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Consultants Say Winds Still Blow Toward Geralds

By B Roach & Helena Durand

Halcrow Consultancy Team

Bill Milton, team leader of Halcrow, the British consultant firm contracted to design the temporary airstrip at Geralds, told members of the public at a meeting Wednesday night, that wind data for Geralds are promising. 

“The cross winds and tail winds data that we have for Gerald’s is extremely good," he said. "It exceeds the licensing authority’s minimum requirements for the usability of that runway. It is also far better than the usability of the runway at W.H. Bramble or Blackburn Airport. It is far superior in terms of usability to some of the other options, which were considered and analyzed by other consultants. It is almost the ideal alignment in terms of usability for an airport at this time.”

He said that being the case, he has “every confidence that in terms of normal wind analysis, that everything that could be done has been done short of setting up an anemometer for the next 30 years on that site and then making a decision…. 

"We have every confidence that the crosswind factors fully satisfy requirements for utilization. On the point about turbulence, this is a completely different issue; it is unreasonable to suggest that the firm isn’t competent to do this work. We have actually subcontracted the wind modeling work to experts recommended to us by the UK Civil Aviation Authority, and they will be on the site taking the turbulence studies completely independently from Halcrow, and those results will be available to the government of Montserrat to analyze.”

The British Government and the European Union have allocated $41 million for the construction of the runway, and in March when all the studies are completed, a final decision would be made.

During the ensuing discussion from questions and answers, the consultants stated that it will not be known until the end of March whether or not an airport meeting international certification standards will be constructed. They further suggested very strongly that there is a possibility that given all the considerations, and that their design must fit a budget of just over $41million, there could be circumstances "that push the project beyond the limit of affordability," meaning we may not see an airport at Geralds.

Dr. Lowell Lewis, Minister of Communications and Public Works said after the forum: "The consultants clearly stated that they may not be able to fulfill their Terms of Reference which require them to provide an airport with an 'international licence.' We may not have a project at the end of March and it would be irresponsible for this Government and people, and DFID not to request that Halcrow's Terms of Reference be changed for the wind studies and flight performance tests to be also done at Blakes, which has been identified as the preferred site by the experts for a permanent airport.

"The Football Association and FIFA have privately indicated that if study results indicated the temporary airport cannot be built at Geralds Park, they will be happy to re-locate their football facilities there, so that an airport can be built at Blakes."

The Minister then commented: "It will be unfortunate for the people of Montserrat to miss this opportunity of an option and I will be asking my political colleagues and DFID to support a change in the Terms of Reference as suggested above."

Stephen Young, an Engineer for the Department for International Development (DFID) supporting the consultants, said that the decision on Geralds would be based on safety.

“The objective that we have set Halcrow essentially is to come to an operation for a Twin Otter aircraft that is completely safe. I think we have tried to go over that ground and say we can’t have an operation that isn’t safe, because it won’t be licensed, but a fully licensed, safe operation there. Now that may mean looking at different runway lengths, and indeed it will, and part of their work is to, if you like, get as much as possible out of the budget that’s set. So, we will be looking at trying to ensure that we can get the maximum possible runway length out of the money we have available. And that’s been part of the work that’s been going on.”

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Communications and Works Alric Taylor said the airstrip would provide economic and investment opportunities for the island, but he also said the government is mindful of the concerns about safety.

“There have been several schools of thought, which posit that an airstrip at Gerald’s is not safe, and neither would it offer opportunities for expansion in the future," he said. "Alternate sites have been identified by interested parties, but the view of the experts is that these alternatives do not satisfy the requirements, or they could cause considerable disruption to wider sections of the public if they were to be implemented at this time. It is my understanding that contrary to the views that abound on operational safety of an airstrip at Geralds, there are other airports in the region where conditions are worse than those at Geralds and the records reveal few if any accidents. However, this is not to underestimate the need to ensure that the operation of an airstrip at Geralds is safe."

The forum was part of a public education strategy to inform the public on the proposed airstrip at Geralds. 

Private Companies Propose Cheaper Power, New Houses

By Helena Durand

Two Caribbean-based companies last week made what appear to be timely offers to the Government and people of Montserrat.

The companies, Caribbean Power Ltd. and the Caribbean Housing Development Company Ltd., made presentations to the Government and private sector officials last Tuesday at the Vue Pointe Hotel.

Kerry McDonald and Ewaldo Fred Dupay

Caribbean Power offered to build a 4-megawatt modern electrical power plant at no cost to MONLEC and to power the plant for less than it costs MONLEC to generate its own electricity.

Caribbean Housing Development proposed to build low-cost houses, using a steel frame, curtain wall system covered with concrete, one of which can be constructed in a month or less.

Masters of Ceremony at the presentation, MP Claude Hogan, welcomed the representatives of Coast Investors (which owns 50 percent of each company), noting that at last year’s Country Policy Plan discussions, presentations were made to the island’s British benefactors regarding financing of a “proper generation plant for Montserrat because we have temporary containerized facilities at Brades.”

He lamented Britain's lack of interest in spending the “tremendous amount of money” required to provide for the power generation.

Mr. Hogan said Caribbean Power Ltd. may offer the opportunity needed for management and staff of MONLEC and the Union to “consider whether this might serve our purpose for acquiring soft loan financing, or whether it is an alternative to getting into a new business deal which allows us to acquire the generating plant, and transmission system that we need at this time under very soft conditions.”

Minister for Communication and Works Lowell Lewis told the representatives he hoped that their presentation would mark the beginning of a mutually beneficial relationship.

He noted, however, that for “every genuine investor, there will be many others who are only prepared to exploit our very vulnerable situation.”

He attributed the island’s vulnerability to the magnitude of the loss suffered since the volcanic crisis in 1995.

“Our tiny country” he said, “has suffered a loss of several billions of East Caribbean dollars. We have received emergency assistance from many countries and in particular from the Government of the United Kingdom. We are extremely grateful to our benefactors, but the expenditures to date are minuscule in comparison with the magnitude of the devastation. … Local Government and private resources will not be adequate. We will need to invite external investors such as Caribbean Housing who are prepared to support our efforts and in return receive a reasonable return on their investment.”

Bennette Roach, Editor of the Montserrat Reporter, asked from the floor how the companies came to choose Montserrat and why they had not come with these offers as early as 1998; when the construction company Brown & Root was thrust upon Montserratians, building houses which are now almost inhabitable.

Mr. Roach later also suggested that it might be a good idea to pursue a US$10-million investment from the investors' principals to augment the construction of a better and more permanent airport alongside the money being supplied by the British Government and the European Union.  

Governor and Government ministers at presentation

To the first question, Mr. Cary McDonald of Coast Investors said he was in Ecuador building a power plant at the time. He said the companies chose Montserrat because they were looking for investment opportunities in housing in the Caribbean and were pointed towards Montserrat. While on the island and in talking with Government and other officials, he said, they learnt of the island’s great need for more dependable, and cheaper electrical supply.

Mr. Roach's airport investment suggestion drew a chorus of: "the British will not guarantee such an investment" and "who is going to guarantee?" 

EDITORIAL

"Should We Realistically Expect More People To Come if We Make it Even More Difficult?"

We seem to getting ever closer to the brink of no return. Even the rosiest optimists are privately expressing despair. What that says, however, is that there are a few, in the right places at least, though still very much in the minority, who are beginning to experience reality.

When the NPLM government took over the reigns of power, or perhaps we should say leadership, they promised us the kind of change that would bring prosperity. That supposedly was to see a significant change in the economy, and in the way things were done in Montserrat.

We have seen a change in the economy, and we have seen hardships and problems increase. We have heard admission that some plans will not be attainable within the time boasted in the election campaign. We have not seen political promises kept, which is in many ways part of the retrogression that is being experienced.

So it is boasted that we have more autonomy now. That boast is not shared by those who must deal with the issues on a daily basis. Autonomy to spend substantially reduced aid which puts onerous requirements on people must be explained before the population dwindles to the point where even projects already approved and still waiting to be implemented may be put on hold.

The airport is to be built to ease the huge transportation bill of the ferry and the helicopter. Yet in the meantime we still have to find ways to reduce that bill, on top of which we learn that we have to find money to complement the airport project.

Very soon new ferry and helicopter fares will be announced. More and more people are becoming wary of using the ferry as their means of transport. A more comfortable or a better ferry is probably not available, yet many visitors while enjoying the ride in, dread their outgoing trip on the ferry.

Let us warn the architects of new fares that realistic charges to the travelers may mean less revenue, as there is a limit to what people will be prepared to pay for travel into and out of Montserrat. It will mean a significant reduction for visitors and Montserratians will be left with no choice but to travel only when they absolutely have to, and that trip may well be the last one out of Montserrat.

Everyone agrees that some measure of tourism is necessary for this island's economy. Any fare that equals EC$400 (US$150) will be a complete turn off to any traveler. An increase should be expected, but the government better be prepared for the serious consequences if all the pros and cons are not taken into consideration.

At the same time, they have to eliminate the uncertainty for air travelers now. Will there or won't there be a helicopter? Travelers seeking to book in March or thereafter can't afford to wait and they don't deserve to be forced to wait.  If hoodwinking and being hoodwinked continue, we will be doomed faster than can be anticipated.

The airport consultation or forum, whichever it was, may be considered successful on two points. Montserratians can or should have no doubts now that any airstrip at Geralds Park will be one that offers the standards of safety possible. If that was the aim of bringing Halcrow to the people, they did a good job. But in so doing, Halcrow also made it clear that they may have to bring the entire project to a halt, as it may be discovered that the project is "unaffordable." Back to the people of Montserrat and the British Government, a thought expressed by both the Halcrow experts and DFID on Wednesday night.

If the estimate of 60,000 plus travelers using the airport in the first year is accurate (providing Montserratians can stick it out till the year 2004 which will require some honesty and decency), $10-$15 per person with no increase will bring $13.5 million in 15 years. And according to the experts, in six years that 60,000 figure would increase to 80,000. Anyone can work out the change in the figure of $13.5 million from six to 15 years can see an increase for nine years of $2.7 million. Economists can advise us on these thoughts.

Will all this be possible if the problem of whether an airport at Geralds Park can accommodate Twin Otters is not assured from the word go? Why not take the honourable Minister's suggestion and ensure that we are forward-thinking people seriously interested in the success and progress of Montserrat's development? And why not seek the financing needed to give us the adequate and guaranteed length runway to guarantee success 10 to 15 years down the road? Obviously the way to guarantee the arrival of investors and tourists is to make Montserrat as accessible as possible. And how about what it takes to bring back home those longing so to do? 

Except for the editorial, opinion articles expressed in these pages are not necessarily those of the Montserrat Reporter editors, employees or advisers.  Readers are encouraged to submit commentary articles.  All viewpoints, unless libelous, in poor taste, or anonymous, are welcome.  Send your contributions to The Editor, P.O. Box 306, Olveston, Montserrat, W. I., e-mail: editor@montserratreporter.org or monrep@candw.ag.  Manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by a return stamped envelope.  The Montserrat Reporter is a privately owned independent newspaper.

Jus Wonderin items may be called in at telephone 491-4715 or Fax 491-2430 

SCRIPTURE VERSE THIS WEEK

No Need To Pretend With God

My journeys and my rest you scrutinize, with all my ways you are familiar.

Psalm 139:3 

Because God made us, it seems natural that our prayer relationship with God be intimate and homey.

Yet is that the case? Our prayers can often be like a visit with an acquaintance who isn’t very close. We let the visitor into our parlor, but keep the drapes drawn to hide any dust on the furniture, and we’d never dream of taking the visitor through the house where the beds probably aren’t made, the carpet is dirty, and our desktop littered with clutter.

Our relationship with God demands more. God is not a surface acquaintance. God lives in my house, in my heart. God knows all that goes on there. There is no need to pretend with God. Rather, in faith I can look to God with a trusting smile and say, “You know it all. How glad I am that you do. Help me clean up this mess.”

I can open the drapes and let the sunshine of God’s sweet intimacy flood my heart.

St. Augustine experienced this change in his life. He spent many years looking for God all about him, but it was in his own heart that he finally found God.

And, in finding God, all else fell into place.

May the same be true of us all. 

Sr. Mary Terese Donze, A. S. C.

1 Thessalonians 2:1-8; Psalm 136:1-6; Matthew 23:23-26 

LETTERS  TO THE EDITOR

Another Former Student Hails MBE for Miss Allen

Dear Editor,

As a former student of Miss Sarah Allen I would like to congratulate her on achieving this award.

She really deserved it. She was a really good teacher.

Glynis White

MariellaG19@aol.com 

Web Site Reader Vows To Become a Regular

I am a fellow Montserration writing from London England.

I am very impressed with the web site, and will be logging on regularly from now on. I would like to say  hello to Mrs Edwards at the Catholic School, and my uncle Derick Watts

I think he's living in Brades.

eliston_w@hotmail.com

THANK YOU VERY MUCH 

Corporal in Germany Seeks Island Response

Dear Editor,

I find you web site extremely well kept and informative.

I am currently serving in the British Forces in Germany and revising for a project concerning Montserrat and the British Forces' involvement in helping the people of Montserrat with disaster prevention. I would be most grateful if you could send me any information on any help that the British Forces (Naval or Army) have given your Island since the volcano erupted. I know the Navy helped evacuate islanders, but was any help received in rebuilding?

Also I would appreciate any current information you have on the state of the Volcano as I cannot locate any updated information anywhere.

Your help in this matter is greatly appreciated and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Residents of Isles Bay Hill Begin To Count Their Blessings at Last

By S. Simpson

When my husband and I moved into our Isles Bay Hill home in late 1999 our lifestyle changed in ways we hadn't begun to imagine. Among other difficulties, we had to learn how to live with a generator supplying limited electricity. In order to operate appliances we first had to confer about which to use, because they were generally mutually exclusive, that is, if we ran one we usually couldn't operate another at the same time. Life was fraught with decision-making. We re-learned the art of conversing with each other as we relaxed at the end of each physically (and mentally) challenging day. Although we lived in a lovely villa in a formerly beautiful setting, it was hard to get past the fact that nothing worked and nothing was likely to be fixed without the use of power tools, which, of course, could rarely be operated without generated electricity. They, of course, couldn't be utilized because something else was using power in another location on the property. One, perforce, had to learn patience, something this writer has never possessed in large supply.

Guests from another country visited in order to experience life in our island paradise and left wondering aloud how we could live in such abominable conditions, e.g., no road (none at all!) in or out, no electricity, no hot water for showers or anything else (those days were before installation of solar panels), no television, no modern conveniences of any kind. If I were told I had to live through those grim days again, I'm not sure what my response would be. Once was enough.

We continued in this manner for a year and then came the wonderful day when Monlec restored electricity to Isles Bay Hill. The tremendous difference that made in our everyday lives was graphically demonstrated when I burst into tears of gratitude as I listened to Beethoven's Sixth, a favorite CD, while simultaneously stitching on my (electric) sewing machine, obviously an emotional event for me.

It is now my good fortune to have the occasion to thank the management and staff of Cable TV and all who were involved in reconnecting cable across the Belham Valley. We can now watch television in our homes, something most people take for granted. My husband and I no longer converse, desultorily or otherwise, as we unwind at day's end. Instead, we sit like puddings staring at the small screen as CNN or BBC relentlessly repeat the few events they deem newsworthy. When the fascination for this still diverting marvel wears off, we shall, no doubt, once again become selective in our viewing habits.

Directly on the heels of Cable TV's connecting us to the outside world came another miracle: Internet in our very own home on Isles Bay Hill! Wow! Believe me, it's my very great pleasure to thank all the folks at Cable & Wireless (and again, everyone else involved) who not only made such a wonder possible, but who have additionally withstood our whining, sarcasm, pleas and blandishments for more than a year and nevertheless have now produced real telephones with 491 prefixes (we feel we've almost arrived). I cannot adequately explain the sheer pleasure of being able to go online at will; words fail me. Granted, it's slow at the moment, but I have every confidence C&W will speed it up in the very near future and I certainly don't want to seem ungrateful. I mustn't mislead, however; not all Isles Bay residents have been granted these recent luxuries, but I'm told they will soon be available to all residences here. We were one of the lucky households to get new phones and Internet capability and, to be perfectly honest, I admit I'm glad to be one of the chosen few. Now, if we only had a road, a reliable means by which to cross the Belham Valley.

But I mustn't be greedy. Speaking for myself, I couldn't be happier. Electricity, cable television, real telephones, Internet at home -- such luxury, such bliss! Life is indeed good again and it gets better day. 

Correction

A hastily written headline in last  issue of The Reporter wrongly stated that official permission is required to visit the DTEZ.

That did not reflect the content of the news story, which correctly reported that official permission is now required for those few people who qualify for officially escorted visits into the Exclusion Zone -- Plymouth and beyond in the west, and beyond Jack Boy Hill in the east. The Day Time Entry Zone remains open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. except for those days on which the Montserrat Volcano Observatory advises the police otherwise. 

LOCAL and REGIONAL NEWS

21 Graduate From UWI

By Helena Durand

The University of the West Indies (UWI) School of Continuing Studies held a graduation ceremony for 21 of its students last Wednesday at the Brades Pentecostal Church.

In her feature address, Minister of Education Hon Idabelle Meade noted that without UWI, many persons on Montserrat would not have reached their present education level.

“The evidence of the degree of success achieved by this institution is all round us. One has only to look at the people who have benefited from their education provided by this institution. Many hold responsible positions in government offices; private offices and some are in various universities around the world. Without a doubt the University of the West Indies School of Continuing Studies has fostered the growth and development of our country.”

The students who graduated are: Geraldine Octavia Adams, and Lynette Glendora Farrell received a Certificate in Public Administration; Anne Elizabeth Buffonge, Norman Anthony Manley Cassell, Paulette Etheldred Cooper, Cynthia Louisa Dyett, - Certificate in Business Administration; Stephanie A. Tuitt- Diploma in Youth and Development Studies; Caroylyn Berry, James L. Cabey, Madge M. Donoghue, Shiamara Gerald, Sylvina Malone, Beverly Miller, Roxanne O’Garro, Pamela Peters, Alwyn Ponteen, Gwennett Reece, Angella Skerritt, Edris Wade, Christina Weekes, and Leslyn Williams all got a certificate in Management of NGO’s. Mrs Jane Longrigg presented the certificates. 

Credit Union Creates MSS Savings Incentive

By Helena Durand

The St. Patrick’s Credit Union has launched a new initiative in keeping with its plans to launch a series of new programs this year.

One of the new initiatives is CAES; Children Are Enthusiastic Savers, a programme that was launched at the Montserrat Secondary School (MSS) last Wednesday.

Mrs. Rosalind Cassell-Seally, Executive Director of the Credit Union, said this program is similar to the thrift clubs established in the primary schools.

“We want to treat the Secondary School a little different than we treat the primary schools, because these are young adults that we are preparing for the world of work and the world of life” Mrs. Cassell-Seally said.

Six students of form 4A of the MSS have been selected to manage the School Co-operative. They are Kimmora Ward, Kathrina Piper, Antoinette Silcott, Kenya Lee, Jervaine Greenaway, and Lovetta Silcott. Their executive positions on the board of directors have not yet been determined.

Among duties for the management team of students are, recruiting and registering other students; collecting and recording sums received, and handing over the amounts, along with documentation, to a staff member of the St. Patrick's Credit Union.

Students will be paid interest on all savings and will also be given share certificates once they meet or surpass established benchmarks within the academic year.

Student savers, including the management team, will be allowed to borrow up to $1,000, for educational purposes only, after they have saved for nine months and have their parents’ written guarantee and approval.

Principal of the MSS Ms. Kathleen Greenaway said, “There will be benefits, not only financial, but in the development of their people skills; and operating a business, which is within their portfolio as business students. It creates an atmosphere of responsibility and accountability for them.” 

Ferry, Copter Fares New GOM Concern

The Government of Montserrat is currently locked in negotiations with tenders for both the helicopter and ferry operators as new contracts are about to be awarded for travel services to and from the island.

Whatever the outcome, changes are expected in both travel services, following a decision by the British Government to reduce the subsidies from $12 million in 2001, to $7.5 million this year.

Although Government say it is attempting to secure a better deal from the operators, it is considered unlikely that the present cost of traveling on the ferry and helicopter will remain. Reports indicate that the cost of traveling on the ferry could increase to $100 per trip, $25 more than what passengers currently pay. It is also uncertain whether the weekend special rate of $75 will remain in effect.

Fare changes, however, are not unexpected, because consultants from Roughton International were on island in July last year reviewing both the ferry and helicopter services at the request of the Department for International Development (DFID).

They said then that Montserrat was spending too much of British aid funds on those services. 

Workshop Reviewing Government Finances

Workshop Participants

A study of the Government of Montserrat financial system was launched at a Public Finance Workshop held at the Vue Pointe Hotel on Wednesday.

John Skerritt, Financial Secretary and chairman of the workshop, said the systems included government’s revenue and expenditure.

 “It is complex because it is guided by many rules," he said, "some of which are beyond our control and are dictated by agreements that originate beyond our shores. And it is sensitive, because each participant will see it from their own perspective and how it affects them.”

He said he hoped, however, that participants would rise above the level of self-interest, since “the public finance system is larger than all of our individual needs… [and] is key to what Government of Montserrat is trying to achieve in developing the private sector.”

Consultants from Price Waterhouse Coopers

The reason for the review, he said, is that “systems and procedures change with time and it is imperative that we continually make adjustments. If we do not make these adjustments, the systems and procedures become outdated. In a public finance system, this could mean frustration, inability to apply the regulation in the new environment and increased operating costs. In a tax system it could mean loss of business because the transactions cost or rather the costs of doing business on island are too high.”

The study, which is to be conducted over a period of two months, will provide opportunities to participate for those persons who were unable to attend the workshop.

Among persons present at the workshop were His Excellency the Governor Anthony Longrigg, Mrs. Margaret Dyer-Howe, Minister of Agriculture, Lands, Housing and the Environment, Rudolph Dyett, Comptroller of Customs, Pastor Melroy Meade, Senior Customs Officer, and consultants from Price Waterhouse Coopers. 

Constitutional Reviewers Now Include Rev. Daley

His Excellency the Governor has informed Sir Howard Fergus, Chairman of the Constitutional Review Commission, that the Rev. Florence Daley has been included on the list of members of the Commission last week.

This follows some agitation from members of the public and former Chief Minister David Brandt that a woman should have been included originally to represent women’s affairs and concerns on the island.

Only one other change has been noted to the fully established membership list. Barrister-at-Law Mr. Jean Kelsick has replaced his father, Lawyer John Kelsick, on the Commission.

A press release from the University of the West Indies School of Continuing Studies that  Sir Howard met with Peter White, the Overseas Representative, earlier this month and also with other members of the Commission.

Commission members serving with Sir Howard are, Chedmond Browne, Government Representative; the Rev Florence Daley, representing Women; Jean Kelsick, Barrister-at-Law; Fitzroy Martin, Opposition Representative, and Peter White, representing Overseas Montserratians.

The Commission, which was appointed last September, has officially started work and plans to begin with an information programme prior to consultations. Meanwhile, the Commission is writing to strategic individuals and civic organisations to invite their input through letters and memoranda.

The general public is also invited to make written submissions to the Commission. 

Salem Service Honors Keithroy Maynard

Montserrat remembered one of its nationals who perished in the September 11 terrorist attack on the United States of America last Saturday.

The memorial service in St James Anglican Church in Salem for New York Firefighter Keithroy Maynard was attended by a number of prominent figures, including the Governor, Ministers of Government and Sir Howard Fergus. Two fire officers from the New York City Fire Department also attended.

Mr. Maynard was one of two Montserratians known to have died in the September tragedy. The other was Maudlyn White, Army Officer in Chief at the time of her death in the attack on the Pentagon..

Members of Mr. Maynard’s family in New York joined family members and friends on Montserrat for the service.

In his tribute, Chief Fire Officer Marcus Sweeney said Keithroy Maynard had proven himself to be a true friend of the Montserrat Fire and Rescue Services, and that although he was only able to visit the island occasionally, “Whenever he did, he would spend quality time with us. We are saddened by the fact that these visits will be no more… He took a keen interest in the progress of the department and the welfare of our local firefighters. Knowing that we did not have the opportunities in firefighting which he would have gained in New York, he shared his experiences with us and contributed to discussions on safety issues in fire fighting and fire prevention.”

Firefighter Joseph Pruden said he was proud of how much Mr. Maynard was able to achieve in his short stint as a fire fighter and as a member of the Vulcan Society.

“The Society strived on education and that’s one of the things that Keithroy did. We have study groups and we try to help young firefighters to get promoted within the job, and I’m sure that if Keith was still here today, that he would be looking to take this upcoming test and I am sure that he would [have been] successful. Not many people at such a young age can say that they did as much as Keith has done, to accomplish as much as Keith has accomplished, to touch as many lives as Keith has touched… We are so happy that Montserrat, that the Maynard family has allowed such an honorable man to be part of our lives.”

A similar event was held in New York on the 14^th. Mr. Maynard would have celebrated his birthday on Tuesday January 22. 

Sarah Murrain, 100, Honored in London

On 25 January, 2002, Sarah Murrain, commonly known as Sister Lal, celebrated her 100th birthday in London.

HM The Queen sent her a congratulatory telegram, as did Hackney Social Services.

The following day Sister Lal was the guest of honour at the Senior Citizens' dinner organized by MOPPA in north London, where she received a bouquet of flowers and a celebratory birthday cake.

She was accompanied by her daughters, Christiana Carty (known as Miss Barba) and Rose Daniel, by her eldest granddaughter Anesta Farrell, and by numerous other family members including her brother Philip Dyer and two sisters, Lillian Ambrose and Teacher Josie Ryan.

Sister Lal was born in Luther, Bethel, on 25 January, 1902, and lived in Tuitts all her life until forced out by the volcano. For a time she was in a shelter at Cavalla Hill. Now she is living with her family in London.

Congratulations to the centenarian. 

Marijuana Seized, Cultivation Charged

Dexter Lewis was arrested and more than 900 marijuana plants were seized last weekend in a Royal Montserrat Police Force operation in New Windward.

Mr. Lewis appeared before the Magistrate court on Monday on a charge of Cultivation.

He pleaded not guilty and was released on $4,000 bail.

His next court appearance is set for February 11. 

New High Court Judge Appointed for Montserrat, Anguilla

Madam Justice Ola Mae Edwards, Anguilla's new High Court Judge, says she is looking forward to the challenges which her elevation to the bench will bring as it relates to the administration of justice in this jurisdiction and in Montserrat.
Her Lordship made the comment in an exclusive interview with Radio Anguilla GIS.
"I am aware that this jurisdiction does not present with any serious crime rate so the criminal matters will not be many," she noted.
Justice Edwards said she was aware that some civil matters present weighty and interesting legal issues, which will test the sharpness of any legal mind. She said she is prepared for these challenges and looks forward to resolving the various legal issues, particularly those dealing with the constitution.
The High Court Judge was called to the Bar in her homeland Jamaica in 1983. She worked as a Crown Counsel in the Director of Public Prosecutions Office there until 1985, when she went into private practice for some eight years.
Justice Edwards took up an appointment as Magistrate in Antigua in 1993 for a period of three years.
From 1998 to 2001 she served in the Commonwealth of Dominica as Magistrate and then as Director of Public Prosecutions.
Since her arrival in Antigua this week, Justice Edwards paid courtesy calls on the Deputy Governor, the Attorney General, the Chief Minister and Ministers of Government and the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner of Police.
She took her Oath of Office Wednesday.
Her appointment to Anguilla and Montserrat, with occasional assistance to Nevis, is for a period of three years. 

Financial Services Body Established for Montserrat

The Montserrat Financial Services Commission was established following the recent passing of the Financial Services Commission Act 2001 in December.

It is now in the process of being set up administratively. Its office is to be located in Brades.

A release from the Ministry of Finance states that the main activity of the Commission, formerly undertaken by the Financial Services centre within the Ministry of Finance, will be the licensing and supervision of all financial services, with the exception of domestic banks, which are supervised by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB).

The Commission came about as a recommendation of the KPMG Review of Financial Services Regulations in the Overseas Territories undertaken in 2000, which required that all regulatory bodies of financial services should be independent of government and be financially self-sufficient.

Activities of the Commission include: Supervising financial services activities to ensure that international standards are maintained; Administering the financial services legislation and compliance; Monitoring compliance with anti-money laundering legislation; Monitoring the effectiveness and overview the development of the financial services sector in general; and Providing general advice and information on financial services. 

Mother/Daughter Pageant Planned by Pacesetters

The Pacesetters Sports & Cultural Club will hold the island's first ever Mother/Daughter Easter Pageant at Festival Village on Easter Saturday, March 30.

The event will feature mother and daughter combinations competing in promotional speech, talent and Easter wear. All daughters participating must be between the ages of 7 and 15.

The Pacesetters have reserved the services of Miss Glendena Taylor to organizer the show. Miss Taylor has very wide experience in staging such shows and promises that the Pageant will be a novelty that will provide excellent entertainment for Easter. She is calling on the women and girls on the island to participate.

The Pacesetters see the staging of such a show as an opportunity for participants to help to cement the bonds of their mother/daughter relationships.

Deadline for registration is February 1. 

33 Win Approval For Self-build Aid

Thirty-three persons have been approved to build houses under the Materials Grant Scheme.

Letters of approval have been sent to the successful persons informing them that they have met the criteria for the self-build Phase Two project, to construct one-, two- and three-bedroom homes.

The funds for this aspect of the project were left over from the Soft Mortgage Scheme.

Initially, 120 persons applied for the Materials Grant Scheme houses, but the money was only sufficient for awards to 33 of the applicants, who were selected by a Committee.

The selecting Committee comprises the Manager of the Land Development Authority, the Housing Director, and a representative from the Community Services Department. 

Antiguan Government Opens 5^th Health Clinic

ST. JOHN'S, Antigua -- A brand new health center was opened early this month in Clare Hall by the Lester Bird Administration to serve the health need of the communities, a process that will depend on the genuine participation of the community and surrounding areas.  

The ultra modern facility will have a resident doctor and will offer an Antenatal Clinic; a Postnatal and  Family Planning Clinic (which includes assessment for cervical cancer in the form of a Pap-smear); a Neonatal Clinic; a Child Health Clinic; a Five Year Assessment Clinic; a Psychiatric Clinic, which will be held monthly for patients recovering from mental illness, and a weekly Diabetic and Hypertensive clinic.

Medical personnel at the clinic will also be responsible for the care of the children in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions.

The clinic is one of five which have been built with financial assistance from the British Government, to ease the drain placed on Antigua government by the evacuation and relocation Montserratians following volcanic activity in Montserrat.

The Bird Government had claimed that the arrival of an estimated 3,000 Montserratians to be settled in Antigua was placing severe burdens on their social services.

The ultra modern Clare Hall Clinic. Digital photos by Norman "Gus" Thomas. 

Mitchell Steps Down As OECS Chairman

Outgoing Chairman of the OECS, Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell of Grenada said Wednesday that the pursuit of OECS Economic Union requires unwavering commitment on the part of leaders.

Dr. Mitchell made the comment at the opening ceremony of the 35^th Meeting of the OECS Authority at the Malliouhana Hotel in Anguilla.

"The process of Economic Union requires technical studies with respect to free trade and the free movement of goods, services and capital, as well as some coordination of our social policies," Dr. Mitchell said.

"Global realities dictate that we act decisively and without unnecessary delays. As we seek to improve the living standards for our people through better health care, social services, educational and training opportunities . . we need to remind ourselves that our progress depends on our commitment,’ he added.

The Outgoing Chairman said much had happened since May 2000 when he assumed the Chairmanship of the OECS.

Dr. Mitchell is replaced by Dr. Denzil Douglas, Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis. 

British Foreign Office Official Visits Saba

THE BOTTOM, Saba (SGIS) - Lt. Governor Antoine Solagnier and Commissioner Will Johnson on Thursday had lunch with United Kingdom Foreign and Commonwealth Office Second Secretary Desk Officer S.M. Borley.

Ms. Borley told SGIS that she has already spent 10-days in The Hague at the Ministry of Interior Affairs.  Her trip has now taken her to the Dutch Caribbean where she is visiting St. Maarten and Saba.

The objective of her trip is to understand how things work in the Dutch Caribbean in comparison to the British Dependent Territories.

At the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office Ms. Borley is responsible for the Good Government Fund, Law Enforcement Issues, Financial Issues Section, and the Overseas Territories Department.

Left to right: United Kingdom F C O Second Secretary Desk Officer S.M. Borley, and Commissioner Will Johnson.
Photo by Roddy Heyliger  

Caribbean Governments Discuss Rescue of CMC

Chief Minister John Osborne was among CARICOM Information Ministers who attended a one-day meeting in Antigua on Monday to discuss restoring and sustaining the Caribbean Media Corporation (CMC), which has suspended operations due to financial problems.

The meeting's purpose was to discuss how CMC might be provided the US$2 million it had requested to resume and maintain operations.

Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda Lester Bird told the Ministers he had proposed the meeting with Ministers of Information or representatives of the Heads of Government because he knew how vital information is to the development and the integration of the region.

“Without a free-flow of information that is objectively and fairly gathered and widely distributed, both integration projects upon which we have embarked in the region since 1968, and the single market and economy that we [are] now trying to bring to fruition, would flounder. … Our business people need access to information upon which to base crucial judgments” Prime Minister Bird said.

He noted that the information was not always financial, more often than not being economic, social and political.

The Caribbean News Agency (CANA), the Caribbean Broadcasting Union (CBU), and the then CMC, he said, provided the fundamental inter-communication, however imperfectly, that the region needed.

“Confidence and trust” he told his audience, “are essential ingredients in the building of community, since the less your neighbor knows of you, the more of a stranger you become. It logically follows that confidence and trust cannot be developed in the absence of regular and sustained flow of information.”

Mr. Bird dismissed as unfounded concerns expressed by many that the governments of the region want to own and control the CMC when it is again functional.

“We need to remind those who make glib statements about the motives behind the interests of governments in the corporate vehicles of information in the region, that both the CBU and CANA originated not at the enterprise of the private sector, but at the initiative of governments [in the 1960’s]," Mr. Bird said. "And in initiating the CBU and CANA, government sought no part in their ownership and control….

"Suffice it to say at this time, that I know of no government that wishes to own and control the regional corporate vehicles of information in the Caribbean. My government certainly does not. I’m sure that all the Governments of the Caribbean Community are quite content that the corporate vehicles of information be owned and managed by people with the independent objectivity and expertise to do so.

"However, government would at the very least expect that those corporate vehicles are professionally run in a manner, which does not serve the interest of its shareholders alone, but also tends to the needs of the Caribbean people for objective information gathered without bias and distributed in a cost effective way.” 

Family Suit Embroils Half Moon Bay Hotel

The Half Moon Bay Property

Antigua -- HMB Holdings and Mrs. Natalia Querard of Half Moon Bay Hotel have been sued for EC$14.1 million by Mrs. Galina M. Kluge, Mrs. Querard’s mother, it was revealed yesterday by Tourism Minister Molwyn Joseph.

Mr. Joseph said that, in the writ Mrs. Kluge claimed that she held promissory notes from HMB Holdings and Mrs. Querard totaling US $5.2 million.  The first note for US$4.6 million was dated 31^st December 2000, five years after the closure of Half Moon Bay Hotel.  Thereafter, there were 12 other promissory notes bringing the total to US$5.2 million.  

He said the writ was filed in the Courts of Antigua and Barbuda last 28^th December and that Mrs. Querard wrote to the Court five days later acknowledging the debt in full and without question.

Minister Joseph remarked, “It is very strange that Mrs. Galina Kluge has suddenly decided to sue HMB Holdings for EC$14.1 in promissory notes.  It is also odd that her daughter, Mrs. Querard, (pictured left) has acknowledged this alleged debt fully and without question.  It appears, on the face of it, to be a very convenient arrangement.”

The Minister said, “What is clear is that not a penny of the money represented by the promissory notes was spent in rehabilitating the Half Moon Bay Hotel or in compensating the 150 hotel workers who were laid off more that six years ago.”  

Minister Joseph continued, “It is also quite significant that over the last two weeks while this matter was being debated in Parliament and widely discussed in the media, Mrs. Querard never once disclosed that there was a claim against HMB holdings by her mother for such substantial promissory notes, nor did she reveal the purpose for which the company incurred this debt.”

Mr. Joseph added, “Both the leader of the Opposition, Mr. Baldwin Spencer and his spokesman on Tourism, Mr. Harold Lovell, have been quite vocal in supporting Mrs. Querard and HMB Holdings.  Therefore, I have to ask the question: did they know of this secret arrangement between Mrs. Querard and her mother to indebt Half Moon Bay Hotel to the tune of $14.1 million?  Are they aware of the purposes for which this large sum of money was used?”

Minister Joseph said, “I expect the leader of the Opposition to make a clear and unambiguous statement to the people of Antigua and Barbuda about his knowledge of this matter.”

The Tourism Minister declared, “The Government will be investigating this matter further, but at first blush it seems that this is a contrivance to indebt the company with a large sum of money that was not spent on the rehabilitation of the hotel or to meet its obligations to the workers and to the various agencies in Antigua and Barbuda.

 Tourism Minister Molwyn Joseph & Harold Lovelle during a recent radio debate

Digital Photos by Maurice F. Merchant

Weak Finances Endanger Trinidad Election Promises

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CARITEL) -- Weakening finances brought on mainly by low oil prices have put a damper on the costly election promises by the new Trinidad and Tobago government.

Among the promises made by now Prime Minister Patrick Manning during the campaign for the December 10 general elections was a one-month salary advance payment to more than 20,000 public servants as a gesture of good faith towards settling an outstanding debt owed by the government. Another was increasing the monthly pension payment to senior citizens.

Both were to take effect from the end of the month.

The government has been told, however, to put the brakes on 90 percent of their election promises because of the country's weak fiscal position.

A team of economists led by Dr. Dhanayshar Mahabir made the recommendation following presentation of a government-commissioned report on the state of the country's finances to Prime Minister Manning.

Dr. Mahabir warned that if the prime minister continues spending -- to meet his election promises -- without making adjustments, it will result in a significant deficit which the government will not be able to finance.

The report described the country's international reserve position at US$1.7 billion as being healthy and the exchange rate as very stable. However, itt recommended that government adjust downwards the projected price of a barrel oil from US$22, on which the 2001-2002 budget was based, to $20.50.

Based on lower revenues and increased borrowings to meet budget requirements, the economists said it was mandatory for expenditures to be reduced.

With the necessary expenditure adjustments, inflation and interest rates can remain at their current levels during the course of this fiscal year, which ends in September.

There are also concerns in the country that the continuing political uncertainty is beginning to affect the investment climate and generally the country's buoyant energy-based economy.

Mr. Manning himself admits that the tensions are hurting but blames the other major party, the United National Congress (UNC) of former prime minister Basdeo Panday, for breaking an agreement hammered out as a result of the unprecedented tie in last month's elections. Mr. Panday has refused to accept the role of opposition leader, jeopardizing the smooth resumption of Parliament.

Business leaders in Trinidad and Tobago have called on the country's deadlocked political leaders to meet and bring an end to the political uncertainty which is now threatening the country's economic future.

"The Chamber calls on both political leaders to put aside their partisan interests and in the national interest, commence immediate dialogue for a speedy return to the full Parliamentary system of democracy. The future of Trinidad and Tobago is at stake," President of the Chamber of Industry and Commerce, Raoul John said.

He said that foreign investors, faced with global risks in a more uncertain world, are now reluctant to face additional local risks and have been adopting a "wait and see" approach. "What is worse, in some instances they have in fact begun to take their business to more certain political climates," he added. 

Jasmine Garraway Named Regional Tourism Executive

Ms. Jasmine Garraway has been appointed Executive Director of the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST). She replaces Kelly Robinson, the founding Executive Director of the organization.

CAST, a non-profit subsidiary of the Caribbean Hotel Association (CHA), promotes the effective management of natural resources. The 34 National Association members of the CHA in the wider Caribbean can access expertise in sustainable tourism through CAST’s environmental initiatives.

CAST Chairman Frank Rainieri said, “We are fortunate that Ms. Garraway brings 20 years of international and regional industry experience to this important position."

Ms. Garraway, a national of Trinidad and Tobago, has worked extensively in the wider Caribbean, North America and Southern Africa. She worked at the Montserrat Tourist Board for a few years, leaving the island in 1994.

As founder of the tourism consulting firm Tourism Planning Associates, she has undertaken a diverse range of assignments for international donor organizations, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Organization of American States (OAS), the Commonwealth Fund for Technical Cooperation (CFTC) and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

She holds a MSc degree in Tourism Planning and Development from the University of Surrey, UK, a BSc in Travel and Tourism Marketing from Niagara University, USA, as well as certificates and diplomas in Environmental Management, Business Communications, Public Relations and Business Management Studies. 

Tax Commissioners In 1^st ECCU Meet

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts -- The first meeting of the Tax Reform and Administration Commission took place at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) headquarters on January 24.

The Commission was established by the Monetary Council of the ECCB to review existing revenue systems and recommend new approaches to taxation and its administration in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU).

Chairman of the Commission is Sir Alister McIntyre of Grenada. Other members are Mr. Jasper Scotland of Antigua & Barbuda, Dr. Simon Jones-Hendrickson of St. Kitts & Nevis, Mr. Alick Lazare of Dominica, Mr. Marius St Rose of St. Lucia and Mr. Sims Martin of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

The Tax Commission is one of the initiatives being undertaken in light of the contraction in the revenue base of member countries associated with the changing economic structures and trade liberalization.

Other initiatives include public expenditure reviews by the World Bank and the ministries of Finance, the establishment of a Regional Debt Coordinating Committee, implementation of multi-destination tourism and multi-country production strategies and the development of an integrated and well-regulated financial system.

The next meeting of the Tax Commission is scheduled for February 16, at which time the commissioners are expected to begin a detailed review of the revenue systems. 

ECCB Course Focus Is Debt Management

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts -- A an eight-day workshop, which ends Tuesday, February 5,  at the Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) is focusing on Debt Management and Strategies.

The program is designed to provide participants with a sound understanding of sovereign debt management issues and to enhance their practical skills in public debt management.

Other areas being covered include the development of a national debt strategy, analysis of national debt data and public expenditure management.

The workshop; sponsored by the ECCB and the Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance Center (CARIAC), is being attended by representatives of local debt coordinating committee and debt managers from ECCU member states.

This Regional Debt Management Workshop is one of the preparatory steps for the start of the Regional Government Securities Market, scheduled to become operational in the first quarter of this year.  

Caribbean Hospitality Group Marks 40 Years

For over four decades, the Caribbean Hotel Association (CHA) has grown from a straight trade association to a development agency for the region’s tourism private sector.

This year, it celebrates its 40^th anniversary as the body that brings together the members of the Caribbean hospitality industry to address a wide range of issues common to them.

A release from the CHA notes that CHA began in 1959 as a committee of the Caribbean Tourist Association and that by 1962 it became an autonomous body.

Director General and CEO of CHA Mr John Bell explained, “Our main concern back then was for the hotel sector to regain some measure of control."

By early 1990’s, while marketing still was – and remains to this day – a top priority, there was new concern for product development.

Consequently, CHA developed a host of programs to help Caribbean hoteliers increase the quality of their product and their competitiveness. As a result of the complete range of initiatives, CHA has became the recognized representative of the Caribbean hospitality industry, as well as the private sector developmental partner of international agencies  such as the European Union, the Inter-American Development bank, the Organization of American States, and the United States Agency for International Development. 

UWI Gala in New York Honors Its PM Alumni

GEORGETOWN, Grenada -- Prime Minister Keith Mitchell was honoured last week Wednesday evening in New York City by the University of the West Indies along with his fellow Prime Ministers of Barbados, Jamaica, St. Kitts/Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, the last in absentia.

These outstanding alumni of UWI were cited by their alma mater for their collective accomplishments and dedication to the Caribbean as leaders and role models for countless individuals.

Prime Minster Mitchell’s citation spoke of him as a leader, scholar, athlete and politician who had accomplished a rare political feat by winning all 15 seats in Parliament for the New National Party in the last general election.

Responses were made by the Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines on behalf of the OECS Prime Ministers, and the Prime Minister of Jamaica on behalf of the others.

The colorful gala starred UWI outstanding alumni whose lives and contribution give credence to UWI as an institution of learning comparable to the best in the region. 

Dominica's PM Seeks Stronger Ties to French

Dominica -- Prime Minister Pierre Charles made a 24-hour visit this week to The French Department of Guadeloupe.

A special relationship with the French Islands of Guadeloupe and Martinique remains a central plank of this government’s foreign policy agenda.

The Government of Dominica is determined to cement and further strengthen the good relationship that currently exists between Dominica and the Departments of France.

The Dominican delegation discussed greater cooperation between Guadeloupe and Dominica in the areas of education, health, culture and security.

The Prime Minister met  President of The Regional Council, Lucette Michaux-Chevry and President of the Council General Jacque Gilo.

The Prime Minister was accompanied by Herbert Sabroache, Minister of Health and Social Security, Mrs. Sonia Akpar, Director of Political Affairs in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Gregory Rabess, Senior Information Officer.  

Caribbean Bank, CAIC Plan Barbados Summit

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados,  (CARITEL) - The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Caribbean Association of Industry and Commerce (CAIC) will host a Private Sector Summit in Barbados on March 4.

The theme of the summit is "Competitive Private Sector Development: An Imperative for the Future."

Specific objectives of the summit are to enhance dialogue and information exchange among the private and public sectors of the Caribbean, to deepen the understanding of the impact of globalization on the Caribbean private and public sectors, to develop support mechanisms and strategies to improve the Caribbean private sector's international competitiveness, and to increase the role of CDB, regional multilateral and donor agencies in assisting the Caribbean private sector transformation.

The summit will be held at the Grand Barbados Beach Resort. 

Caribbean Call Centers Will Soon Grow to Five

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CARITE) - Caribbean Communications company BlueStream threw the switch on a call center in Trinidad and Tobago last Friday.

The operation run by local Kairi Technologies and will have seats for 48 operators who will be making telemarketing calls.

BlueStream is delivering international connectivity in co-operation with the local telecommunications provider Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT).

BlueStream has also just agreed to provide another 96-seat telemarketing call center run by a private entrepreneur in Trinidad and Tobago.

In the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) BlueStream has signed contracts to enable the functioning of call centers that are initiatives of the governments of Antigua and Barbuda and St. Kitts and Nevis.

The Antigua call center will be the company¹s biggest contract to date, bringing in a revenue turnover in excess of a US$1 million dollars a year. There will be 288 seats for telephone operators. The operation is scheduled to go live in March.

The St. Kitts call center will have 144 seats for telephone operators and is scheduled to go live at the end of next February .

This brings the total number of BlueStream call centres to five. In December the company switched a government-run operation on St. Vincent and the Grenadines live.

The company is building an international network to supply Caribbean businesses with all their Internet, voice and data transport needs. BlueStream’s operational base is currently in Grenada. The company is registered in the British Virgin Islands. 

BVI Group Studies New Public Jetty for Anegada

ROAD TOWN, Tortola -- A committee of Anegada citizens appointed to select a suitable site on that island for a public jetty to accommodate barges, ferries, and launches handed its report to Chief Minister and Minister of Finance, the Hon Ralph T. O’Neal on Jan. 25^th.

Committee chairman Darwin Potter said in presenting the report, “The present jetty has been in a state of disrepair, being battered severely by hurricanes, tidal surfs, and ground seas. The layout of the current facility is at an angle that takes all the battering from high winds and seas.”

Mr. Potter that Anegadans would like to see the project started quickly and produce something that can accommodate small cruise ships, yachts, and cargo barges.

Chief Minister O’Neal said approvals of Executive Council and Legislative Council are required before preliminary studies and preparation of estimates can begin.

Once that is done, he said, the government will consider how to finance the project and start work as quickly as possible to fill what he described as a very urgent need.  

St. Lucia Celebrates Two Nobels, Economist, Poet

St. Lucia, (CARITEL) - With cheers and some grumbles, St. Lucia paid a week-long tribute to its two Nobel Prize winners - the late economist Sir

Arthur Lewis and poet Derek Walcott -- "Nobel Laureates Week," highlighting the lives and achievements of the two men.

The grumbles came because the Castries City Council chose a Chinese, rather than a local, sculptor to create bronze busts of the famous economist and poet.

The week of celebrations started with the unveiling of the busts in a square named after Walcott, now celebrating the 10th anniversary of his Nobel Prize award.

Chairman of the Castries City Council, Irving John, opened the ceremony saying,

"Twenty-three years after Sir Arthur Lewis gained his Nobel Prize for Economics, and nine years after we began to celebrate Nobel Laureate Week, the city of Castries honours the achievements of our great sons in a very special way."

He said there were plans for a renaissance in Castries.

"The city needs, in the midst of its commercial enterprises, more fine restaurants, galleries, small theatres and bookshops," he said. "What better way to show that we appreciate Lewis and Walcott than by making their city a living cultural monument to their work?"

St Lucia's Governor General, Dame Pearlette Louisy, said at the launch, "It is fitting and proper for us to celebrate (Nobel Laureates) and pay them tribute no matter where their country of origin for we are all citizens of the world. How sweet it is though when the people we celebrate come from home."

The City Council, meanwhile, has been fending off complaints over its decision to commission a Chinese to produce the busts.

The CCC's deputy chairman, Joseph Fedee, said cost was an important factor.

"We went to the local market to find out what the cost would be for the two sculptures and were given a quote of EC$150,000 (US$55,500)," he said. "Bearing in mind that we were on a budget and that the money to be used was taxpayers' funds, we found that amount a bit much."

Mr. Fedee said the Chinese Embassy quoted EC$30,000 (US$11,100) for the same work by a Chinese sculptor.

"I do not believe we should give projects to St. Lucians at any cost to taxpayers. It would have been the ideal, but we looked at this as a business decision and, really, the taxpayer got more for their buck," said Fedee. 

Dr. Gonsalves Deplores 'Awesome' Power of PMs

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, (CARITEL) – St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves warned here Monday against the “awesome” power which his colleagues in the region possess.

He referred to the excessive of powers prime ministers in remarks to a regional conference on Constitutional Reform hosted by Barbados.

Dr. Gonsalves told the forum that this power is one of the weaknesses inherent in political systems.

He suggests that such power can reduce Parliamentary government not merely to Cabinet government, but to Prime Ministerial government, depending on the character, disposition and vision of the prime minister.

According to Dr. Gonsalves, it is vital that the current Constitutional Reform project deal with the issue to ensure that popular democracy is deepened.

The conference on Constitutional Reform in the Caribbean was sponsored by the United Nations Development Programme, the Organisation of American States and the University of the West Indies.

Prime Minister Gonsalves outlined a five-point approach to the gathering of diplomats, scholars and constitutional experts which includes deepening political democracy and democratisation of government at the local or community levels. 

Caribbean Leaders Meeting in Anguilla

THE VALLEY, Anguilla, CARITEL - The heads of government of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) opened their two-day meeting here yesterday.

The meeting is looking at assuring unhindered movement of people from one island to another, and for facilitating travel in the sub-region by people on holiday or business as well as people going to jobs.

The sub-committee studying the travel issue comprises Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Prime Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony of St. Lucia and Prime Minister Pierre Charles of Dominica.

"Their report is expected to recommend a number of steps which will lead to an OECS Economic Union, including a common passport and identification card, and  proposals for the removal of work permit and land-holding (purchase) licence requirements," the OECS said in a statement.

The OECS comprises the British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Montserrat, as well as Grenada, St. Lucia, Dominica, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Kitts and Nevis and Antigua and Barbuda.

The heads of government meeting in Anguilla will also get an update on preliminary issues coming out of a human development study being done on the recent censuses carried out in OECS member states, and discuss measures to improve airport security in the region and a proposal to create an autonomous OECS Civil Aviation Authority. 

Traffic problems in Anguilla

Anguilla, CARITEL - You'd hardly expect a country as tiny as Anguilla to have traffic problems.
But no; speeding is a major problem and so too is noise pollution.
The authorities in the British dependency are moving to solve the problems - through some stiff fines.
A report released by Radio Anguilla said there have been "significant increases" in fines for certain offences under the Vehicle and Road Traffic  Ordinance.
The new schedule of fines which went into effect from last January 1 shows increases of between 200 to 400 per cent.
Fines have been increased by 45 to 200 Eastern Caribbean dollars (1 EC dollar = approx. 37 US cents).
New categories have been added to speeding violations, which originally carried a single fine of $75 for exceeding the speed limit.
Motorists ten miles over the limit will now pay EC$250; those ten to twenty miles over the limit $300; and those going more than twenty miles over the limit $500.
The fine for motor vehicle sound amplification or loud music has increased from EC$100 to $300.
Commissioner of Police, Mitchell Harrigan, told Radio Anguilla News that the  new rates are not meant to raise more revenue but rather to act as a deterrent. 

Saba Official Unswayed From Policy by Mail Snag

THE BOTTOM, Saba (SGIS) - Commissioner of General Affairs Will Johnson was concerned with the functioning of the Saba Post Office last week when daily operations deteriorated to the point where one branch had to close and mail started to pile up.

Mr. Johnson told the Saba Government Information Service (SGIS) that he doesn't believe in the folly fashion of privatization and globalization.  "In small countries, certain services should remain in the hands of government.  Privatization is mainly about making money," Mr. Johnson said.

He said he was pleased to hear that the Post Office branch in St. Maarten had sent over a person to assist the loan staff member at the Saba branch. 

Trinidad Stalemate Remains Unresolved

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, (CARITEL) - On the eve of a regional initiative to thaw a more than month-long chill in Trinidad and Tobago’s political life the United National Congress has leveled new charges against the governing People’s National Movement (PNM).

UNC MP for San Fernando West and former Minister of Housing, Sadiq Baksh, accused the PNM of victimising Government employees who were not PNM supporters.

The charges were leveled as a Caribbean Community (CARICOM) mission held separate meetings here with Prime Minister Patrick Manning and leader of the UNC, Basdeo Panday, in efforts to end the impasse.

Mr. Panday has vowed to force a new election by refusing to co-operate with the PNC government appointed by President Arthur Robinson. The action has meant that a Speaker of the House has not been appointed and no sittings of parliament held.

Mr. Robinson used his authority under the country’s system of republican government to appoint Mr. Manning, a former energy minister, as prime minister following an 18-18 general election deadlock on December 10.

Since that time, some private sector leaders have expressed concern about the negative impact of a government stalemate on business and the economy, at a time when major economies such as the United States are under pressure.

The mission is headed by Bahamian leader Hubert Ingraham. Messrs. Panday and Manning met last week but could find little ground for agreement.

Anguilla Stiffens Fines For Traffic Offenders

There have been significant increases in fines for certain offences under the Vehicle and Road Traffic Ordinance in Anguilla.
The new schedule of fines, which went into effect from January 1st this year, show increases of between 200 and 400 percent.
Offences against the Vehicle and Road Traffic Regulations have increased from $45 to $200.
Two new categories have been added in speeding, which originally carried a single fine of $75 for exceeding the speed limit.
Motorists driving 10 mph over the limit will now be  fined $250; those driving 10  to 20 mph over the limit $300, and above 20 mph over the limit $500.
The fine for motor vehicle sound amplification or loud music has increased from $100 to $300.
Commissioner of Police Mr. Mitchell Harrigan told Radio Anguilla News that the  new rates are not meant to raise more revenue but rather to act as a deterrent.

Montserrat Businesses Invited to Trade Show

Tourism-related businesses in Montserrat are being invited to take part in the 1^st St. Maarten/St. Martin Annual Regional Tradeshow (SMART) to be held at the Maho Resort and Casino from April 25-27, 2002.

The event will provide the venue for international buyers to network and negotiate future business opportunities with an estimated 150 suppliers in the regional tourism industry, during two days of pre-scheduled appointments.

SMART is being organized by the St. Maarten Hospitality and Trade Association and will bring together many travel agents, tour operators, meeting planners, airline executives and other professionals in tourism and travel that have an interest in St. Maarten/St. Martin and neighbouring islands. The Association has invited the neighbouring North Eastern Caribbean islands of Anguilla, Antigua, Barbuda, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, Nevis, Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barths, St. Kitts and Barbados to participate.

“This is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the best we have to offer in our tourism-oriented economy,” stated SMART Chairperson Liesa Euton-Marinaro. “We now have the opportunity to make the impression a long-lasting one and beneficial to our tourism business.”

She pointed out that many of the local hotel properties in the area are not chain related and as a result do not have budgets to attend the more international events like CHA MarketPlace, hosted by the Caribbean Hotel Association. “Attending this trade show in St. Maarten will be much more affordable," she said."Let us make an effort to show our business partners in the world what a great variety of vacation experiences we can offer within the (North Eastern Caribbean) islands.”

Interested persons should contact the SMART management office at the Caribbean Hotel Association in Puerto Rico at telephone 787-725-9139; fax 787-725-9108 or email kcolondres@caribbeanhotels.org.  

UWI STUDENT COMPLETES JAMVAT PROJECT

 Kingston, Jamaica

 Twenty-year-old Cylena Dyer, a second year student at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, became the first participant of the Jamaica Values and Attitude Project (JAMVAT) for Tertiary Students to have completed her 200 hours of community service, six months ahead of the schedule time.

 Last year, Prime Minister P.J. Patterson announced the J$50 million work- study project, which targeted young people who were attending colleges and universities and were unable to finance their education.

 Cylena, who volunteered at the Jamaica Association for Children with Learning Disabilities at The Learning Centre in Kingston, says that working with these special needs children brought out the best in her.

 The UWI student tells JIS News in an interview that she decided to participate in the JAMVAT programme because she needed financial assistance. In addition, she asserts that JAMVAT was a good programme, which encourages volunteerism. 

 Asked why she chose the Jamaica Association for Children with Learning Disabilities to carry out her assignment, Cylena says: “I relate to children easily, I am patient and have a genuine love for children.”

 Noting that the satisfaction she got from the experience was rewarding, Cylena says, “even though I was not with them for a long time I could see progress being made and I felt good knowing that I played a part.”

Her community service hours were partially spent assisting the classroom teacher with the implementation of programmes for children ages eight to 10 years with learning disabilities. In addition, Cylena tutored children in two subjects including reading and mathematics and assisted with general programmes inside and outside of the classroom. She also observed testing procedures and how to diagnose learning disabilities in children.

 Joan Spencer Rowe, Director of the Centre who supervised Cylena, says that she had no difficulties instructing the JAMVAT participant as she applied herself, adding that the most rewarding part of the exercise was seeing her “maturing in the role and experience”.

 Discussing one of the main challenges of the programme, Cylena says she found it difficult to balance school work with the programme.

 “It took a lot of work, effort, commitment and motivation to come here and to do what I had to do and do my work at school because I realized that I had even less time now that I was on the JAMVAT programme so, I had to put in even more work,” she says.

 However, she says, “the experience I have gained from it is motivation in itself for me. It has provided exposure and was a confidence builder. It has done a lot for me in terms of my personal development and then there is the monetary incentive.”

 Meanwhile, Mrs. Spencer Rowe notes that for participants to be successful in the programme they will have to demonstrate proper time management skills.

 “If you are committed to what you want to do and if you need to know how to manage your time … you have to be that type of person to put some of that (lyming and socializing) aside to do work study.  Work study is not very popular in the Caribbean it is more of a North American/European thing, so for our students it is a new thing,” she says.

 For students to qualify for benefits under the programme, they must complete 200 hours in a prescribed programme of work. Upon successful completion of the exercise, 30 per cent of the participant’s tuition fee for one academic year will be paid. This contribution will not be given to the students but will be paid directly to the institution that they are attending.

 The programme is open to all Jamaican tertiary level students, who are at least 17 years old and who plan to or are already attending a local university or college.

 There are currently 840 students who are participating in the programme with 18 tertiary institutions involved.

 The objectives of the project, as announced by Prime Minister Patterson were to provide meaningful learning opportunities, enhance skills development in a range of areas relevant to the student’s field of study and foster a spirit of allegiance to the country through programmes that would stimulate civic and national pride.

Jamaica Institute Trains 250 Hi-Tech Programmers

KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) -- More than 250 persons have been trained as Information Technology Programmers by the Caribbean Institute of Technology (CIT) in Jamaica since it was established in 1999 by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Technology to train persons to fill high-end technology jobs.

Set up with the objective of creating a mass of Jamaican software programmers and designers to attract local and foreign investment, the CIT programme is designed to sustain a thriving information and communications technology industry locally.

Samuel Bowen, Managing Director of CIT Montego Bay, speaking at the JIS Think Tank session recently said most of the first batch of persons trained were employed to the IT sector by investors from India and the United States (INDUSA) who had set up businesses in Jamaica. 

"In the first year it (CIT) trained about 48 persons.  INDUSA Global, who established themselves in Jamaica, employed 43 of that 48; the other five went back to their original jobs. Everybody was absorbed, " Mr. Bowen said.

During the second year of the programme, 81 persons graduated from Montego Bay and 93 graduated in November 2001. The Institute now has the capacity to train 250 persons on a full time basis. 

There are plans to expand the number of institutions that offer CIT-based programmes this year. Efforts are underway to secure funding from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), through the Ministry of Finance, as well as a joint venture between the IDB and the International Youth Foundation to support other institutions targeted for CIT programmes. 

ECSE Share Trading Makes Steady Progress

More than 40,000 shares at a total value of EC$237,000 have changed hands on the Eastern Caribbean Securities Exchange (ECSE) since the start of operations three months ago.

A small but significant beginning has been made with the shares of two companies being bought by people in the OECS from outside the company’s country of incorporation.

Trading began on October 19, 2001, with the listing of two companies, the Bank of Nevis and Eastern Caribbean Financial Holding Company of St. Lucia.

At the close of operations on day one, only one security, Bank of Nevis, had traded just over 2,000 shares at EC$5.00 per share. The total value of shares traded was EC$10,500.

After 58 trading days the total share volume for Bank of Nevis is over EC$34,000, with a share value in excess of EC$160,000. The current price is EC$4.50.

The Eastern Caribbean Financial Holding Company traded 100 shares at EC$8.69 per share on its first trading day. Since that time 11,000 shares have changed hands, with the total value traded being more than EC$77,000.

Both companies have been trading at prices well above their par value, throughout the period. With a par value of $1 per share, Bank of Nevis has traded in the range of EC$4.50 to EC$5.00. Eastern Caribbean Financial Holding shares have traded in the range of EC$6.50 to EC$8.69, with a par value of EC$5.00.

Intermediate placing bids on the ECSE are the Antigua Barbuda Investment Bank, National Commercial Bank SVG Ltd, Bank of St. Lucia Ltd and the Bank of Nevis.

Several companies are expected to list in the first quarter of 2002, thereby creating more liquidity on the ECSE. 

Barclays Bank, Unions Continue Merger Talks

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados -- Barclays Bank officials have announced that positive and frank discussions with representatives of recognized trade unions across the region were continuing.

The latest meeting between the local management of Barclays Bank and representatives of staff and unions from 14 countries across the Caribbean was held here last week, which resumed discussions from earlier sessions held last November 26.

The talks have focused on the migration of staff to First Caribbean International Bank and on proposals for the human resources policies to be adopted by First Caribbean International Bank, the new bank being formed by the proposed combination of Barclays/CIBC in the region.

"Whilst there are a number of outstanding issues, I am very pleased with the outcome of these discussions so far," said Charles Pink, Managing Director for Barclays Bank in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, and incoming Chief Executive Officer for First Caribbean International Bank.

"Part of our proposed strategy is to respect the wishes of employees to be represented, or not, by a third party," continued Pink. "We have therefore agreed to transfer existing collective agreements in respect of relevant Barclays employees into First Caribbean."

Barclay’s officials confirm that consultations will continue over the coming weeks.

CIBC and Barclays announced earlier this year their intent to combine their respective Caribbean operations to form First Caribbean International Bank, pending regulatory approval. First Caribbean will bring together two complementary and leading financial services businesses in the Caribbean, enabling it to play a key role in the financial services industry in the region. 

SPORTS

GI’ ME MORE

They were asking for more. They looked like a people hungry for any form of cricket in a village which was noted for its competing Challenge matches that represented the struggle between the propertied class and the working class.

It was not cricket of the highest class; it was not the best display of cricketing skills; it was not the typical cricket game whose entertain-content causes the heart to pulsate to the fluctuating fortunes of the contesting teams. But it was a memorable day. One spectator summed up well when she exclaimed, “It was a satisfying day’s play.”

The venue was the Edgar Gilbert Sporting Complex at Molineux, a working class village in the sugar belt on the windward coast of St Kitts, popularly known as “Sugar City.”  Molineux is famous for producing some of the best cricketers in the 68-square mile main island of the Federation of St Kitts and Nevis. The most popular sporting personality, Edgar Gilbert, who unfortunately could not attend the Busta Cup game because he physically incapacitated, is regarded as a local hero by community (See Peter Adrien (2000) Cricket & Development).

It was Sunday January 27, 2002 and the third day of the opening match of the 2002 Busta Cup match between Bangladesh “A” and the West Indies “B” at this small rural village whose economy largely depends on the declining sugar industry. The atmosphere reflected that of the traditional fete match or Challenge match when the established sense of social solidarity and the entrenched parochialism united the entire Molineux community for collective action against the opposing team from urban community, largely regarded as the common enemy.

There was no African drum that rumbled the language of war; there was no blowing the corn-shell to spur the home team. But the gathering was reminiscent of the thirsting for action and the hunger for cricketing entertainment that enraptured the villagers of old.

The villagers and spectators did not worship any one of their local players (Shane Jeffers and Elsroy Powell) as they had done to their players of old, but they left satisfied that they had witnessed a “good contest” between the young cricketers, having savoured the service for free, even though they lamented the poor condition of the physical facilities. And when bad light had brought the game to a premature end, the West Indies “B” team, made up of promising young players not selected to represent their territorial teams, had accumulated 167 for the loss of five wickets, from a lunch time position of 17 runs for the lost of one wicket.  

The champion player was Windward Island young batsman, Kenroy Martin who amassed 61 with seven boundaries from 168 balls faced, from a patience and clinical display of batsmanship. It is a pity that he did not go on to immortalise himself with a century, but he contributed to his team’s 59-run victory over the tourists. Congratulations to the West Indies “B” team!

But it was the latent message from the effervescent crowd that was the real music that captured my attention. One could almost hear the hundreds of men, women and children at the Sporting Complex, saying “Gi’ me more.” As I moved around the under-developed facility, the activity, the eating and drinking, the informal coaching and passionate debating, the non-formal commentary and criticisms spoke loudly to me concerning the thirst for cricket in the small island state. It was then that dawn on me that the lyrics of the Road March classic of the popular Barbadian calypsonian, Grynner, “Gi’ Me More” could capture the latent call for more international cricket – the call on the authorities to address the vexing issue of the development of the local cricketing infrastructure.

The Kittitian cricketing public was starved between 1996 and 2001. The year 1996 was the last time when a regional game was played at the traditional venue, Warner Park in the capital Basseterre. The increasing demand for cricket and the increasing number of matches played in the annual regional tournament had forced the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) to respond to “the cry of the people” and to give concessional approval for the use of the Edgar Gilbert Sporting Complex as a first class venue. It is this policy decision which has made the Sporting Complex a cricketing venue since 2001 when the Leewards Islands hosted Jamaica.

A suitable cricketing venue must have the minimum facilities which are essential for playing, airing and facilitating the game. The center wicket must meet ICC standards. The local cricketing authorities must have a qualified curator or have access to a qualified curator to undertake the preparation of the pitch and the grounds. The venue must have the minimum physical facilities for broadcasting and coverage. The dressing rooms for the home team and the touring team must fit for human habitation. The security network must have the capacity to ensure the safety of the players on the field of playing and in the dressing room.

I was informed by a local cricket official that Molineux is the only cricket ground on the island which past the WICB Test of Readiness. Although the Sandy Point Ground, on the eastern side of the island, has greater potential for development than Edgar Gilbert Sporting Complex, which has a small undulating open out-field, it lacks the necessary facilities. Warner Park, which was the centre of cricketing folklore in the island, and one of the famous cricketing grounds in the British West Indies, is sadly unfit for first class cricket. The venue awaits the completion of the three-phased Warner Park multi-faceted Sporting Complex involving cricketing, soccer, netball and lawn Tennis. The development of the soccer facilities (in phase one) which saw the removal of the center wicket has literally rendered the once popular ground unfit.

The challenge for the cricketing authorities is to respond to the cry of the people, “Gi’ Me More.” The developers will have to take a policy decision on the development of sports, and the role of sports in economic development. And whenever this decision is arrived at, it must be made public to allow the all stakeholders to buy into it.  

The Ministry of Sports and the St Kitts Cricket Association must decide whether to develop the Sandy Point Ground which has more potential for development or to proceed with the development of the Warner Park project or to transform Edgar Gilbert Sport Complex into an international cricket venue. This decision is sadly overdue.

The entire population is waiting and crying, “Gi’ Me More.”

Warner Park, what is the future? (Photo: Peter Adrien)

Peter Adrien

February 1, 2002

Peter Adrien is a Central Banker, an author, a syndicated sports commentator, and a freelance photographer. He may be contacted Peter at www.adriensenterprises.com or at e-mail: info@adriensenterprises.com 

FEATURES

ISLAND SON

for Keithroy Maynard

(16.01.02) 

Like the trinity of terrorist attacks,

Your passing froze us in our tracks

On that day when Apple-upon-Hill

Was wasted by a winter chill

In Autumn.  Trees suddenly lost their leaves

And died, stricken by a new disease.

Birdsong fell strangely silent

A natural pause to mark the moment

Of apocalypse when the Big Apple bit the dust

And professions of in God we trust

Rang hollow; when desks of gold turned catafalque,

Chic offices commuted to a park

Of death.  You answered to your country’s call

To brave the dance, to spend your all

Because the threat to life was dire,

You could not miss the line of fire.

In fealty to the tyrant, duty

You bled to dye the scarlet beauty

Of fidelity on the banners of the world

And wear your wounds in front like medals of gold.

Black and white sipped the same cup of sorrow

For a season, suspending till tomorrow

The unreason of American brand apartheid

In the unity of grief when every colour died.

Today the morning blue has left your skies

In starless night.  How time flies

Faster than spectre planes with a terror crew

Of false fanatics drunk on a crazy brew

Of righteousness.  We drape our flag and write your song

Today, and hymn you in your mother tongue.