New Pottery Project Points To Business Opportunities
Pottery students with Labour Commissioner Elijah Silcott and BNTF Project Manager Christopher Lee
Mrs. Idabelle Meade, the Hon. Minister of Education, Health and Community Services, hailed Montserrat’s new pottery project and building in one of the former shelters in Brades “as a great leap in developing local industry” when she opened the unit on Wednesday Minister Meade said that in order to achieve a state of well-being in Montserrat, her Government “is actively seeking ways to promote cultural and economic growth and provide opportunities for people to promote themselves.”
This project is one such example. Established by the Community Services Department in conjunction with the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF), it offers all persons interested in exploring and developing their creative talents the opportunity to learn the art of pottery, with the goal of owning their own small businesses.
Listing the Community Center in Lookout, the Family Center in Cudjoe Head, the Computer Classes for men, the Turning Point Project Office and the summer school art class (from which this project developed), Mrs. Meade called them “indicators that the Ministry of Health, Education and Community Services and Labour is constantly and steadfastly working to make Montserrat socially and economically sustainable.”
She said her Government’s aim is to have the other shelters reconverted to what they were supposed to be -- industrial factories.
Mrs. Meade used the opportunity to appeal to the private sector to invest in areas such as leather craft and candle making, and said her Government “is offering concessions and factory space as it becomes available.” She emphasised that “never was the time for investment so conducive for business in Montserrat.”
She implored students to be aggressive as they strive for excellence in producing quality products, and said, “When one reads ‘Made in Montserrat’, they must know that the product is valuable.”
Labour Commissioner. Elijah Silcott stressed that by networking our resources, much more can be achieved and called upon all those responsible for the Ministries to work collectively, rather than individually.
He extended his congratulations to the 10 participants who began the training workshop two weeks ago, and said he was very proud to see them still involved in the classes.
Mr. Dennis Bell, of Red Clay Pottery in Barbados, consultant and facilitator for the project, commended the students for learning this new art form in three weeks, half the scheduled time. He said, “The students produced items of a high quality and quantity, comparable to those in industrial countries, and present countries like China, where the quality is so high, it is even better than those made in industrialized countries.”
Christopher “King” Lee, Project Manager for the BNTF, and Miss Icilma Fenton, his assistant, and Mrs. Angela Greenaway, Head of the Development Unit, all contributed to the project.
The Ministry of Agriculture provided the building to house the Project, whilst the BNTF provided the kiln and the necessary raw materials.
Kellogg Foundation Funds Region’s 1st Turning Point
After three years in the making, the idea of having a Turning Point Project Office in Montserrat finally became a reality on Tuesday.
Mrs. Idabelle Meade, Minister of Education, Health and Community Services, declared the Project Office open, the first in the Caribbean, at the former building of the St. Johns Clinic, Sweeneys.
Dr. Joseph Haws, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), has been credited for proposing this idea to the W. K. Kellogg Foundation and ensuring that it came to fruition.
Dr. Joseph Haws, Chief Medical Officer and Dr. Vincent Lafronza, the Programme Director of (NACCHO)
This project is a collaborative effort between the W. K. Kellogg Foundation and the Government of Montserrat (GoM), and seeks to institute a community-based initiative to promote the health and well-being of the people of Montserrat.
Miss Valerie Lewis, Project Manager, explained the principles of Turning Point, partnership and collaboration, will be used to encourage “community members to form partnerships, both public and private, so they would be better able to identify problems which affect them, and by drawing upon their strengths, together they will develop solutions for these problems.”
She noted that Montserrat is still trying to recover from the ongoing volcanic crisis and rebuild and re-develop. She welcomed the timeliness of this project, and a grant of US$171,250 from the Foundation, which will be used to cover the local project office for two years.
Miss Lewis emphasised that this project all-inclusive, “one that will provide opportunities not only for the less fortunate but for the community as a whole.”
Eugene Skerritt, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Health, pointed out that as an administrator and accounting officer he is extremely pleased “when new sources of funds are made available to his Ministry.”
He commended Dr. Haws for taking the initiative for having this project and the Kelloggs Foundation for finding it a proposal worthy of its support .
He also thanked the local team, including Peter West, the assistant programme manager, and Miss Lewis for “taking up the mantle and deciding to go on, in terms of managing the programme and assisting us to get the money to where it matters most.”
Dr. Haws all who played a part in bringing the project about, and Dr. Vincent Lafronza, the Programme Director of the National Association of Country and City Health Officials (NACCHO), a doctor of education and specialist in youth and community affairs, for coming here to lend his expertise in these areas.
Dr. Lafronza stressed that “how people work together to improve the overall well-being and quality of life for Montserratians is what you use to create,” and in this sense, “Turning Point is not just a programme, but rather a philosophy.”
Minister Meade said “we should view the Kellogg Turning Point Grant as an opportunity to attract more funding from other foundations, such as the Bill Gates, the Rocky Feller and the Robert Wood Johnson foundations.”
She appealed to “all civic-minded members of our society to join hands in ensuring that we embrace this opportunity of promoting community well-being.”.
Also in attendance were His Excellency Governor Anthony Longrigg, Professor Sir Howard Fergus and Lady Fergus, Speaker of the House Joseph Meade and Mrs. Meade, members of the clergy, MP Dr. Lowell Lewis, Permanent Secretaries and visiting officials from the Caribbean and the USA.
Simeon Sealy’s Killer Draws Life Sentence
The convicted man took over his own defence mid-way of the trial after telling his lawyer he is not asking the right questions. The lawyer reported the matter to the judge who explained his rights to him (Molyneaux) upon which the lawyer was forced to withdraw.
Eight months after fatally shooting local businessman Simeon Sealy, 38-year-old Steve Molyneaux was convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment on March 14 by Her Ladyship Justice Ola Mae Edwards at the Brades Court of Justice.
Miss Sheree Jemmotte, Acting Registrar of the Supreme Court and Registrar, said that the defendant had pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder when it was read against him on March 3.
Attorney General Mrs. Esco Henry-Greer prosecuted the case for the State whilst lawyer David S. Brandt represented the accused at the beginning of the trial.
Shortly after the trial began, Mr. Brandt withdrew his services from the case and Molyneaux defended himself for the remainder of the trial.
The one-week trial began on March 7. The nine-member jury found the defendant guilty after deliberating for just under two hours. He began his jail sentence at the Remand Center in Brades.
The convicted defendant, alias “Jungle” and reported to be a U.S deportee charged with gun-related crimes in 1992, shot Mr. Sealy shortly after 11 a.m. in his office at Trans World Travel in Davy Hill on August 7 last year.
After shooting Mr. Sealy, he locked the door behind him and kidnapped Miss Camille Gray, Mr. Sealy’s secretary.
A man in blood-spattered clothes was said to have reported the incident to the Police.
He said he hid under a table after he heard the first shot ring out, and then fled the building, noticing that the gunman had also fled the scene in a motorcar, taking Miss Gray with him.
Mr. Sealy, a St. Lucian businessman, was pronounced dead soon after his arrival at the St. John’s Hospital.
Mr. Sealy’s car, which was allegedly used to kidnap Miss Gray, was found abandoned in the Judy Piece area, about two miles from the crime scene.
At around 5:30 p.m. of the same day, the police said, the kidnapped secretary managed to escape her captor, following the introduction of the Montserrat Aviation Services (MAS) helicopter to the search.
"For or Against, We’re Unwitting Allies in War’s Tragedy and Fallout"
It is not difficult to agree that when the history of the second Gulf War is written, the events of the past week are unlikely to be cited as the fateful moments. The decision by the United States and its allies to withdraw a UN Security Council resolution authorizing war, after failing to win sufficient support to pass it, and President Bush's final ultimatum to Saddam Hussein to leave his country within 48 hours, are simply the outcome of processes begun and decisions taken months, even years earlier.
Historians seeking to explain the war will certainly debate the relative importance of a number of decisions and events over the past decade.
Montserrat, by virtue of its closer ties both constitutionally and individually, are allies of this war. But unlike the honourable Robin Cooke and our Chief Minister’s personally acclaimed friend and ally, the right honourable Secretary of State for International Development Clare Short, we in Montserrat and particularly our leaders have been silent on the issue. It is not understood why, but it could be that the No. 2 strong-arm for the war is Britain’s Prime Minister Tony Blair. His war policy against Iraq was described as reckless by Clare Short, who even threatened to resign, but Robin Cook went all the way, saying: “If we believe in an international community based on binding rules and institutions, we cannot simply set them aside when they produce results that are inconvenient to us. . . . I cannot defend a war with neither international agreement nor domestic support”
Analytically, it is not always safe to judge the mood of a people by the most vocal or who make the most noise. Often the quiet ones are in the majority and those who agree with an “action.”
Some journalists at a somewhat religious forum yesterday discussing the matter said they have no sympathy for "Saddam Hussein and his ruling group" but they care for the suffering of the Iraqi people.
Unfortunately for us, we too will suffer from the fall-out of this war, but if it is any consolation at all, we hear of the billions that will be pumped into creating a “democratic” Iraq if Saddam either leaves, is killed or is completely overthrown. What we note, of course, is that Britain is the #2 partner in this.
Montserrat is not the enemy of Britain, nor do we bring or threaten terror to Britain and her allies/friends, but we had our tragic disasters, destruction worse than any war, and the only help we can get is a fraction of the10 percent (of our loss), which has been allocated to us. Perhaps there is a message in this thought.
Yet we must not behave as if we are immune to the tragedies of this war with Iraq. Our CARICOM partners have been calling on its members to denounce and get our voices to discourage the war.
We waited, but not a sound. Antigua’s Prime Minister got into the act. St. Kitts/Nevis Denzil Douglas had his piece to say even issuing statements of prayers: “We offer our prayers for all the troops in this moment of ultimate sacrifice, particularly for those citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis and other Caribbean States, who are engaged in this military intervention,” he said in a brief statement, while hoping, that the effects of any conflict on our national and regional economies will be minimal.
At least we know that in church we have prayed and always pray for the avoidance of war and for the victims, but we must remember that more than half of Montserratians resident here prior to 1995 are somewhere in the UK. and the U.S.
The question asked often these days is where do the U.S., Britain and their allies in the war get the authority to tell another nation’s leader that he must step aside? What is noticeable, of course, is that while the other nations express preference for more diplomacy, none of them denounced that position or questioned it.
But perhaps it is that we in these parts and in Montserrat are such “small fries” or so inconsequential and unimportant now, that even many, if asked, will say what we experience sometimes is little different to Saddam in action. The social welfare bill as suggested by the Social Welfare Committee cannot be met; there is not enough money!
Well the war is on and still not a sound, but we must heed that times can become difficult, economically and otherwise, even though it cannot be ignored that economics play a great underlying part in this whole effort to bring peace to the world.
Speaking to the people of Iraq, Mr. Blair reminds them “Our enemy is not you,” suggesting it is their leaders. Here in Montserrat the people believe that we are their enemy but our leaders are their friends. At least they have told us the latter and have provided the funds so they can increase their pay packets by more than 40 percent in some instances.
It might be reasonable to say even from our small corner that double standards certainly exist among the powers, an observation that is expressed ever so often in the melee of discussions.
We should, of course, attempt to understand the purpose of the war, and whether we agree with it or not, hope for an outcome which could benefit us and the world.
Some say look in the holy scriptures and see that God allows wars. In fact it says there will always be wars. Whatever the argument the question is – is there or was there ever a good war? Just ones,. we could say, but then who decides? Is there ever a winner in industrial actions? Doubtlessly some will benefit, if not today but tomorrow, and so the arguments for and against continue.
Hearing the Cry of the Poor
…He shall rescue the poor man when he cries out, and the afflicted when he has no one to help him. – Psalm 72:12
Who rescues the poor in Psalm 72? It is an Israelite king. How can we get meaning for today from a poem about an ancient monarch? One strategy is to read it as a foreshadowing of the ultimate king, Jesus. He is the king who saves us from poverty of sin.
But notice that the Israelite king rescues the poor “when they cry out.” What does it mean to hear the cry of the poor? Surely it means more than simply watching the faces of countless anonymous sufferers stream past in the media day after day. In Scripture, “to hear” God means more than letting his words strike against our eardrums; it means to “hear and take to heart”, to “hear and obey”, to “listen and act.”
What, then does it mean to “hear” the cry of the poor?
Dear God, hear my cry. I am indeed poor, but not materially. Mine is a poverty of compassion. I am oppressed-oppressed by the multitude of my insistent self-concerns. Rescue me, Lord! Give me the grace really to hear other people’s call for help. Kevin Perrotta
A Visitor Sounds Warning About a Tourist’s Delight
Dear Editor,
My husband and I were recently back to Montserrat visiting my mother. Being hikers, we were delighted to learn of the newly marked trail at the top of Runaway Ghaut going down to the sea. We think it is a wonderful idea to promote hiking on Montserrat and this new trail is a very good start. We went on the hike and enjoyed it very much except for one thing: the trash! As one who loves Montserrat, I feel compelled to write with the hope that the issue might be addressed. Lots and lots of trash litters the trail from about 1/3 of the way down to the end. Bottles, cans, paper everywhere. The beauty of the trail was spoiled by an unneccessary eyesore which, in addition to being a blight on the environment, could undermine tourism.
In the short term, I would encourage all who take this hike to carry with them a plastic garbage bag and fill it up on the way out. My guess is that it would take at least 100 large garbage bags to clean up the trash!! In the long term I suggest a public campaign to raise awareness about littering. To litter is to disrespect Montserrat and its beauty. It's everyone's job to take pride in the island and keep it beautiful!
Respectfully,
Lorraine Walmer Horbaly
Look Who’s Calling Whom Untrustworthy
Dear Mr. Editor,
Referring to The Reporter dated 14/03/03,. I am a bit bemused that Chief
Minister John Osborne could express such disappointment that, Dr. Lowell Lewis,
on his resignation from his ministerial post, gave his word that he would stick
to the party as a backbencher.
My comment is, was it not the same Mr. Osborne who promised
Dr. Lewis (also in front of Governor Abbot) that he would only do a year (or
less I also heard) as Chief Minister and hand it over to Dr. Lewis? Talk about
someone who cannot be trusted, and about the pot calling the kettle black.
Keep up the good work.
Wayne Meade
London
Belated Thank You For Festival 2002
Dear Editor,
For Montserratians at home and those who traveled back home (a journey which one looked forward to since January) we were not disappointed with Festival. Our 40th Anniversary celebrations for Festival 2002 can possibly be said to be one of the best since volcanic activity disrupted our festival celebration in 1995. Yet we have not acknowledged this success.
This could not have happened without the hard work, dedication, time and perseverance of all those involved. To all we say “Thank you and well done!” especially to the Department of Culture, its Coordinator and Chairman, members of Festival Committee, sponsors and participants in the various shows and events, and volunteers. We have proved and continue to prove our critics wrong, who want us to believe that we cannot achieve anything.
We Montserratians have a tendency to sell ourselves short at times, which our critics maximize upon. We are full of ideas, and through unity, cooperation and less negativity we can achieve all things. There will always be some among us who love to capitalize on the negative and see only the faults, but this internal bickering needs to stop. Let’s give praise where praise is due, and instead of negative criticism, promote positive criticism -- working together to see how we can improve on our weak areas. So again, to all a long overdue “thank you” Let’s continue to celebrate and keep our culture alive!!
Now the only way to go is upward, so let’s come together and start working on making Festival 2003 an even bigger and better occasion. There is always room for improvement, but let us use this to motivate us, not to hinder our efforts. And remember if we don’t have pride in ourselves no one else will!!!
A Young and Proud Montserratian
Web-site Reporter Helpful to Teacher
Dear Editor,
I have enjoyed looking at your web site. I teach Geography to 12-year-olds in Suffolk, England, and we are currently looking at Montserrat and the effects of the volcanic activity. It has been great for the children to be able to log on and look at your site with up-to-date news.
Many thanks
Cath Fox
Three Invested with Queen New Year Honours
Miss Valerie Ishbel Lewis, Mr. Charles Alexander Richard Meade and Mrs. Carol Alinda Edwards King
His Excellency Governor Anthony Longrigg invested three Montserratians at an investiture ceremony held on Thursday evening at his residence in Palmhurst.
These Montserratians, Miss Valerie Ishbel Lewis and Mr. Charles Alexander Richard Meade, each received the Insignia of a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) and Mrs. Carol Alinda Edwards King was presented with the Montserrat Badge and Certificate of Honour.
These Honours were bestowed on the recipients on Her Majesty’s, Queen’s Elizabeth New Year Honours 2003.
His Excellency, in his citation told the gathering that Miss Lewis has been recognized by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth “for providing over thirty years of professional and dedicated service in the field of nursing to the Montserrat community.”
Miss Lewis, a Nevisan by birth, but of Montserratian parentage has been a part of the nursing fraternity for 30 years.
Her areas of training include midwifery, nursing education, ophthalmology and mental health.
Mr. Meade, who began his public service career as an apprentice mason at the Public Works Department in 1969, has been working on Montserrat’s roadways ever since.
Governor Longrigg said, “Mr. Meade was honoured for his long service, diligence, attitude to work and the tremendous amount of time and energy he has put into rebuilding of the island after the post volcano.”
Mrs. King, an Antiguan by birth, but of Montserratian parentage, also a nurse has been identified as “a worthy recipient of a national award.”
Having relocated to Leicester because of the volcanic crisis, the Governor noted that it was Mrs. King contribution in the voluntary sector that has benefited communities in Montserrat and Leicester.
“Mrs. King’s sterling efforts and the work of the Leicester Montserrat Association continue to benefit evacuees and have enabled many of those who have settled in Leicester to have a more fruitful life that they otherwise might have had,” Governor Longrigg said.
Kite Flying Contest Joins St. Patrick’s Day Events
In collaboration with the St Patrick’s Day week of Celebration, a Kite Flying Competition, organized by Ms. Rose Willock, was held last Saturday at the Government Headquarters.
The activity was supported as a festive celebration of St Patrick’s Day.
Brian Bolo won the prize for the smallest kite, Owen O’Garro for the largest kite, McCloyde Roach for the kite that flew the highest, Alana Allen for the prettiest kite, and Alana Farara for the most unusual kite
Among the prizes given out were watches, clocks and marbles.
One of the participants said the event “was a very good idea, We hope next year we can fly our kites again, and it would be better than this year.”
Search for National Dress Is Pared to Six Designs
An evening of style, fashion, elegance and culture was exhibited last Thursday evening at the Festival Village in search of a National Dress for Montserrat.
Throughout the evening there was a display of talent from the various designers of the clothing, which were modeled by both men and women, among them Ms. Maudella Daley, Festival Queen.
Six designs were chosen from the submissions, which consisted of designs for both male and female costumes.
A single national dress is yet to be chosen by the panel of judges.
Mirror of Passing Car Knocks Pedestrian Down
Eyewitnesses reported that Miss Rachel Dyett is lucky to be alive, after the side mirror of a moving car struck her on Monday, knocking her to the ground unconscious.
It was reported that three pedestrians were walking three abreast in the southern direction about 8 P.M, heading towards the Carrs Bay area, when the driver of car M1875, traveling in the same direction, apparently drove too close to the edge of the road. The left side mirror of the car hit Miss Dyett, causing her to fall forward to the ground, hitting her head in the process.
Members of the Search and Rescue team, who happened to be in the area at the time, rendered assistance and carried the injured woman to the hospital where she was admitted and kept for observation.
Miss Dyett was released from the hospital on Wednesday and up to press time, was home nursing some minor injuries she received to her forehead, lower lip, shoulders, knees and feet.
Police are continuing their enquiries.
Off-island Support Group Donates Digital Phone Sets
The Emerald Isles Creative Vibes, an overseas-based Montserratian group in the United States, made another donation to the Glendon Hospital, and the Hill View and Margetson Memorial Homes, according to the Ministry of Education, Health and Community Services.
This donation comprised two sets of cordless digital phones, which “would greatly enhance the way in which care is provided to the residents and patients,” a Ministry press release said.
In December last year the group donated various equipment, including wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and canes.
The press release stated that the patients, residents and staff within the Ministry of Health “are indeed grateful for this donation from the Emerald Isles Creative Vibes and look forward to their continued support in the future.”
Montserrat Chamber Receives Positive British Press Notices
The Montserrat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, (MCCI), made headlines in the Cultural Economy section of a London multi-ethnic monthly newspaper, The Post (issue 42 March 2003), with three positive articles -- “ ‘MontserratFirst’ is creating world ties,” “Caribbean-Britain Council & Montserrat Chamber of Commerce host seminar” and “Montserrat Chamber makes appointment.”
These articles addressed issues relating to international trade between Montserrat and other countries.
According to the article, “ ‘MontserratFirst’ is creating world ties,” the programme known as ‘MontserratFirst,’ developed by Rudi Page, Managing Director of Statecraft, and the MCCI, will act as a catalyst for developing alliances, partnerships and networks.”
Mr. Page explained that since “London provides the gateway for international trade support in Europe, North America and throughout the Caribbean, based on its continuing cultural and commercial link, the Chamber movement is an effective mechanism for the integration of international trade as a tool for local economic development.”
The second article, “Caribbean-Britain Council & Montserrat Chamber of Commerce host seminar,” reported that, “the MCCI engaged London-based businesses interested in trading with the Caribbean with international trade advisors and other companies already successfully exporting to the region.”
David Tain, International Trade Director, Trade Partners UK London region, said, “We are calling on London’s business community to realize their potential for trade with the Caribbean nations in advance of the British trade mission in June.”
He added, “Hosting this event gives us an opportunity to show how our international trade teams have already helped many businesses secure trading links abroad.”
The newspaper reported that Kenny Cassell, President of the MCCI, gave the feature address at the seminar and agreed on a memorandum of understanding with the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).
Mr. Cassell said, “The trade’s mission relevance to Montserrat is particularly significant as businesses in London are being encouraged to investigate opportunities for international trade in construction and infrastructure projects in the continuing aftermath of the country’s Soufriere volcano disaster in 1997.”
Upon his return to Montserrat, Mr. Cassell reported that the “International Trade Seminar was a huge success.”
Mr. Cassell said he had invited Sir George Martin and Lady Martin to join him at the event and noted that Sir George Martin reinforced the point made by the Montserrat delegation about “our unique characteristics of peace, quiet and security, thus making Montserrat an ideal place to live and work.”
Mr. Cassell pointed out that “the many questions asked underscored the interest generated in our small island despite the ongoing volcanic eruption, and said Mr. Page, who chaired the event, was responsible for arranging Montserrat’s participation.
Governor’s Office Vows Increased Aid for NGOs
Local Non Governmental Organizations (NGO’s) are to get more assistance from the Governor’s Office.
According to a Government House Press release, “This assistance is in the form of funding for workshops, which will lead to the formation of a local NGO Forum.”
“The funding, from DFID’s Small Grants Scheme, which is administered by the Governor’s Office, is in addition to that provided for the recently concluded NGO Management Courses,” the release stated.
The release added that during the Management Courses, co-sponsored by the Partners of the Americas (POA) and the University of the West Indies, “a need was expressed for closer collaboration between the island’s voluntary groups.”
The release said that idea for the NGO Forum would be further developed at the upcoming workshop 27th –31st March at the Gourmet Gardens.
Miss Elizabeth Piper Wade, Coordinator of POA, Montserrat, pointed out that the recent series of Management Courses showed “a perceived need to organise an NGO Forum in Montserrat.”
She said it is expected that this workshop will bring all the various NGO’s in an umbrella organization.
Miss Piper-Wade said, “shared resources, speaking with a united voice, ensuring community development, avoiding duplication of services, liaising with government in a united front, and being a catalyst for change, are some of the benefits that can be realised from having an organised group of NGO’s.”
Owen “ Ezad Toure” Roach Gets Called To The Bar
Owen
“Ezad Toure” Roach was called to the Bar of England and Wales on March 13th
2003, at Lincoln’s Inn, Chancery Lane, London, a lifelong ambition come true.
After graduating from Middlesex University in 2001 with an upper second-class degree in Law, Political and International Studies, he was accepted to the College of Law where he commenced the Bar Vocational Course in September of the same year.
“I knew that the course was going to be tough, for the English Bar is perhaps the most respected in the World,” Mr. Roach said. “However, I told myself that if I could survive all the overwhelming disasters that nature threw at Montserrat over the years, plus the negatives of coming from the Ghetto, I could achieve anything.”
He said his determination came from growing up in a humble part of town and also from the advice of his father, the late Tommy Roach, who used to tell him, “A high as you rise to think, so much will be your progress and success wherever you are.”
He said that when things got tough at University and Bar School, he constantly pictured himself playing cricket against the best bowlers in the Leewards. He always knew that “one can only make runs at the wicket,” which meant that success would only come through perseverance.
To those who might be surprised that Owen Roach decided to be a Barrister, he recalls that for the past 18 years he has been a voracious reader in Law and Political subjects. After leaving the Monsterrat Secondary School in 1988, he did several courses at the University Centre under the guidance of Professor Sir Howard Fergus, Counsel George Kirnon, and Sister Edris Perkins. Chedmond Browne, another of his mentors, also had a profound effect on his academic development and Pan African beliefs.
To all youths who have a dream, he said, “Ezad wants you to you keep hope alive and believe in your abilities. Even though tempted, do not walk off into the sunset feeling discarded whenever things don’t work out for you immediately. If you really want success in whatever endeavour, you will achieve it, for no sort of physiological weaponry will extinguish the will of those who strive for excellence.”
His immediate plans are to further his education, gain some experience in London and then return to the Caribbean, because “I miss the Caribbean sunshine, cricket, and beaches.”
Information Technology Students Making Progress
The Montserrat Reporter visited the Salem Learning Centre to observe the progress of the Men’s Information Technology class and found it in full swing.after five weeks.
The men are currently on the Micro Word programme, and at least one of them has already moved on to the Microsoft Excel.
Their typing speeds also have progressed.
According to Elijah Silcott, Labour Commissioner, “ They are in their sixth week and will be completed in April, when 6 men will be graduating with certificates.
“In the last week of class they will learn to gain access to the Internet,” he said.
Junior Calypsonians Excel Again
By Cathy Buffonge
Once again the Montserrat Union of Teachers has brought off an excellent Junior Calypso competition, which was staged during St Patrick's Week. For the first time the show was held at Festival Village, allowing for a larger audience, a roomier stage, and greater exposure for the children.
Eight children took part, ranging in age from 8 to 15. The songs in the first round were on themes pertaining to HIV/AIDS, while the second round was on any subject of choice. The competition was won by new Junior Calypso monarch Steady (Steadroy Cabey), while Kim (Kimona Daniel), who won the crown for the last two years, gained the special trophy for the best song on HIV/AIDS, and was also first runner up in the overall competition. Second runner up was Beauty (Jonique Fenton).
Major sponsorship, as well as the special trophy for HIV/AIDS, was provided by Turning Point, a US-based non-profit organization newly set up in Montserrat to support community based health projects, funded by the Kellogg Foundation.
The songs in the first round addressed the various aspects of HIV and AIDS, with titles like “Protect yourself from AIDS,” “Too young to die,” “He's your brother” (the person with HIV/AIDS), and “Equal opportunity virus.” Kim's winning song, “Warning about AIDS,” was performed with conviction, clarity and passion, spelling out how to avoid HIV infection, and appealing to all to follow her advice, leaving no room for doubt. Hopefully this and the other songs will help to guide young people to prevent this epidemic, which is just waiting to happen here. Overall winner Steady's “Without a hope,” performed in a diaper, reminded us of the devastating effect of mother-to-child transmission of HIV/AIDS, while Beauty's “Too young to die” urged youngsters to abstain from sex.
The second round had a variety of themes. Steady's winning calypso, “Leave some for me,” addressed a hot local political issue, the reported plan for a pay increase to members of government. Kim's “Tragedies” looked at lack of unity in the Caribbean, while second runner-up Beauty sang on the St Patrick's Day theme “Freedom.” Other social issues addressed in this section were “World Peace,” “Good Parenting,” “That's right” and “There must be another way.” The prize for best newcomer went to 10-year-old Calypso Earl (Candica Earl) with her popular “Music for dancing” together with her first round song ”He's your brother.” Others taking part, and also making a good effort, were Chrissie, Laro, and newcomers Julius and Delroy.
Apart from a late start the show ran smoothly and was well organized, with Joe West as MC and a good accompaniment by the band. The supporting show included a dance by young Festival princess Christine Martin, a song by Roselle 'Mindful' Osborne, and music by children's brass and instrumental band Small Beginnings. Antigua's junior calypso monarch Little Kimmie sang well, while young Prince Andrew, who dropped out of the competition at the last minute, sang his calypso “Musical chairs” - another topical political theme.
Barbados PM Calls Island Equal to Anti-war Backlash
BARBADOS (CMC) -- Prime Minister Owen Arthur says Barbados is
prepared to deal with any backlash resulting from the strong stance taken, along
with other Caribbean countries, against U.S.-led military intervention in Iraq.
"This country will stand at its peril for whatever cause, not to allow anybody
to believe that a unilateral approach of the choosing of the powerful and the
mighty has any place in a civilised world," Mr. Arthur said in declaring his
country's counter-war position in Parliament on Wednesday.
He added, “Barbados will have to face up to the consequences of what lies
ahead."
In moving the second reading of the 2003/2004 Estimates in the House, Mr. Arthur
further condemned the U.S.-led armed invasion of Baghdad, saying that "there is
a danger, a hypocrisy surrounding and supporting this action."
He stressed that Barbados, like the other countries in the region, had not been
given evidence of any imminent threat posed to the world by the Iraqi
leadership.
Furthermore, he said, Barbados did not believe any country that exercises a veto
against the war was destroying the United Nations.
His comments came as the U.S. government reportedly expressed regret over
the Caribbean's stance against war.
At their recent inter-sessional summit in Trinidad and Tobago last month,
Caribbean leaders voiced strong objection to the war, while calling on the U.S.
and its allies to exercise restraint.
CARICOM also urged Iraq to comply with the requests of UN weapons inspectors and
to disarm.
ACP States Start Preparing For Legal Battle over Sugar
GUAYANA (CMC) -- The sugar-producing states of the African,
Caribbean and Pacific states (ACP) grouping are bracing for a legal battle with
Brazil and Australia over their preferential arrangement for sugar with the
European Union.
"As part of the ACP, we are identifying law firms to represent our interest in
case it (the challenge) goes to a dispute panel," Guyana's Foreign Trade and
International Cooperation Minister Clement Rohee said this week.
Mr. Rohee told reporters that the ACP body has contemplated the move "in the
event that the Brazil and Australia challenge to the European Union Sugar
Protocol goes to a dispute settlement panel."
He said the ACP Ambassadorial Committee in Brussels was looking at initiatives
in the lobbying process, but as a "worse case scenario" the Committee had
started to look for possible legal representatives.
Brazil and Australia, two of the world's largest sugar producers, are upset that
ACP states get above-world-market prices for their product, in the context of
the World Trade Organisation (WTO) agreement.
ACP countries, whose economies are largely dependent on the sugar industry for
their sustainable socio-economic development, have argued for the continuation
of the Sugar Protocol and the Special Preferential Sugar Agreement (SPS) for the
long-term viability of their sectors.
They further argue that a reversal of the SPS will ruin the fragile economies of
some ACP states.
Guyana exports some 80 percent of its sugar exports to the EU, earning some 20
percent of the country's total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and over 50 percent
of earnings from agricultural products.
Sugar is the country's largest foreign exchange earner, bringing in US$121
million in 2001 with just under US$100 million from EU sales alone.
Meanwhile, "the current Chairman of CARICOM Dominica's Prime Minister will be
writing the leaders of Brazil and Australia stressing the concerns of CARICOM
sugar producers in respect to the challenge," the Government Information Agency
(GINA) here said.
St. Lucia's PM Says No To Cash for LIAT ‘Abyss’
ST. VINCENT (CMC) -- The St. Lucia government will not be
pouring any more money into the cash-strapped regional airline LIAT, Prime
Minister Dr. Kenny Anthony said here this week.
Complaining that the country was owed the second largest amount by the carrier
in terms of landing and navigational fees, Dr. Anthony told CMC that he had
already made his position known to his fellow Caribbean Community (CARICOM)
leaders.
"LIAT is an abyss," Dr. Anthony said, adding that "the government of St. Lucia
would not be pouring anymore money into it."
While acknowledging that LIAT has served the region well over the years, the
Prime Minister said "things have changed" with the Antigua-based carrier.
He said LIAT was now at a critical juncture "at which the shareholders will have
to make some hard decisions if it is to survive".
He said even if other shareholder governments were not prepared to take tough
decisions, the St. Lucia government would not be able to continue to offer
support to the airline.
He made the comments during a recent visit here for talks with his St. Vincent
counterpart Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, who has been leading a regional effort to save
LIAT.
They also came ahead of Wednesday's announcement by the Trinidad and Tobago
government that it would be providing a letter of comfort for LIAT's bankers to
the tune of EC$12.5 million.
Trinidad Letter Promises Financial Help to LIAT
Compiled from dispatches
TRINIDAD (CMC) –The Trinidad and Tobago government is
providing a letter of comfort for the cash-strapped regional airline LIAT to the
tune of EC$12.5 million (US$4.6 million), Trade and Industry Minister Ken Valley
has said.
Mr. Valley told reporters that the decision to provide the letter of comfort was
taken at a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, following talks last weekend between
Prime Minister Patrick Manning and Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St.
Vincent and the Grenadines.
The two leaders had discussed initiatives to save the Antigua-based regional
airline, with Manning telling reporters afterwards that the airline needed an
immediate injection of US$935,000 to prevent at least five of its aircraft from
being seized by its creditors.
Dr. Gonsalves told reporters after Sunday’s meeting that it was necessary for a rescue package to be found for the airline in order to remove the possibility of the regional countries being served by another company that is not answerable to the regional public.
In recent months, LIAT has faced severe competition from another Antigua-based airline, Caribbean Star, with Dr. Gonsalves accusing the airline of engaging in predatory pricing and other tactics to boost its presence in the region, a position denied by senior Caribbean Star officials.
Last month, Caribbean governments met here to discuss the future of LIAT after it was disclosed by top officials that it needed an immediate injection of EC$25 million (US$9.25 million), if it is to remain in the skies over the next three months.
A statement issued at that time by the Antigua and Barbuda Government called regional governments “hard pressed” to meet the financial requirements and that efforts were being made to save the airline.
Mr. Valley said his government was not prepared to provide
cash to the struggling airline at this time. He said, however, there was a
possibility of the airline’s receiving additional help based on the
recommendations of a steering committee, led by businessman Ken Gordon, which
has been charged with the responsibility of examining the future of the regional
airline industry.
The committee is looking into the possibility of merging LIAT, BWIA and Air
Jamaica into a single regional airline.
"Until the committee reports, there would be no more direct funding to either
LIAT or BWIA," Mr. Valley said.
Trinidad and Tobago's letter of comfort will allow the regional airline to
access financing through the Barbados-based Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).
Mr. Valley said the government was prepared to guarantee loans made by the CDB
to shareholder governments of LIAT up to an aggregate amount of EC$12.5 million.
Last year, CARICOM leaders provided similar letters to the tune of EC$11 million
(US$4.07 million), 40 percent of which was guaranteed by the Manning
administration.
However sources here say LIAT needs an immediate EC$25-million (US$9.2 million)
cash injection to service its current debt.
Kyoto Forum Forebodes Regional Water Crisis
JAPAN (CMC) -- The Caribbean can face a water crisis if it
does not get its act together in the face of changing climatic conditions and
their impact on freshwater supplies, according to Vincent Sweeney, Executive
Director of the Caribbean Environmental Health Institutes (CEHI).
Mr. Sweeny made the disclosure at the Third World Water Forum in Kyoto.
Both he and his Pacific counterpart, Alf Simpson of the South Pacific Applied
Geoscience Commission (SOPAC), shared the view that time was now of
the essence. CEHI and SOPAC have agreed to collaborate more closely on the
subject.
Mr. Sweeney said some politicians appeared to view potable water supply as a
social service, which must be provided, regardless of the ability to pay, which,
in turn, leads to constant interference in the commercial operations of water
utilities.
In this regard, he recommended the development of "strong, independent
regulators for oversight of water service providers."
Jeffrey Stubbs, country director for the Asian Development Bank's (ADB's) South
Pacific Regional Mission, said there appeared to be many common areas of
interest between the Caribbean and the Pacific in the area of water utilities.
"Water utilities often suffer from inadequate institutional arrangements,
shortages of staff (and) high water losses," he told reporters.
"A very direct programme to improve their operations is needed," he said.
Mr. Stubbs said he was impressed by the fact that "there is a commitment to
action on the part of the island countries."
"The countries themselves have recognised the difficulty of their situation and
the need to upgrade their institutions and their capacity," he said.
"They need to adopt new approaches to the sector."
House Speaker Roberts Steps Down in St. Lucia
ST. LUCIA (CMC) -- Speaker of the St. Lucia House of Assembly Matthew Roberts has resigned in the wake of ongoing controversy over allegations that he sexually abused a relative some years ago.
Paris-based model Vincent McDoom has alleged here that he was abused by his “uncle, the House Speaker” at age 13 and there have been various calls by various sections of the media for Mr. Roberts to resign.
In a statement issued on Monday, Mr. Roberts said he had decided, “to vacate the position of Speaker of the House of Assembly" as a result of his pending legal battles against a number of people, including newspaper publisher Rick Wayne.
“In these circumstances, I feel very strongly that my energies should be devoted to preparing for the case, and I do not wish the Office of Speaker to be compromised during the inevitable hearings that must follow,” Mr. Roberts said.
“Consequently, I have undertaken to inform the Honourable Prime Minister of my decision to vacate the position of Speaker of the House of Assembly, pending the determination of the case."
Parliamentary officials here say it is believed that a new Speaker will be appointed in time for the new session of the Parliament, scheduled for next month.
Caribbean, Pacific Join Forces On Small Islands Development
JAPAN (CMC-CERN) -- Two environmental organisations for the Caribbean and the Pacific, attending a major water conference in Kyoto, agreed Monday to jointly prepare for next year's 10th anniversary follow-up to the landmark global conference on the special environment and development problems of small islands.
During the third World Water Forum, which opened Sunday, the St. Lucia-based Caribbean Environmental Health Institute (CEHI) and the South Pacific Applied Geoscience Commission (SOPAC) agreed on a joint strategy ahead of the Barbados +10 conference.
Next year's meeting will examine the international community's progress on a Programme of Action for the sustainable development of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), which was adopted by the United Nations in Bridgetown in 1994.
The agreement calls for Caribbean-Pacific cooperation on research, public awareness, education and training and policy and institutional development.
The collaboration between the two regional environmental organisations for the Caribbean and the Pacific began more than a year ago through the International Dialogue on Water and Climate, in preparation for the World Water Forum.
SOPAC Director Alf Simpson said at a news conference Monday it is time to “stop the talk and more talk”. He said this is what made the CEHI/SOPAC pact significant, was that it was "all about action”.
CEHI Executive Director Vincent Sweeney suggested the Caribbean was partly to blame for being "ignored" on global agendas.
He referred to the absence of official Caribbean representation during a “Day of the Americas” focus on hemispheric water issues at the World Water Forum, planned for Wednesday.
“If we are being ignored by the people within our own hemisphere, it’s not surprising we get ignored by the larger groupings,” he added.
U.S. Report Puts St. Lucia At Top in Cocaine Traffic
ST. LUCIA (CMC) -- St. Lucia has become the leading island for cocaine trafficking in the Eastern Caribbean, having experienced a rapid increase in this activity over the past few years, according to the 2002 U.S. Narcotics Report on the Caribbean.
The recently released report also points to St. Vincent and the Grenadines as the leading marijuana producer in the Eastern Caribbean and the source of much of the marijuana used in the region.
The report further states that international narco-traffickers are active in St. Lucia, working with local agents to stockpile cocaine and marijuana for trans-shipment.
Much of the cocaine comes from Colombia through Venezuela, either directly or via Trinidad and Tobago or to a lesser extent St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the report states.
The report further notes that drugs have been smuggled onto St. Lucia’s rugged coastline through offshore airdrops followed by small boats, which make the pickup.
The report said that some marijuana was cultivated here mostly for local consumption.
Up to October last year, St. Lucia police reported seizure of 152 kilos of cocaine and 230 kilos of marijuana, with 634 arrests made and 51,000 marijuana plants destroyed.
The country’s total seizures were more than twice those of other Eastern Caribbean islands. St. Lucia also arrested more persons on drug charges than any other island.
Seizures and arrests respectively for other islands:
· Antigua and Barbuda -- 51.4 kilos of cocaine, 211.5 kilos of marijuana, 107 arrests.
· Barbados -- 47 kilos of cocaine, 690 kilos of marijuana, 277 arrests.
· Grenada -- 77.1 kilos of cocaine, 356.7 kilos of marijuana, 469 arrests.
· St. Kitts and Nevis -- one kilo of cocaine 30 kilos of marijuana, 39 arrests.
· St. Vincent and the Grenadines -- 13.2 kilos of cocaine, 7,400 kilos of marijuana, 475 arrests.
The report noted that regional governments and the U.S. cooperate extensively on law enforcement matters, adding that further reforms were being carried out to counter the illegal drugs trade.
OECS States Voice Concerns About Tapping Available Aid
ST. LUCIA (CMC) -- Eastern Caribbean governments have
expressed concern that almost 50 percent of the financial resources committed to
the sub-region by international donor agencies are not being accessed, Acting
OECS Director General George Goodwin has said.
He told a recent donor meeting here that this translates into EC$1.5 billion
(US$185 million) across the sub-region.
"They (Governments) are similarly concerned that the portion that is eventually
disbursed, is deployed and utilised in a manner that produces maximum
development impact," Mr. Goodwin added.
In light of the situation, the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS)
has established a Project Management Coordination Unit (PMCU) designed to
overcome problems preventing member states from fully utilizing international
financial aid packages.
An official statement said the inability of states to take full advantage of
financial assistance to the sub-region was discussed by senior OECS officials,
the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and representatives of various
international aid donors at a meeting here last weekend.
The statement said that the PMCU, to be headquartered at the OECS Secretariat
here, would address the problem of lack of capacity in individual OECS member
states to meet the requirements for drawing down on development financing.
It will also work along with national ministries of finance and planning in the
utilisation of the funds, the statement added.
Alan Slusher, the Caribbean Development Bank's representative at the meeting,
acknowledged his institution's concern about the low level of drawdowns, noting
there was "a considerable amount of funds still at the CDB".
ECCB Governor Sir Dwight Venner, who chaired the meeting, stressed the difficult
times facing the economies of the OECS Member States and the need to fashion a
way to deal with them. He noted the decision taken by OECS Heads at a special
summit on the economy last November to focus on stabilisation, stimulation and
transformation of regional economies.
The OECS includes the islands of Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St.
Vincent and the Grenadines, St. Lucia, Montserrat and St. Kitts and Nevis.
CAREC Alerts Region To Look for Flu-like Virus
TRINIDAD (CMC) -- The Caribbean Epidemiology Center (CAREC) on Tuesday urged Caribbean countries to be on the alert for a mysterious flu-like virus, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).
Since the outbreak of the virus on February 26, health authorities have reported 150 suspected cases and nine deaths in nine countries, including Canada, China, and Hong Kong.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has described SARS as a worldwide threat.
WHO Director General Dr. Gro Harlem Brundtland said, “the world needs to work together to find its cause, cure the sick, and stop its spread.”
CAREC’s Information Adviser Jones P. Madeira said on radio Tuesday that “the fact that we have issued an alert does not mean we are directly affected.
“Our response has been to tell our members that you should be on the lookout and given the pattern of this disease, you can’t be anything but be on alert,” he added.
But he stressed that “there was no indication of a threat in the Caribbean” and reiterated CAREC’s position that there was no recommendation to restrict travel to any destination.
The CAREC alert is urging regional states to enforce the guidelines issued by the WHO to protect airlines and travellers.
Grenada, EU Agree on Multi-million Credits
GRENADA (CMC) -- Grenada has signed two agreements with the
European Union (EU) which Prime Minister Dr. Keith Mitchell said would further
boost economic activity on the island.
One of the agreements establishes an EC$11.4-million (US$4.2 million) Rural
Credit Scheme, which comprises EC$8.7 million (US$3.3 million) from the EU and
the STABEX funds, as well as EC$2.7 million (US$1 million) from the Special
Framework of Assistances (SFA).
Prime Minister Mitchell said the scheme would help small entrepreneurs attain
credit in such important areas as farming and agro-processing, arts and crafts,
small construction companies and auto repairs, among others.
The second agreement provides EC$2.6 million (US $0.9 million)
in grant funds for expansion of the T.A. Marryshow Community College (TAMCC).
This includes a new three-story building to house a science laboratory, six
classrooms and staff facilities.
The agreement would provide more skills training for students interested in
pursuing a career in tourism, as well as address the issue of crowding at the
College, the Prime Minister said.
John Caloghirou, Head of the Delegation of the European Commission in Barbados
and the Eastern Caribbean, said the agreements were a clear indication of the
cooperation between the two parties.
Retired UWI Professor Sworn in As Trinidad & Tobago’s President
TRINIDAD (CMC) -- Professor George Maxwell Richards, a 71-year-old retired University of the West Indies (UWI) academic, was sworn in on Monday as Trinidad and Tobago’s fourth Head of State since political independence in 1961.
He replaces Arthur N.R. Robinson, who served in the post for the past six years. Chief Justice Satnarine Sharma administered the oath of office to the new Head of State, following which Mr. Robinson and Prime Minister Patrick
Manning offered their congratulations to the man who has promised to work to remove the divisiveness in the society.
Unlike his predecessors, President Richards, who served as pro-Vice Chancellor of the UWI, is the first person to occupy the highest office here without a legal background. He is a chemical engineer by training.
He was elected to the post by the Electoral College that comprises members of the two Houses of Parliament, on February 14, by a 45-23 margin.
Inter-Primary School Sports Shorteded by Heavy Rainfall
Heavy rainfall on Wednesday disrupted in its first half of activity the Inter-Primary Schools’ sports at the Salem Park in which the Brades Primary School, The Lookout Primary School and The St Augustine Primary School were competing.
A fixed date is not been set for continuation of the event.
The judges and teacher decided, however, to go ahead with the prize giving, using the points counted up to that point and from which a over all winner was decided.
The Brades Primary School held the winner title for one year, but defeat was right around the corner.
St Augustine Primary School was victorious, scoring a total of 73 points, after losing their two-year titles to Brades Primary in 2002.
Lookout Primary gained second position with 42 points, followed by Brades Primary with 32 points.
Ludorum Victor is Karem White from the St Augustine Primary School and Ludorum Victortrix is Celine Ryan from the Lookout Primary School .
Prizes were handed out on Thursday at the school by Director of Education Oslyn Jemmotte.
The activity was sponsored by NEMWIL
Montserrat Installs Its First Youth Parliament
Members of Montserrat’s newly established Youth Parliament were sworn in on Sunday March 16 at the Police Headquarters in Brades.
Melissa Greenaway was sworn in as Speaker of the house, after which made the throne speech in acceptances of the position.
Jevon West, President of the National Youth Council in Montserrat, was appointed Chief Minister, leader of the Government.
Other ministers and officials were sworn to the various positions: Alphege Browne, Minister of Communication; Danielle Lee, Minister of Agriculture, Land Housing and the Environment; Lavern Rogers, Minister of Health, Education and Community Services; Crystal Archer, Deputy Speaker.
The Attorney General is Regina Lee, and Financial Secretary is Clyde Rogers.
The selected Ministers and officials pledged their allegiance to the Queen and gave their solemn vow to uphold the laws of the Country.
Ms. Greenway said in her Throne Speech: “It is with great appreciation I thank you for electing me Speaker of the House for the first ever Youth Parliament, but firstly I would like to thank God because without him we wouldn’t be here.”
“I would like to thank the Honourable Joseph Meade and Mrs. Claudette Weeks, Clerk of Council, for providing us with the opportunity of experiencing parliamentary life first hand, as well as providing an educational experience which would sharpen our political interest.”
Mr. West, the fist ever Chief Minister of the Youth Parliament, said in his speech of appreciation, “The formation of this Youth Parliament is a clear indication that the young people of this country are interested in our political future and development.”
“Just as was stressed in my parties’ campaign, ‘we have a vision.’ A vision that young people would work together in the best interest of our country, and have grater impact in the development of our people.”
“I fully intend to make my people proud, and will do everything in my power to make sure that our country is well represented. Further more, I hope to work with all members of this Honourable House, in an aim to meet all our goals and objectives.”
“This Montserrat’s’ first ever Youth Parliament, and I know that this Honourable House, will do its best, to ensure it is not the last. Through this Youth Parliament great things will be achieved.”
Facilitator Hails Youth Policy Workshop a Succes
In
formulation of a Youth Policy in Montserrat the Community Services Department
hosted a one-day workshop at the Lookout Community Centre on Thursday March 20th
2003 with the aim of getting the Government of Montserrat and the community at
large to aid in the development of the youths on Montserrat.
The Workshop was facilitated by Mr. Armstrong Alexis Regional Director of the Commonwealth Youth Program.
In attendance at the workshop were Government representatives and youth leaders. The workshop began with Mr. Alexis discussing the concept of a national youth policy. He went on to speak on numerous topics on the program to include the demographic profile of youth, youth age definition, youth profile – where are Montserrat youth? Historical and contemporary issues impinging on young men and women in Montserrat (focus groups) and plenary reports.
He then delved further into each topic with the view of educating those in attendance on the benefits and advantages of having a youth policy on Montserrat. Throughout his discussion he held the floor opened for discussion of each topic to allow the audience to ask questions and to share their inputs on points that were mentioned.
Those in attendance were very much involved showing their interest in the development of the youths. They gave their views as to how they think they could contribute.
On completion Mr. Alexis invited questions from the audience and a number of questions were asked. He later made an evaluation of the day’s workshop and stated that it was a success.
Montserrat To Participate In Institutional Strengthening Program In St. Lucia
The Regional Caribbean HRD Program for Economic Competitiveness (CPEC), in its effort to strengthen and build capacity in its Partner Institutions, will host a one-week training program at the Cara Suites Hotel in St. Lucia in Project Management and Human Resource Development for the Coordinators of sub-projects.
Mrs. Jadine Glitzenhirn, Product Development Officer of the Montserrat Tourist Board, will attend this workshop, which will run from March 24 – 28, 2003. Some of the areas to be covered in the program, which will be facilitated by two experienced regional consultants/trainers – Mr. David Logan (Jamaica) and Mrs. Shirlene Nibbs (Antigua and Barbuda) -- will include:
The Project Cycle
Improving Proposal Design
Sector Case Studies
Claims and Payments
Role and functions of the HRD Coordinator
Effective HRD delivery
Organizational Change/Sustainability
It is expected that this round of training will build on the skills and the training received during the first round of training which took place in March 2000, as well as in the course of implementing sector-specific sub-projects.
Monday 3rd February 2003 marked the opening of the March criminal assizes on Montserrat. There were six criminal matters slated for the assizes, including Unlawful Sexual Intercourse with a girl under the age of 16 years, to wit 13 years. The virtual complainant in question is a citizen of the United States and her parents are Montserratians.
During the summer vacation of 2002, the virtual complainant and her grandmother came to Montserrat on holidays, as any other Montserratian would have done, to have sight of paradise once more and to have fun memories. However, it wasn’t so. Instead, she suffered something that none of us would like our children to go through or even come close to.
During her time here on the island, she allegedly experienced sexual abuse. She was approached by a young man, and believing him to be honest, she went to his home on invitation. While there, the young man made his advances and attempted to kiss her. According to her, she pulled away and he held on to her hand, placed her on his bed and forced his way through until he had sexual intercourse with her against her will. The matter was reported to the police resulting in the arrest, and subsequently he was charged with unlawful intercourse and indecent assault of the girl. The matter was traversed to the Crown Court for trial.
On Wednesday, 5th March, 2003, the Crown Court heard evidence from 10 prosecution witnesses, including the young girl and her parents, who had traveled back from America for the sole purpose of justice and justice only. Throughout the trial the accused was not represented by counsel and surprisingly, put on a good fight to convince the jurors of his innocence. On completion of the prosecution’s case, the accused gave an unsworn statement, which is his right by law, and which even the prosecution could not cross-examine; the law as it is, makes it clear that a person is said to be innocent until proven guilty.
There were nine jurors assigned to the case – two men and seven women, under the watchful eyes of Her Ladyship. Her Ladyship carefully guided the jurors on the law and what the law required them to do. The jurors then retired to decide and after a long deliberation returned with a unanimous verdict, NOT GUILTY on both counts.
The question that is being asked is, will justice ever be seen to be done? My guess is as good as yours! Mr. Foreman and members of the jury, is that what we want for Montserrat? If not, what message are we sending to the desperate young men out there. Is it okay to force sex with a woman, then come to court with the intention of getting off the hook by supposedly “competent” people who are expected to mete out justice? Mr. Foreman and members of the jury, let’s examine ourselves. Are we going to wait until our daughter(s) or family members fall victims of such atrocious crimes and expect to secure conviction? No! It does not work like that because justice must not only be done, but also seen to be done. Mr. Foreman and members of the jury, do you feel comfortable and satisfied with what you have done to this little girl? Are you aware that as a consequence of your act, you have created indelible and irreparable scars that will haunt her for the rest of her life? Are you telling residents, nationals and non- nationals, that it is a waste of time bringing these offences to Court? Maybe that might be one of the reasons why matters of this similar nature in the past were not reported. I am quite sure that you will agree with me that this is not the first time that jurors have displayed that unacceptable attitude towards society with this particular offence? The question is, what is wrong with that offence? The offence is created by statutes, and I see absolutely nothing wrong with it, because it was created by parliament. Are we now saying to parliament that sexual offence should be abolished from our statute? If your answer is yes, I should remind you the jurors who our neighbors are. “ Our neighbors are people who are so closely and directly affected by OUR act, that we ought reasonably to have them in contemplation when we are so directing our act or omission when called upon”
In Theory, jury service is a public duty that citizens should readily undertake. In practice, it is made compulsory and failure to perform one’s civic responsibility is subject to a sanction of a fine. However, I am of the opinion that the Crown Prosecution service should endeavour to have jury vetting, whereby the Crown check the background of potential jurors to assess their suitably to decide particular cases. The procedure is clearly contrary to the idea of the jury being based on random selection of people. Mr. Foreman and members of the jury, the ideological power of the jury system should not be underestimated. It represent the ordinary person’s input into the legal system and it is at least arguable that in that way it provides the whole legal system with a sense of legitimacy. You must be sure of what your decisions are, and I hope it was not based on friendship or giving the accused a chance, because you are the sole judges of the facts.
Her Ladyship made mention of the fact that the jurors were quite attentive during the trial. Having said that, there is a question that is left to be answered. Mr. Prosecutor, was the jury misdirected in anyway by her Ladyship as to giving a question and interpretation or its literal meaning? Is the answer is no, what prompted the jury to behave the way they did? If the answer is yes, can the crown appeal the case on the grounds of misdirection by Her Ladyship? Mr. Prosecutor, if yes is the answer, what are your intentions of pursuing the matter?
I am not in any way connected to the family, but in my view, I felt the prosecution had done a good job in presenting its “case to the Court without a reasonable doubt.”
My final question is, what is justice and will justice ever be done in relation to sexual offences? I believe every human being has a conscience and there is plenty of room for repentance, not with man but with the Creator of us all. To you the jurors, I leave with you the words of Winston Churchill -- “Te truth is so precious that she must always be attended by a bodyguard of lies.”
When will justice be done?
Tired
The Quiet Man
How eerie, the quiet alone
Is enough to chill to the bone;
The CM’s so relaxed
Since Lowell was axed,
There’s nothing for him to bemoan.
A Modest Proposal
With all Montserratians alert
For costumes that will re-assert
More truly what suits
Their cultural roots --
For Government House, a hair shirt?
Jus wonderin why HE looking so agitated recently.
Jus wonderin if Jack get the letter yet and if Saddam and UN distracting him.
Jus wonderin if is because everybody ignoring he, or Jack had a talk with HE.
Jus wonderin now that the Cook man and junior resign, who will follow them.
Jus wonderin how much of we ex-pats praying for that happen.
Jus wondering if they don’t know that you does run from the coffin and butt up with the zombie.
Jus wonderin how come the snacks on the cocktail circuit so lil bit these days.
Jus wonderin if some of them cutting down on they entertainment budget, now that dem wey no jus entertain collecting even more now.
Jus wonderin if now the front man gan all together if we will ever really see or hear the CM.
Jus wonderin if is true he sick or is a joke he playing on we.
Jus wonderin if he tek some time off fuh prepare for the big legco meeting next weekend.
Jus wonderin how the opposing members to government will view the tactics by the government to crowd the agenda so they can postpone the No Motion resolution.
Jus wonderin if that is not a sign of poor confidence.
Jus wonderin what could be the cause of the lack of confidence or the need to delay.
Jus wonderin when the private sector will ever be able to increase their own and their workers’ salaries and wages.
Jus wonderin if now the ministers get their 41% and 25% pay increases they will work to help the rest tax payers get business.
Jus wonderin if the CM ‘fool’ Clare Short to give him autonomy of Montserrat money.
Jus wonderin if is just a matter of giving he rope fu heng eself.
Jus wonderin if they never tell him the file still open on him – thicker than the new ones started on the others.
Jus wonderin if HE and all will want to hear what will happen with Confidence motion
Jus wonderin what you got to do to get MBE.
Jus wonderin now that the convict get life sentence if is only he gon still be living in Montserrat.
Jus wonderin if the new minister don’t know that suit does go with tie and shoes and not hiking boots.
Jus wonderin if he don’t realize that all eyes on him, now that he take the Doc place.
Jus wonderin why with the buzz of the upcoming election, them would be politricians being so nice to the people.
Jus wonderin if they don’t know, we definitely know them tricks already.
Jus wonderin what love affair is really happening in the health and happiness ministry.
Jus wonderin if the love bug biting too hard.
Jus wonderin now that we got youth policy, if it will stay on the shelf like all the others.
Jus wonderin with all the opening of this and that, we will finally see change.
Jus wonderin if it is enough to keep we young people here.
Jus wonderin now that somebody get lick down on the road and nearly dead, they will finally put more street lights on the road.
Jus wonderin why this minister showing so much hostility towards the paper people.
Jus wonderin why some of the media people behaving so bad in public.
Jus wonderin if they don’t realize they downgrading the profession.
Jus wonderin how the new Minister handling the new work.
Jus wonderin what happen to the strike PWD workers was supposed to have this week.
Jus wonderin why they chicken out.
Jus wonderin why we footballers not winning no games for years now.
Jus wonderin now that we got youth parliament, if the real parliamentarians will take lessons.
Jus wonderin why only now you hearing some people don’t want national dress.
Jus wondering why the lady at the Little Bay say them dress remind she of slavery and she not a wear that atal.
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