The Reporter received a hand-delivered Government House Press Release, the first for the year. "that acting on the advice of the Honorable Chief Minister, HE The Governor has revoked the appointment of the Honorable Reuben T. Meade as Minister of Agriculture, Trade and the Environment with effect from 10 March 1997."

Within five minutes of the Reporter's receipt of the release, ZJB stopped its program to announce the news. Shortly afterwards the Chief Minister Bertrand Osborne delivered a statement: "Mr. Meade made the decision to close the operations of the LDA without any consultation with me or any other Minister of Government. Having done so, and after having been spoken to about his attitude on other occasions, I have come to the conclusion, and have absolutely no doubt, that Mr. Meade has reached a stage where he feels he could do whatever he wants within his Ministry, even making a major policy decision, without reference to the rest of us. Such an attitude would definitely not be compatible with our efforts to provide good government.

Mr. Osborne announced that he held discussions with member for Windward, Mr. David Brandt and, "he has agreed to give government his support."

By afternoon Brandt hit the airwaves: "I accept because I believe this is the best thing to do. I do not believe another election at this time is what we most need. I believe the persons who now form the nucleus of the government are people I can work with.

"There are a number of reasons why I think it's a good thing for me to become a part of the government at this time so that the smooth governance of our country can continue. I do not believe it is in the best interest of the country for us to go back to the polls now.

"Another reason is that we must not give Britain any reason to believe that Montserrat is not well in charge of her own affairs."

The dismissed Minister of Agriculture had been suffering from a sore throat and waited until the following day to explain his actions that brought Osborne's ax on his head saying: "We must note it was not a closure of LDA but a suspension to deal with a re-organization. There is precedent in Montserrat in that the operations of the Port Authority were suspended; all of the workers terminated and they were re-hired afterwards under different arrangements. Some of them were not re-hired for various reasons. (see Excerpts of Statement)

"We are saying, if we need an effective operational Land Development Authority there are two things which we need to do. We need to ensure that they do not go the same way as DFMC where members of staff up to this day have not had their terminal benefits. LDA has approximately $135,000.00 left in the bank. When we add up the terminal benefits, there would be a balance of $6,000 left. If there is no income coming in why do we continue utilizing the funds for paying staff? And when LDA is finally closed sometime in the future, there will be no money to pay terminal benefits.

"At a point in time like this when workers are uncertain as to what their future is likely to be in Montserrat, getting $20,000 now or $48,000 as the case might be, these individuals can use that money to pay their mortgages, and I can assure you some of them would have been re-employed almost immediately within the housing units to continue the operations.

"Yes, I erred for not taking it before the Executive Council, I did make a mistake and I confess to that. But is it a significant enough mistake for the termination of a Minister of Government? Or is there another reason? And I am absolutely certain there must be other reasons and I think the public ought to know what those other reasons are. I really don't know what those reasons are myself."

Montserrat public has had mixed reactions to the dismissal of Meade. Some feel that Mr. Meade's style of operation is too much for the Osborne leadership, while others also feel that Meade brought it upon himself. Still others feel that taking the view that Osborne took Meade's refusal to rescind the closure as a personal affront and therefore reacted with force.

The Chief Minister in his statement cited other occasions of having spoken to Meade. When contacted by the Reporter for details of these other occasions, the CM refused, as he puts it, "to elaborate any further."

The former Minister when asked about what those occasions might be, said he could not guess what they are. He made reference to his other sins, citing his involvement of Justin 'Hero' Cassell in his radio programs, which he was advised to discontinue by Bertrand Osborne. "This advice I ignored," he said. "Justin has done radio work for the Ministry without charge, hosting agricultural speak to inform the public about the Ministry's programs. He was also taken on within the Ministry of Agriculture to assist in implementing special projects, including the duck pond agricultural area for relocated and other farmers and the backyard gardening program.

"The questions which I wish to ask are? Does the fact that Justin 'Hero' Cassell opposed Mr. Bertrand Osborne in the 1996 elections make him unfit to offer his country a service that he is capable, qualified, ready, willing and able to perform? Like every other Montserratian he should be allowed the opportunity to serve his country where he is qualified and competent to do so and where his expertise is needed. In agriculture his services are needed."

Brandt found it necessary to remind us, "we live in a world of détente", speaking to those, who according to him, "will be skeptical of his decision to become part of the government." He needed only to remind us that since the 12th November, 1996, he was willing, and if fact all the current players including the deposed Meade, were willing to work together in a coalition government. Nothing is new except this time he has not revealed the conditions under which he has accepted to sit with the government, not being the Chief Minister.

Brandt was no doubt attempting to shift the beliefs of many that he cannot work with anyone else, as he went on in his statement saying: "We have seen east and west hug and kiss. Arabs and Jews who have been at war for centuries striving for peace and brotherhood. So how much more Bertrand Osborne and David Brandt. We are not enemies and never have been."

It is left to be seen whether as he said, they must find the will find a way to manage their 'incompatibilities' "along with the rest of our colleagues and be proud to serve with him."

Briefly the events as investigated by the Reporter are that the LDA was barely functional, since all of the assets it managed exist in the unsafe areas. According to some reports it was desired to have the LDA participate and carry out functions in connection with the housing development projects.

Top government officials including the Financial Secretary, the LDA manager and the Housing Minister held discussions following the presentation of a budget on the LDA operations. It was agreed that suspension of the operations would be prudent. The LDA board accepted the Minister's recommendation and the wheels for the suspension turned.

In the meantime the Chief Minister, as he has confirmed had been making overtures to the British for funds and assistance to strengthen the LDA institution. Meade claims little knowledge and that he knew nothing of personnel who arrived the day he was fired for the said purpose. Mr. Osborne has said that he will be asking the Board to reverse its decision to suspend the LDA's decision.

Former Chief Minister and current nominated member of the Legislative Council Austin Bramble felt obliged to respond to the account given by the ex Minister of his actions on the night of elections and concerns concerning his appointment as a Minister of Government. He called a press conference on Wednesday and he vehemently denied asking Reuben to take the Chief Minister's position on the night after elections. "Whether Mr. Meade's statement was a genuine, but mysterious misunderstanding, or whether it was deliberate, fabricated mischief and even if, like the witnesses who testified falsely against Jesus Christ, 50 or any number of his supporters were to testify on oath that they witnessed such an invitation, I am stating emphatically here and now that the statement is absolutely untrue, it simply never happened."

He went on to justify moves as in keeping with our constitution, to appoint him as a minister of government, saying that this is normal procedure throughout the commonwealth, specifying similarity to the House of Lords in the British parliament and senators in regional governments. He had no discomfort whatsoever with the fact that while it is normal for nominated members to be appointed as ministers, that in his case he was a rejected candidate in the elections following which he was appointed as a nominated member.

On the Chief Minister's decision to dismiss Meade, he said: "Any refusal by a minister to reverse an action for which the government is accountable at the request of his Chief Minister, just about creates a terminal break down in the relationship and that Minister forfeits his right to continue as a Minister."

Later on in the press conference, he confirmed that it was only a matter of time before Osborne put the ax on Meade. When asked if there other problems with Meade, he said "Mr. Osborne had a fit," for things that Meade had done.

The firing episode was concluded, at least for now, with the announcement on Thursday of the appointment of Mr. Austin Bramble as the new Minister of Agriculture, Lands and the Environment with responsibility for trade and housing.

And so the politics move on to begin another chapter of uncertainty.

STATEMENTS

Government House Press Release

Government House announces that acting on the advice of the Honorable Chief Minister, and in accordance with Section 12(3)(b) of The Montserrat Constitution Order 1989, HE The Governor has revoked the appointment of the Honorable Reuben T. Meade as Minister of Agriculture, Trade and Environment with effect from 10 March 1997.

David Brandt - Excerpts of Radio Address

As you know, although I won my seat in the elections, I did not become a part of the government. But that not withstanding, I took my seat on the opposition side of parliament and made again my oft repeated pledge to work tirelessly and ceaselessly for what was in the best interest of Montserrat. And I purposed in my heart to give my fullest critical support to the duly formed government, never engaging in any activity that was counter-productive and did not lead directly to the betterment of Montserrat.

I have been asked by government, to join its ranks as a full-fledged member of the team, working to take Montserrat through and out of its current problems. I have given the request deep thought. I have discussed it with my wife and a few of the people whose advice I value. I have prayed deeply about it, asking God for guidance. And I'm happy to say now, I accept. I have elected not to serve as a minister at this time, but to serve as a back-bencher.

I accept because I believe this is the best thing to do. I do not believe another election at this time is what we most need. I believe the persons who now form the nucleus of the government are people I can work with. Mr.. Rupert Weekes, the representative from the northern constituency and the Minister of Communications and Works, has shown himself to be an upstanding, hard working young man who has the best interest of the country at heart. He is a man I would be happy to call my colleague and to serve with.

Mrs. Adelina Tuitt, the representative for eastern and the Minister of Education, has proven herself to be a stalwart. She won her seat because of hard work, and demonstrated concern for the welfare of people. She too I would be happy to serve with.

There are a number of reasons why I think it's a good thing for me to become a part of the government at this time so that the smooth governance of our country can continue. I do not believe it is in the best interest of the country for us to go back to the polls now. Elections demand a lot of time and attention. They are all consuming.

Another reason is that we must not give Britain any reason to believe that Montserrat is not well in charge of her own affairs. We must not give her any further reason to believe she could demand greater say in our affairs and greater control over us.

REUBEN MEADE’S STATEMENT (Excerpts)

Less than an hour after the declaration of the results of the poll of the 11 November 1996 elections I was approached at my home by Mr. P. Austin bramble and a colleague of his to form the government and be chief minister. This I declined. At 2am of the following day I was again approached by an MNR delegation and asked to be part of a government to be formed. Again I declined but agreed to meet with them later in the day. My position was that if they could have found four others I was willing to work with the grouping but not as a minister. At that time I indicated that I was not willing to work with certain persons if they were to be Chief Minister, but would work under them if they were ministers. When a government was not likely to be formed I agreed to work in whatever capacity I was asked to. Unlike all the others elected and present who had stipulated special demands I did not seek any particular ministry.

What have I done to have my appointment as Minister of Agriculture Trade and the Environment revoked. Advising the Board of the land development authority that they should suspend the operations and pay the benefits to the staff? Why? The LDA was not earning an income and its cash was being eaten up paying salaries and operating expenses. This could not continue. In the best interest of the staff they should be terminated and paid their terminal benefits before the organization became unable to do so and forcing such bills on the tax payers. The staff total was three. What were these benefits? This was approximately $20,000 for the lowest paid staff member, $48,000 for the longest serving and between $31,000-$62,000 for the other. All staff members had outstanding holidays and were all asked to take holidays immediately. During that time the organization would be re-organized and staff rehired as necessary. This did not mean that the operations of LDA would cease - simply a reorganization based on the current realities.

The LDA proposal which was rejected - the LDA proposal submitted to the chief minister and myself was for a subvention of $14,200 per month or $170,400 per year for salaries and operational expenses. This was to come from tax payers or the British government. There has been no guarantee that this would be forthcoming and it was not the most prudent way of spending money. My position was and remains, from an effective management standpoint the proposal was not acceptable. A meeting was held with the financial secretary, the permanent secretary in the ministry of agriculture (both board members of LDA) the chairman and the manager. There was support for my position and the permanent secretary was asked to inform the board of my advice. The ability to pay the terminal benefits of the workers has been a major concern. Secondly reorganization of the LDA was necessary. In practice, I should have informed executive council but this was to be part of the reorganization report to council. My error was that I worked through the board and not executive council in coming to a decision. Having been ordered by the chief minister to withdraw my advice to the LDA board and revoke the board's decision I was not willing to change my decision nor to convince the government directors of the LDA board to change their views as well. This I could not do on principle. I could not support it on moral grounds.

Whatever the ministry was called upon to do it was done quickly and done well. This is because the staff was eager and keen to get things moving. What were the other ministries doing? Was the ministry to which I was assigned doing too well. Give me any job to do and I can do it only one way - good. In the ministry we focus on objectives and targets and we move the stumbling blocks out of the way. We do not provide excuses for none performance.

In response to a statement made by the Hon. P. Austin Bramble on Radio Montserrat as part of the text of a press conference on 12 March 1997 I wish to make the following statement:

Mr. P Austin Bramble did come to the house of the Hon. Reuben T Meade on the night of 11 November 1996 and did propose to Mr. Meade that he should consider continuing as Chief Minister. He also indicated that he could have delivered the support of both Mr. Bertrand Osborne and Mrs. Adelina Tuitt but he is now going to hurry to the north to solicit the support of Mr. Rupert Weekes. He said we could not under any condition allow Mr. John Osborne to take over as Chief Minister again. Although I was not part of the discussion I was within earshot of the conversation. Immediately after the conversation I said to Mr. Meade that he could not accept such an offer. Mr. Meade called together, in his office at his house, the principal advisors there present and discussed the proposal put to him by Mr. Bramble. It was unanimously agreed that he should reject the offer. One member of the group went so far as to indicate that he should have nothing to do with a coalition and should sit on the opposition side of the Legislative Council. I therefore find it offensive for Mr. Bramble to indicate that the colleagues of Mr. Meade would be willing to lie to defend him.

I believe as well that Mr. Bramble was overwhelmed by the shock of defeat when he rushed to make the proposal. It seems that now the proposal has been made public Mr. Bramble is embarrassed for having made such a proposal without discussing it with his party caucus.

The NPP takes the position that in spite of what the Constitution says; we are of the view that in practice to have someone who just lost at the polls being made a Minister of Government is immoral, unconscionable and undemocratic. The Chief Minister said he had good relations with Mr. Brunel Meade and he should have been approached with the offer to replace Mr. Reuben Meade. The MNR was not the party of choice by the electorate. The party leader of MNR has been brought into Government through the backdoor. We repeat; this is immoral and undemocratic. Our Ministers of Government must all be elected persons. That is the reason for general elections.

Let us not forget that Sir Malcolm Rifkin representing the British Government was proposing to get rid of the nominated members and replace them with all elected persons. The Chief Minister is now playing into their hands by such a move.

We call upon the Chief Minister and Mr. Bramble to do what is honorable and appoint an elected member to be Minister. If Mr. Brandt is supporting the MNR then make him a Minister of Government.

STATEMENT - By the honorable chief minister Bertrand Osborne

On Revocation Reuben Meade’s Ministerial Appointment

Yesterday, I asked His Excellency the Governor to revoke the appointment of the Minister of Agriculture, Trade and the Environment, Mr. Reuben Meade, as I have become convinced that he is no longer willing to work closely with the rest of us in Government.

Mr Meade's recent instruction to the board of the Land Development Authority (LDA) to close its operations was a great surprise to us. He had been a party to a decision to have the LDA play an important role in our current housing programme and as the Minister in charge of that portfolio, he was asked to assign specific duties to the staff of the LDA and to make every effort to strengthen and revitalize that statutory body. At no time in our discussions was there any suggestion by Mr. Meade that the LDA's operations should be closed.

Mr. Meade made the decision to close the operations of the LDA without any consultation with me or any other Minister of Government. Having done so, and after having been spoken to about his attitude on other occasions, I have come to the conclusion, and have absolutely no doubt, that Mr. Meade has reached a stage where he feels he could do whatever he wants within his Ministry, even making a major policy decision, without reference to the rest of us. Such an attitude would definitely not be compatible with our efforts to provide good government. As a result, I took the decision to have his appointment canceled.

Other persons and myself have had discussions with the Member for Windward, Mr. David Brandt, and he has agreed to give the government his support. This will enable the government to have a majority, or the assurance of at least four votes of elected members in the Legislative Council.

With this new team in place, I am confident of greater unity and team-work in Government which will redound to the benefit of all Montserratians. I therefore appeal to all of you to renew your confidence in this Administration; to continue to offer your prayers for us and to give us your full support.

It was a couple days less four months after elections which were held on November 11, 1996 when the Bertrand Osborne Coalition Government was put together. 118 days later and the Government reverts to what many had expected the grouping to be following the elections, when the Northern constituency had put its position on the table.

So the question still now must be, will it last? David Brandt uses the media and so did Reuben Meade (even though he used radio mostly) over these past four months. In fact it might be said that this brought about his end with the coalition government. How will Brandt do, even though he is not in a Ministry? He holds the trump card for this coalition government, one in which the leader obviously has little understanding or has given little consideration to how coalitions work. A coalition is not a party. It is much more difficult to discipline members within a coalition and more latitude has to be given to the members that comprise it. This is particularly so where there is no written framework or guidelines to govern it.

For Meade it can be argued that things might have been quite different if he had not immediately announced the decision to suspend the operations of the Land Development Authority on radio. Indeed it might not have angered Bertrand Osborne into action, since he, surprisingly, being in charge of this media for many years, limits his own announcements to the public to an absolute minimum. Going to extremes, he withholds his comments and arranges to keep the Reporter out of his press conferences, thereby limiting any information to radio audiences only.

Meade left asking some pertinent questions and exposing again the 'status quo' of most government officials whose attitude is one of secrecy and keeping the public in the dark as far as possible. Yet, this little country will only progress when every person possible is kept fully informed and made to feel responsible and involved in its business.

The Chief Minister on Wednesday admitted on radio that there isn't a great deal to be seen done with close to $150 million of British allocated funds to meet our budgetary and crisis needs. He later admitted truth to Meade's accusation that they had not put together any formal policies and programs, saying that Meade had not been available for several meetings which were held from time to time. It is only four months he says, but that admission is appalling.

Meade made it appear, if only on radio, and even drew support from Osborne, that his Ministry was the only one doing and getting things done, and so he asked the question: "Were these the other sins he had committed and the real reasons why he was fired?"

Now, it is quite obvious that although our Constitution permits nominated member Austin Bramble to be appointed to a Ministerial position, this cannot sit well with the British and many Montserratians are asking questions, in view of his rejection at the recent polls four months ago.

The situation today leaves us with more than the volcanic crisis. When general elections were held it was thought that it would end some problems and herald in a new era of hope. It would seem that all that has happened is that a new crisis has emerged. One that doesn't seem to have a solution in sight and so just like the volcano, no one knows when it will end. Much of it seems to hinge around leadership and something better be done about it soon.

Dear Mr. Editor:

Sports all over the world is regarded as a very healthy way of allowing our children and adults to build healthy bodies and minds. However true that may be, it seems be the opposite here in Montserrat when it comes to basketball. All of the other major sports played on island have rules and regulations that must be followed, especially when it comes to organized island-wide tournament.

For example in cricket all players must be dressed in white and the umpires are also properly dressed and are in charge of the game from start to finish. The same can be said of football, netball and to a lesser extent golf. Whatever the other sports are, rules and regulations are followed and penalties handed down when they are not. The young men who play basketball do not play to stay off drugs, to build healthy body and mind, for enjoyment, to entertain or the usual good things that one may derive from playing such an active game. It is the opinion of this writer that the referees appear to be always just coming from pasture or feeding pigs (improperly dressed) to the players who use the game to practice indecent, abusive and other insulting language. However what I am trying to say is simply that the guys, despite the popularity of the game sure play it for the wrong reasons. This type of behavior and attitude could and should be dealt with soon. If it is not dealt with even the players from the secondary school who are now getting in on the act will be behaving in like manner and the Ministry of Sports may have big problems on hand later.

Interested Spectator

I told my brother friend, Reuben Meade, "if you go into pits with snakes, unless you are a snake charmer, you get bit and even those who are snake charmers get bit."

It seems that all the people he helped, they sit back and do nothing, voice no opinion and it seems everybody is protecting themselves.

I listen to Bertrand Osborne and Austin Bramble. It seems they are speaking from the same script.

I'm not a scholar, but if you look at the Osbornes and the Brambles, from my own knowledge, no one who works and stays with them amount to anything. And if anyone wants to study what I'm saying, there are a few names of people who left in order to find progress. Such people like Simon Meade, John Ryner, Alvin Greenaway, Vincent Placid, Dave Markham and I can fill a page. I don't need to go into the Brambles.

But Mr. Meade, from the time he started, almost everyone around him and anyone he's touched became more self-sufficient and independent. His record, of course, speaks for itself. I trust there are other Montserratians who will get the courage to speak up.

Director of Public Works, Vernon White says, "the threat posed to Fort Ghaut bridge by flood waters has been significantly reduced."

That is due to the success of Public Works department (PWD) in clearing away 850 feet of debris from the mouth of the ghaut upstream. The debris was brought down by mud flows originated from the Soufriere Hills volcano’s activity. At one point debris was less than three feet under the bridge, but after extensive clearing efforts, it has been reduced to the original depth of 14 feet.

Sturge Park is benefiting from the cleared debris as it is used to reclaim lands at the western end of it from the serious undermining created by Hurricane Marilin and Luis in 1995.

The Montserrat Civil Service Association (CSA) is reopening their claim for salary increases according to its Vice President, Easton Farrell. He says an increase in salaries for civil servants remains a top priority of the association and that the executive has been holding discussions with the government on the salary increases among other issues.

In 1995 the Government, the CSA and other unions came close to an agreement to increase salaries for public servants and teachers. This had to be shelved, due to the onset of the volcanic crisis.

Mr. Farrell voiced some other concerns held by the CSA such as the housing issue. He says that apart from the lack of adequate housing, the CSA executive is troubled by the high rental fees in the safe area. The safe area includes Isle's Bay, Belham, Old Towne, Olveston, Woodlands, where many of the expatriate and retirement homes have been built and which have been used to develop the villa rental and tourist trade. Salem and further north also comprise the safe area.

Another area of concern is the limited voluntary redundancy scheme. The CSA plans to look further into this issue and particularly at the amount of money that is being offered to civil servants under the program.

As parts of efforts to provide superior services to its customers the local branch of the Royal Bank of Canada has recently introduced a new ‘customer feedback program’. The bank has devised a better way for clients to voice their complaints and compliments to the bank.

The new program is called "Straight Talk about making a complaint or compliment". Manager of Regional Operations and Service delivery, Paulette Royer, says customers concerns which cannot be resolved at the branch level will be referred to the regional Vice President. If the issue remains unresolved, customers can contact the Royal Solution Centre in Canada.

Officials at the bank say they expect to have positive results from the program.

The Girl Guides Movement after some period of inactivity jumped into action again. Guides Commissioner Mrs. Oselyn Jemmotte says there are efforts to revitalize the all girls movement, which has been in existence for almost a century. There are two Guides companies in Salem and Brades and one Ranger company in Salem.

At a recent ceremony at McChesney House, 55 girls, 25 guides and 30 Brownies were enrolled in the organisation. The majority of the recruits are from Brades and Salem companies which accommodate members from across the island due to the relocation.

Mrs. Jemmotte says that at its peak before the volcanic crisis, there was an enrollment of 175 Guides and Brownies on the island, but that figure now stands at 80.

The movement recently celebrated 'Thinking Day' and also celebrated the birthday of Guides founders Lord and Lady Baden Powell. These two launched the Scout movement and Guides organization respectively at the turn of the century.

Former Chief Minister and presently Nominated Member in the Legislative Council, P. Austin Bramble will represent Montserrat at the state funeral of the late Jamaican former Prime Minister Michael Manley.

Mr. Bramble will join other Caricom leaders for the funeral on Sunday. He was present with Mr. Manley at the signing of the Treaty of Chagaramus in 1973, which established the Caribbean Community, CARICOM.

Manley died last Friday after a long battle with prostate cancer.

Chief Minister, Bertrand B. Osborne, has announced that Mr. P. Austin Bramble the second nominated member of the Legislative Council will assume duties as the Minister of Agriculture, Trade and the Environment from tomorrow, Friday, 14^th March, 1997.

Mr. Bramble was the Chief Minister of Montserrat between 1970 and 1978 and held other Ministerial posts in the period 1966 to 1970.

His portfolio includes:

Agriculture and Horticulture, Animal Health and Production, Conservation, Co-operatives, Fisheries, Forestry, Housing, Irrigation and Soil Conservation, Lands and Survey, Marketing of Primary Produce, Metrology, National Parks and Historic Monuments, Town and Country Planning and matters relating to Trade.

Although off Island participation was lower than expected the generosity of the major sponsors, "Uncle Ben’s Rice", Cable & Wireless and Carib Beer, and the many local businesses and individuals made it possible for the Montserrat Golf Club to contribute EC$16,000 to the Montserrat Red Cross project for a home for the elderly.

The Golf Tournament was a success in many other ways as well for our local Golfers took most of the top awards. The chief Minister Bertrand Osborne, Minister Adelina Tuitt and Rolston Allen, reperesenting Cable & Wireless, presented trophies to the over-all winner, Ivan "Pocket" Hixon, Veronica Lynch, Ladies Champion, and Carl Lynn, Senior low class winner from Antigua.

Lystra Osborne thanked the players and the Montserrat Golf Club for the interest and support of the Montserrat Red Cross.

Other top awards went to Wilston "Pickett" Johnson, low net winner, Mike Joseph, from the UK, Senior low net, Adella Reid from Canada, ladies low gross.

A local annual Tournament, the international knock-out, was won by the Montserrat team of Randolf Riley and Fitzroy Buffonge. The team of James Daniel and Kingsley Howe was runner-up, 12 teams participated in this Tournament over a period of two months.

At the annual general meetings of the Montserrat Golf Club held on the 22nd of February 1997 the following members were elected to the board of directors for 1997\98.

Don Mills-President, Bennette Roach - Vice President, Randolf Riley - Treasurer, Jim Harris- Secretary, Vendol Moore - Director, Mike D'Amato - Director, Bob Worth-Director, Ed Ketchum-Director, Louis Ainsworth - Director.

Also serving on the board, Vivian Munsey - Ladies Captain, John Ryan - Club Captain.

At a very short ceremony at Cable and Wireless relocated offices in Sweeney's Thursday morning, Neville Dublin, Marketing Manager of the company, presented a check of $1,000.00 to Cecil Cassell Chairman of the National St. Patrick's Day Committee. The check was for the sponsoring of the Cable and Wireless St. Patrick's Day Freedom Run, which is organized annually as part of the St. Patrick's Day activities. The race is usually run from the Church Road campus of the Secondary School in Plymouth to the Old Primary School in the village of St. Patrick's. During the presentation ceremony Ms. Grace Lewis, an employee of Cable and Wireless in the Sales and Marketing Department, said. "Cable and Wireless, who have sponsored the race for three consecutive years is very happy to once again sponsor the Cable and Wireless, St. Patrick's Day Freedom Run this year, and will continue to support local organizations in their community efforts." In thanking Cable and Wireless, Mr. Cecil Cassell, said that the committee was very grateful to the company for sponsoring the race for the fourth year and thanked them for their continued support of the committee. The money will go towards prizes and refreshment for the participants of the race.

A Board of Management has been established to assist in the running of the Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) and the first meeting took place last week. The board is the result of a report compiled under the chairmanship of Prof. Steve Sparks, Drs. William Ambeh and Willie Aspinall, all of whom have worked here at the Observatory since the eruption of the volcano began in July 1995.

International Director of the British Geological Survey (BGS), Tony Reedman, and Head of Physics and Seismic Research and the Seismic Research Unit (SRU), Prof. Ramsey Saunders were on island for the meeting. Also attending was the MVO scientist Lloyd Lynch, who visited for the occasion.

In other news related to the volcano, Steve Sparks, professor at Bristol University in England, is the new rotating head of the MVO from this week. In keeping with the new and ongoing thrust of the scientists there to keep the public informed and educated about the volcano, he sent us the following report.

On arriving at Bramble airport, visitors and residents to Montserrat are confronted by the new mountain that has grown in English's Crater over the last 18 months. The new mountain is of course the dome of andesite lava which continues to grow and glow bright red at night.

A few words of explanation: An andesite is the name given to the type of lava at Montserrat which is very sticky and slow moving so that it piles up above the vent of the volcano to form a dome. The name comes from the Andes Mountains in South America, where there are many volcanoes like Montserrat that erupt andesite lava.

The dome is now very large and is beginning to challenge Chances Peak in size and is already higher than Chances Peak’s 914 metres (3000 ft). The dome reached a height of about 970 m (3180 ft) in July last year. At the moment the top of the dome is 942 metres (3090 feet). The total amount of material on 1st March has been estimated by the MVO as 42 million cubic metres or 100 million tons of rock. Of course there is also a very large amount of additional material erupted as pyroclastic flows, so the total amount of rock and volcanic ash exceeds 70 million cubic metres so far.

The dome has been growing since the beginning of January in 1996 by about two cubic metres per second and sometimes grows as fast as 10 cubic metres per second. These figures expressed in the preferred language of the scientists are hard to visualise and some comparisons are useful.

A cubic metre is roughly the size of a domestic fridge. A large house might have a volume of 10,000 cubic metres. Thus the dome increases in size by about two or three fridges every second, by about a large house every hour and now has a volume of about 4,000 to 5,000 large houses. Another way of imagining the dome size is as a cube with sides of 350 metres (about 1000 ft.)

At this stage in the eruption no one can really say how much longer the eruption will last and how much bigger the dome might get. Everyone hopes it will not be too long before we can answer that million dollar question.

Teachers welcomed the construction of new classrooms in Salem, which were financed by the British Government and were dedicated on Wednesday morning.

Several teachers, teaching officials, the Minister of Education, the Chief Minister, the Governor, the Speaker of the House, children, invited guests and onlookers witnessed as Pastor Wade and Father Fleming performed religious rights in the dedication.

The school children sang beautifully to mark the occasion and there were a few addresses with Father Fleming giving a sermonette to the gathering while head teacher Sylvester Browne performed the task of master of ceremonies. He said in his opening remarks that the building will bring relief to both teachers and students.

Speaking also for the occasion, the Honourable Adelina Tuitt said, "these buildings should be used as tools for the island's development."

The Education Officer Primary, Mrs. Jennifer Michael said, "This is an improvement over the tents and other inadequate accommodations which have been used."

The children cheered when Mr. Ken Cassell, architect, handed over the keys to the Minister for Education and to round off the ceremonies, teacher, Mrs. Juliettan Skerritt thanked everyone including the press.

It was mentioned during the ceremony that there are similar projects to be completed at Brades, St. John's and at the Salem Secondary school.

This year has been designated the year of the Co-operative.

To formally launch the year in Montserrat St. Patrick's Cooperative Union (SPCU) hosted two members of the Caribbean Conference of Credit Union (CCCU) Board of Directors, Mr. Renford Douglas of Jamaica and Miss Corinne Glasgow of Cayman Islands yesterday. Mr. Douglas and Miss Glasgow accompanied by Roselyn Cassell of SPCU made a courtesy visit on the Chief Minister.

The group also visited the shelter at Brades, EOC and Plymouth. The Cayman Islands and Jamaica Credit Union movements have been very supportive of the SPCU.

The SPCU will be celebrating 40 years of community development culminating on June 18, this year.

The local movement will be staging a variety of activities during this year to celebrate both the year of Co-ops and its 40th anniversary.

Eastern emerged as champions of the 1997 Heineken Cricket League with a display of overpowering cricket last weekend. The boys from the villages that line the main road from Lee's to Long Ground with some help from the dormant St. John's Cricket Club, easily disposed of traditional rivals Cork Hill in the final match Sunday, March 9.

Cork Hill batted first and reached 125 all out in 31 overs. Only Samuel Roach (25) and Roland Irish (24) got the starts that were needed to push Cork Hill to a respectable score, but Angelo Bass (4 for 20) ripped through the middle order to put Eastern in a commanding position by mid-afternoon. F. Buffonge (73 not out) and C. Lake (40 not out) ensured that Eastern won the match by 10 wickets with both openers playing sensibly to stay to the very end.

Heineken Weekend Scores: Semi-Finals 1: Pyroclastic 232 for 9 in 40 overs (L. Weekes 105, G. Barzey 41, T. Semper 4 for 54), Eastern 209 for 3 (D. Williams 93, F. Buffonge 81 not out, L. Weekes 2 for 22). Eastern won on faster scoring rate after play was called off with 10 overs left to be bowled.

Semi-Finals 2: Cork Hill 148 all out in 29.1 overs (S. Kirnon 54, N. Gerald 4 for 26), MSS 128 all out in 18.3 overs (T. Greenaway 34, O. Murrain 32, S. Thornhill 3 for 15). Cork Hill won by 20 runs.

Finals: Cork Hill 125, Eastern 127 without loss. Eastern won by 10 wickets.

The race for the 1997 Montserrat Amateur Basketball Association, Cable and Wireless league is heating up with three teams, Ghetto Rockers, Volcanics, and Monstars, posting 5-1 records to lead the 10-team league.

Rebels is in fourth place with a 4-2 record, followed by Gunz 3-2, Renegades 3-3, Northern Swipers 2-4, Cork Hill Killers 2-4, MVO 1-6 and MSS 0-6.

Feb. 28. Gunz 92 (D. Daley 26 points, K. Bramble 18 points) MVO 67 (D. Silcott 14 points, J. Morris 13 points). Ghetto 71 (L. Charles 19 points, E. O'Garro 16 points) Swipers 76 (J. Lane 16 points, 11 rebounds, B. Daley 14 points)

March 1. Monstars 77 (C. Meade 28 points, 10 rebounds, D. Bass 12 points, 17 rebounds) MSS 66 (T. Liburd 14 points, T. Tuitt 12 points).

March 2. Killers 86 (O. Murrain 22 points, C. Frye 16 points) MVO 83 (H. Buffonge 18 points, 14 rebounds, C. Buffonge 16 points). Ghetto 98 (C. White 27 points, 14 rebounds, E. O'Garro 20 points, 11 rebounds) Volcanics 69 ((R. Evans 24 points, M. Evans 19 points).

March 8. Renegades 83 (R. Lee 25 points, 22 rebounds, M. Codrington 23 points) MSS 64 (V. Meade 17 points, A. Irish 12 points). Rebels 77 (E. Aaron 24 points, 16 rebounds) Swipers 71 (B. Daley 20 points, C. Weekes 12 points)

March 9. Monstars 81 (C, Meade 31 points, 13 rebounds, D. Bass 14 points 12 rebounds) Killers 35 (A. Duberry 12 points, S. White 12 points). Volcanics 97 (R. Evans 25 points, M. Evans 21 points) Renegades 77 (R. Lee 29 points, 24 rebounds, M. Codrington 23 points).

Scoring (points per game): D. Daley (Gunz) 21.8, C. Meade (Monstars) 21.8. C. White (Ghetto) 21.6, M. Evans (Volcanics) 20.8, R. Lewis (Rebels) 20.5.

Assists: D. Greenaway (Monstars) 3.0, D. Daley (Gunz) 2.6, C. Meade (Monstars 2.6, R. Evans (Volcanics) 2.4, E. Martin (Volcanics) 2.0.

Rebounds: R. Lee (Renegades) 18.3, D. Daley (Gunz) 14.4, D. Dyer (Volcanics) 14.0, B. Tuitt (Rebels) 12.0, C. White (Ghetto) 11.6

Steals: R. Lewis (Rebels) 5.0, J. Lewis (Killers) 4.6, A. Piper (Rebels) 4.0, G. Barzey (Ghetto) 3.8, O. Murrain (Killers) 3.8.

The Montserrat Cricket Association this week announced that a new league sponsored by Montserrat Mills Ltd. will commence Saturday, March 15.

The league is part of the expanded cricket programme organized by the new-look MCA executive for 1997. The format introduced for the first time in local cricket, will afford the six clubs the opportunity to play three one-day matches and two two-day matches as a result of the unavailability of four cricket grounds due to the volcanic crisis. A points system has been devised in which teams will get 16 points for a win in a two-day match, and 8 points for a win in a one-day match. The two teams at the top of the points standings at the end of the five matches will advance to the finals' which will be a two-day match.

The new league, which comes one week after the completion of the Heineken League, is expected to heavily favour batsmen. Now that the pitches have been cleared of ash and the bounce is even, the bats are expected to dominate at Lansen Park and Salem Park, where the boundaries are quite short. The Reporter's ranking for the new league is, 1. Eastern, 2. Pyroclastic 3. MSS, 4. Cork Hill, 5. Emerald Wanderers, 6. Police.

Who is it said "absolute power corrupts absolutely"? What is absolute power? What is complete corruption?

No one can be said to have absolute power. Even Hitler did not have absolute power nor did he corrupt absolutely. There seems always to be a person, an institution or a situation that cannot be tolerated. The exercise of absolute power has its breaking point and it would seem unreasonable to conclude that absolute power can be exercised ad infinitum. The same kind of in-and-out-"philosophical" argument can be extended to the concept of complete corruption.

It would seem that there is some relationship between power, be it absolute or otherwise, and management. Management must be empowered to be effective. There can be no argument as to whether management should be effective or empowered. But there could be an argument as to whether there is a point at which management can be charged with exercising absolute power. Is the exercise of absolute power by management good for those being managed, for those to whom management is accountable, or for the recipients of the goods and services?

Management of the processes that provide or deliver services to any constituent or group is crucial, and so too are the capabilities and practices of the managers employed. There are two well-known and successful management styles that deviate from the traditional and hierarchical bureaucratic management style.

They are Total Quality Management and Re-engineering. These management styles had to be introduced because it became increasingly clear that bureaucratic management structures were continually failing to satisfactorily effect the timely and adequate delivery of goods and services. This, despite the introduction of new management and motivational techniques, and fancy management training programs. And it did not seem to matter how assiduously these management techniques and tools were applied to traditional bureaucracies, the performance of management barely budged. And managers are rated on performance. Where managers cannot perform, customers are dissatisfied and those to whom management is accountable rightly dismiss them.

Total Quality Management and Re-engineering ensure performance, customer satisfaction and customer value. These styles of management call for the empowerment of front-line managers, who, properly armed with information, are expected to make their own decisions. In traditional bureaucracies however, managers and workers alike are considered too simple to make decisions, and supervisory control by the titular head of the bureaucracy is deemed to be the law of nature. It is obvious then, that these new styles of management can only be considered by bureaucrats to be heresy and are totally incompatible with their notion of how business ought to be conducted.

Total Quality Management and Re-engineering defy 100 years of bureaucratic theology, where no manager has responsibility or accountability. They follow rigid lines of command. In such a structure no manager can be accused of exercising absolute power. Indeed no manager has power and no manager performs.

But to succeed, to survive, to satisfy the myriad demands of one's constituent; to ensure high performance and be effective in Montserrat today, management must be dynamic, unfettered, flexible and sharply focused on the needs of the citizens of Montserrat.

Managers, be they titular or otherwise, who continue to cling to traditional hierarchical structures and bureaucratic systems, will fail to bring Utopia soon and could well condemn Montserrat to Apocalypse now.

Management, you see, must be allowed to manage.

There is only one line between honesty and dishonesty and once you cross over from honesty into the realm of dishonesty you cannot return.

Likewise, rudeness is an abominable thing. To be rude is to have 'bad manners' and to have 'bad manners' is to be socially ignorant.

Few politicians will put their careers at risk to protect one or two honest men. Even fewer politicians will blink an eye if asked to stamp out rudeness and bad manners.

To avoid any mistake, let me make it quite clear, the dismissal of Mr Reuben Meade as a Minister of government is insignificant. This article therefore is not about his dismissal. But in accordance with my promises to seek out and applaud honesty, and because I noticed that the honesty of the Land Development workers significantly influenced public reaction to the dismissal, I feel obliged to respond with this article.

Today I am a very proud Montserratian. Because I see and I feel that our leaders are willing to test and or sacrifice power and popularity, in order to protect honest people and to stamp out bad manners.

Today I am a happier person, because the majority of Montserratians applauded the actions taken by our Chief Minister, the Hon. Bertrand Osborne, to protect the employment of three honest workers at the Land Development Authority and to stamp out rudeness in his team.

Today, I feel good to know that honest workers like Mr. Peter White, who speaks his "piece in peace" without rancor and loud noise, can have strong support in Montserrat.

Peter White does not hide behind mere thoughts. He speaks up and he speaks out, even though he is a public servant. He is sincere, he is consistent and the ideas he shares with us are innovative. He is a type of public servant with positive attributes; and our young people must emulate some of them. We must encourage our young people to speak up and speak out. We must also show them that they can feel secure; that honesty, like good manners will protect them from harm.

In my last article I wrote about bridging the gap with our young people. I hope that this government will use Montserratians like Peter White to share his vision with the young people. Mr. White knows them. He can reach them. He was their teacher for many years. He knows who is intelligent. He knows their aptitude, he can identify who will lead and who will follow. And as imperfect as he might be, he believes in Montserrat and he is honest.

Can you hear me?

Montserrat, are you listening?

Are you paying attention?

For unknown reasons, the volcano is here with us; and it has forced many of us to examine ourselves.

We must also begin to examine subjects like truth, discipline, good manners and fear. There is still worth in memorizing the passage of scripture that says, "Bad associations corrupt good manners."

We must make every effort to cling to goodness and strive for things that will enhance the quality of life in Montserrat. We must believe that our standard of living is measured more by the peace with which we all live together, than by how tricky we are or by how many college degrees we have or by how much money or property we will die and leave behind.

Anyway ..... whatever...... even if you are not listening.....

I personally will thank God, that this year, the year for honesty, we have among us, leaders who are willing to risk everything in order to ensure good manners in public office and to protect honest people.

At the outbreak of World II, the loyalty of Montserratians was very much in evidence. The Commissioner T.E.P Baynes noted that when the opportunity was given for enlistment "my office was inundated with applications by those who realize the danger and were willing to give their lives in the cause of that freedom for which we are fighting" Legislative Council Member C.G Mercer noted that we sent 15 of our sons, confident that if need arose we could see scores of young men and girls. Of those who volunteered, nine enlisted for the air-force, two of whom went to the Royal Air Force for training for the front-line in the battle of Britain.(It is also interesting to note that the island contributed $1,000.00 to Britain. for war relief in the Second World War in 1914).

As the week progressed the activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano increased. Very early in the week was a return to the earthquake swarms of a few weeks ago. These are dominated by volcano-tectonic earthquakes and hybrid events, all which go to show that magma continues to rise to the surface from below the crater.

In fact, the rate of growth of the volcano continues at a high level and the dome is now over 45 million cubic metres with its highest point about 100 feet higher than chances peak. This is the largest it has been.

Scientists observe that the southeastern face continues to be extremely steep and dangerous and that the northeastern face is eroding quickly. The TV camera at Galways is recording frequent large rock falls over the Galaway’s Wall. In addition the dome has been steaming vigorously all week and this has been clearly visible to the naked eye.

All these point to an imminent partial collapse of the dome which scientists feel will lead to major pyroclastic flows in the Tar River Valley area which are likely to impinge on eastern areas of the country. During the week scientists at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) held a meeting for residents of the Spanish Pointe area in Zone C. They explained the high level of risk to this area in the event of a partial collapse of the dome and subsequent pyroclastic flows.

Recent rains have washed away much of the previous ash and it is now in areas such as South Plymouth, Parsons, Amersham, Wapping, Kinsale and Points South where the major ash deposits are located. MVO scientists do warn that when the dome collapses there will be very large ash clouds and subsequent ash falls over a wide area. They are advising residents to stock up on their dusts masks now, these are freely available from local clinics.

The Public Works Dept. has completed its cleaning of Fort Ghaut of volcanic debris, this clears the evacuated capital Plymouth's major waterway in the event of heavy rains.

It was reported during the week that school extensions at Brades and the new school at St. Johns are nearing completion and when they are this will greatly relieve overcrowding in schools in the safe zone. Work is also continuing on extensions to the Secondary School at Salem which currently hosts the Montserrat Secondary School and Technical College classes.

Listeners from throughout the Caribbean joined residents of Montserrat for a panel discussion on the volcano which was aired Wednesday evening on all the region's radio stations. This was a production of Radio Antilles, CARICOM and CANA to keep everyone abreast of the situation in Montserrat.

Jus wonderin if the latest political upheaval surprised any one on Montserrat.

Jus wonderin who is talking the truth about that meeting after election.

Jus wonderin why so many young teenagers hang out at a special bar in Salem.

Jus wonderin if it is drugs that have this young keyboard player not going to school and on the streets l spaced out.

Jus wonderin if the Ghetto evacuated downstairs a mystery bar in Centre Salem.

Jus wonderin why persons from areas like St. Patrick's were not invited to the regional forum on Wednesday night.

Jus' wonderin' if it is not time officials and speakers at functions start complimenting architects, contractors and builders, instead of thanking them for work done and for which they are well paid.

Jus' wonderin' why we can have a car park in Salem and still no exit road from Richmond Hill to provide safe get-away in the worst times of the volcanic activity.

Jus wonderin when we will have good government again.

The Duke of York’s Visit

The Duke of York's Visit

Prince Andrew, we're told, was aghast

At conditions he found as he passed

Shelter toilets and showers;

Think he's asked where the powers

That be were these 19 months past?

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:

Trinidad-West Indies

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.

Theme: "THE ENVIRONMENT IS OUR LIVELIHOOD"

• Monday 31st March - Montserrat Community Self Help Day
• Tuesday 1st April - Official launch of Week and National Fish Competition
• Wednesday 2nd April - Garbage Busters Day Everyone on island is encouraged pick up litter and make a conscious effort to use the bins.
• Thursday 3rd April - MNT - Physical Planning Unit Meeting with the Salem Community.
• Friday 4th April - All island Special Contact and Rewards Grand finale at Salem Center.
• Saturday 5th April - Prize Giving

N. B. Throughout the week MNT's GARBAGE BUSTERS TEAM will be doing spot checks throughout the safe zone and will be awarding prizes to individuals and groups who are found actively engaging in sound environmental practices during that week.

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

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