manager of the Entrepreneurial Centre, University of Technology, Jamaica. Mrs. Glasgow has worked extensively in the Caribbean in the field of entrepreneurship promotion.

Interested persons are requested to contact Agatha Aspin, Business Development Officer, at NDF telephone 491-3070.

Four financial experts last month visited the island. The team, headed by the Director of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force Pierre La Paque, included three experts in law enforcement, finance and the law.

During their week-long visit, the experts met with His Excellency Governor Anthony Abbott, the Attorney General, and representatives of the Department of Customs, Inland Revenue and the private sector, including commercial banks and other financial institutions.

Cynthia Farrell of the Financial Services Center said the experts looked primarily at different pieces of legislation that support anti-money laundering practices.

She said that by supporting this effort, Montserrat would be seen to operate its financial services sector at the highest international standard.

Miss Farrell says this would also send a message to criminals and potential money launderers that Montserrat is not a jurisdiction to which they can bring their money to be laundered.

The experts' report is now pending and will be tabled at a meeting on 21^st-22^nd March in Trinidad. Montserrat will then have an opportunity to challenge the validity of any factual matters that may appear in the report.

Meanwhile it was revealed by sources that in the past year some 15 offshore companies along with 40 international business companies, were registered in Montserrat.

Island Financial Services Come Under Scrutiny

Last month it was reported that the financial services sector on island was due to come under the microscope shortly.

The United Kingdom Government and Overseas Territories have jointly mounted a review of the financial services regulation in Overseas Territories in the Caribbean region.

Consultants have already been appointed to carry out the review in Montserrat, Bermuda, the Cayman Islands, Tortola, Anguilla and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

This is in keeping with the proposal contained in the London White Paper.

The firm KPMG was the successful bidder, selected by a project steering committee, which contains three representatives from the Overseas Territories and three from the United Kingdom.

Superintendent of the Financial Services Commission, Paul de Weerd, represented Montserrat, the Turks and Caicos Islands and Anguilla at the meeting.

He said the Overseas Territories have a lot to gain from a thorough and independent review of financial services regulation.

Mr. De Weerd said no jurisdiction is perfect, but that outside scrutiny is the best way of identifying any areas for improvement.

The Superintendent of the Financial Services Commission also said investors will have more confidence if they know that an island or country takes regulation seriously and is prepared to invest time and money in aiming for high standards.

The Honourable Financial Secretary C.T. John said at the time of the report that Montserrat was looking forward to the review, as it can only benefit the financial sector here.

The Honourable Minister for Agriculture, Lands, Housing and the Environment, Brunel Meade, says the people of Montserrat can look back on 1999 with much pride.

He says as a people, Montserratians have achieved a lot.

Mr. Meade says the general quality of life on the island has improved significantly for all, although the housing problem remains the nation’s foremost challenge.

He points to the achievement of providing 270 completed houses to local families between Davy Hill, Shinn Lands and Lookout.

Mr. Meade also alludes to 361 houses completed under the materials grant scheme.

He said there were other achievements in 1999, such as the successful staging of the agricultural exhibition.

However, the Minister of Agriculture is reminding Montserratians that a hard and challenging journey remains ahead.

He’s calling on all Montserratians to set goals in 2000, individually and collectively as a nation, including the eradication of institutional shelter.

Two Montserratians have been included in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List.

Mrs. Cynthia Claudia James-Roach will receive the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for lifelong service to the Montserrat Public Service.

Mrs. Roach currently holds the position of Permanent Secretary in the Department of Administration. Among her previous postings was Commissioner of Labour.

The other Montserratian is Mr. Neville Antonio Dublin, who will receive the Member of the British Empire (MBE).

He is being honoured for outstanding service throughout the volcanic crisis in the field of communications.

Government House also announced that Catholic priest Father Larry Finnegan will receive an Honourary MBE.

Father Larry, a national of the Republic of Ireland, is being honoured for outstanding service to the community throughout the volcanic crisis.

Rosie Douglas, a 58-year-old political scientist and leader of the Dominica Labour Party (DLP) was sworn in Thursday as Dominica's Prime Minister, leading a slim majority in the new parliament following a closely contested general election on Monday last.
He became the fifth prime minister of Dominica since it gained independence, after the swearing-in was conducted by President Vernon Shaw at the President's official residence in Roseau, the capital.
Mr. Douglas has taken over from Edison James, a 56-year-old agricultural scientist who was Prime Minister since 1995.
Mr. James' party took only nine of the 21 seats at stake in Monday's election, with 10 going to Mr. Douglas' DLP and two to the Dominica Freedom Party (DFP).

The new Prime Minister has agreed to set up coalition government with the DFP, having already named a few of the key people for his Cabinet.
Ambrose George, a businessman with a background in agriculture, will be the Finance Minister.
The Communications and Works portfolio is expected to be held by the DLP deputy leader, Pierre Charles, a farmer.
Reginald Austrie, who had been a lab technician at the Portsmouth Medical School, will be in charge of special projects in the Prime Minister's Office.
Kelly Graneau, a Carib farmer, is tipped to hold responsibility for Carib Affairs, while Hilary Frederick, a former Carib Chief, is expected to be appointed a government senator, dealing with Carib affairs.
Prime Minister Douglas is promising that his government will be a "government for all Dominicans". "We will fully dedicate ourselves as the new government to ensuring that the promises which were made to the people in the last general election are fulfilled," Douglas said.
"The bold initiatives that we have to take in the weeks and months ahead, will be taken with every bit of confidence and every bit of energy we have. The work has just begun and we do expect that it will meet the support of Dominica," he added, going on to say: "There will be no rancor, no witch-hunt, no discrimination, and that as
a government under the rule of law and under God, we will operate in as fair and as judicious a manner as possible,"
Douglas also promised, directing his comment to the media, that his new government will be open, allowing criticism, which he said, "is the only way we ourselves can fulfill the promises made to the people of Dominica during this very brief election campaign."

Meanwhile both leaders of the DLP and DFP have already announced that two ministerial and two senatorial positions will be given to the DFP.

Douglas names Cabinet:

ROSEAU, Dominica, CANA - Dominica's new Prime Minister, Rosie Douglas, on Thursday announced a cabinet that includes some politicians from his party and its coalition party who failed to win a seat in last
Monday's general election. Herbert Sabroache was named as Minister of Education after the Dominica Freedom Party candidate was defeated at the polls. Lloyd Pascal, a member of Douglas' Dominica Labour Party (DLP) who was also unsuccessful, is the new Minister of Agriculture. John Toussaint, another unsuccessful DLP candidate, has the Health and Social Security portfolio. Freedom Party leader Charles Savarin, who narrowly won a seat, is the new Minister of Tourism and environmentalist/businessman Atherton Martin heads a new Planning and Environment Ministry. Savarin is also a special private sector representative in the senate. Douglas announced the Cabinet hours after his swearing-in Thursday morning as Prime Minister, replacing Edison James, a 56-year-old agricultural scientist who was Prime Minister since 1995. James' party took only nine of the 21 seats at stake in the election. The others went to Douglas' Dominica Labour Party (10) and the Dominica Freedom Party (two). The Cabinet is expected to be sworn in Friday.
Following is the new Dominica Cabinet –
Rosie Douglas - Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Legal Affairs, National Security, Immigration.
Ambrose George - Minister of Finance.
Matthew Walter - Minister of Community Development.
Pierre Charles - Minister of Communications and Works.
John Toussaint - Minister of Health and Social Security.
Osborne Riviere - Minister of Trade, Industry and Manufacturing.
Lloyd Pascal - Minister of Agriculture.
Charles Savarin - Minister of Tourism
Atherton Martin - Minister of Planning and the Environment; private sector representative in the senate.
Dr. Bernard Wiltshire - Attorney-General.
Meanwhile today, the former Prime Minister of Dominica, Rosie Douglas was sworn in by the President Vernon Shaw. Mr. Douglas, 58, a political scientist, takes over from Edison James, a 56-year-old agricultural scientist who held office since 1995. Mr. Douglas' Dominica Labour Party took ten of the 21 seats at stake in Monday's election.

OECS AT WORK

WHY FUNCTIONAL COOPERATION!

The primary objective of integration movements in the post-war period has been to increase market size – expanding the economic space! Through this, trade, production and, by extension, employment and income, should grow, leading to economic development. This has been the motivation for the European Union, CARICOM and NAFTA.

In small developing countries, this dynamic of integration has failed to produce the range of promises held out in the theory. The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States is a case in point. The aggregation of the small individual markets has produced a total market size of half a million people, hardly enough to exploit current production and marketing technologies efficiently. Even if they could, the "infant" state of much of the productive sectors still requires intense support and nurturing if they are to take advantage of the opportunities being offered.

This continuous need to develop our production and trade base has become the major focus of the Secretariat. Traditionally, its role would have been to manage the trade arrangements. It is the recognition of this development function that led the architects of the OECS to formulate an integration group that embraces cooperation in an array of social and economic areas.

The Treaty of Basseterre (1981), which provides the blueprint for the OECS, recognises broader developmental needs of the group and calls upon the Members to pursue cooperation and joint action in areas that go beyond market expansion. It mentions specifically, for example, the mobilisation of technical and financial assistance from external sources; matters relating to the sea and its resources; tertiary education; scientific, technical and cultural cooperation.

The Secretariat of the Organisation has had to structure itself in a manner that allows it to pursue the range of activities contemplated in the Treaty. While still dealing with trade and common market issues, a Division of Functional Cooperation was created to provide a developmental and supportive role to assist the economic and production efforts of the Member States. This it does through a network of nine specialised units and 15 projects and programmes. The Division presently implements specific activities covering, academic and technical education; environmental management; social development; sports; health reform and joint procurement of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies; assisting manufacturers and farmers to become more export ready; and promoting inward investment flows.

One of the major successes of the Secretariat has been its ability to attract external resources to support its functional cooperation programmes. The international donor community has recognised that it can, at one and the same time, increase its exposure by supporting regional activities, achieve economies of scale in the employment of its resources and reach a larger number of beneficiaries by working through the Secretariat. We have been able to attract an estimated EC$80 million over the past seven years to finance these activities. In 1999, the Secretariat spent over EC$30 million implementing the various programmes.

We stressed in the first article that our primary motive is to impact the lives and livelihoods of our people directly. Precisely how functional cooperation programmes achieve this will be detailed in the contributions from the units. The collective efforts of the Division are designed to assist in making our societies and economies more independent and resilient to the changing global economic environment.

West Indies batsmanship below par! Busta's message is:"West Indies batting is not up to standard!" By the end of the four rounds, Busta's answer to our petition is clear. The message in detail is: (i) our current domestic cricket is below that of yesteryear and obviously below international standard; (ii) we have a crisis of batsmanship which will be with us for some time; (iii) we must change the old boys and concentrate on the youngsters. The batting statistics confirm the message sent by Busta. There have been only two totals over 300 (318 and 398-8) and 21 totals under 250; 15 totals under 200; eight totals under 100 and three totals under 100. The distribution of the totals below 250 is as follows: Barbados (3); Guyana (2); Jamaica (3); Leeward Islands (3) Trinidad and Tobago (4) and Windward Islands (6).

One match finished in three days and another was completed before the end of the second day. Some matches finished in two days. The Windward Islands returned to their "old way of life" in the fourth round to be beaten by Barbados in three days. Jamaica enjoyed sweet revenge for last year's five-wicket defeat at Sabina Park, when they defeated Trinidad and Tobago in two days.

Some critics attribute the poor batting performances to poor pitch preparation, which is indeed a cause for concern. A number of great players have related the problems of our batsmen to pitch preparation -- players like Rohan Kanhai, David Holford, Courtney Walsh and Curtly Ambrose. And when, as Ambrose noted, "Our batsmen bat on the flat, slow pitches in regional tournaments and believe that they are ready, they find conditions overseas totally different and some find it hard to cope."

Kanhai noted, "We need our young batsmen to play on good pitches to improve their technique and confidence. When you have slow pitches, you can't ask players to go out and play shots with confidence."

But commentators and managers have attributed the strings of low scores largely to poor batting techniques. Commenting on the poor batting performance of Barbados (all out for 190) in the same match against the Windward, manager Tony Howard admitted: "Most of the batsmen did not take the time to see what was going on and were caught in the deep. It wasn't necessary. . . . This is a difficult ground to score runs on but the batsmen did not come to terms with what they had to do: score singles."

The absence of requisite temperament is reflected in the application of one-day techniques to the four-day game -- going after quick runs, hitting sixes or plainly showing inability to grit. But more fundamentally, the footworks, the defence, the stroke-play, in most cases, are just not up to class.

But Busta is urging the selectors to build the future on the young generation. This week Busta highlighted the resilience and batsmanship of the Guyanese cricketers. The young Guyanese cricketers played with resolve, determination and commitment and orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, beating the Leeward Islands, the most formidable batting line-up on paper in the regional competition, on their home turf. It was a splendid effort by the Guyanese who bowled their team back into the game after conceding a slender first innings lead of 17, dismissed for 204 in reply to the Leeward Islands' score of 221.

Typical of the inconsistency that butted them out of the West Indies Test team, the former Leeward Islands Test players could not come to terms with the Guyanese pacers -- Colin Stuart and West Indies sensation, Reon King - and capitulated after tea as they lost seven wickets for 49 runs in 17.4 overs on the third day.

With Stuart Williams' absence through injury, Dave Joseph could not deliver the goods, as he has proven for the season, and the Leeward Islands' batting faltered once Keith Arthurton and Ridley Jacobs could not deliver "big time" as they had done against the Windward Islands a week ago at the same venue.

After being placed in a strong position by their bowlers, the young South American-West Indian batsmen batted themselves to a memorable outright victory in fading light on the fourth and final day of the fourth round Busta Cup match at the Antigua Recreation Grounds. Chasing 154 to win, Guyana batted into the close of play on the final day to clench 16 points from a game that lost on first innings.

While one must confess that the low-scoring match was another example of a typical "Shell Shield," the attention was neither powered by battery of former Test players on the Leeward Islands' team nor was the nostalgic feeling nurtured by the 41 wickets which fell for only 714 runs (Scores: Leeward Islands, 221 and 136 and Guyana, 204 and 157-8). It is the resilient and gladiatorial approach of the young Guyanese batsmen under their erstwhile "Tiger" Shivnarine Chanderpaul (who led from the front) that brought back memories of great Guyanese players like Rohan Kanhai, Basil Butcher and Alvin Kallicharran.

The youthful batsmen exhibited an altruism such as has been demanded by the WICB, the selectors, manager, coach and the West Indian cricketing public from the senior players, but which highly paid professionals (like Lara, Chanderpaul himself, Adams and Campbell) have refused to give.

Let us just note some expression of that commitment and national pride that I am talking about. First, when set 154 for victory (a small total which, as was clear to every knowledgeable cricket follower, would be difficult to get, with the likes of the legendary Curtly Ambrose in opposition) and with their top opener, Nicholas DeGroot, injured, the former West Indies bowling all-rounder, Neil McGarrell, agreed to sacrifice himself for his country and open the batting with young Azeemul Haniff. When the youngster was cut down in the third over by the veteran fast bowler Curtly Ambrose, he batted for over four hours to ensure that the platform was established with a painstaking 54.

Second, Nicholas deGroot reminded us of the West Indies team of the '70s. Sidelined with a broken finger, in the first innings, he strode in the wicket to bat, determined to give his team an advantage, but that was not to be. When Ambrose became furious and threatened to destroy the Guyanese middle and lower order, the "bruised reed" struggled to the wicket at the fall of the eighth wicket. Ambrose threw every deadly dart at him but he countered all. He batted his team to victory with one hand. This reminds me of Bernard Julien, who was forced to open the West Indies batting against Lillee and Thompson in the 1975-76 series in Australia when the openers were too bruised to face up to the "fire and brimstone."

Now what do we do with such resilience? What do we do with such commitment? What do we do with such national pride? This is the guts, the belly, the mental fortitude, the mental toughness that we have cried for on the senior team for years. How long shall we continue to suffer with those "bellyless" and "gutless" batsmen when we have youngsters who are mentally prepared "to die" for the national cause?

Mike Findlay and his team will have two golden opportunities to give these youngsters two additional matches - the Board XI v Zimbabwe on March 4-6 in Grenada and the President XI v Zimbabwe on March 10-13 in Trinidad and Tobago.

There are a number of promising young batsmen and other cricketers around. They include the 19-year-old Azeemul Haniff, Nicholas deGroot, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Travis Dowlin and Narsingh Deonarine (Guyana); Ryan Hurley, Ryan Hinds (Barbados); Andrew Richardson, Brenton Parchment, Marlon Samuels, Chris Gayle, Dwight Mais, Laurie William, (Jamaica), Dennis Rampersad, Rodney Sooklal (Trinidad and Tobago); Sylvester Joseph, Ranoko Morton, Goldwyn Prince (Leeward Islands); Devon Smith, McNeil Morgan, Wayne Phillip and Kenroy Peters, (Windward Islands).

It is clear to all of us that the future of West Indies cricket lies with the youngsters who reflect great character after having been groomed by Gus Logie. And we hope that the selectors and the enlarged management staff (which will include a manager, coach, psychologist, fielding coach, physiotherapist and trainer) that the WICB is putting in place to develop the senior team "over the next 12 to 18 months" should not simply attempt to turn things around with the old players but should look into grooming the youngsters.

But I know I can bet on Viv if he becomes part of that team.

Until then, take bold decisions.

PHOTO CAPTION: Ramnaresh Sarwan, one of the resilient young batsmen who are waiting to do service for their West Indian nation. (Photo Peter Adrien).

Remarks By the Minister of Education, Health and Community Services at UWI School of Continuing Studies on Wednesday 26^th January 2000

As I thought about what I could say at this graduation exercise that would be meaningful to you graduates, I saw two distinct groups – taxi drivers on the one hand and graduates of the CPA programme on the other hand, who followed a course from the prestigious regional University. But the longer I contemplated how to divide up my short speech to suit both groups, the more I realized how much you had in common.

1. You have given up valuable time to attend to your courses.Time in which you could have relaxed with your family or assisted with household chores. No doubt you could have made some money in that time.
2. You have demonstrated discipline and dedication in completing your course.You could have dropped out.
3. You are lifelong learners. For your learning did not end with schooling.
4. You have acquired some new knowledge and skills; perhaps your attitude to certain things has also been improved.
5. At this ceremony you will receive certificates in recognition of your achievement.

We congratulate you and shower you with praises. You have done well and the audience shares the excitement of the moment. But after tonight what is going to be?

1. Will our taxi drivers make more money?

2. Will the graduates of the CPA prgramme get promoted and hence bigger salaries?

3. Will Montserrat have a more efficient and pleasant taxi service?

4. Will the tourists want to come back again and again and invite their friends to call for the driver who was so kind?

5.Will the Montserrat public be serviced courteously and as promtly as the North American Tourist?

6.Will we see more vigour in our civil service; will therr be suggestions for improved systems and models which are kind to human beings?

After intense studies, after graduation, WHAT?

I remind you of this story.

One day a book salesman approached an old farmer with great excitement and said, "This book will tell you absolutely everything you need to know about farming: when to sow, when to reap, all about the weather and what to expect."

The farmer said, " Son that’s not my problem. I already know what’s in the book – my problem is doing it."

After graduation you will need to act on what you know.

You will need to develop your "people skills". Howard Gardener refers to this as inter-person intelligence. Professionals in every field, be they civil servants, lawyers, doctors, teachers, accountants or taxi drivers, know that they need the co-operation of people in order to be successful and that they in an even better position to enlist that support and co-operation when they have good people skills.

Just because you have gained new knowledge and skills does not mean that people will like you or even listen to your suggestions. In fact, you think about it for a moment; many of the most competent people have the fewest people skills. But having good people skills will make you more influential, draw others to you, and make your work more pleasant and easy, especially if you wish to initiate change.

So after graduation, you will need to develop and perfect your people skills. You will develop your people skills if you attend to these areas.

1. Project caring: if we are seen as cold, objective, factual and

uncaring people, then people will avoid us.

2) Give people the impression that we have time for them.

3) We must be kind, gentle and considerate.

4) Learn to listen.

5) Talk to people to find out how they are coping.

6) Inspire hope.

Remember if you have the greatest technical skill in the world and you can’t get others to trust, believe in you and do as you ask, then success is more difficult.

Drop behaviours that lead nowhere.

Some behaviours that lead nowhere:

1. Expecting someone else to do the task or assume the responsibility and risk while you remain on the sideline, ready to criticize and suggest another way of doing it.
2. Expressing pessimism when suggestions are made, saying it can’t done before saying let’s see what the possibilities are.
3. I should not be expected to do this, implying that the task is too lowly. He that would be master must be servant.
4. Complaining about not knowing what’s going on. Get involved, ask questions.

After Graduation, drop behaviours that lead to nowhere.

Collaborate and pool your talent and resources.

I must pause to compliment the University of the West Indies School of Continuing Studies and the Tourist Board for modeling collaboration putting on this course for taxi drivers;

And

The University of the West Indies and Cable and Wireless and my own Ministry for collaborating to make the Challenge Programme work. Remember Graduates, you can’t do it alone. Our combined efforts are greater than the sum total of our individual efforts.

Strive for Integrity

Nothing is more important to your future than your personal integrity. Webster defines it in one word -- HONESTY. You can only hide your lack of integrity for so long. Getting away with dishonesty can be worstethan getting caught if it encourages you to believe you can live at two levels. That is very stressful. John Weston says, "Live by the following rule: Don’t do anything you wouldn’t feel comfortable reading about in tomorrow’s newspaper."

Integrity is not determined by our external circumstances. It is not based on our credentials or status. It should not be confused with reputation.

After graduation, preserve and work on your integrity.

Now that you have successfully completed your study programme and will receive your credentials tonight, we will need to see the results of your labours. Do not flout your knowledge, but instead use it to enhance your job opportunities and personal skills.

Be like the old farmer. He had knowledge but more importantly his response to the salesman stressed application. Use the knowledge and skills for greater improvement of self and country.

The Department of Agriculture has instituted a policy in order to combat the Loose Livestock problem.

Director of Agriculture Claude Gerald says the policy is geared towards encouraging farmers to rear their animals in an intensive manner and to ensure animals are reared in a way that is environmentally friendly.

He says the new method means animals are kept housed or penned and feeds brought to them.

Mr. Gerald says the Department of Agriculture is planning a workshop in February when this new method will be discussed with livestock farmers.

Following the workshop the farmers will be taken to Antigua for one day, where they will observe intensive livestock rearing first hand.

Meanwhile the Department of Agriculture has been helping farmers acquire new breeding stock.

Mr. Gerald says the department will be encouraging farmers to acquire these animals themselves to speed up the process being used presently, which has been slow.

The Ministry of Communication and Works staff has been strengthened by the addition of a number of technical personnel.

Joining the staff are Assistant Engineer Semina Khan and Civil Engineer Tony Gough.

Ms. Khan and Mr. Gough, who are both from the United Kingdom, are here for a period of two years, and are employed by the Department for International Development under its Technical Co-operation Officer programme.

Another engineer, Courtney Peters, is expected on island shortly.

Head of the PWD Engineering Departnment Ken Foulds welcomes the addition of the new engineers.

He says the additions to the staff mean the engineering section can now get properly organized.

Mr. Foulds says it would also mean that its work could now be administered properly.

MWA and MONLEC Merger Talks Continue

Discussions on the proposed merger of the two utility companies, MONLEC and the Montserrat Water Authority, are continuing.

A team representing the United Kingdom-based KPMG Consultant Company has been on island holding discussions with government officials and officials from both companies.

A senior official says the talks have focused so far on the legal, technical, financial and training support necessary to establish an effective and efficient utility organisation.

According to the official a local steering committee has been formed.

The committee comprises members from The Montserrat Water Authority, Montserrat Electricity Services, the Development Unit, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Communication and Works and the Montserrat Allied Workers Union (MAWU)

It is expected that the committee will play a critical role in the process of amalgamation.

The restructuring of the two utility companies was agreed in Parliament in 1998 based on a report by the consultant company Coopers and Lybrand.

It is believed that a merger will lead to a more cost effective and efficient service.

First Session of 2000 For Island Legislators

The Legislative Council will hold its first meeting for 2000 on Thursday February 10^th.

Five bills will be given their first readings.

These are the Elections Amendment Act 2000, the Firearms Amendment Act 2000, the Penal Code Amendment Act 1999, the Land Acquisition Act 1999 and the Crown Title Amendment Act 2000.

The Crown Title Amendment Act is expected to be debated by Members and passed on Thursday.

The following bills are also expected to be passed: the Trademarks Act, the Proceeds of Crime Act and the Acquisition of Property Act.

The Department of Community Services is making an effort to educate the general public about the range of services it offers.

The department has published a leaflet entitled "Community Services – working to enhance the lives of the Montserrat community."

Among the issues highlighted in the leaflet are the social welfare review, abuse --which includes, child, sexual, domestic and drug and alcohol abuse -- and working with the elderly.

The University Center says it is preparing to publish a new book entitled "Montserrat in the Twentieth Century: Trials and Triumphs."

The book, which promises to be a collector’s item, will highlight Montserratian achievements and achievers of the century.

It will also focus on the tribulations of the island.

To help finance the publication of the book, the University Center is seeking donations.

It is therefore issuing an appeal to sponsors, who can be individuals, businesses or co-operate bodies.

The names of all sponsors will be listed in the book.

Sponsors will also get a free copy and the proceeds will be donated to a Montserrat charity or voluntary organization.

The Port Facilities at Little Bay are under another review.

Allen Duncan, representing Mouchel Consulting Company, visited the island last week.

He is trying to develop a concept for improving the facilities at the Port Authority, which were built temporarily in 1995.

Mr. Duncan held meetings with key stakeholders, including the Minister of Communication and Works Rupert Weekes and Manager of the Montserrat Port Authority Roosevelt Jemmotte.

It is expected that the next course of action is the drawing up of priorities and preparations for construction work to begin.

According to reports, proposals for the development of the Port include an extended jetty, a container parking area, a passenger terminal, and a Mechanic Workshop.

Mouchel is a Commercial Consulting company based in the UK, engaged by the British Government and funded by DFID.

Dr. Erica Gibbs, a well-known gynecologist and obstetrician,.

has been appointed a temporary resident gynecologist by the Ministry of Health.

According to Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gordon Avery, Dr. Gibbs, who retired from the profession several years ago, is seeing patients once per week.

The Chief Medical Officer says there are plans to appoint a full-time gynecologist in a few months.

Montserratians relocated to various Caribbean islands continue to receive assistance from the British Government under the TAMEC programme.

The Targeted Assistance for Montserratian Evacuees in the Eastern Caribbean was established in 1998 in support of the many Montserratians who moved to neighbouring islands to escape the volcanic crisis.

Regional Co-ordinator Anthony Liverpool says its main aim is to assist Montserratians to integrate in their new communities, mainly through a community empowerment programme.

This includes paying special attention to the elderly and the vulnerable.

Speaking to ZJB News Mr. Liverpool says the biggest challenges so far are helping Montserratians gain employment and housing.

The Government is looking at the possibility of privatizing some aspects of its plant and equipment operations at the Department of Public Works.

The Honourable Minister of Communications and Works Rupert Weekes says the British Government is paying for a consultant who is here to assess plant and equipment operations.

The consultant is Mr. Phillip Warren of Rowton International, a United Kingdom-based company.

Minister Weekes says the consultancy is being carried out with the view of giving the private sector a greater role in the provision of equipment.

Minister Weekes says the consultant will also conduct an assessment of all inoperable plant and equipment owned by the Department of Public Works.

Ministry of Communications and Works Mr. Alric Taylor

Ministry of Education, Health, Department of Administration

Community Services & Labour

Montserrat Electricity Services A&F Service Centre

Montserrat Water Authority Toney Maloney

Staff of Radio Montserrat Hillview Home

Montserrat Aviation Services (MAS) Golden Years Home

Montserrat Port Authority Earl Sullivan

Emerald Community Singers Cavalla Hill Methodist Church

Emmanuel Apostolic Singers St. Peter’s Anglican Church

St. Augustine Primary School John Ryan

Herman Francis and the Recorder Group Alphus Duberry

Mrs. Mary Cooper Emergency Department

Carlton O’Garro Petronella Frith

Bank of Montserrat Ltd. Justin Cassell

Norman Ryan Malton Burns

Johnnie Mecca Fashions Virginia Carlos

Montserrat Stationary Centre Teresina Bodkin

Tropical mansion Suites Kenroy Allen

Glasford & Glestelle James Julian Romeo

The Health Chorale Wilford & Idabelle Meade

Sonia Smith John Lee

Bernadette Irish Members of Storm Int’l

Andre’ West Kelvin "Tabu" Duberry

Lookout Community Group Kenzie Johnson

Kenneth Lee Joseph "Pops" Morris

Edward Laurent Roderick Murraine

The Christopher Sisters Randy Greenaway

Pat Ryan McCloyd Roache

Dr. Vernon Buffonge Dome Growth Masquerades

Brades primary School Troupes and Groups in the Parade

Pacesetters Sports Club George Skerritt

Antigua Dance Academy Stage Lights Ltd.

The Point and Villa Iron Band Antigua’s Mas Revellers

Silk Dust Mas Group Vitus Cultural Performers

Flex Cheerleaders Desroy Maile

Roger Roberts Adelaide Lake

My passport describes me as a British Dependents Territories Citizen, but inside is an additional stamp which states "Holder is Entitled to Readmission to the United Kingdom".

My frequent travels between Barbados and Montserrat provide eight to 10 large immigration stamps each month, so the pages are running out and soon I will have to apply for a new passport. Perhaps the new one will describe me as a British Overseas Territory Citizen, with right of abode in the UK. But why not just 'British Citizen,' since all British Citizens have right of abode and work in any British territory?

The British Government has complied with the demands of the United Nation Decolonisation Committee, which directed that there should be no colonies by the year 2000, however the people of Caribbean B.O.Ts, other than Bermuda, were not given a choice.

One may argue that the omission of a referendum on the issue of independence at a general election makes the current constitutional status null and void unless it is ratified by the current or the next Legislative Council. In short a referendum on independence should be held at the next general election, and the people of Montserrat made fully aware of the consequences of their choice.

The Caribbean B.O.Ts, especially Montserrat, may become the New Jewels of the Empire. If predictions on global climate changes over the next 100 years come true, the tropical location and the mountainous ranges of our paradise will realise it's true price. The once barren desolate northern bluffs of Montserrat have been revitalised by the new volcanic ash topsoil and are beginning to take on the verdant fertile features of the rest of the island. This, the only part of Montserrat that no more receives any ash falls and is totally out of reach and free of any danger from the volcano, is now valued at 30¢ per square foot but is destined to command over $10 per square foot some time in the future.

This area is waiting for developments, which may incorporate 10,000 family units -- escapees from the hostile colder northern parts of our planet, Montserrat nationals in the USA, Canada and Europe, who wish to keep a stake of their tropical paradise.

So what makes Montserrat such a special B.O.T.? The volcano, of course; not for its beauty or spectacle, but for what it did before.

It created the plains that provided the best location for the Blackburne/William Bramble Airport. The recent volcanic flows have filled the ghauts, and removed the residential areas of Spanish Point, Trants, Farms and Bethel, and now present a relatively isolated area, ideal for a military base - the Caribbean equivalent of Ascension Island, a base half way between the North and South Poles for NATO governments to use without landing fees or local restrictions.

Langs Soufriere Volcano, just as it has in the past, will go back to sleep and its slopes become once again green. It is this potential as a Caribbean aviation platform in the long term which may be driving the persistence with the preparations in that area, despite the threatening dome. We should welcome this as this would allow the repopulation of houses at Richmond Hill, Foxes Bay, Weekes and Cork Hill in 30 - 40 years time, but there is no reason why such a development cannot co-exist with an airport at Thatch Valley. In the short term, it is mandatory for us to get a landing strip at Geralds for fixed wing aircraft, roads and utilities into the northern area, an all weather seaport, a Montserrat Hilton Hotel in place of the Good Life.

These are needed for the immediate development of our economy and existence.

And what about the ratbats? They can keep the caves on the chiff sides. Just like those occupying the powder magazines on St. George's Hill, they will be there long after you and I are long gone.

These is no future without dreams but every now and then one must wake up and share those dreams so that our leaders and brothers can be enlightened.

Look out for the next issue of MAM which will discuss the myth "Money Cannot buy Love.''

Man from Baker Hill

Taxation, plus Politicians and Government, minus what is good for the People, equals power. Power used only by Politicians!

While trying to disentangle the important relationship among Politicians, Government and taxation, I stumbled on that strange equation.

Seriously though, it is essential that early and clearly in this series on taxation I show the direct relationship between Politicians and Taxation, and the role the functions of governments play in that relationship.

The key player in all this is the Politician. As a consequence he must be aware of his environment, he must be knowledgeable about the functions of Government, and he must be realistic about what can be achieved through taxation. I will attempt through this article to show the weaving of the relationship among the players.

First I begin with the Politicians, who by nature are motivated by power. They want to exercise power and control over people and Country. Do not be fooled otherwise. They seek political office in order to control the resources of a country. And they use the power of Government to manipulate the system of tax laws for good and bad, but usually for selfish purposes.

To achieve the goals of power and control they preach that they want to enhance the quality of human life, both social and economic. They preach that they want to deploy or use public resources to maintain the survival of the nation. They will promise to reduce taxes...and, of course, say no new taxes. But in reality, they only want to be elected into Government. Ultimately they promise to carry out the functions of government to everybody’s satisfaction.

Now let us look at the second part of the relationship, the Government, specifically the function of Government.

The function of Government is to guide or facilitate the social and economic development of a country for the benefit of the residents. This function can be further broken down into the self-preservation function, the allocating function, the distributive function and the stabilization function.

To simplify, I will restate these functions as follows:

To create and maintain an environment where the residents of the community can be assured of peaceful survival and the preservation of customs.

To decide where, on what, on whom, or how the resources of the country will be allocated; and to allocate the resources as fairly as possible to all residents.

To implement and manage systems to benefit the sick, the old, and the children.

To use systems of distribution as means of exterminating hardships and enhancing overall social welfare.

To stabilize the economic environment, assuring to the enterprising full employment, optimum commercial activity and the hope of self-realization.

I trust that you are beginning to see the connection, the relationship. Yes, the functions of Government can only be carried out through the power vested in politicians and with the cooperation of the residents of the country. This is because it requires money to carry out the functions.

Now, we shall look at the final part of the relationship, Taxation! Money!

Politicians, controlling the power of Government with the cooperation of the residents, can determine how they will get money to maintain the functions of Government. They can obtain the money by raiding the neighbouring countries and stealing their wealth. They can obtain the money by borrowing and begging from other countries. Or they can establish a system of tax laws so that the residents contribute to the social and economic development of the country.

On Montserrat our politicians have always opted to use a system of tax laws to finance (Government) the functions of Government. In other words Politicians must maintain tax laws in order to properly govern a country and to provide services promised to residents.

I hope I didn’t lose you but I trust that you were able to see the relationship between the Politicians, Government and Taxation.

Again this is more than a mouthful – I will pause here. Still I must leave you something to chew on.

Did you know that a Montserratian contributing to the Social Security Fund must work and contribute 40 years up to the year 2026 before he can earn a pension of less than $1,600 a month; while the average politician minister of Government only has to work for six years, contribute nothing, yet earn a pension of over $5,000 a month?

Did you know that the laws regulating both pensions were passed by our politicians around 1985? And did you know that in the 1990s our politicians manipulated the system of tax laws to make sure they pay no taxes on their monthly income?

Yes, Taxation plus Government and Politicians, minus what is good for the people, equals Power. Power and money for politicians only.

A practice has been put into operation by the Antigua Customs authorities that has me most worried for Montserratians leaving Antigua by the Ferry Service.

We are either being discriminated against for travelling by Ferry, unwelcome for putting approximately $35K - $60K per month into the Antiguan economy, or are being duped by the Officers at Heritage Quay.

As a Montserratian going to Antigua for Day Shopping or being in transit and after legitimately paying for the goods without seeking any Duty Free Concessions you are told on checking in that you must receive an Export Warrant for the goods.

You are made to pay the Customs Officer for this so-called Export Warrant but receive No Receipt to "export goods" on which you claimed no rebate and in 99.9 percent of the cases are not made in Antigua.

Why do ferry travelers need to pay, or obtain this Export Warrant?

The practice in the vast majority of cases for airline travelers was that if you went to Antigua by helicopter, LIAT or whichever for a day's shopping, no one questioned you as to the contents of your luggage at Vere Bird International or asked for any Export Warrant charges. Very different.

Perhaps the Minister of Trade, or perhaps Finance, can offer some insights into the different approach taken as it applies specifically to Montserratians.

It must be a policy specific to Montserratians for I have not heard nor seen any such treatment given to the cruise ship passengers using the same berthing facilities which the ferry uses. What they buy is usually smaller, if they do buy anything. No worry about their declaring to Customs.

Can you imagine the mud on the officer's face who dared to mete out to a single cruise ship passenger the treatment he delves out to the Montserratian? He would be out of Customs before the report is made!

We travel all over the world, as Antiguans do, and some of us use ferry services in the BVI / USVI so we know something about Customs Regulations and Practices. But what happens at Heritage Quay leaves me perplexed.

Why do I need an Export Warrant for a child's bicycle, chicken, canned goods, housewares, flour (a bag), paper / plastic plates, cups when I am not seeking a refund of duty because I am using the ferry? Much worse or confusing is when the item/s are of my luggage cleared with Customs at Vere Bird Airport.

There was once a complaint that passengers were posing as Montserrat-bound and were importing into Antigua, evading Customs Duties. That, however, is very different to the situation where you bought duty paid goods without seeking a duty rebate.

If the Customs Authorities are not at fault then the "Agent" in Antigua needs to be scrutinised. Is it that the ferry agent in Antigua is against shoppers' making use of the ferry's carrying capacity, where special fares have been provided expressly for the purpose? We need to get to the bottom of this.

It is either that or we go to St. Kitts or Nevis to shop where the absurd Export Warrant is not a necessity for Day / Weekend Shoppers putting money into their economy or whoever is behind the practice. Give Montserratians the full benefit of the ferry service being paid for out of the £120 million allocated for our redevelopment.

The nonsense must stop. Our local authorities need to investigate and inform us on the alternatives. Mr Minister of Trade do look into this one. You should know your counterpart, having fuelled their development over a good period of years.

THIS WEEK WITH THE NURSES

TOPIC: ARTHRITIS

There are two types of arthritis

(1) Rheumatoid and

(2) Osteo arthritis

Osteo arthritis is a degenerative joint disease and is the most common type of connective tissue disease. It ranks as the most frequent articular disorder in the elderly. As many as 80% are believed to have some form of osteo arthritis but 29% of the 80% may be asymptomatic that is they have no symptoms.

The disease is often referred to as wear and tear process. In this condition it is the joints in our body which are affected. A joint is a area where two or more bones meet. There is a substance known as the articular cartilage which cover the bone end of a joint and provides a smooth resilient surface. For movement (if this was not present we would

have the bones rubbing against each other). This cartilage has no vascular (blood) supply therefore no new growth can be formed so when it is damaged it cannot be repaired and this causes changes in the bony structure of the joints.

Predisposing Factor or Causes

(1) Aging: occurs mainly in the middle-aged elderly.

(2) Trauma (injury) where there is mild or continuous irritation.

(3) Obesity - this places unnatural strain on joints.

(4) Excessive joint use and strenuous physical labour.

Patient presents with

(1) Pain to affected area which is relieved by rest

(2) Stiffness in affected joint which is mostly common in the morning after awakening

and usually last less than 30 minutes

(3) Functional impairment due to limited joint motion or inability to use joint fully.

(4) There may be joint crepitus or cracking of sound when the joints rub against each

other.

(5) Nodular bony enlargement that grows on distal joint of some or all of the fingers

(looks like lumps).

(6) Although osteoarthritis occurs most often in weight bearing joints eg knee, hip,

finger joints are frequently involved.

This is made by physical examination of the musculosketal system, which will show

tenderness and enlargement of the joints. If an x-ray is done it can show malformation of

the affected joint. Laboratory tests (blood) are not useful in diagnosing this disorder.

The objective of management of this condition is to :-

(i) To relieve discomfort

(2) To protect joints from undue strain and stress.

Medical management: This focuses on treating the symptoms, because there is no treatment available that slows the degenerative joint disease process. Therefore for pain, analgesic is given eg: Paracetamols. Anti inflammatory agent eg Ibuprofen is given when synovial inflammation is present with redness, swelling or warmth of the joint. To relieve stress and strain on the affected joints one can: rest by lying flat on the back. Resting the affected joint is necessary since excessive use aggravates or worsens the symptoms and increases the degeneration process. Splints, braces and clinical collar could be used if necessary. Crutches, braces or cane when indicated may be used to reduce weight bearing strain on hips and knees. In some cases heat relieves pain, muscle spasm and stiffness. If hot application is not effective then cold compresses could be used. Avoid activities that can cause precipitate pain.

Other management

I. Exercise to correct poor posture

2. Wearing of corrective shoes and supportive stockings for foot disorder. This also helps in arthritis of knee.

3. Exercise aimed at reducing weight, if obese. This done under nursing and medical supervision helps to decrease

stress on weight bearing joints.

4. Stop excessive weight bearing activities such as standing for prolonged periods, or if not necessary, avoid undue stair climbing, lifting, carrying heavy loads and engaging in excessive rigorous over head reaching activities eg do not try to reach things at a height over your head.

In some cases where pain is unbearable and the above measures are ineffective, surgery is recommended.

After working some years in the private sector in Guyana. Mrs Witter entered the Georgetown Hospital School of Nursing in 1977, graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1980 and as a Registered Midwife in 1983. She worked for a number of years on the Surgical Female Ward then transferred to the Obstetric Ward where she perfected her skills as a Midwife which was her main interest. In 1988 she completed a course in Basic Ward Management which was held at Georgetown Hospital in collaboration with University of Guyana. In June 1989 she migrated to Montserrat and was assigned to the main operating Theatre and Casualty where she was tutored by Sister Viola Harley and Sister Elvina Ryan in operating theatre technique. Mrs Witter expresses special thanks to Mrs Rosemary Cassell an Ms Ineita Fenton for their invaluable help through out the years, which has now enabled her to be incharge of Main Operating Theatre an Casualty currently. Mrs Witter also completed a Uwidite Course in Sexually Transmitted diseases/HIV/AIDS in 1996 and has also had the privilege of attending many workshop and seminars to keep updated in modern trends in nursing. Mrs Witter extends her heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all who has supported her during her ten (10) years in Montserrat.

That little stamp your passport lacks

Means Inland Revenue has an axe

To cut into chips

Your overseas trips,

Until you've paid your income tax.

Montserratians report

How Antiguans extort;

What you've bought in a store

Now costs a bit more

For the right to 'export.'

Just Wonderin why Montserratians are so enthusiastic about employing non-Nationals.

Just Wonderin when the Food Voucher will finally cease.

Just wonderin how many more of our pregnant women will suffer at the Hospital.

Just Wonderin why every month a light bill come out it is getting higher and higher ever time.

Just wonderin why all of a sudden, they are letting so many people in to the danger zone to retrieve stuff.

Just Wonderin why some SCHOOL CHILDREN are seen after hour on the road. Should they have a CURFEW?

Just Wonderin if the number one DRUG STONE on Montserrat is Charging Customs to have a look at what's in side.

Just wonderin when the new building will open next to BBC.

Just wonderin what is the problem at lookout why residents are complaining about the horrible stench come from the septic tank.

Just wonderin since the north is soon be coming so densely populated. And many people are bring in so much transport, if people will be soon walking and hair start fall from their heads

Jus wonderin who the ex-minister is who wanted to be the first black president of the United States of America.

Jus wonderin who is finding it so difficult to find or approve $10,000 to ensure that there is a dust-free environment when dealing in the delicate health situation of our sisters and brother's lives.

Jus wonderin if the soft mortgage scheme paper was ever laid before parliament as was stated in the Government House Release since "Friday, 17 December - The House will not be sitting," according to FORTHCOMING BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS 13 - 17 DECEMBER 1999 issued prior to that date.