It was in July 1999, exactly four years after Soufriere Hills volcanic activity tragically interrupted life in Montserrat, when the Ministry of Agriculture decided it was time to do something about wild donkeys, which were wreaking havoc to residents particularly at Lookout.

A contract was thus awarded for their capture, since they were blamed for the destruction both of some buildings and gardens at Lookout.

Thanks once again to the generous assistance of the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA), by Wednesday, 30 Montserrat donkeys were finding homes in St. Lucia.

WSPA representatives and local officials

Special thanks were paid to the efforts of Mr. Justin 'Hero' Cassell, who worked tirelessly in organising the capture, looking after the donkeys' welfare and their eventual shipment overseas to needy owners. In praising the efforts of the Agriculture Department, permanent secretary Anne Marie Dewar singled him out for praise for the manner with which he dealt with the matter.

The donkeys had been corralled at the bottom of Lookout since July, when it was hoped to ship them to Grenada. Arrangements broke down and after several other soundings about the donkeys being ferried elsewhere, 30 of them were finally put aboard the animal liner Cimbria of Corral Line, courtesy of WSPA.

Mr. John Walsh, International Projects Director for WSPA, was on hand with other members volunteers of the organisation. They spent several days on Montserrat working out and effecting the mechanics of getting the donkeys aboard this three-level ship which, according to Mr. Walsh, "accommodates up to 1,000 heads of animals weighing up to 600 kilos each."

The ship is complemented with livestock attendants, a full fresh water plant and pens configured to meet the toughest Australian standards of animal transport care.

Jeffrey Coates onboard with the donkeys

Mr. Jeffrey Coates, shown standing beside one of the stalls aboard the ship, is an air cargo Manager with Sea Air International Forwarders Ltd. in New Jersey. He is one of the volunteers with WSPA and who came along to assist with the project.

According to Mr. Cassell, not all the corralled donkeys were shipped on this occasion. The animals had to meet certain criteria, one of which was good health.

Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Clifford Daniels, local vet who was making the trip to St. Lucia with the animals, said that the animals had to be prepared. It was his responsibility to see that they were dewormed, and free of ticks, any external parasites and all infectious diseases.

WSPA's John Walsh said that he hoped "the donkey story would have a happy ending like the many dogs and cats that were air lifted in a 727 jet to Florida. There their new owners had to sign lease contracts to receive a cat or a dog, which would be taken away if their circumstances changed in any way that could have a contrary effect on the animals."

He said that the donkeys would be owned in a similar fashion.

According to an expenditure sheet provided by the Agriculture Ministry, it was the WSPA's $11,302, along with an initial $40,000 from DFID and local government's $57,065, that paid the high cost of feeding and maintaining the donkeys to present and transporting them to St. Lucia.

Donkey manifest being checked by Daniels and Cassell

By Bennette Roach

The presses stopped rolling to accommodate new information coming in the form of a press release from Government House, where responsibility lies for the EOC, confirming that the problem petrol had been contaminated by diesel fuel.

This comes as mechanics in Montserrat were kept busy this week cleaning valves, checking oil levels and draining petrol and oil from the contaminant that caused vehicular movements to grind almost to a halt towards the end of last week.

A&F Service Centre

Mr. Alston Lindsey, owner of the only petrol station and pump in Montserrat, is angry and disappointed at any accusation that he and his staff were aware that the petrol was bad as he continued to pump the "bad gas" into people's vehicles.

Mr. Lindsey questioned the Montserrat Reporter's policy on printing what he called wrong information. He and his staff claim to be ones who first discovered that something was wrong with the petrol, but were unsuccessful in passing the information on to the Director of EOC, Mr. Horatio Tuitt.

He said that he was later advised by the EOC that they would supply the station with a fresh supply which should be "okay." However, he said, by Wednesday they discovered that the new supply, though not as bad as the earlier one, was also contaminated.

According to one senior member of staff, by this time they were advising customers that the petrol was bad, but most of the customers insisted that they needed to get around and would only purchase a small quantity.

One gentleman who works in the vicinity confirms that he witnessed an exchange, when a customer questioned whether the petrol was bad, and having received a 'yes' reply from the pump attendant, and even after being discouraged by him, proceeded to ask for $20 worth, since he would not be driving too much.

The petrol station staff member also said, "we only sold petrol to those who insisted and offered to them items to combat the contaminated fuel."

Meanwhile vehicle owners are still trying to figure out who will compensate them for damages to their vehicles or repairs that have become necessary. The EOC is said to refuse blame and A&F Servicentre insists that they should not be blamed. However, the Government House release in its final paragraph states: "The Emergency Department have advised the supplier that claims for compensation may be made against them."

Fuel Bulk station at Carrs Bay

Today the Governor ended the silence about the contaminant and stated that following tests "carried out at the request of the suppliers, (they) showed that the gasoline had been contaminated by diesel."

The release also gave a rundown of the events that began since April 8, after which "complaints began to surface" the following day.

Still, one leading mechanic explains that the petrol could have been mixed with kerosene or diesel, but the specific information is necessary to properly install or correct any problems that may have developed in his customers’ vehicles.

He refers to the fuel not burning properly, disintegrating as it passes the piston rings, draining the oil downwards and increasing the oil level in the vehicle. This can lead eventually to bearing knock, he said, which is bad news for a vehicle.

The petrol station closed to the public last Thursday. They had hoped to re-open by Friday evening, but delays made this possible only on Saturday after a fresh supply was delivered to the bulk on Saturday last.

Since then there have been cautious lines at the pump, as motorists hoped to get about their business, many with the hope that they suffered no damage to their vehicles.

Following is a rerun of the Editorial of 31^st May, 1996.

When His Excellency the Governor and the Honourable Chief Minister announced that the mother country had opened its doors to Montserratians, the news was received with varying degrees of interest and quiet emotions.

Excitement prevailed even though it took the life threatening fears of a fiery, live volcano, and even though there is the two-year limit, Montserratians now have the opportunity to be treated like citizens of the U.K. There are still criteria to be met, such as an addition to preparatory requirements, having a sponsor; someone to house you for an unspecified time upon arrival in England. Following that the British Government will provide some support of an unconfirmed amount of £80 - £90 per week per person and housing or financial support towards rent. Schooling is guaranteed and job hunting allowed.

The explanation for this is to assist in some of the pressure upon local government in providing emergency housing and other living conditions and jobs. But this does leave the minds miserable and honestly concerned about the future of Montserrat an its inhabitants.

Since July 18, 1995 we are left to wonder where do we go from here. What really can we expect from an island which once claimed to support the lives of about 14,000 people? A number which then dwindled to 11,000 causing jealousy in the mother country because of our false economy.

The same economy now cannot support 8,000 people, and it is hardly likely to improve.

That not many people have followed up or shown much interest in the evacuation offer may be purely for reasons that the attraction is not readily discernible and that local government is not encouraging it. Neither can they! If at least 20 percent of those who have already left were to take up the offer, even if they were to evacuate to other Caribbean Islands, every soul may as well leave, as the economy of the island could become even more extinct.

So the role can be reversed. These words make sense, "we will neither encourage it nor discourage it." Words of the British hierarchy in reference to political independence for Montserrat. Yet more of the foregoing does nothing to ease the growing boredom, discomfort, threats and uncertainty resulting from the heightening anxiety over the growing dome at Soufriere Hills.

In the end it may come down to what is more politically and economically viable for Britain! Whether or not we are allowed to remain with the volcano as part of our future, one thing is sure, Montserrat will soon have to state what our own desires and dreams are. Our government will be required to educate its people through original information, the constitution notwithstanding."

So where are we today? We all now know or should know what took place since then. The very next week Sir Nicholas Bonsor, Minister of State in the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, made a scheduled visit to Montserrat. It was then that HMG gave a commitment to develop the north.

He said: "…Nothing is absolutely certain, by far the most likely scenario is that the volcano will continue to pose a threat to the southern end of the island for a considerable time. But it is unlikely to pose any threat to the North. It is on that basis HMG have put our priorities. First of all to ensure provisions of the basic safe facilities in the North; and secondly through the provision of the United Kingdom Development Aid to help the government of Montserrat establish long-term private investment which will in turn secure employment and prosperity for all the people of Montserrat."

The Conservative Government minister went on to describe the assistance already given to Montserrat and spoke of the emergency projects they planned to put in place.

We can recall what happened a year and a half later, when with a new Labour government there was much criticism as to how the previous government had handled the crisis. But they became even more skeptical. Much was rolled back with much hesitation which is still evident today.

Former Chief Minister Meade will remember this very well and it is undoubtedly all part of his plan should he ever get back at the helm. The problem is though that may well be as much as two years away.

We all need to reflect and do more than looking forward to the next 18 months. That has already been planned for. It is time we begin to look from at least five to ten years and plan accordingly.

It is the Easter weekend which in the Christian world is a great time for reflection. In Montserrat it is a long weekend beginning with Good Friday returning to work on Tuesday.

We have much to reflect on.

Dear Editor,

I am writing to relay my concerns on the discipline of today's youth. Everyone seems concerned about the misconduct of students at the Montserrat Secondary School. Why do these children behave in that manner? Being a youth myself, I am aware of some of the problems that students face.

Firstly, Mr. Editor, students develop a need for love and recognition. Many of their friends have left the island. The population has fallen and the chance of finding a good partner has also fallen. Parents who do not spend time with their children at a tender age, or even now that they are old enough to make decisions, may find that their children are in the band of misbehaved children.

The need for love and recognition increases with puberty. Unfortunately, here is where they battle with rejection. Friends find excuses to reject one another. Teachers reject those who cannot do well in class. The community rejects them by being unconcerned. Mr. Editor, why is the majority of misbehaved students boys? Is it because the girls they admire are busy chasing behind men twice their age, and do the girls do this because they are also rejected?

Furthermore, what about stress and frustration? Some blame it on Mr. Volcano, others on parents and teachers or on anything they feel to be against them. Some are frustrated because they have no one to look to for advice and encouragement. They do not know where or how to make the next step. Adults should find exciting ways of encouraging and advising teenagers. Talk to them when they are relaxed. Do not try to teach them a book when they can only learn and remember a piece of information at a time, depending on age, sex, willingness and mental ability.

Likewise, a child may get frustrated at a long and boring class. How do we combat this? Teachers can give students a little joke or introduce an incident on the news, play a game that is related to the subject. Try and relate aspects of the subject to things that children see everyday, not just coming to class every day reading from a book about something that occurred in Africa, when we live in Montserrat. If you do stray, get back to the subject as quickly as possible. Let students take turn to read in class. Though time consuming they will learn more.

The Ministry and those involved have done a good job at hosting extracurricular activities for students. I do encourage everyone to take part in at least one of these activities. Teenagers sometimes feel that they are not heard. They want to express themselves .Are they not heard because of the way they express themselves or because of when and where they express themselves?

Adults should give children the opportunity to express themselves. They may not want to say anything at the time of asking. But whenever they try to, adults should listen and try to understand their situations, instead of ignoring them. They could only get it over with if they talk about it. If left with this problem, their future can be affected. The school can allow students at least a class per term to address an issue they would like to comment on.

It is true that teenagers are stubborn. They don't listen to any advice adults give. Listening is the key to success. Adults have got the experience, so they can guide us through the right.

I do recommend and encourage teenagers to set goals and try to achieve them .You have the right to your own opinions but that does not mean that you should not listen attentively. Do not try to be aggressive but rather be more progressive. Eat healthy and get adequate exercise.

Dear Editor,

I must applaud Mr. Roach, the Reporter's editor and publisher, for presenting all sides of the "Travel advice" issue, and allowing everyone to voice their opinion, whether positive or negative.

The arrogance displayed by DFID in refusing to attempt to clarify the situation is utterly reprehensible, and would certainly not be tolerated in England.

Indeed if this took place in England, Clare Short would have to be answering questions in the Commons and face the likes of Anne Widdecome firing accusations at her from across the bench. Compared to the Tory lady MP, David Brandt is a mere lamb. The "heavy roller" brushes more like a feather these days.

In any event, all Montserrat requires from DFID is a clear explanation of their position. Is it too much to ask for them to eliminate all ambiguity surrounding the travel advice which warns people, or is it just DFID employees, from bringing children to Montserrat?

To simply remain silent indicates gross disrespect of the Montserrat people and its government.

Gerard Silcott

Mr. Editor,
I found your April 14th issue of the Montserrat Reporter quite moving in commentary. The Chief Minister's confrontational rhetoric provided the balance for this effective piece of reporting.
I believe that we are now beginning to see that people can win elections or stay in power by adopting the position of being engaged in a "constant struggle."
This has a strong emotive appeal which Europeans associate with "the part preacher, part lawyer charisma" of some leaders. These docile spirits will blind you to the truth of your existence by reminding you of slavery, death, poverty and Independence, all in the same breath. What they never tell you is that the community can never win, because it is, after all, intended to be a "constant struggle."
Montserrat needs a leadership style that seeks to deliver, not confront. The needs in Montserrat are real.
Claude Hogan
London

Last weekend's issue of the Reporter carried an article about the Cayman Islands government's proposal to poll the population regarding the proposals in the "Partnership for Progress" white paper.

It seems to me that short of a referendum, this is probably the best approach to take. The UK (true to form) proposes to impose certain laws on the remaining COLONIES. If the government caan show that some of the more contentious proposals are against the wishes of the majority, then the changes ought to be seriously reconsidered, and the necessary amendments made.

To the best of my knowledge, the government of Montserrat gauges similar sentiments amongst our own population, but no formal vote or poll has been taken. Perhaps it is time to think of running a referendum on certain issues, alongside the general elections next year; or for the political parties to make their stance on a particular issue abundantly clear in their manifesto, thereby putting them in a position to claim a mandate to do x, or y if elected.

Has Montserrat submitted a formal position paper regarding the proposals?

Even if we have no real say in the final outcome, it is important to register where we stand, for the record.

When Jesus had received the wine, he said, "It is finished." Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.

John 19:30

Fade to black" is a phase often used in stage directions to indicate a time when the lights are gradually extinguished and veil of darkness descends upon the sets and characters. The audience may be uncertain as to what will happen next.

Something like this happened on the day Christ was crucified. Imagine the mood as darkness covered the earth. All hope for a liberating Savior is lost.

Optimism about life in a New Kingdom is gone. Jesus feels separated from God and cries out in his anguish. After Jesus dies, the disciples prepare to move on. What else can they do?

Its tempting to rush though the sadness of Good Friday in anticipation of the joy of Easter, but the cross must precede the empty tomb. It is necessary to contemplate the reality of sin and death before we can understand and appreciate our journey of faith into eternal life. The dark horror of crucifixion and death will soon fade away, replaced by a morning that brings resurrection and new life in Christ. But, for now, we must wait and look at the reality of Jesus ‘ passion

Prayer: Gracious Lord, through you we die to sin and death you through you we inherit eternal life. Grant us courage as we follow your path to glory. Amen.

Thought for the Day

Consider what Christ endured on our behalf in his time of darkness.

Prayer Focus: THOSE ENDURING A TIME OF DARKNESS

Lyandra Hobson and Dejoie French have won the Cable & Wireless Y2K Essay Competition. In a prize giving ceremony at Cable & Wireless offices on Wednesday 19^th April 2000, Lyandra and Dejoie each received one internet ready computer and colour printer along with a trip to any Caribbean destination where Cable & Wireless operates.

Dejoie French and Lyandra Hobson recieve prizes from C&W manager Neville Dublin

To heighten awareness of the Year 2000, Cable & Wireless held an essay competition for Caribbean youth in two age groups:- 11-14 years and 15 – 18 years. Students from both the primary and secondary schools in Montserrat were encouraged to participate. A total of 12 entries were received.

Lyandra Hobson won the prize for the 15 – 18 year category and Dejoie French won in the 11 – 14 year category. Both local winning entrants were entered for the regional contest but were not successful.

Congratulating the winners, General Manager, Neville Dublin said, "Cable & Wireless is pleased to hand-over these computers to Lyandra and Dejoie. We remain committed to education in Montserrat and know that these computers would be useful tools for both winners in their studies. Congratulations Lyandra and Dejoie.

With customers in 70 countries, Cable & Wireless is a major global telecommunications business with revenue of around 8 billion pounds in the year ended March 1999 and over 50,00 employees. Its businesses around the world offer a range of services spanning broadband data and Internet services, fixed and mobile voice, as well as interactive entertainment and information. Cable & Wireless’ priority for expansion is the fast growing market of data and IP (Internet Protocol) services networks in the US and Europe, the restructuring of Cable & Wireless Communications in the UK and has acquired full control of Cable & Wireless IDC in Japan to support this strategy.

Cable & Wireless now holds a unique position in terms of global coverage and services to business customers.

Montserrat could see the establishment of a brake plant facility on island by early next year if Government can clinch an arrangement with Grenada-based Montserratian businessman Joel Webbe.

Mr. Webbe of W&W Electronics had this company based in Montserrat before the volcanic crisis, but relocated to Grenada where he has expanded his business.

A government delegation led by the Honourable Chief Minister David Brandt and including the Honourable Minister of Agriculture, Housing, Lands and the Environment Brunel Meade met with Mr. Webbe in Grenada last weekend.

The discussions focussed on the industrial environment in Montserrat and its recovery since the volcanic crisis. Areas such as energy costs, the availability of skills locally, training and fiscal incentives on investments were looked at.

While in Grenada, the Honourable Chief Minister gave a lecture at the St. Georges University. His presentation was on life with an active volcano, which was well received by students, academic staff and members of the Grenada public.

The lecture was also covered by the Grenada media, the Caribbean News Agency and the Caribbean Broadcasting Union.

The academic staff at St. George's University were challenged to assist Montserrat with ideas for its redevelopment process. The Vice Chancellor of the University, Dr. Peter Bourne, gave his commitment to assisting Montserrat with scholarships, where possible, for students attending St. George's University.

The Montserrat Branch of the British Red Cross recently received a donation of US$11,000 from the South Florida Chapter of the Caribbean Tourism Organization for volcanic relief.

The Red Cross is grateful to this group and other local and overseas donors for their continued contribution to its ongoing programme of assistance and rebuilding.

Work has begun on the construction of a playground at Lookout. This follows the groundbreaking ceremony held on Monday 10^th April 2000.

Plans are also in progress for the construction of New Headquarters for the Montserrat Red Cross at Davy Hill.

ECUIS -- short for East Caribbean Union of Independent States -- is an idea that OECS Director General Swinburne Lestrade plans to take to Heads of Government at their Authority Meeting, May 4 and 5 in Grenada.

Mr. Lestrade tested the idea when he addressed OECS Nationals in St. Lucia at a Strategic Planning workshop on April 17^.

"We have to take the steps necessary to make for a more cohesive OECS grouping," Mr. Lestrade said. "We have to move towards full fledged economic union, if not political union"

He bemoaned the reversal among OECS countries and governments towards "insular parochialism," declaring that changes in government have introduced leaders who don’t quite demonstrate the same spirit of regionalism that was evident in the past.

Mr. Lestrade said the increasingly taxing international economic environment is making it more important for small states with limited resources to do things together. He pointed to complex international trade negotiations at the WTO, the FTAA and Post-LOME, and the difficulty which individual states have keeping up with, and participating effectively in, these processes. He also noted that donors are moving towards regional programmes for dispensing whatever limited aid is available.

The Director General said the OECS Secretariat has a role to manage co-operation among member states. He appealed to governments and other stakeholders to make clear their perspectives on the role and function of the Secretariat and to indicate areas on which it should concentrate its limited resources.

The strategic planning exercise in which the Secretariat is currently engaged is meant to provide an important opportunity that should be grasped by all.

That, too, is a matter for the upcoming Authority meeting in Grenada.

St Kitts, CANA - The St. Kitts and Nevis government will seek technical assistance from Taiwan to stage this year's Caribbean Festival of the Arts (CARIFESTA), Deputy Prime Minister Sam Condor said on Tuesday.
Mr. Condor, who has responsibility for Caribbean Community (CARICOM) affairs, told CANA the matter will form part of broader talks with Taiwan's visiting Deputy Foreign Minister, K-tseng Lin, on increased cultural and sporting ties between the two countries.
"We'll see if we could get any technical assistance. Taiwan has done a number of cultural festivals and events so ... things like stage management and lighting and sound are those areas that I think that they have considerable experience in," Mr. Condor said.
CARIFESTA, to be held from August 17 to 26 under the theme "Caribbean Arts and Culture -- Reflecting, Consolidating, Moving On," is already drawing interest from a number of regional countries.
The promotional video, jingle, and song for the cultural festival were launched on April 7 in Basseterre just outside the CARIFESTA Secretariat.
CARIFESTA, which was first held in Guyana in 1972, has been staged in Barbados, Cuba, Jamaica, and twice in Trinidad and Tobago.
The St Kitts and Nevis government is putting at least EC$8 million (US$2.96 million) into arrangements for the festival.

MONTRÉAL, April 14, 2000 – Air Canada flew 16.3 percent more revenue passenger miles (RPMs) in March 2000 than in the same month of 1999, according to preliminary traffic figures. Capacity increased by 11.5 percent, resulting in a passenger load factor of 74.4 percent, compared with 71.4 percent in March 1999.

According to Danielle Poudrette, Vice President, Marketing, "Traffic demand for the month of March was strong, and met or exceeded capacity increases in all major markets. Traffic growth, combined with schedule optimization, led to improved load factors in domestic, U.S. and Atlantic markets and held Asian load factors constant.

"Capacity growth versus last year is attributable to the recent introduction of three new A330s as well as improved aircraft utilization from enhanced connectivity at our Toronto hub."

System cargo traffic for the month rose 7 percent to 76 million revenue ton miles.

Internet: www.aircanada.ca

Six teams have registered for the Sports Department Easter Monday road relay, 24th April, which is called Run Montserrat this year.

The event replaces the traditional Round the Island relay in light of the fact that a different route is now being used.

Sports Officer Fitzroy Buffonge announces that the race will start at 6:00 a.m. on Monday at the top of the Lookout main road and proceed to Salem Park.The teams registered are: Police, Montserrat Volcano Observatory, Montserrat Secondary School, Fittest Man Club, Fire and Rescue and Trend Setters.

The route runs through five legs as follows:

Leg 1 Lookout to N and B Service Centre

Leg 2 N and B to Cudjoe Head centre

Leg 3 Cudjoe Head to Bank of Montserrat

Leg 4 Bank of Montserrat to Red Cross School

Leg 5 Red Cross to Salem Park

Following the race on Monday morning there will be a fun events segment where a number of races for all ages will be conducted.

The Honourable Minister of Education, health and Community Services Adelina Tuitt welcomed more than 40 delegates to the Lions Zone Two C meeting here last weekend at McChesney's Estate in Olveston. The delegates, from neighbouring islands including St. Kitts, Nevis, Dominica and Antigua spent the day on the island for their annual meeting.

In welcoming the Lions Mrs. Tuitt spoke of the important role Non-Governmental Organizations are playing on the island. Barrister at law Karl Markham spoke to the participants on the topic "Will Making." Also, Saturday will be observed as World Induction day and four new members will be inducted into the local Lions club. Zone Chairman Lion Basil Walters chaired the meeting.

The British Government is to fund a study on the exposure of Montserratians to volcanic ash. The announcement was made in the House of Commons by Minister for International Development Clare Short. She stated that HMG had agreed in principal to fund the study, which will be carried out by the Institute of Occupational Medicine on the respiratory health and exposure to volcanic dust of Montserratian residents.

Ms. Short said the government had organized health checks for all Montserratians evacuated to the United Kingdom under the HMG-sponsored evacuation arrangements. According to her, follow-up checks are being considered.

The growth of cassava here for export will soon become a reality. At least one manufacturer, Denzil Edgecome, is hoping to break into the regional market where there is a growing demand. Mr. Edgecome sees the production and export of cassava as a means of resuscitating the economy of Montserrat. He held talks recently with an agribusiness development Officer from the OECS Export Development Diversification Unit about securing markets in neighbouring islands.

The interest in the export of cassava has been welcomed by Agriculture Development Officer Justin Cassell. He says the Department of Agriculture is putting plenty of focus on agri products to develop the industry.

On a recent visit to Montserrat OECS Agribusiness Development Officer Charlesworth Tabor said finding a market in the Caribbean for cassava would not be difficult.

The first in a series of radio discussions on the development of West Indies cricket received a large audience last Wednesday night. Many callers contributed to the discussion, which was hosted by members of the national steering committee, which is part of a wider local and regional organization.

One of the panelists was former Leeward Islands and Montserrat captain Frank Edwards. He believed the root of the problems affecting West Indies cricket is at the youth level. Montserrat’s top coach Fitzroy Buffonge fully supports Mr. Edwards' view that poor technique has to be tackled. Other panelists were Tony Malonie, chairman of the local grouping, and Kieth Stone Greaves, local and international journalist. Meanwhile the management of West Indies Cricket came in for criticisms. Former member of the Montserrat Cricket Association Bill James feels strongly that there should be a change at the top.

The Government says it has moved quickly to resolve problems faced by people in Lookout following the public meeting there last month with Ministers of Government. According to the government, the Montserrat Water Authority has been contacted about problems relating to the sewage plant and a report will be submitted shortly. Among the works completed or near completion is the repair work on G11.

Also the Water Authority has been contacted to remove to a safer location the water meter obstructing the driveway at M126A.. Meanwhile the person operating the mechanic shop in the area has been asked to stop his activities. According to the government, the only outstanding matter is the removal of sheds, about which the owners have already been contacted.

These issues were raised during the meeting by a concerned resident. Chief Minister David Brandt told the residents that the government would like the area to be a model for other housing development in the future.

The Honourable Chief Minister, David Brandt returned to the island ahead of schedule from his trip to Grenada. Mr. Brandt delivered a lecture at the St George’s University on Monday night on "Life in Montserrat after the Volcanic Crisis."

While in Grenada the Chief Minister also met with the Managing Director of W&W Electronics Joel Webbe to discuss ways and means of having the company return to Montserrat. W& W Electronic employed over 100 employees here before the volcanic crisis forced it to relocate to Grenada in 1997.

The Honourable Minister of Agriculture Brunel Meade and Chief of Staff Salas Hamilton accompanied the Chief Minister to Grenada. Before returning to the island from Grenada Mr. Meade met Montserratians living in Antigua.

Thirty-six nurses have benefited from a Nutrition Workshop on planning and servicing common hospital diets. This was a follow-up on previous workshops and activities organised by the Caribbean Food and Nutrition Institute in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to improve medical care and specifically looking at the dietetic services.

Ms. Laura D. Richards said that they are developing standards and it is important that once the standards are developed for implementation, the staff is equipped to do so, and that they understand what is a happening. Speaking at the end of the Nutrition Workshop, most of the nurses felt that the workshop was very informative and they are now better able to counsel the patients.

There was a delay in the arrival of petrol on the island last Friday. According to a press release from the Emergency Department, the petrol barge which was originally scheduled to arrive early Friday morning was delayed by customs clearance from St. Maarten and then by rough seas.

The barge finally arrived on Saturday. The earlier contaminated fuel was removed from A & F Service Centre and the Carrs’s Bay bulk terminal and pumped back on board the vessel.

Samples of the new fuel were taken to the West Indies Oil Company’s Laboratory in Antigua for testing. The results were communicated back to Montserrat before the fresh shipment of gasoline was discharged ashore.

Drivers were partially pleased with the improvement of the fuel situation on the weekend. Long lines, typical of the several gas crises here over the past few years, queued at the only gas pump in Sweeney’s as car owners replaced bad fuel with good.

Although pleased with the arrival of good fuel, many vehicle owners are asking questions to which no answers have yet been provided. Among the main questions are: where did the fuel got contaminated; what caused the contamination, and who is responsible for compensation of damage caused to vehicles.

Close attention will be given to the personnel development of the Royal Montserrat Police Force. That’s the word from new Commissioner of Police Alexander P. Elder.

He says that part of that development is the appointment of a local Commissioner of Police. Commissioner Elder also said that person has to be identified before his current term ends in two years. He was at the time speaking to reporters during his first interview after taking up duties here on Montserrat.

Thirty Donkeys were shipped to St. Lucia on Thursday. The operation was carried out by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) and the Department of Agriculture. The donkeys, which had been corralled in Lookout following their capture last year, will be donated to farmers in St. Lucia.

Executive Director of WSPA John Walsh and Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Clifford Daniels traveled to St. Lucia to oversee the operation there.

Pat Tohill of WSPA says good care was taken of the animals on their passage. Mr. Tohill says apart from a few problems caused mainly by rough seas, the operation has been successful.

The shipment of the donkeys has been welcomed by the Department of Agriculture, which has had to feed them for the past six months. Agriculture Development Officer Justin Cassell says departure of the donkeys is also welcomed by the residents of Lookout.

Human Resources Being Re-Emphased

More emphasis than ever is being placed on developing the island’s human resources. Recently appointed Chief Training Officer Mrs. Daphne Cassell says a Training Needs Assessment has been completed, which would give the Department of Administration an idea of the needs of the public service. She says this data is now being analyzed but there are plenty of training programmes already available.

Montserrat lost many of its skilled and highly trained personnel to British-assisted relocation overseas at the height of the volcano crisis in 1997. Persons from the nieghbouring Caribbean islands have filled many of the local vacancies

The Honourable Chief Minister David Brandt says a national lottery would be a serious revenue earner for the Government.

Mr. Brandt was asked by ZJB News. "Is the government seriously considering operating a lottery here?" The Chief Minister said "a national lottery is a good thing." He noted that the money derived from a lottery could be used for building sporting facilities such as playing fields and even support other charitable causes. The Chief Minister says there are good examples of benefits of lotteries, pointing to the contribution made by the Regional Lottery Association to the Montserrat Red Cross playgound at Lookout.

He said he does not expect any opposition from the churches or the majority of Montserratians if a lottery is operated here, saying it would not be dissimilar to bingo games that are operated here regularly.

Chief Minister Brandt hinted that he was interested in bringing a lottery to our shores when he was addressing the gathering at the ground-breaking ceremony at Lookout two weeks ago. He asked the persons there if they think we should introduce lottery to the island and they shouted yes.

Lotteries in other Caribbean islands have contributed significantly to their development and there is no evidence of abuse by the residents.

The Ministry of Health moves closer to achieving a universal health information system. This was made possible with the conclusion Wednesday of a two-day Hospital Information System Workshop at the Tropical Mansions Suites.

The Workshop, which included participants from the British Virgin Islands and Anguilla, was held in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO). Among its objectives was to present and discuss the guidelines for implementing an information technology/information system being planned for the hospital. Participants were also expected to identify and select a senior management planing team for the development of the IT/IS plan and to develop the work plans necessary for the first two phase Workshop on Poverty

Participants at a Participatory Poverty Assessment Workshop this week are expected to get additional training in this field, according to Social Development Consultant Sue Jones.

Speaking to reporters, Miss Jones said this was the first workshop with a group of people all of whom were very concerned with Social issues in Montserrat.

Miss Jones said also that the workshop was aimed at getting the experience of everyone working in this field, giving a brief introduction to some new skills and beginning to design the framework for an assessment within Montserrat.

His Excellency Governor Anthony Abbott has donated $30,000 to the rehabilitation of the Salem Park. According to a press release from the Governor’s office the monies from the Governor’s fund were originally donated by an English Company, Trailfinders Ltd., for the betterment of sport in Montserrat. It said Head of the Salem Park Redevelopment Committee John Smith accepted the cheque. It is also expected that the Leeward Islands Cricket will be hosted by the Salem Park this year.

These are the storm names ready for the 2000 Hurricane Season

• Alberto
• Beryl
• Chris
• Debby
• Ernesto
• Florence
• Gordon
• Helene
• Isaac
• Joyce
• Keith
• Leslie
• Michael
• Nadine
• Oscar
• Patty
• Rafael
• Sandy
• Tony
• Valarie
• William

Easter culminates a period of 40 days following Ash Wednesday, known as the Lenten Season, when we reflect on the death and resurrection of Christ. (JOHN 19 & 20). - this is the foundation of Christianity and our ticket to Heaven. As we reflect, we are reminded of Christ's advent into the world (JOHN 3:16-18) He took our sins and guilt upon himself that we may be saved (2 COR 5:21, 1PETER 2:21-25) while we were yet sinners (ROM 5:8)

In the Easter story, the cross is of great significance. I recall as a young boy having to kiss a crucifix every Good Friday in obedience to my mother's request. Though somewhat negligible, this could be seen as a display of appreciation for what took place on that day. The cross represents the pain, shame and anguish which Christ endured on our behalf (HEB: 12: 2-3); for this we ought to be thankful. He had all of us on his mind while on the cross. He had done nothing to deserve this punishment, but was fulfilling the manifestation of God's love for mankind.

His resurrection signifies the experience that those of us who die physically have to go through (1 COR 15: 12-26). We must be aware that those who do his will, will experience resurrection unto eternal life and those who do evil; resurrection unto damnation (eternal death) (JOHN 5:24-29)

After his resurrection and having appeared to his disciples and others, Christ ascended into Heaven promising to prepare a place for those who do his will and to return. None of us know the time of his return (MAT 24: 25).

As we reflect on the significance of Easter, let us respond positively in the way we live, endeavouring to do God's will and prepare for his imminent return; making ourselves candidates to inherit eternal life rather than eternal death -- it was for this purpose that his precious blood was shed on Calvary's Cross.

Respectfully yours,

Ambrose. S. Hilton

"ASH"

According to the laws of Montserrat, it is an offense not to pay taxes owed to the Government.

Therefore if you owe taxes and refuse to pay those taxes, you will be breaking a law that carries civil and criminal penalties. But until these laws are changed, to think otherwise, or to say otherwise, or for politicians to cause people to believe otherwise, is not a very wise thing to do.

Recently we were bombarded by pillow talk among politicians. It was about who says that taxes must be paid, and who feels that people owing taxes should be forgiven, or who must hold and use the tax money owed; or which politician told the British that greater effort must be made to collect the taxes. That's pick and shovel politics! It's just picking at one another to see who will shovel in the most votes.

But to us, the listening public, the message was loud and clear. "Montserratians, if you owe somebody, wait! Wait and see if the politicians can work out something, because the volcano made all this happen". Do not pay the merchants, wait! Do not pay the mortgage, wait! No, keep the tax money in your pocket. Yes, use the tax money to start "back up" Wait and see if somebody will forget and or forgive you. Wait and see! Curse and make noise! And in the meantime, confuse one another.

Is this what we want the debate on taxation to be? No, Montserratians are aware that we live under a system of tax laws; and until those laws are changed by politicians themselves, all taxes owed will have to be paid. No, we expect meaningful discussions that could deepen our awareness, our appreciation and our understanding of the tax process. We expect that the debate would lead to recommendations, if necessary, to change our system of tax laws.

But is it necessary to change our system of tax laws? Would the Government be able to collect enough taxes to manage the country and to provide adequate services by some other means?

I leave you with that question, and return to my series of articles on Taxation.

In earlier articles I emphasized that in order to provide services to the citizens, a Government has the authority to compel its citizens to contribute the money it requires. These forced conditions are known as taxes. It was also emphasized that in Montserrat we have used systems of tax laws to organise the collection of taxes on earned income and to collect the taxes on imported goods.

Now we will deal with some non-tax measures or sources that our Government uses to obtain revenue. Some of these sources are: fees and licenses, Court fines, Stamp sales at the Post Office, and interest earned on funds invested by Government.

However, the most valuable source of non-tax revenue should be the profit made from Government enterprises, such as the Port Authority, the Electricity Services and the Water Authority. The charges at these institutions are very high, and should yield substantial profits which should be used to supplement the taxes Government collects. Put another way, the profits should be used to reduce the tax burden on the people.

In fact one of the basic functions of Government is to provide service where competition would not be feasible. And especially in the Montserrat context, because of technical considerations or to avoid wasteful duplication of Assets, it is essential that only Government provide the services of Port, Electricity and Water. Therefore if these institutions are properly run they should and must contribute to reduce the tax burden of Montserratians. I believe that these institutions are for much more than flat salaries to staff or to pay back loans for equipment or infrastructure.

Similarly, an Airport for Montserrat must also be considered as a Government-run enterprise, which would generate non-tax government revenue to reduce the tax burden on Montserratians. So, despite our urgent need for an Airport, we must adopt a holistic approach that would examine any increased tax burden, as well as the drain on tax revenues to pay back the money borrowed to build the Airport.

In other words, whether our Airport cost £50 million or £90 million, we must be aware of the unbearable burden that would come along with the Airport. Likewise, we must consider that the Airport should be able to contribute to Government revenue from its profitable operations. I have said more than a mouthful.

But in trying to identify the sources of Government non-tax revenue, I deliberately incorporated an Airport as one of the Enterprises that Government must own and manage profitably to supplement the nation's tax revenues.

Still, I must leave you with something to chew on.

Are our politicians incapable of managing Montserrat beyond the level of creating personal wealth for a few?

Are our politicians capable of sustaining economic activity from disaster aid?

Are our politicians capable of creating an economic environment that will benefit all Montserratians?

Since Hurricane Hugo the insurance industry pumped almost half a billion dollars into Montserrat. And during the past five years the British Government has pumped about half a billion dollars into the economy. £66 million, £75 million, $6 million here, another $1 million there. What have we done with that money?

By Dr. Bernie Zilbergeld

Men don't like to admit to sexual problems, especially their own.

Women are much more ready to admit ignorance, to find fault with their own behavior, and to look for ways of making things better. Compare women's magazines with men's. The women's magazines have articles on improving sex and fixing problems in virtually every issue. Playboy and Penthouse almost never have such articles. Since so much rides on a man's being good, or at least adequate, in sex, it's very difficult for men to hear they have a problem in this area.

A lot of these differences are things that both sexes have taken heat about. Women are often criticized by partners for their relative lack of interest, not initiating enough, wanting too much foreplay, and taking too long to get aroused or to orgasm. Men have been scolded for every single item on the list. I think the criticism is unfortunate and gets us nowhere. In a sense, everyone is doing what comes naturally, whether naturally be defined as what's built in or what's been learned over the years.

While it is true that we have to learn to accommodate to each other, I don't think blame and accusations or feeling guilty is going to help. We have to feel good about ourselves to have decent relationships and sex. A man should not have to feel guilty for looking at or fantasizing about younger women, for desiring sex without love, or anything else that he is or feels. But neither, on the other hand, should he denigrate his partner. It's fine if you have fantasies about the college girl next door, but it's something else if you make comments about her in front of your lover that imply your lover is inadequate. It's fine if you sometimes want a quickie -- perhaps you can arrange it with your partner -- but it is not fair to complain that you can't have them all the time or that she takes too long to turn on.

The male ways of expressing love and sex are really OK. And so are the female ways. The better we understand and feel about ourselves and each other, the more likely we will be able to make the changes we desire in our sex lives and elsewhere.

By Dr. Bernie Zilbergeld

Men tend to orgasm quickly and easily.

One reason that men like sex so much is that their gratification -- defined here as having an orgasm with a partner -- is virtually assured. Only a small number of men have problems having orgasm in partner sex. For women, on the other hand, difficulties reaching orgasm are the main sexual complaint.

Part of the discrepancy is explained by the fact that the traditional script, where intercourse is the main event, favors men. This is a way in which men come easily, but most women do not. However, this does not explain the whole situation. Even with oral or manual stimulation, men orgasm more quickly and easily than women. It's almost comic that so many women fear taking too much time, while so many men fear not taking enough.

Men don't necessarily want to be emotionally or physically close after sex. Although this seems to be changing, there still is a difference between men and women. For some men, the problem is that they aren't sure what to do. They have a script for sex, but not for after sex. Others are uncomfortable with so much closeness. For others, it's more the case that since sex was all that was wanted, now that it's over there's no point in hanging around. For women, however, since sex is usually seen as part of an emotional connection, the connection should continue after sex is done.

The average American woman goes through menopause around age 51. The normal range is anywhere from the mid-forties to late fifties. (Cigarette smokers can subtract one to two years.) Here are several other ways to tell whether you're approaching menopause -- or are already there.

check for menopausal symptoms
About seven years before you enter menopause (that's age 44, on average), you'll begin to notice certain symptoms and changes in your menstrual period. The majority of women have only minimal symptoms. Even those whose symptoms are more severe usually find that, for the most part, relief is available through lifestyle changes or through medical treatment.

premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
If you're in your late thirties or forties and suddenly experiencing PMS for the first time in your life -- or if you've had PMS before but the symptoms have gotten worse -- it could mean that you're in perimenopause.

irregular periods
The change in menstrual periods that women commonly experience about seven years before menopause is a result of the ovaries' erratic hormone production:

Shorter menstrual cycles: When your ovaries aren't producing estrogen prior to ovulation, the time between your last period and ovulation is shortened.

Lighter flow: With less estrogen, your uterine lining is thinner and there's less to shed during menstruation.

Missed period: When no estrogen is produced, the uterine lining doesn't thicken and slough off, so you may miss a period altogether -- or miss a period for several months.

Heavier menstrual flow: If you are not ovulating, there's no progesterone to oppose estrogen, so estrogen continues to stimulate the growth of the uterine lining.

While such symptoms may be entirely normal, they also can signal a serious health problem. That's why you should see a doctor if your bleeding is extremely heavy or prolonged, occurs between periods or during intercourse, or begins after menopause (you haven't had a period in about a year). A doctor should investigate any abnormal bleeding. This can be done through one of several tests:

Endometrial biopsy: a small sample of uterine tissue is removed and examined under a microscope

Dilatation and curettage, or D&C: the uterine lining is removed through scraping and suction

Hysteroscopy: the uterus is viewed through a tiny telescope inserted into the vagina and through the cervix

Transvaginal ultrasound: a probe is inserted inside the vagina and sonogram images are taken.

hot flashes
The hot flash is the most common symptom during perimenopause, experienced by as many as two-thirds of women. The hot flash or flush is an uncomfortably warm feeling that results from "vasomotor" changes in the body. These are changes in circulation, such as increased body temperature, heart rate, or blood flow.

During a hot flash, the blood vessels typically dilate, allowing greater blood flow to the skin. The skin's temperature often rises 4 to 8 degrees, which is why a woman blushes, sweats, or feels hot or tingly. She also may feel her heart pounding. The sensation of heat often begins on the face or chest and spreads over the rest of the body. The body's internal temperature actually falls because heat is being lost through the skin. When the hot flash is over, a woman may feel chilled.

Hot flashes usually result from low levels of the hormone estrogen, but they can be triggered by stress, being in a hot room, eating hot or spicy foods, or drinking alcohol, caffeine, or hot beverages. While hot flashes don't pose a risk to health, they can be embarrassing, even debilitating. Typically, they're most severe during the first two years after menopause.

Women who have had a surgical menopause or a premature natural menopause (before age 40) usually have a rapid onset of hot flashes. Obese women tend to be less likely than thin women to develop hot flashes, since some estrogen is available from the body's fat tissue. TO BE CONTINUED NEXT ISSUE

She was buried in New York City. Dr. George Irish and Dr. Abraham E. Fenton officiated at the services held at Bronx Pentecostal Church.

Scores of Montserratians attended the funeral coming from New York, Boston, California, Miami, New Jersey, Texas and England. Sister Skerritt was born in Montserrat in 1905. Sister Laurine Fenton, Sister Elvena Greenaway and Mr. Hugh Allen paid tribute to a long and good life that had been lived as an exemplary Christian, an outstanding parent and a loving grandmother.

The children honored their mother with song. Granddaughter Iverline Simon read the 91^st Psalm and the other grand children read the 107^th Psalm.

Iverline Simon spoke to the Montserrat Reporter:

"My grandmother was my mother for some of the early years of my life and we bonded. I loved her very much and her passing devastates me. My own son Christopher showed very strong emotion.

"I was surprised and pleased at the large numbers who turned out to pay their respects to her. It was a sign that Montserratians respected and admired her. My life has being made richer because she was in it, and I feel tremendously blessed to have known this loving woman."

Jus wonderin if HMG is really our enemies?

Jus wonderin why Jus Wonderin don't keep off ZJB’s back.

Jus wonderin if their will be an early election.

Jus wonderin if the political campaign have started.

Jus wonderin if the former chief minister expects to win the next election by living in England.

Jus wonderin which minister in Government is known as rubber ball in Antigua.

Jus wonderin if the school children of the 60s' and 70s' are the children of today.

Jus wonderin who is the chief.

Jus wonderin why the professional chef at the new village didn't take up the job offer at the new hotel.

Jus wonderin if drastic measures are not needed, like parents seeking the police help to keep their children off the streets after 7:00 p.m.

Just wonderin why DFID is holding up the workshops that could prevent Montserrat from being the country with the highest rate of teenage pregnancy.

Jus wonderin if jus wonderin is causing severe abuse and breaking up in relationships.

Jus wonderin why the young lady living at the extreme bottom don't go to the Governor for help.

Jus wonderin when the Traffic Department will get rid of all the old vehicles at the side of the road from Cudjoe Head through Baker Hill.

Jus wonderin how the order managed to turn his house into apartments for rent.

Jus wonderin when Montserrat men will learn to take up responsibilities when moving into houses with their girlfriends instead of beating up we women with beer bottles and cutlass across our bellies.

Jus wonderin when some men will stop being boys.

Jus wonderin why certain young ladies over the gut don't clean up the dirty linen from their own backyards.

Jus wonderin why a certain Guyanese at the end of Look Out have the most enemies.

Jus wonderin how the new bus driver for the two nursery schools got the job through the Ministry of Education and what was in the curriculum vitae read.

Jus wonderin if the Sanitary Department was searching for pests in one of the yellow apartments at Look Out after hearing about the incident in Shinland.

Jus wonderin since when telephones and bathrooms are spreading AIDS, Leprosy and Scurvy.

Jus wonderin why that certain middle aged woman on the way to Barzeys don't pick the beam out of her own eye.

Jus wonderin if that particular cook shop doesn't know that time is of great essence in the business.

Jus wonderin if ‘jus wonderin’ is jus’ gossip.