It has been reported this week that the French Court in Guadeloupe issued an order seizing one of LIAT's aircraft to pay outstanding debts allegedly owed a company in that country.

When flight LI340 arrived at Poles Caraibes Airport Friday morning last week from St. Lucia and Dominica en route to Antigua, officials of the French Justice Department impounded the 19-seat turbo-prop Twin Otter.

It is said that the court action is the result of LIAT's failure to pay US$140,000 in commissions allegedly owed to its handling company in Guadeloupe, Antilles Handling.

The company's general manager, Yves Guglielmacci, said the arrears date back to 1991 when his company took over the handling of the airline.

A release from the company said Antilles Handling had seized the aircraft and the matter was being "investigated", giving no explanation for the seizure.

After the plane was seized, the passengers were flown to Antigua on a chartered flight. The crew was given use of an office with telephone and a fax machine, and were later flown home that evening on the 6:05 LIAT flight, the last of the day. It was also reported that an earlier flight refused to take the crew.

The company manager said after efforts to pick up the money failed, his company went to court in 1995 and, in spite of a meeting in April last year when the two sides met in Pointe-a-Pitre, the matter was not resolved. Then another meeting two weeks ago produced no results.

"(At that last meeting) I made a proposal to LIAT's chief executive officer, to set up a commission of three accountants and myself to go to Antigua to assess the matter. I have had no response," said Guglielmacci.

Antilles Handling services an average five LIAT flights daily between Antigua and Guadeloupe and Guglielmacci said his company will continue to fulfill its contract for passenger, cargo and ramp services until LIAT decided otherwise. LIAT has said its other scheduled services will not be affected by the action.

This may not be a first of this kind for LIAT as back in 1984 it had its BAC 111 jet seized in Puerto Rico under somewhat similar circumstances, which has been said led to a declaration of bankruptcy.

The Montserrat Union of Teachers (MUT) celebrated its 77th anniversary with the seventeenth annual convention at the Brades Primary School, Monday. The convention which was the highlight of Teachers Week, 1997, was well attended by members of the teaching profession from schools across the island, officials of the Ministry of Education, and other dignitaries.

The convention’s theme, "Teachers Make a Difference", was highlighted in the speeches that occupied much of the morning session. The keynote address was delivered by Colin Greene, General Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers (A&BUT), who made several references to the ways in which teachers make significant and original contributions to communities throughout the Caribbean. Greene stated that "Teachers not only make a difference, but teachers make a big difference" and went on to highlight how this is relevant in modern society.

Also addressing the convention was MUT Interim president, Colin Riley, who outlined the activities of the past year and some of the union’s plans for development. Riley pointed out that the union had requested from government, an increase in the wages of 28 percent from January 1997. "Our request is for a 28 percent increase from January, 1997, with two months pay added as a bonus for lost income based on a previous agreement" Riley said. Riley further stated that teachers and other public servants who are facing a wage freeze that is going into eight years need to be given equal treatment by government in any agreements in the coming months.

MUT also elected a new executive, which includes Colin Riley as President, Gregory Julius as Vice President, Hyacinth Browne as General Secretary, Ingrid Osborne as Assistant General Secretary, and Calvin Riley as Treasurer.

Among the plans highlighted by the union are the construction of a headquarters building, the introduction of a continuous computer education program for members, a leadership-training workshop, and programs to recognize teachers annually.

The union began its operations in 1920 as the Montserrat Teachers Association, became a fully registered trade union in 1978, and is now the oldest workers organization in Montserrat.

Cheddi Jagan, who became Guyana's president years after his first bids for power were blocked by Britain and the United States, which opposed his Marxist beliefs, died Thursday in a Washington hospital. He was 78.

The government said Jagan died at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, where he had been hospitalized February 16 after suffering a heart attack a day earlier in his home in the Guyanese capital of Georgetown. He was flown to Washington aboard a U.S. military aircraft.

Jagan underwent an angioplasty procedure at Walter Reed to clear a blocked artery, but his condition had worsened in recent days.

His wife, Janet, and their two children, Cheddi Jr. and Nadira, were at his bedside when he died.

Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, who is next in line to succeed Jagan, declared a six-day national mourning period. In a radio broadcast, he called Jagan "the greatest son and protector that has ever walked this land."

Jagan helped lead Guyana to independence from British colonial rule in 1966.

Jagan founded the People's Progressive Party with his American-born wife, Janet, who served as a home affairs minister before independence. The party became Guyana's dominant political force in the 1950s. East Indians comprise 52 percent of the South American country's 730,000 population.

As head of the party, supported by Guyanese of Indian descent, he was elected president in 1992, ending 28 consecutive years of rule by the People's National Congress party.

Jagan first won in colonially administered elections in 1953, but Britain suspended the constitution under pressure from the United States, which feared a Communist beachhead in South America. He won again in 1957 and 1961 elections.

Rumors that Jagan was forging ties with the Soviet Union caused the British government to send troops to then British Guiana in a 1953 intervention, forcing Jagan to resign as Prime Minister after only 133 days in office.

Britain suspended British Guiana's constitution, and an interim government was chosen. Jagan's movements were restricted to Georgetown between April 1954 and 1957. For violating that order, he was jailed for five months in 1954.

Ever since the activity at Soufriere Hills volcano was confirmed to be a volcanic eruption with potential deadly consequences, there has been great concern by friends, well wishers and the curious for our existence on the island.

Friends from neighboring islands in expressing dismay at our perceived stupidity have said that not even donkeys should be living on the island. Recently one Montserratian returning to Montserrat on official duty said that the reason why Montserratians were still on the island was their belief in the safety of the northern half of the island and their further belief that in spite of the difficulties their existence is assured here.

There is no doubt that Governor Savage and the British had clear intentions to evacuate us all out of Montserrat, but for the resistance of local authorities very early in the issue. Now it would be unfair to say that such is the intention as more and more the British show support by aiding our existence here on the island.

Some officials have been accused of down-sizing the problems that we face, resulting in minimum aid coming from foreign sources, but many are heard to say in response to the question, 'how are people surviving in Montserrat? 'Life goes on, but with varying constraints.'

Those who can work or find work continue to do so, the sick are being attended, the dead are buried, young and old enjoy their favorite pastimes, people go to church, and on and on it can go. It is only that many do these things in a limited way. As the ash becomes the norm for areas in the evacuated zones and with the occasional dusting in parts of the safe areas, relocated people are beginning to look forward to the possible return to their homes.

But it is not without difficulties, worries, hardships and disrupted families that many are forced to exist, and the conditions are not the same for everyone, as many have left the island in the hope of avoiding some of the uncertainties. The volcanic activity will change the lives of many from their health right round to their finances forever.

Yet as we move past the reality of the fiery, ashing and steaming mountain across the center of the southern half of the island, there needs to be strong evidence that we can enter the twenty first century with the minimum of regret that Soufriere Hills erupted when it did.

by Cheddy Browne

Mr. Editor,

I truly do appreciate the paper space that you gave me. I also liked the tone and trend of the editorial on Independence.

I submit to you, that unless the Independence issue is kept alive it will be shelved again as before and 10 years from now we will be reading once again that the process leading to our Independence needs to start.

As has always been the case, we have never had an elected Chief Minister that won their seat on the issue of Independence, and we have never had a Chief Minister that ever publicly came out and urged the people to begin the process of moving towards Self Determination. The result is that the official position taken has always been opposite to the underlying desire of the people.

I submit to you, that the process has long started and has an ongoing continuity. It exists one level down from the official position of our Chief Ministers, whoever they may have been at the time, and has been in process from the 1970's to the present. Look back at past issues of our newspapers, and you will see articles and editorials stating the inevitability of our Independence and the need to start the education process. Dr. Irish, Dr. Fergus, Peter White, and Cheddy Browne have been the main players on this issue from the 70's to the present.

Over the years the banner has been kept flying. We are not starting a new process. We are keeping alive an ongoing process. Whenever one of the players mentioned dropped out one of the others took his place.

I don't want to be misunderstood here. The names that I mention are the ones who have been willing to take the bull by the horns at the public level and go on record and in print as to our position with Britain. I am fully aware that there are many more people in Montserrat, who due to the peculiar nature of their position just feel that they cannot play an up-front role, but are fully supportive of the continuing process and the inevitability of our Independence.

At this point in time, with the challenge of the volcano on our hands, and the dispersal of our people, the British are taking full advantage of our weakness. I submit to you, that the Reporter must, I emphasize must, continue to carry that banner now, hold the line and continue the process, until such time as we can regroup and make the final march to our inevitable Independence.

Cheddy Browne.

by Upset Lady

Dear Sir,

Could somebody please explain to me the following:

Why is it, there is no cooking gas?

Why is it, there is no petrol?

Why is it, that there is no food?

Why is it, that Mr. Ram’s or Angelo’s are allowed to charge any price they want?

Why is it, that the bit of dry food they have has an expiry date of Nov. 96 and they are still on the shelves?

Why is it, the Health Department doesn't check the food stores? Why is it, people use the back of Angelo’s food as a toilet?

Why is it, that this beautiful island is becoming so dirty with litter and Heineken bottles?

Can go on and on but will save the people concerned the embarrassment.

Maybe these are some of the reasons why so many Montserratians and expat people are leaving or have left and let’s not blame it all on the volcano. I still love this island and hope some things will change very fast before it is too late.

Patients in the temporary Glendon Hospital at St. John's and some male residents of the Margetson Memorial Home find conditions more comfortable, thanks to the Rotary Club of Montserrat

The buildings that house the temporary hospital were long used as a school before being pressed into emergency use by the volcanic crisis. Rotarians learned that all of the windows and many doors could not be sealed tightly against wind and rain. As a result, chill and damp drafts afflicted patients already suffering from illness or injury.

President Grace Cephas-Lewis of the Rotary Club of Montserrat and the club's board of directors were told of these undesirable conditions by Rotarian Julian Romeo, president-elect of the club. They immediately authorized whatever funds were needed for materials and labor to assure greater comfort for hospital patients.

All windows now are restored to tight closure and equipped with new operating handles. Doors have been re-hung or tightened to close securely, at a total expenditure of EC$1,000.

In an earlier related project, Rotarians were told of uncomfortable conditions in which some male residents of the Margetson Memorial Home were living on an exposed porch at the hospital. Their only protection against the elements was plastic sheeting that had been hung to create makeshift walls.

Again with the authorization of President Grace Cephas-Lewis and the club board, EC$4,600 was approved to buy wooden siding, a window and a door and provide labour to construct a more secure dormitory space for residents.

Such monies become available in Montserrat both through fund-raising activities of the Rotary Club of Montserrat and cash donations from concerned Rotary Clubs elsewhere in the Caribbean and abroad.

The Montserrat Branch of the St. John's Ambulance Association and Brigade is expecting delivery shortly of an ambulance which is being donated by the Bermuda Branch of St. John Ambulance. The International Office of St. John Ambulance in London together with the Nottinghamshire Branch of St. John Ambulance, the latter which is twinned to the local branch, are coordinating the delivery of the ambulance.

This vehicle which will be operated by St. John Ambulance trained First Aiders, is expected to supplement ambulance service in Montserrat especially during this time of crisis when the resources in Health are severely stretched. The First Aiders in this service will be also receiving special ambulance training by their counterparts of Nottinghamshire.

Wilford Andrew Green an elderly man of Lees, has been reported missing for two weeks now.

He was last seen around 8 a.m. on Friday, February 21, near Stuart Tuitt's shop on the Cork Hill Main Road. He is slimly built, brown in complexion, wears spectacles and sees out of one eye.

A police source says there has been no sighting of Green as yet but patrols are on the lookout. The source also says that no foul play is suspected.

The public should contact the police or telephone 491-3819 if his whereabouts are known or has seen someone answering the description above.

The first Assizes of the High Court began here this Monday. There were some guilty pleas which were dealt with and few cases have been heard during the week.

With Justice Saunders presiding Meredith Williams a former employee of the Inland Revenue Department after pleading guilty to 10 counts of theft, was ordered to pay a fine of $10,000 or spend two years in prison. Prior to sentencing it was revealed in a plea of mitigation by Attorney David Brandt that she had been making restitution of the money she stole during her employment.

Rudolph Lee was also charged with theft but pleaded not guilty.

Jermaine Fenton of Kinsale was sentenced to seven years imprisonment after pleading guilty on charges of breaking and entering AUC during the relocation

Ophel Lewis after being sentenced to 18 months received another sentence of 3 years to run concurrently with the previous term for other charges of burglary.

Winston ‘Sparrow’ Gage who is currently serving a jail term was sentenced to 8 years for burglary and will also face charges for escaping custody.

A charge of burglary and criminal damage against Kenrick Fenton who defended himself was dismissed.

Michael Manley dies

KINGSTON, Jamaica (AP) --

Former Prime Minister Michael Manley, who led Jamaica to the forefront of the developing world's non-aligned movement in the 1970s, has died; the government news agency said Friday. He was 72.

Manley died at his Kingston home at 11:45 p.m. last night Thursday, the Jampress news agency said. The official cause of death was not immediately known, but he had been battling prostate cancer in recent months.

Jamaica's government-owned radio and television stations began broadcasting tributes to Manley, who served three terms as Prime Minister of this Caribbean nation.

After leaving office for health reasons in 1992, Manley was active on the international lecture circuit and was a business consultant with his fifth wife, Glynne Ewart, executive director of the University of the West Indies Development Fund.

Manley authored seven books, including a history of West Indies cricket, which along with classical music was a passion of his.

Manley was divorced three times and widowed once. In addition to his wife, Glynne, two sons and three daughters survive him.

For many years, Montserrat students have been studying in Oswego under the auspices of Partners of the Americas, which links the northern New York town to the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean.

Since 1983 when the program started, over 100 young Montserratians have taken advantage of the training opportunities at the Burton Raymer Technical Center of Oswego County BOCES.

The Montserrat students attend classes and stay with a host family during their period of study. One host family, Jim and Helen Kessler of the city of Oswego, have become American ‘mums and dads’ to countless Montserrat students. They are currently hosting Albert Miller, a technician at ZJB, and Lynette Skerritt of Montserrat Aviation Services (MAS), the current recipients of the Partners Scholarship.

Because of their sterling work as host families since the 1980’s His Excellency the Governor Frank Savage recently wrote to Mr. and Mrs. Kessler thanking them for their contribution to the ongoing program. Carpentry students at BOCES framed the letter and recently it was presented to the deserving couple.

The ceremony, held late last month, saw the Mayor of Oswego Terry Hammill, present the letter to a very surprised Mrs. Kessler at Oswego City Hall. Attending the ceremony were Albert and Lynette and representatives of BOCES. Mayor Hammill recently wrote to the Governor here in Montserrat telling him that the Kesslers were very touched by the presentation and he wished all Montserratians well in the ongoing volcanic crisis.

The National St. Patrick's Day Committee has finalized the program for the 1997 St. Patrick's Day activities. The committee has chosen for their slogan this year, " Celebrating our National Heroes on St. Patrick's Day". The committee is focusing on national activities this year rather than the usual fun and games that sometime are part of the celebrations. The major event is the renaming of the air from Blackburne to WH Bramble Airport on Sunday March 16. According to the Chairman of the committee Mr. Cecil Cassell, this is a long over due project and the people of the village of St. Patrick's should be proud that the day they fought for as a national holiday was chosen for this historic event.

Other activities on the program are as follows:

• Pre-St. Patrick's Day School quiz for 7-11 year old though the primary schools.
• Pre-St. Patrick's Day Dominoes Registration and Tournament.
• Friday March 14, 1997 Domino Semi Finals at Andy's Village Place, Salem.
• Disco Night at the Vue Pointe Pelican Room 10.00 PM until.
• Saturday15 - Maroon for shelter construction Catholic shelter in Salem - 7.00am.
• Start of Vue Pointe Open Golf Tournament, Golf Club.
• Children's Radio program, Radio Montserrat.
• Annual Roman Catholic Church St. Patrick's Day Dinner - Vue Pointe Hotel - 7.00 PM.
• Sunday 16 Vue Pointe Golf Open continues.
• Opening of Photographic Exhibition Brades Primary School - 10.00am.
• Re-naming of Blackburne Airport, 1.00pm Airport.

The local small business sector is to benefit from the generosity of telecommunications giant Cable & Wireless who have made a soft loan available to the National Development Foundation (NDF).

The soft loan to the value of 50,000 pounds (EC$220,000) was negotiated by the Hon. Reuben T. Meade during his well publicized visit to England in July last year with other members which included members of the private sector, in search of funds to assist Montserrat in the wake of its volcanic crisis.

The monies will be used by the NDF to develop its Small Loans Advisory Unit which will make small business loans available to Montserrat's micro enterprises.

Executive Director of the NDF, Miss Roselyn Cassell along with Chairman Bennette Roach, who both were part of the negotiating team, said that the loan will be used to rehabilitate the small business community. She said she was very excited that Cable and Wireless recognizes the needs of Montserrat in their social agenda.

Chief Minister Bertrand Osborne during his recent visit, firmed up the agreement with Cable and Wireless and is seen in the picture with the Chief Executive for Regional Business at Cable & Wireless, Richard Wainwright-Lee agreeing to the terms of the loan. Mrs. Angela Greenaway, Director of the Development Unit, and who was also one of the members of the negotiating team last year, is seen looking on.

A fishing boat and equipment with an estimated value of $28000 was discovered missing from it’s mooring at Little Bay during the early hours of Monday March 3rd. Mr. Fred Blake of St. Johns owns the fishing vessel. A search by the Montserrat Police Launch and a number of sympathizing Carrs Bay fishermen has proven fruitless. The boat is described as gray and red in color, 25 ft. in length with a registration No.-V.P.2M06C. At the time of disappearance, the boat was at its new moorage to accommodate an incoming barge involved in the construction of the emergency jetty at Little Bay.

Roseau, Dominica:

A century in the first innings by West Indies wicketkeeper-batsman, Junior Murray could not prevent the Windward Islands from losing to Trinidad and Tobago by 10 wickets in a sixth round match at Windsor park last weekend. Murray who batted with aggression from the start, got little help from the rest of a weak Windwards batting lineup that must now be facing major changes for matches in round 7.

Scores: Windward Islands 199 (J. Murray 100, I. Bishop 3 for 20, D. Ramnarine 3 for 47) and 214 (J. Sylvester 70, M. Dillon 3 for 65). Trinidad and Tobago 370 (S. Ragoonath 120, B. Lara 53, R. Smith 65, M. Morgan 3 for 64) and 44 without loss. T&T won by ten wickets: T&T 16 points, Windward 0.

Georgetown, Guyana:

The rain at Bourda finally allowed three days of cricket to take place after three frustrating weekends in which 12 days of cricket were lost to a combination of soggy outfields, poor light, and unprepared pitches. Guyana and Barbados played to a close draw with first innings points going to the visitors. Set 288 to win on the final day, Guyana got within 25 runs of the target but failed to press home the advantage late in the game.

Scores: Barbados 240 (C. Browne 78, C. Hooper 5 for 52) and 211 for 5 dec. (P. Wallace 69, S. Campbell 58, N. McGarrell 4 for 69). Guyana 164 (O. Gibson 5 for 57) and 263 for 7 (Hooper 101, Gibson 3 for 80).

The Indian tourists, who arrived in the Caribbean two weeks ago, played Jamaica in their first tour match, which turned out to be a runs feast at Sabina Park last weekend. Two Jamaicans, all-rounder Laurie Williams and teenage opener Leon Garrick, scored centuries to remind the West Indies selectors of the depth of talent that exists in the region.

Only Jamaican fast bowler Franklyn Rose showed any penetration when he bowled a hostile five over spell in India’s first innings to remove top batsmen Tendulkar and Azharrudin for 6 and 1 respectively. Meanwhile, India lost ace fast bowler, Javagal Shrinath, from the tour. Shrinath returned home with a dislocated shoulder he appears to have suffered on the recent tour of South Africa.

Scores: Jamaica 453 (L. Williams 102, T. Powell 79) and 190 for 4 (L. Garrick 108). India 323 (V. Laxman 98, N. Sidhu 86, S. Ganguly 82, C. Walsh 4 for 44, F. Rose 3 for 67). Match drawn.

At the end of play on Day 1 in the First Test, West Indies reached 300 for 4. Earlier Brian Lara (83) and Carl Hooper (87 not out) led the West Indies batting. Shivnarine Chander-paul made another half-century (50) to bring his number of half centuries to 12 from 17 Test matches. Two players, Franklyn Rose and Roland Holder, made their Test debuts, and Stuart Williams returned to open the innings after missing the recent tour to Australia.

by The Independent Thinker

There are always rules, regulations and norms laid down with respect to almost every aspect of life. And more so with respect to crime and punishment and job promotion. This is necessary especially if the integrity of the processes of law and order are to be maintained.

So one expects the same rules to be applied in the promotion of any senior officer to any management post in spite of his or her religious or other affiliation with the powers that be. So too does one expect punishment to be meted out so that not only does the punishment fit the crime but also that justice seems to be served.

It is difficult to have faith in any system that seems only to reward those with close affiliations or those who are well represented. But there is a "near philosophical" argument in support of such a system. It is a foolish politician who does not surround him or herself with bodies or mindsets mirroring him or herself if he or she wants to ensure the implementation of a vision held. And it is a foolish defendant who fails to seek counsel who appears unable to ensure the return of a verdict in his or her favor. And it is only just that that counsel or newly promoted employee work assiduously on the behalf of his or her employer and ensures that the desired outcomes are attained. Does this mean that the employer is flawed? Whatever your moral values it is difficult to answer an unequivocal yes to the question.

This is no different to the "fair day's pay for a fair day's work" issue. One always expects value for money. But one must always question whether the employer is being fair to the worker with respect to promotion opportunities, healthy and safe environment and respect. What in any case does "fair" mean? Fair to whom? The definition of "fair" will always be biased depending where you sit. Is it fair that the citizens are not receiving clear, consistent and viewable cable reception despite the fact that the service users must ante up the cable fees every month end or else? Should one question the fairness of the cable service provider?

Is it fair that persons living in the Gerald's Park shelters still have to contend with swimming feces every time they need to attend to bodily functions? Is it fair to question the Ministry and the Minister of Health? Or would it be more fair to address these concerns to the ODA and the British Government?

Is it fair to ask the Tourist Board what they are doing about reviving tourism? Or would it be more fair to ask the Scientists at the MVO why they are destroying any possible chance of tourism?

A straight yes or no to any of these questions is difficult. There may be many mitigating reasons why the questions would be unfair if directed at one or another person and receive a satisfactory response.

It is possible that the cable providers are unable to fix the reception problems because the high winds keep blowing the satellite about. On the other hand may be the cable providers are not moved to improve reception because no matter how snowy your television, the provider knows that the bottom line will not be disturbed. It is possible too that Madame Minister is unaware of the "swimming feces" situation at Gerald's Park or that it is impossible to find the finance to raze the chain-link lavatories and build new ones. Then again perhaps ODA, the British Government and Madame Minister have more pressing issues. It could even be that someone is of the opinion that Gerald's Park residents deserve nothing better.

It is also possible that the Tourist Board is unable to address any issues concerning the Tourist Plant or bringing more tourists here because of lack of finance. It could be that the Tourist Board are doing everything in their power but visitors are too scared to come here because of the truly frightening reports they've heard coming from the MVO. But then again it could be that they are scared because they heard on ABC that Montserrat has the third most dangerous volcano in the world.

It is even possible that the scientists report what they truly believe to be the case with respect to the dangers posed by the volcano. It may even be that some of the scientists concerned are inexperienced and do alarm the citizens and others unnecessarily.

What ever the mitigating circumstances claimed by the providers and employers, something always seems to impinge on the definition of fairness and consistency when one is at the receiving end.

by Peter B. White

One thing that is evident throughout the current situation is the continuing uncertainty that has enveloped our lives beginning July 1995. Experts have indicated that this alone threatens our health as well as our economic condition.

There has been no direct physical damage to any individual that I am aware of as a result of the volcanic activity. However there have been many incidents of ill health which can be reasonably attributed to effects caused by the volcano. One of these is the increased level of stress exhibited as a result of the high level of uncertainty that exists in the lives of many people still living on island.

Will we be able to go back home? If so, when? If not, should I stay and try to live in the north? Should I then, try and build a new home? How do I finance it? What about school? Do we still have enough quality teachers? Do we have enough classrooms? Laboratories? Equipment for teaching subjects for today's' world? Might not my children be better off going to school elsewhere? If they are better off elsewhere, should I send them or go with them? If I send them, where is best? If I go, where is best? Another Caribbean island or "mother England"? If "mother England" what will I meet there? If another island, will I be able to find work? Are the schools any better? Where is the money to move anyway?

Have I exhausted the questions? Certainly not. Can the questions be answered? Given the present state of things, certainly not? Too much uncertainty.

There is a crying need to reduce the uncertainty. If I decided to answer some of the questions above, despite the uncertainty and say I will stay and reside in the north, a number of other questions arise. What needs to be done by the authorities is to narrow the range of options based on a vision of where it is perceived Montserrat should be heading.

This does not necessarily mean an actual detailed plan for the future. What it means is defining boundaries, developing goals and finding ways to facilitate the achievement of these goals. Specific plans can and must follow, but a vision of what we hope to achieve will go a long way to calm fears even if the uncertainty is not immediately eliminated. As actual plans evolve and are implemented the level of uncertainty will be lowered.

Plans can only be made if objectives are first outlined. As a country we have been reluctant to set objectives for ourselves. We have been too long satisfied to have the colonial master determine our destiny. We have often turned a deaf ear to statements by the colonial master that we should make up our own minds what we want to do. They will not do this for us. They will always make decisions for themselves. We cannot castigate them for making decisions in their own best interest, when we refuse to make those decisions ourselves. What we can and should castigate them for is not allowing us to make the decisions we need to make.

However decisions ought to be made within the framework of a plan and a plan ought to be developed in the light of our vision.

My vision is of a Montserrat where our resident population lives in the "safe zone". All essential commercial and government services and facilities are located in the "safe zone". Planning can then be done in this context. No thought or possibility should be held out for a return to the "evacuated zone" for any of these activities.

Reduce the Uncertainty!

How many of us are ready to live with such a vision? How many are ready for us to make decisions for our selves in our best interest?

Between 1871 and 1956 education in Montserrat was administered in part by the Leeward Islands federal government with headquarters in Antigua. (The capital was in Nevis for a short time). Primary school syllabuses were more or less common and it was easy to compare school achievement within one presidency and across the various presidencies in the federal colony of the Leeward Islands.

In the school examination of 1928-29, the Basseterre Boys' school topped the list with 70.2 per cent. The Roman Catholic School came first in Montserrat with 68.1 per cent and second in the entire Leeward Islands. The other top Montserratian achievers were: Olveston with 64.4 per cent and St Mary's with 64 per cent. The Olveston School was nearly always the leading school in Montserrat, but on that occasion the Roman Catholic school surpassed it.

The MVO needs a preamble

For new chieftains wishing to gamble:

"Do not be a forecaster

Of volcanic disaster

Before you’ve thought, ‘LIAT and Bramble.’"

--Anonymous

See a woman gentle as a dove, don’t treat her lightly, give her respect and love

that little woman can be stronger than any ox

thought is creation and many a Nation owes its progress to the moral fibre of its women

Women in hospitals, in classrooms, in fields

each task whether great or small tackled with equal zeal

yet we are not fighting to put men aside

we want recognition of our contribution

oh, tell me what are we waiting on

Woman is a breadwinner, woman is wife

many a woman leads a single parent life

she’s mother and father, provider of all

some walking a tightrope, no thanks and no hope

come and acknowledge the sacrifices of women

Women in politics, on the battlefield

each task whether great or small tackled with equal zeal

she’ll sing to her babies, man the guns of war

she deserve recognition and her contribution must not be denied

Women are farmers but can scarcely get land to buy

banks take our savings but to borrow we have to cry

this social injustice has gone on for far too long

women should stop working, look man I eh joking

just one day off all you would find out what we talking ‘bout

Women will plant the land for the men to reap

they give till it hurts them, that pain is too deep

policies must change, lets take the lead in the Caribbean

teach the world a lesson, men listen to reason

now is the time for women’s emancipation

Woman was made to stand side by side with man

born to be his helpmeet, his lover and his friend

not to be downtrodden nor made to follow behind

the source of his inspiration, his alley in co-creation

this silent partner must have a voice... let’s shout for woman!

Women in hospitals, in classrooms, in fields

women in politics what skills they reveal

no, we are not fighting to push men aside

we want satisfaction, a piece of the action

our contribution must not be denied

Throughout the week activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano has been at a very low level, which scientists at the Montserrat Volcanic Observatory (MVO) describe as a plateau in activity.

The scientists point out however, that the volcano is still very active and extremely dangerous. The extrusion rate of magma is 4 cubic meters per second and the lava dome is now larger than it has ever been before - in the region of 45 million cubic meters.

Good visibility during the week allowed scientists to have a good inspection of the dome from both the ground and from the helicopter. It has grown in height (it is now about 940 meters above sea level) and its eastern flank is very active, steep and dangerous.

Seismic activity for the week has been low with mainly swarms of volcano-tectonic and hybrid earthquakes, which have been too small to feel, as usual. There have been several small rockfall signals which have occasionally led to small pyroclastic flows. A few small ashclouds have been produced and as the wind has been blowing westwards for most of the week, the ash has been blown to the Plymouth area.

Although relocated, Plymouth can be visited during daylight hours. Scientists are warning everyone that ash levels are hazardous in Plymouth and that people entering the area should wear their dust masks.

COSPEC measurements to check the sulphur dioxide in the atmosphere have been ongoing all week. Results show that the levels are low at the moment. Water testing also continues in the unsafe zone and so far the quality of drinking water has not been affected.

Because of the clear days this week, EDM measurements have been taking place to check the rate of deformation of the mountains around the volcano to see if there are any significant changes. The lines measured during the week show no significant differences.

There was some flash flooding during the week in Fort Ghaut. However this did not slow down the cleaning up process being carried out by the Public Works Department. The new school buildings at the Salem Primary School will be used for the first time next week and the extension at the Montserrat Secondary School is underway. The new school in St. Johns is nearing completion; all of these projects are being undertaken to provide additional school places in the safe zone. (GIS)

Jus’ wonderin what is happening with the Land Development Authority if it is a matter of political tit for tat.

Jus’ wonderin what is happening in the Basketball Tournament with the referees controversial decisions, and the player who destroyed the score sheets.

Jus’ wonderin if it is not a conflict of interest for the doctor to want to be the only one talking ‘garbage’.

Jus’ wonderin if the volcano will behave like other Caribbean volcanoes and only erupt for two years.

Jus’ wonderin if life on Montserrat could ever be the same again.

Jus’ wonderin why the CM did not know about that big decision that the Governor was involved in.

Jus’ wonderin if any special attention is paid to the violence in the shelters.

Jus’ wonderin who is responsible for our mentally disturbed brothers and sisters in the unsafe zone.

Jus’ wonderin if there is a picture of the missing man which was not sent to the news paper.

Jus’ wonderin if it is true that there is a movement and who the leader is, to topple the Bertrand Osborne regime.

Jus’ wonderin which party supporters are now crying foul.

Jus’ wonderin if it is a crime to ill advise persons who are charged with a criminal offence.

Jus’ wonderin why no government minister attended the Teacher’s Convention.

Jus’ wonderin how many of us are wonderin where the next meal will come from.

Jus’ wonderin what’s up with the politicians/calypsonians, Jesse and James.

Jus’ wonderin where is John and Brigo at lunch time.

Jus’ wonderin if some people in Salem want to crucify the politician from Plymouth because he did not turn up at the christening with the drinks and goat meat.

Vacancy Notice

Secretary General

Caribbean Association of National Telecommunications Organizations (CANTO)

The purpose of CANTO is to facilitate orderly growth in the telecommunications industry in member countries, through the exchange of information and expertise pertaining to telecommunications and by assisting the existing thirty-three (33) members in policy formation matters.

The Secretary General reports to a Board of Directors, assures the implementation of CANTO’s policies, and directs all aspects of CANTO’s administration through the management of its Secretariat.

This requires the preparation of special reports and the conduct of studies that will facilitate appropriate policy formulation and the orderly growth of a leading edge technology - Telecommunications.

The incumbent will also be expected to work closely with the Board and others to represent the interests of members to Governments and other relevant external agencies/organizations.

Applicants must have a Masters degree in Telecommunications, Business or Economics or relevant professional qualification and training, with a minimum of five (5) years in senior managerial position.

Applicants must be highly self motivated and have a progressive management style. The position is presently based in Trinidad & Tobago and will require overseas travel. Fluency in working language of member states essential. Spanish as a second language will be an asset.

Minimum monthly compensation $3,000US commensurate with experience and ability, fully maintained vehicle and other competitive fringes. Appropriate relocation expenses will be paid.

Appointment will be made on a contract basis for three years with a possibility of renewal. Gratuity will be paid at the end of the term.

Please send resume no later than 31 March, 1997, to:

Eastern Caribbean Central Bank

Applications are invited from suitably qualified citizens of the ECCB member countries to fill the post of Security Officer, at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank.

Applicants Must:-

• Be Nationals of the ECCB Member Territories.
• Be between the ages of 25 and 45 years.
• Have reached a CXC standard of education.
• Be physically and mentally fit.
• Subject to fingerprinting for police records
• Submit a birth certificate.
• Be prepared to undergo a Security Training Course.
• Possess a valid driving permit.

Applications should be addressed to:

to reach him not later than 21 March 1997.

Applications which do not meet the minimum requirements indicated above will not be acknowledged.

Vacancy - Financial Controller

We are a small but growing airline requiring a highly motivated, organized individual who will be responsible for the production of timely, accurate management accounts.

Reporting both to the President and the Board, the successful candidate should also be able to advise senior management on a wide range of financial issues.

CGA, CMA or ACCA designation preferred but not essential. Please direct resumes along with salary expectation to:

Only suitable applicants will be acknowledged.

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

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