.

Official Secrecy Obscures Crown Lands Reversions

In some Caribbean countries Executive Council decisions are public documents, which are published. In Montserrat these decisions are circulated under the heading ‘SECRET’ and it is never known why this is necessary, when most matters, such as one that has come to The Montserrat Reporter’s attention, should not only be published but made available to Montserratians wherever they could be found around the globe.

Under A new Land Ordinance in1978 Montserrat joined several other Caribbean territories and moved towards the completion of a cadastral survey, which sought to have, where possible, every single spot of land in Montserrat measured and registered.

It was, of course, a long process, and as one former and long-standing politician puts it, the inevitable result was that there were lands that were unclaimed and therefore registered in favour of the Crown (the government).

As time progressed there were efforts made to revert the ownership of some of these “crown lands” to the rightful owners. Governments were criticized for setting deadlines for people to file their claims, and when the NPLM Government came into power, one of their manifesto promises was to once and for all make it possible for people to have ample time to claim their lands.

There was such a bill, the “Draft Crown Title (Amendment) Act 2001,” which our investigation found, had undergone much discussion at Executive Council.

The following is an extract of an Executive Council Secret Memo decision dated 13^th December 2001.

551/01   526/01 - Draft Crown Title (Amendment) Act 2001

Council noted the Attorney General’s undertaking to provide advice on whether or not Governor-in-Council should make final decision on appeal cases.

Council directed that:-

i.             Any appeals submitted to the Lands and Survey Department after 31^st December, 2003, would not be entertained but that its date policy would not be publicly announced.

ii.                successful appellants  must settle all arrears in Property Tax before the Crown divested the lands.

The Governor concurs and directs accordingly.

The foregoing, which speaks for itself, set out in unbelievable fashion that while allowing the opportunity for unfortunate persons to appeal the decisions which cause them to lose their lands, at the same time it would hide from them the information that the opportunity exists until December 31, 2003, two years after the decision is made.

A former minister of Government had this to say on the matter. “It is unconscionable to think that any government could set out to deceive and act in this manner.”

Dr. Lowell Lewis, recently deposed from the Ministry of Communication and Works of the NPLM government, was questioned about his role in the decision. He said he had opposed it and that ever since he had been systematically trying to get information on persons and informing them of the opportunity to file appeals to re-claim ownership to their lands. “I will actively continue to do so,” he said.

Arduous Constitutional Process Meets a Parliamentary Brushoff

It was in January, 2002 that a Constitution Commission was set up to review the Constitution of Montserrat with the following terms of reference:

“To examine the present Constitution of Montserrat and, following wide consultation of Montserratians at home and abroad, to make recommendations designed to modernize the Constitution and to ensure its compatibility with the present aspirations and expectations of the people of Montserrat.’

Members of the commission have been by surprised and received some support against criticisms made and a decision taken at the most recent sitting of the Legislative Council, where Chief Minister John Osborne said towards the end of the debate: “I am not convinced after hearing the discussions that we can send this document (Report of the Constitutional Commissioners) by itself to London.”

The Legislative Council debate of the Commissioners Report went deep into the evening on Tuesday before it was finally decided to appoint a special committee to draft a new constitution for the island. It was further agreed that after a draft of the new constitution is completed, it should be returned to the House (Parliament) for approval before  sending it off to London, along with the Report of the Constitutional Commissioners.

The Commissioners got off to a slow start, and it was not until March last year that consultations began in earnest, but Chairman of the commission, Professor Sir Howard A. Fergus KBE, had agreed to an extension to receive submissions and consultations on the review.

Numerous, varied suggestions and points of views were expressed over the Report from every member of the Council. Members included arguments which said it was “a ‘bad’ time for the British officials to talk about discussing the constitution, given some of the bigger issues confronting the people of Montserrat, namely the shortage of housing, unavailability of suitable lands for farming and the generally hard economic times.”

Commissioners have reported displeasure after hearing some of the comments and suggestions that came from the honourable house of elected members, in particular from the government side, such as “the need for discussion in the schools and other public places before the draft constitution is submitted to Parliament.”

The commissioners found support in Montserrat’s lawyer David Brandt, who has specialized in Constitution Law and who surprisingly was not included in the eventual select committee set up to see about the draft constitution. Mr. Brandt was heard on Radio Montserrat making similar comments to those he made to The Montserrat Reporter as follows:

“I am disappointed with the presentation in the Legislative Council especially on the Government side, because this very Commission was set up by them.

Its terms of reference were agreed between the British and the Montserrat Government.

“The GoM had its two representatives on the Commission, the opposition had one. Then there was a woman, belatedly, also appointed by government as well as one representing Montserratians who lived abroad.

“The function of the Commission was to listen to the views of Montserratians and to put forward the majority views, not only those who are here but also those who are abroad and those who need representation.

“Everyone was invited to make submissions. The (GoM) as a government presented no vision or any set of recommendations. The way they spoke in Parliament, it seems as if they were saying, the Commission did their own thing - this could not be so, because if this was so, the GoM representatives on the Commission would have written a dissenting report and would have said so. They were unanimous in their report. . . .

“Who are they now to come and criticize? By criticizing what is said they are criticizing the people of Montserrat!”

Chief Minister Osborne had special kudos for the Hon. Rueben Meade and the Hon. Chedmond Browne for their contributions to the debate.

The committee, which is due to begin work on the drafting of the new constitution shortly, comprises the Hon. Rueben T. Meade, chairman, Hon. Chedmond Browne, Hon. Claude E.S. Hogan, Hon. Esco Henry-Greer (Attorney General) and one person outside the legislature, Lawyer Jean Kelsick, who was a member of the Commission.

The Montserrat Reporter had opined on the process at times, suggesting that education was important and had called on government should involve itself in discussing some of the issues.

It is admitted that the commission did speak with them. One member who is no longer with Government had submitted his own individual, substantial recommendations and Chedmond Browne, one of the government appointed representatives, had removed himself from the commission. Chief Minister in the House on Tuesday surprisingly expressed ignorance that he had not been on the commission all the way. However as Brandt it has been confirmed that no direct suggestions or recommendations by way of a paper had been submitted by government to the commission.

Speaker’s Vote on Penal Code Passage Draws New Heavy Fire

Many Montserratians listened and waited, while a few others watched with victorious expectancy, as the Hon. Speaker Joseph Meade of the Legislative Council reminded them that the Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2002 had been deferred at the point of the second reading pending his casting vote.

Mr. Meade, who was reported to have shown some improvement in the way he conducted the proceedings of the council sitting – he was also severe criticized – first referred to the House’s Standing Orders 45 (3) and Erskine May, leading authority on parliamentary procedure, before arriving at what many considered a surprising decision. He then voted in favour of the government, allowing passage of the Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2003, which gives authority to the Montserrat government to grant licences for (lottery) gambling in Montserrat.

Hon. Chief Minister John Osborne, who moved the motion in the House, explained that the Bill basically seeks to give government the authority to grant a license for a national lottery, but the government may or not grant such a license, depending on what is involved in the final proposal.

The Speaker had been criticized on parliamentary procedure by former speaker Sir Professor Fergus, who served for over 25 years, and Lawyer David Brandt, former chief minister and legislator for nearly 20 consecutive years.

He told the House that he was relying on the leading authority on Parliamentary Procedures, Erskine May’s  “Principles on which the Speaker gives casting vote:

“The occasions on which a speaker is required to give a casting vote are usually rare, and in seeking to deduce principles upon which a vote is given, the precedents of the last two centuries are relevant. These are recorded in the pages which follow. Although the decisions of successive Speakers have not invariably been consistent, three principles have emerged:

(1)               that the Speaker should always vote for further discussion, where this is possible;

(2)               that, where no further discussion is possible, decisions should not be taken except by majority, and

(3)               that a casting vote on an amendment to bill should leave the bill in its existing form.”

When the vote on the Amendment bill was taken at the last sitting of the Legislative Council, there was a deadlock of 5-5, which then required the Speaker to make a casting vote. After a 10-minute recess, Speaker Meade told parliamentarians that he would defer casting his vote until the next sitting of the House, at which point he said he was relying on (1) above.

When he voted in favour of the bill advancing to the committee stage and so ending the deadlock of the vote at the second reading, he said, “I declare that my casting vote based on principle number one, is with the Aye’s to allow for further discussion, as will be evident at committee stage, and that this honourable House might have a further opportunity of coming to a more decisive conclusion.”

Opinions are that the Speaker defeated his own argument and must have erred again; but Mr. Brandt was forthright in commenting further on the outcome of the Speaker’s vote. “…it seems  as if the Speaker is lacking in comprehension, because the reason he gave for voting for the bill, if he understood, he would have voted against it.”

It has been pointed out that the Speaker should have known that the vote which carries at the second reading seals the fate of any bill and that there is no further chance for discussion; that further discussion which takes place at the ‘committee stage’ is only for tidying up omissions and agreed corrections and changes, etc. to the bill, which is then as good as law.

“Erskine May in leading up to the three principles cited above said: ‘…the Speaker, who otherwise does not vote, must give the casting vote. In the performance of this duty to give a casting vote, the Speaker is at liberty to vote like any other Member, according to his conscience, without assigning a reason; but, in order to avoid any imputation upon his impartiality, it is usual for him, when practicable, to vote in such a manner as not to make the decision of the House final, and to explain his reasons, which are entered in the Journal.’ ”

In fact just prior to the third reading vote, the Attorney General who previously voted ‘nay’ to the bill (some argue she was conventionally bound not so to do) was absent. So too was the Honourable Claude Hogan who had abstained thus causing a resulting vote of 5 ayes to 4 nays, with the four ministers and the Financial Secretary voting for the bill.

The absence of Hogan, who is not a minister, but performs special duties at the Chief Ministers behest did not go unnoticed. One legislator observed, and David Brandt concurs, “This matter had several religious undertones and could still have fallouts: whether they were wrong or right, the seeming abdication of elected members of their duties to vote on issues, whether they are controversial or not, are sickening. For members who are elected to abstain from something, then to absent themselves on the third reading, one could come to the conclusion that they did not want to take any part in it and that is not your responsibility as an elected member. If you are  against it, you are against it, …and by not voting or absenting yourself, you have negated and  divested yourself of the obligation which has been placed to you.

“When Jesus came to Pontius Pilot, Pontius Pilate washed his hands and said, ‘I have nothing to do with this innocent man.’ But in the creed of nearly every Christian Church, all the time it is said, ‘…suffered under Pontius Pilate.’ That does not absolve them.”

This Penal Code amendment has drawn criticism from many members of the public and the Christian Council.

EDITORIAL

"Neutral Umpires, Resort to Technology Compromise Quality, Fairness of Cricket"

It is just over 30 years ago since the West Indies Cricket Umpires Association introduced the policy of having fully qualified umpires. Montserrat was among the first territories to produce qualified umpires with the distinction of becoming available to officiate in first class matches in the region.

It is almost tradition now as Montserrat still leads the way, supplying first class umpires from these territories in the Leewards. Since the introduction of the use of qualified umpires, this editor led the way from among several other Montserratians who also obtained qualifications, and to the present day is criticized vehemently for retiring from the job too early. He was followed by Sadik Mohammed, a Trinidadian who earned his qualifications while teaching at the Montserrat Secondary School, who then moved on to serve briefly as a test umpire from Montserrat.

Today Basil Morgan carries the torch for this area, but he is yet to officiate in a test match, regularly officiating, as he will during this current test series between Australia and West Indies, in 1-Day Internationals.

That Basil has not yet done a test match has much to do with the reason for this discussion. The introduction of neutral umpires in test matches will, and has truly done, damage to the development of test umpires in the region, and this can be stretched to the include low standard being experienced in the West Indies overall game.

We are informed that the West Indies Cricket Umpires Association did resist the introduction of neutral umpiring, which came about when players like Pakistan former captain Imran Khan complained that they felt sufferance from the decisions of home umpires, and without doubt there are many teams who would complain of having suffered similar fate.

But neutrality labels partiality. If the belief is that a home umpire is partial to his or any other team for that matter, the neutral umpire can have different or even similar reasons for practicing partiality. In simpler terms this is referred to as cheating, but the truth is umpires very rarely cheat and, as is becoming more and more evident, make more mistakes than thought before.

Much has changed, particularly now that television cameras have become an integral part of the game in its use for assisting and effecting the decision process of umpires. There has always been the contention that some umpires, even those who have been highly regarded, are quite poor in their decision-making. This therefore has nothing to do with cheating, but if an umpire has to take 10 – 20 seconds before he can adjudge a leg before wicket (lbw) appeal, something is amiss.

What is the complaint now that there are neutral umpires officiating. The third umpire is no longer merely the “standby umpire,” and his job can be made even more involving when called upon to determine, upon request from the umpire, that the ball did not hit the bat on its way to the pad to determine an lbw appeal.

Because of the necessity to have this (international) list of umpires who are called upon to officiate in test matches around the world, it means an aspiring umpire can go through his entire career without ever having the chance of facing the supreme test of the rigours of the highest level of cricket.

It seems that 1-day internationals are given a lesser status, but as far as umpiring goes it seems that there is so much more going on so that it could be that it is much more demanding than standing in a five-day test match, except of course for the physical endurance required.

There is the inescapable fact that neutral umpiring does hurt the development of a strong cadre of test umpires, and it is clear that there is more than partiality that must be addressed to assist the ability of the umpire to make decisions which do not hurt the performance of teams or individual players. Surely it seems that some umpires are just not sufficiently able to stand in the middle in the heat of the game, their supreme knowledge of the game not withstanding.

As far as the argument in favour of using technology to further assist the decision-making process of umpires, whatever happens in that regard, it will prove that it is impossible to do away with the umpire or even lessen his responsibility and his involvement in the decision-making process. Technology can undoubtedly assist, also in the overall development of the game, but there is much that would have to be done to supersede the standing umpire in the game.

SCRIPTURE VERSE THIS WEEK

The Image of Christ –read Colossians 3:12-17

Christ is all and in all! -Colossians 3:11 (NRSV) 

His name was Harry. I guess there is one like him in every tour group-loud, demanding, attention, hogging the leader’s time, and difficult to control. With keen radar he picked me out to be the object of his constant needling-in a humorous way, of course. But he was still difficult and painful to deal with.

About halfway through the trip, near tears, I fervently prayed for God to divert Harry’s attention from me.

Instead, a line I had read some years ago came to mind. The author suggested that when meeting new or difficult people the Christian ask, “O Christ, is it you?” Was the image of Christ in Harry? Could I see it?

At Harry’s first barb the next morning, I turned and engaged him in conversation about his previous travels and his interests. We talked a lot that day. In the beginning I had to remind myself over and over that I was seeking the Christ in Harry. Gradually Harry became milder and less abrasive.

Harry left the tour early. I am not sure I ever uncovered the whole of the Christ in him, but I glimpsed bits of it. Perhaps as importantly, I found that the Christ in me could seek out the Christ in Harry with a sense of peace that had not been in me earlier.

Prayer: God, help us to greet you in everyone we meet today and to show them the Christ in us. Amen

Thought for the Day: How can we look for Christ in those we meet? Glenda Wadsworth (Mississippi)

Prayer Focus: The “Harry’s I Know.”

Prayer Focus : Shop Assistants.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Reader Wants Calls For Accountability

Dear Editor,

As a Montserratian living in Atlanta, Georgia, it is always a pleasure to be able to read what is going on in my beloved country. I would like to take the time to comment The Editor for a job well done. 
I am sometimes appalled at the way the people of Montserrat seem to be taken for granted in many instances, when it comes to the Prime Minister regarding the progress of the island.
The people of Montserrat must rise to the occasion and be able to stand up for what is right and to take all necessary stands to ensure that Montserrat is not shortchanged.
I would like to see the Editor encourage the Government to become more accountable to its people.

After all we are Montserratians and by no means should be any less insignificant to the British Government.  The island should move forward with progress and our government should and must be held accountable for its redevelopment and the welfare of all that still remain on the island.

Monica R.

Former Visitor Suggests Little Bay Inducements

Dear Editor,

On reading the Montserrat Reporter (17 April issue) I cannot help but respond to the article about the visit from the Cruise ship called the Star Clipper.  It was a wonderful thing for our island, especially tourism.  I hope the visitors’ stay was truly enjoyable.

It was a brilliant idea to provide entertainment and sightseeing excursions for the visitors.  I like the idea of the taxi drivers wearing a special T-shirt.  This made them look uniformed and professional.  Tourists love stuff like that because it makes it easier for them to identify the appropriate people.

My comments are directed to the Product Development Officer, Jadine Glitzenhern.  She stated that a clean up of the Little Bay Area was planned long before the visit of the Star Clipper, and appealed to residents to help with the "beautification project".  My query is this: "Is there any plan in the "beautification project" of the Little Bay area to plant trees (preferably coconut trees for their two-fold benefit, shelter and fruit) along the top edge of the beach?" 

The reason I ask is because I have visited Montserrat on several occasions (last visit Mar-Apr 2003) and Little Bay is the most popular beach on the island, but it is very bare, and void of shelter.  On a hot sunny day shelter from the midday sun would be real nice.  This feature would certainly make the beach more attractive, especially to tourists.  They love the sun, but they do not love to get burnt, which is what happens when they spend hours in the naked sun.

I hope you will pass on my comments, which I hope will spur the Tourist Board to consider my humble suggestion.  I love travelling and have visited a few Caribbean islands, including Barbados and Anguilla.  They have beautiful beaches, but primarily the beaches also have shelter provided.  Another idea would be to rent beach umbrellas and chairs at the beach.This would bring in some money to at least cover the cost of purchasing these items.  When on holiday you have nothing much to do other than relax at the beach for most of the day, so please aim to make it more relaxing for the visitors to Montserrat.

Thanks for making it possible to share my opinion with the appropriate people. 

Sincerely,

Shani T. 

LOCAL NEWS

Masqueraders Accept Invitation to St. Thomas

Montserrat masquerade group Hybrid Masqueraders has accepted an invitation to perform during the annual carnival celebrations on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, according to Fitzroy Martin,

coordinator of the Hybrid Masqueraders,.

Mr. Martin said the invitation to perform in the USVI came from the Montserrat Association of St. Thomas and the Carnival Committee.

The local masqueraders will depart for St. Thomas on April 30 and return on May 5.

It will be the group's second visit to St. Thomas, having first performed there in September 2001 during a major Caribbean cultural festival.

Leading the 11-member Hybrid Masqueraders of Montserrat is Captain James 'Titus' Frederick.

The group has also performed in Antigua and St Kitts.  According to Mr. Martin, the masqueraders are tentatively scheduled to perform in St. Lucia in June.

He also disclosed that it is likely the group will be part of the Montserrat delegation during Carifesta (Caribbean Festival of Arts) slated for Suriname in August.

Mr Martin also hinted that the Montserrat masquerders, who have been together since 1999, could possibly visit the United States later this year.

There is one other active masquerade group on Montserrat - a women's group, coordinated by Yvonne Brade-Julius, a teacher at the Brades Primary School. They are called the Brades PTA Masquerades, comprising eight dancers.   The female group was formed in 2001 and has done only local performances, although according to Mrs, Julius there are plans to do some performances overseas.  

Airport Progress Viewed, Discussed During Site Visit

Geralds Airport Terminal Building well underway

Officers from the Police, Customs and Immigration Departments, Airport Security and Traffic Control, as well as representatives from the local Department for International Development (DFID) and the Governor’s Office, were taken on a site visit, to the Geralds airport site, Tuesday morning, where they observed the work presently being done on the terminal building.

The site visit was organised by Airport Project Manger, Mr. Claude Hogan while Architect, Mr. Kenneth J. Cassell conducted the tour, during which stakeholders were given the opportunity to clarify some aspects of the building and suggest further possible improvements.

Mr. Cassell said the terminal, which is just over 5,500 sq ft, “provides for a second phase for future expansion.” This expansion, he explained, would allow for increased space for an upper level section, which will house a restaurant, offices, lounge and possible conference room. An upper level gallery is to be added to the existing building to be used as a viewing platform.

Access for the physically challenged will be included in the terminal building, being constructed by Ryan Enterprises, at a cost of EC$1.67 million, the first part of the airport project.

K. J. Cassell Consultants, the local architectural firm, is implementing the design by the Halcrow Group, the consultants for the airport project.

Architect K Cassell explains progress

Construction is already underway for the main platform of the building and the main contract, which includes the airstrip. Tunnel, lighting and other features are expected to start in July of this year; tenders for this contract are still to be presented to the Tender Board.

On December 17, 2002, Chief Minister John Osborne and Mrs. Ann Skerritt, the oldest resident of Geralds, turned the sod for the airport site.

At a press conference on January 21 this year, Chief Minister Osborne reported that after meeting with Secretary of State for International Development Clare Short, an agreement was made for the full implementation schedule of the Geralds Airport Project at a total cost of EC$42.6 million.

The British Government, through the Department for International Development (DFID), and the European Union, through its Regional Economic Development Section, have provided the funds for the project.

Mr. Osborne said “the Airport project represents the largest financial output from the declining aid framework, which was given to Montserrat for the period 2001 to 2006.”

He said that with completion of the airport, expected in July 2004, “the airport facility would enhance our tourism product and provide reliable, safe, efficient and reasonable air transportation that could encourage business to come to Montserrat.”

Meanwhile, the Committee for the Redevelopment of Montserrat (CRM) still contends that the airport planned for Geralds will be unsafe and dangerous, and will not enhance the economy and the future of Montserrat.

Two Persons Injured In Carr’s Bay Accident

A blue Mazda car, license M973 and driven by Kerwin Andre a resident of Hope, Salem, ran into a lamppost on the Carr’s Bay public road near the public cemetery about 6 p.m. last Sunday

The accident reportedly occurred while the vehicle was traveling south to north and on trying to overtake two other vehicles traveling in the same direction.

An eyewitness said the driver of M973 attempted to stop, and seemed to lose control of the vehicle thus colliding with the lamppost on the roadside.

The driver of the car told The Montserrat Reporter:  “There were two cars in from of me, so I tried to overtake the first car, and slowed down waiting to over take the other car, I observed that the traffic ahead was still clear, so I tried to take over the other car and in doing so, I saw a vehicle approaching. I immediately applied my brakes to get back on my side of the road and suddenly lost control of the vehicle.”

At the time of the accident there were two other persons in the vehicle, Wilma Davis and Bernard Surando.

It is reported that Davis was trapped in the back seat of the car but received efficient rescue by the Search and Rescue Department. She reported

The driver escaped without any injuries, while Surando, also of Salem, sitting in the front passenger seat sustained injuries to his left hip and was later taken to the Glendon Hospital where he was detained.

The vehicle sustained extensive damages to it’s left side and back and a broken front and back windscreen. The Police said it appeared that the accident occurred as a result of speeding and inexperienced driving.

They are appealing to motorists to obey the speed limit, which is 30mph in the Carr’s Bay area.

CARICOM Torch of Unity To Visit Montserrat in May

Confirmation that Montserrat will get an opportunity to see the CARICOM Torch of Unity from May 7-9, 2003, has come from officials in the Office of the Chief Minister and Sports Officer Fitzroy Buffonge.

The Torch is scheduled to arrive in Montserrat on the morning of May 7 on the ferry from Antigua.

According to the Mr. Buffonge, two local athletes ( male and female)  will run with the Torch from the port at Little Bay to Government Headquarters.   The torch will be displayed at Government Headquarters until May 9 before it is returned on the ferry to Antigua.

Members of the public will be allowed to view the torch while it is on display.

A short ceremony is being planned for May 7 to provide some background on Montserrat’s involvement as a full member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) family.

The Torch of Unity Run is taking place in every member state and associate member of CARICOM. It is intended to heighten awareness of the Integration Movement and to involve as many representatives of the various sectors of the community at the national level, including young people and the sports community.

The CARICOM Torch of Unity was lit at the opening ceremony of the Inter-Sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government held in Trinidad and Tobago on 14 February 2003 by the Prime Minister of the twin-island Republic Patrick Manning.

Since then, the Torch has successively visited member states with its journey due to end in July. 

MWA Workshop Focuses On Pressure Valve Operation

Overseas and local technicians, and field staff of the Montserrat Water Authority (MWA), benefited from a two-day workshop, “Pressure Valves Installation, Operation and Maintenance,” which began on Wednesday.

This workshop, conducted by the MWA in collaboration and the Caribbean Basin Water Management Project (CBWMP), was held at the Police Training Center, Brades.

At the opening ceremony, MWA Manager Emile Duberry said the objectives of the sessions were to give the technicians both theoretical and practical knowledge on the installation, operation and maintenance of pressure valves.

Chairman Alric Taylor of the MWA Board commended the management of the MWA and the CBWMP for having this workshop and said, “It clearly demonstrates your organizations’ support for Montserrat’s development thrust.”

He told the participants that by upgrading their knowledge and skills, consumers could be assured of a reliable supply of water and emphasised that “if resources are to be exploited and delivered in a wholesome manner, the appropriate infrastructure has to be installed and maintained.”

Resource person for the training sessions was Peter Braithwaite, engineer and area manager for the Singer Valve Company, Eastern Caribbean. Cecil Pemberton, Executive Director for the CBWMP, also participated.

Over the two-day period, the participants learnt about hydraulics and applications of the various types of valves.

PAHO Workshop Looks At ‘Quality of Care’ Here

With a view to improving the quality of health care in Montserrat, the Ministry of Health and Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) hosted a three-day “Quality of Care” workshop, which began on Wednesday at the Lookout Community Centre.

Dr. Elizabeth Ferdinand, PAHO representative (pictured right) and chairperson for the workshop, said “Quality of Care” refers to the value, grade or class of the hands-on care, or any other service, received by a person that contributes to the health care of that person.

She also said, “A survey was done where customers and patients shared their views on the quality of the health care in Montserrat, along with their suggestions in ways to improve services.”

Customers were required to rate the level of services offered to them, and the findings were presented at the workshop with charts, a few comments and recommendations for improvement of services.

Principles of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI ) of Health Care, was also highlighted and further elaborated on by Ms. Icilda Stanley.

She explained that CQI is a management philosophy used to improve materials, services, and products in health care management…it is a team effort, the staff need to work together giving their inputs to what can be done, in terms of working condition and materials, to help them produce a higher standard of health care services.

According to the officials, at the end of the workshop participants, drawn from all levels of the health care services on the island, would have:

An overview of the results of the recently conducted Quality of Care Survey.

The findings of a Diabetes and Hypertension Audit.

Been sensitized for Quality Improvement in Health Care and given an outline of how to proceed.

Identified certain concerns from the presentations and develop strategies and recommendations on how to improve the quality of service in identified areas.

The opening ceremony featured presentations from Hon. Idabelle Meade, Minister of  Education, Health and Community Services,  Permanent Secretary Eugene Skerritt, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Joseph Hawes (pictured left) and  Dr E. Ferdinand of PAHO.

The Hon. Financial Secretary John Skerritt briefly discussed the lack of services and equipments and the need for a bigger staff. He emphasized the decrease in budgetary funds, which was read in the last Budget from Parliament, and his request to the government for a review.

Dr. Hawes said the expectations of the workshop “would be to get different input from the public, nurses and doctors, brought together with the policy decision makers and providers, which all together will provide a better service.”

Early Childhood Association Elects Lady Eudora Fergus

Lady Eudora Fergus was elected first president of the Executive Committee of the recently formed Montserrat Early Childhood Association (MECA) at the association’s inaugural meeting Wednesday at the Brades Primary School.

Lady Fergus, who had been chairperson of MECA’s Steering Committee, told many parents, caregivers and teachers at the meeting of the local association origins.

Mrs. Liz Smith-Thompson (pictured right) , President of the Caribbean Early Childhood Association (CESA), described in her feature address the formal launching of the MECA as a historical moment for Montserrat, and expressed great satisfaction at seeing the Government of Montserrat embrace the Early Childhood Association (ECA) in its strategic plan for education on the island.

She commended MECA for including in its draft constitution a provision for Associate Membership, and said, with Montserrat’s permission, she would like to share it with the other territories.

She said CESA’s next conference is scheduled to be held in St Lucia, next year and she is expecting to see Montserrat represented.

Hon. Idabelle Meade, Minister of Education, Health and Community Services, expressed similar sentiments on the formation of the ECA, and said that the nurture and care of the island’s young people must be given top priority if we are to “witness the changes we desire in our community.”

In addition to Lady Fergus as president, the new Executive Committee comprises Roy Greaves, Vice President; Cathy Buffonge, Secretary; Nurse Violet Brown, Treasurer; Zelma Tuitt, Education Officer; Bernadine Collins, Community Services; James White Jr. and Mildred French, floor members, Keith ‘Stone’Greaves, Press Officer.

Acting Governor Sir Howard Fergus, Mr. Hogarth Sergeant, Legal Adviser to the MECA, and Acting Magistrate E. Karney Osborne, who assisted the group in the drafting of its Constitution, were also present.

One of MECA’s  key objectives is to provide a support network to individuals and groups interested in the total development of children from birth to age 8, this stage of life internationally defined as Early Childhood.

Education Bill Among Many Deferred After Heated Debate

All the sittings of the Legislature this year have seen the Council continuing late into the evening as debates at times raged between the elected members of the House. History is being written as the process rolls on and it has been unusual to see the number of bills that have to be deferred for one reason or another.

There was the budget debate, the Penal Code (Amendment) Act, 2003, a Motion of No Confidence, and the debate on a Constitution Report, among others.

One bill that ended up being deferred was the Education Act 2003, on which parliamentarians have agreed to the setting up of a Select Committee to more closely study the Bill in relation to its final passage.

Some members on the opposition side during Tuesday’s sitting suggested that the complexity and comprehensiveness of the Bill demanded further examination, not only by the members of Parliament but also by the general public.

During the committee stage, the mover of the Bill, the Education Minister, proposed that the Bill be referred to a Select Committee. 

The motion was seconded by the Hon. Leader of the Opposition, Reuben T. Meade, who further suggested that the President of the National Youth Council or his nominee, a health professional or someone from the Parent Teachers Association, be included as part of the Select Committee.

It was agreed that the Select Committee would comprise Hon. Reuben T. Meade (Chairman), Hon. Chedmond Browne, Hon. Attorney General Esco Henry-Greer, and Hon. John Wilson.

The Attorney General indicated that the Select Committee should be empowered to request inputs from pers

Guyanese from Antigua Visit Countrymen Here

Eighteen members of the Guyanese Eldorado Club in Antigua celebrated Easter Monday Holiday with the Montserrat Guyanese Association with a day of kite flying, barbecue and music.

Rudolph Griffith, president of the Guyanese Association in Montserrat, explained that the gathering would help build a stronger bond between the two clubs, through social interaction

“The whole event was a success, not only for the members of the two clubs but, persons of other nationality,” Mr. Griffith said.

“Everyone was welcomed to join in the celebration. As I stated in my last statement to the press, we hope to have persons from other nationality involved in our group.

“This was a good opportunity for us to introduce our group to the community, as well as to explain to them what our group is all about.”

Beaumont Stephens, president of the Eldorado Club, said this was his third visit to Montserrat and he can truly say the place has changed significantly.

He highlighted the progress and development over the years, compared to his last visit to Montserrat, especially the many new buildings and the new Montserrat Volcano Observatory.

“Hopefully next year we will be able to extend the same invitation to the Guyanese association to spend a day in Antigua,” he said.

ons outside of parliament and, by extension, members of the public, if committee members so desired.

Osborne Assumes Chair At OECS Heads Meeting

Montserrat's Chief Minister John Osborne assumes the chairmanship of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) today as its 37^th Meeting opens in Antigua.

Mr. Osborne replaces the outgoing chairman, Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas of St. Kitts and Nevis.

The opening was scheduled for 9 a.m. at the Royal Antiguan Hotel and Tennis Club at Deep Bay.

Kendal Morgan, Information Chief at the OECS Secretariat in Castries, St. Lucia, said that finance and economic development issues are expected to feature prominently on the agenda when the leaders from the 9-member sub-regional group convene.   

The financial position of the OECS, including the 2003/4 Budget for the St. Lucia-based Secretariat and an update on the new diplomatic appointments, have been listed as part of the preliminary agenda.

Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Lester Bird, said matters relating to the Action Plan for Economic Growth and Transformation in the OECS, Implementation of the OECS Development Strategy, Progress Report on the OECS Economic Union Project and the Relationship between the OECS Economic Union and the Caribbean Single Market and Economy will also be discussed.

The meeting’s agenda also includes a progress report on the establishment of the Geneva Technical Facility and the OECS Joint Diplomatic Mission, an update on External Trade negotiations, co-ordination in the OECS proposal from the Caribbean Financial Services Corporation and the establishment of an OECS Civil Aviation Authority. 

The OECS is made up of Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Kitts and Nevis and St Lucia. 

Bids Sought for Building New Community College

The Government of Montserrat will issue tender documents for the construction of a tertiary level Community College in Salem on May 14th, according to a notice of invitation to tender released by officials in the Ministry of Communications and Works.

Communications and Works has authority for project implementation, while the Ministry of Education, Health and Community Services is the Contracting Authority.

According to the tender notice, the works include the construction of four separate fully serviced school blocks - classrooms, laboratory, workshop, library and Administration.

The buildings total approximately 11,000 square feet and are to be accompanied by ancillary external works including the construction of roads, pavements, retaining walls and drainage.

Officials in Communications and Works said the tender period will be six calendar weeks from the date of issue.  The contract period is for 270 days.  June 25th is the date fixed for the return of tender documents to the Chairman of the Central Tenders Board, Ministry of Finance and Economic Development.

The project is open to any individuals or incorporated companies within the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) States and the European Union (subject to the qualifying restrictions within the tender documents).

Financing for the Montserrat Community College is being provided by the European Development Fund (EDF).

"Government intends over the next two years to focus on the development of post-secondary education through the construction and operation of a Community College and the expansion of the Library services," said Chief Minister, John Osborne during his March 26th Budget Statement.

The entire project is expected to cost approximately EC$6 million.

Parliament SPECIAL

Penal Code Amendment Act

BRADES, Montserrat (GIU):  The Legislative Council on Tuesday passed the Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2002  - which provides the legal authority for the government to consider a proposal for the setting up of National Lottery on the island.

 Hon. Chief Minister John Osborne, who moved the motion in the House, told fellow parliamentarians that the Bill basically seeks to give government the authority to grant a license for a national lottery. The motion was seconded by Hon. Idabelle Meade. Mr Osborne the government may or not grant such a license depending on what is involved in the final proposal.

 Opposition leader  Hon. Rueben Meade , who opposed the Bill from the outset in the previous sitting of the House,  speaking about lottery in a general sense specifically cautioned that there are serious geo-political consequences in the area on on-line gambling.

 Mr Meade pressed the Chief Minister on the use by government of any funds from a national lottery.

 In his response, Chief Minister Osborne said government has the right to determine the best way to benefit from any lottery funds.

 “ Government is looking at other areas to raise funds without having to tax the people,”  said Chief Minister Osborne.

 He said any funds from a National Lottery would go into the Consolidated Funds of the Government.

 The Hon. House Speaker Joseph Meade  said the Penal Code (Amendment) Act 2002 had been deferred at the point of the second reading pending his casting vote.   The Speaker cited the House’s Standing Orders 45 (3) and Erskine May (leading authority on parliamentary procedure) before arriving at his decision.

 He declared that his casting vote was in favour of the members on the Government side of the House.   His ruling and casting vote resulted in six members of the House voting in favour,  five against and one abstention for the Bill to proceed to the Committee stage.

 Reaction has been mixed to the proposed establishment of a national lottery, with the Christian Council registering its disapproval.

 Before the conclusion of the second and third readings of the Bill,  Opposition members Meade and Browne called for a ‘division’ or ‘count’ of votes on every clause of the Bill.

 MP Lewis said there was need for draft regulations  regarding the proceeds from the Lottery.  Such regulations, it was pointed out will be done by the Executive Council.

 The Bill passed through the Committee stage without any amendment and was later passed.

 The final vote was five members in favour and four against with two members absent.

 In voting against,  MPs Browne and Lewis gave brief reasons.   MP Lewis said he was not in favour of any Lottery on the island, while  MP Browne said the vote in favour was just a loophole and will only create more ‘vices’ on  the island. 

New Draft Constitution

BRADES, Montserrat (GIU):  Montserrat’s Chief Minister and the Leader of Government Business in the Legislative Council, Hon. John Osborne, has called for the setting up of a special committee to draft a new constitution for the island.

 His call came Tuesday in Parliament during debate on the Report of the Constitutional Commissioners.

 In October 2001,  HE the Governor Anthony Longrigg CMG appointed the Commissioners to review the Constitution of Montserrat with the following terms of reference:

 ‘ To examine the present Constitution of Montserrat and, following wide consultation of Montserratians at home and abroad, to make recommendations designed to modernize the Constitution and to ensure its compatibility with the present aspirations and expectations of the people of Montserrat.’

 The Commissioners – Professor Howard A. Fergus KBE (Chairman), Rev. Florence Daley OBE, Mr Jean Kelsick LLB, Mr Fitzroy Martin and Mr Peter White BEE – started their work on the island on 30 January 2002 and completed it in December 2002.   The Hon. Chedmond Browne resigned from the Commission on 13 June 2002.

 According to Chief Minister Osborne after a draft of the new constitution is completed it should be returned to the House ( Parliament) for approval before  sending it off to London along with the Report of the Constitutional Commissioners.

 Mr Osborne’s motion for the drafting of  a new constitution for Montserrat was seconded by the Hon. Dr Lowell Lewis, former Minister of Communications and Works.

 The committee which is due to begin work on the drafting of the new constitution shortly comprises the following persons:

 Hon. Rueben T. Meade – ( Chairman and Leader of the Opposition)

Hon. Chedmond Browne MP

Hon. Claude E.S. Hogan MP

Hon. Esco Henry-Greer  (Attorney General)

Mr. Jean Kelsick – Lawyer

“ I am not convinced after hearing the discussions that we can send this document ( Report of the Constitutional Commissioners) by itself to London,” said Chief Minister Osborne almost at the end of the debate.

 He suggested the need for discussion in the schools and other public places before the draft constitution is submitted to Parliament.

 Chief Minister Osborne personally complimented Hon. Rueben Meade and the Hon. Chedmond Browne for their contributions to the debate on the Constitutional Commissioners Report. 

    Hon. Idabelle Meade, Minister of Education, Health and Community Services also commended the Leader of the Opposition Hon. Rueben Meade for his presentation.

Deferral of Education Act

BRADES, Montserrat (GIU):  Hon. Idabelle Meade, Minister of Education, Health and Community Services, is calling for a united voice in parliament when presenting the draft of the proposed new Montserrat Constitution to the British government.

 Speaking during debate on the Report of the Constitutional Commissioners in Parliament Tuesday,  Mrs Meade said all members must be united in their approach.

 She also disclosed that there is a need for major changes to constitution taking into account the desires and aspirations of the people of Montserrat.

 Similar sentiments were expressed by Government Ministers Hon. John E. Wilson and Hon. Margaret Dyer-Howe.    Minister Wilson was of the opinion that it was a ‘bad’ time for the British officials to talk about discussing the constitution given some of the bigger issues confronting the people of Montserrat namely the shortage of housing, unavailability of suitable lands for farming and the generally hard economic times.

 Opposition Member in the House Hon. Roselyn Cassell-Sealy also stressed the need for a new constitution, noting that the process “ does not stop here..we have to continue it.”

 She commended the Constitutional Commissioners for their work in starting the process.  Mrs Cassell-Sealy also noted that the powers of the Governor “ must be transferred to the elected representatives of the people.”

 Hon. Dr Lowell Lewis also believed that the existing constitution places too much power in the hands of the Queen’s Representative on the island and like all the other parliamentarians wants to see a new constitution in place.

 “ This constitution should be an instrument of liberation and not one of implementation,” said Dr Lewis during debate in Parliament which was broadcast ‘live’ on the government-owned Radio Montserrat –ZJB.

 Hon. Chedmond Browne said he was happy that he was not a part of the Commission team, having resigned as a member on 13 June 2002.   He felt the entire process was flawed, noting that Britain ( the administering power)  should not be dictating its terms and conditions to the people of Montserrat.

 Instead, according to MP Browne, the people of Montserrat  must determine what is or is not in their best interests.  A similar view was expressed by government back bencher Hon. Claude Hogan MP.   He noted that there were a lot of misconceptions about where the real power lies on the island.   MP Hogan suggested that real power ultimately rests with the people and that the elected officials were merely the servants of the masses and not the reverse.

 Leader of the Opposition Hon. Rueben Meade, who spoke at length on the Report, noted that while the work of the Constitutional Commissioners was extensive – he was disappointed with the final document.

 He felt the Commissioners would have used the Montserrat Constitution Order 1989 and other constitutions and come up with a fresh document for a constitution.

 “ We should rewrite the constitution as we see fit.. it should not go off to the UK government until this is done,”  said  MP Rueben Meade, a former Chief Minister of Montserrat.

 Among the suggestions he made after studying the recommendations put forward by the Commissioners are, for example, a return to constituencies in addition to the voting at large system, a Minister being responsible for the Police and the Defence Force instead of the Governor and Montserrat being able to access additional aid from friendly countries through its Caricom membership without having to get approval from Her Majesty’s Government.

 MP Rueben Meade favours some modification of the constitution to allow for greater autonomy by the elected government in association with possibly the European Union or even Associated Statehood.

 The Opposition leader also thinks the Attorney General and the Financial Secretary should not be allowed to vote on any matter in the Legislative Council – “ they may speak but not vote.”

 Hon. Financial Secretary John Skerritt commended the Commissioners for their effort, noting that he had worked closely with the team.

 According to Mr Skerritt, a specific section should be included in the constitution on finance and audit.

 “ It is difficult to govern without financing – so I think it should be accorded the highest consideration,” said the Financial Secretary.

REGIONAL NEWS

Turks & Caicos Elections

By Courtney S. Robinson

(Grand Turk, April 25^th 2003)  Church Folly and the streets leading up to it were crowded with revelers overjoyed from the most hotly contested election in years.  The Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) did something that had never been seen or done in the history of the Turks and Caicos Islands, and that is to win three consecutive elections.  This win came as a promise to the people by their beloved Chief Minister, the Honourable Hugh Derek Taylor.

 Tensions were high throughout the evening as the Supervisor of Elections, Mr. Stanley Williams, was reading the returns.  Many people were apprehensive as to what the end result might be.  But at 10:53PM when the last Returns were announced, PDM supporters nation wide started jumping for joy and ringing their ‘Freedom Bells’ as loud and as long as they most possibly could.

 In the nations capital, all PDM party supporters there convened at the head quarters on Church Folly to celebrate another reign of the PDM Administration.  The PDM party won seven of the thirteen electoral districts just edging out the Progressive National Party (PNP) six seats to win this years’ general election. 

 At the head quarters itself; people were out in mass support in all forms of PDM attire.  Some simply dressed in T-shirts, jeans and hats.  Many women went the gamut and personally designed their own style of dresses, tops and skirts from the campaign T-shirts. 

 The pulsating sound of the PDM song ‘Raise your Hand if you love the PDM’ could be heard for miles while fireworks rocketed through the nights’ sky.  The excitement kicked into overdrive when Chief Minister Derek Taylor and First Lady, Mrs. Lolita Taylor arrived.  People shouted “We Love You’s”, “Dis is how we do it” and “Three-Peat” to the arriving couple. The Chief Minister and his Lady thanked and embraced all within their reach.

 Speaking to his staunch party supporters, the Chief Minister thanked all who turned out to vote for their incredible love and support to the PDM Administration.  He acknowledged and paid respect to all to all of the PDM Candidates who ran in this years’ election, with particular attention to those that did not win their seats.  To those persons, he wanted then to not be discouraged, and to know that there are better times ahead.

 Also speaking on Election night was Hon. Oswald Skippings, the incumbent elected member for

South Backsalina, Grand Turk and Mr. Dwayne Taylor, first time candidate and winner for West Road, Grand Turk Constituency.

PHOTOS By Courtney S. Robinson, Government Information Service

 1)  Chief Minister Hugh Derek Taylor

2)  People dancing

3)  Celebrations time

Sons of ex-TT Minister Face Criminal Charges

TRINIDAD (CMC) -- Two sons of the former junior minister of culture, Winston "Gypsy" Peters, appeared in a Chaguanas magistrates court in central Trinidad on Tuesday, charged with possession of three guns and 90 rounds of ammunition.
The two, 25-year-old Joseph Frederick Peters and his 27-year-old brother John Nathaniel Peters, were charged with six others, including a University of the West Indies (UWI) student and a resident of the United States.
”Gypsy” Peters, former MP for Ortoire/Mayaro under the previous United National Congress administration, did not attend the court hearing.
Police said the eight, who were released on bail totaling TT$800,000 (US$133,333), were arrested in a rented apartment in Chaguanas last weekend,where the guns and ammunition were allegedly found.
The matter has been adjourned until April 30.

Slayings, Drownings Mar Easter Weekend in T&T

TRINIDAD (CMC) -- Easter weekend celebrations in Trinidad and Tobago were marred by reports of at least two murders, one road fatality and three separate drowning incidents.
Police said that 22-year-old Sherwin Chance of Morvant, just outside the capital, was killed when armed men fired shots from point blank range, hitting him in the face.
Police said that Chance was asleep in a house, in company with a 20-year-old woman, when five armed men broke down the door. The woman was not harmed during the incident and has been placed in protective custody.
On Monday, 23-year-old Kerwyn Telesford was stabbed to death during an altercation with a close female friend, bringing to 65 the number of murders so far this year, compared to 42 for the corresponding period last year.
Police are also investigating whether 25-year-old Garthon Joseph was pushed to his death after he fell nearly 40 feet over a cliff. Police said Joseph was being chased by a group when the incident occurred.
Meanwhile, three separate drowning incidents also marred the Easter weekend, police confirmed on Tuesday.
Stephanas Gomez, 19, and Joel Constantine, 20, drowned at the popular Mayaro beach, while the third victim, identified as 43-year-old Kishore Anook got into difficulty while in a pond in Longdenville, south of here.
Police also reported that the road fatality figure rose to 68 after a fatal road accident Monday night. 

Trinidad Prime Minister Seeks Answers on Executive's Salary

TRINIDAD (CMC) -- Prime Minister Patrick Manning has written the Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) demanding to know why Errol Grimes, its Chief Executive Officer, was being paid a TT$50,000 (US$8,333) monthly salary "in defiance of the agreement with Cabinet/."
Mr. Manning's letter followed media reports that the WASA senior executive was being paid the TT$50,000 salary, despite an assurance from Public Utilities Minister Rennie Dumas that Mr. Grimes was being paid TT$36,000 (US$6,000).
Mr. Manning told WASA's Chairman Roland Baptiste that the Public Utilities Minister had given cabinet the assurance that he had instructed that such a salary should not be paid since prior approval had not been sought or obtained from the Public Sector Negotiating Committee.
"I am calling upon you to ensure that the salary and the emoluments to which the Chief Executive Officer is entitled have not been increased in defiance of the Cabinet."

Antigua police probe Easter weekend murder

ST. JOHN'S, Antigua, CMC - Antigua and Barbuda police were on Tuesday continuing their investigations into the death of a 26-year-old man whose charred remains were discovered in the back seat of a vehicle in the Bolan's area, east of here, on Sunday.
Police said that a farmer had stumbled onto the body of Kelsey Joseph after he noticed the burnt vehicle and saw a number of flies in the vicinity.
Police said that the farmer thought the burnt remains were those of a dog, but Bolan Police investigators subsequently identified them as belonging to Joseph, who had been reported missing last Thursday.
Police said that Joseph had left his home on Thursday in the company of a 19-year-old woman, who had reported him missing one day later.
A 23-year-old man was detained for questioning after he reportedly went to the main Holberton Hospital here seeking medical attention on Friday morning.

Barbados government to implement changes to personal income tax system

Barbados, CMC - The Barbados government is moving ahead with plans to implement  sweeping changes to the country's personal income tax regime, Prime Minister Owen Arthur has said.
Presenting the Income Tax Amendment Bill in Parliament on Tuesday, Arthur said that in keeping with promises made during last October's budget presentation, government will be moving to increase the income tax threshold to Bds$25, 000 (US$12,500) by 2007.
He said the changes are due to start from income year 2004, with the tax threshold, which currently exempts persons earning less than Bds$15, 000 (US$7,500) annually from paying taxes, being increased by Bds$2, 500 (US$1,250) annually until it reaches Bds$25, 000 on January 1, 2007.
The amendments are expected to cost the treasury Bds$100 million (US$50 million). However, Arthur said "this will allow households to better plan their affairs because they know what to expect".
Additionally, he said, government will progressively change the tax rate from 25 per cent on taxable income of Bds$24 200 or less (US$12,100). The rate is to be reduced to 22.5 per cent in the current income year and to 20  per cent next year.
For taxable income in excess of $24 200, the current 40 per cent tax rate will also be changed to 37.5 per cent in 2005 and to 35 per cent in 2006.
To further achieve what he called a flexible tax regime, the Prime Minister announced that total allowances to be claimed for tax purposes were being raised from $3 500 to $6 000 in income year 2003, and then to Bds$10 000 (US$5 000) in 2004.
Government is also to reduce the corporation tax, with Arthur referring to an announcement he made in 2001, that "over a period leading to 2006 each year we will make adjustments to the corporation tax rate to bring it down to 33 per cent".
"The adjustment to the corporation tax rate will be made to bring down the corporation tax rate of 40 per cent to 25 per cent to the shortest possible period near the year to 2006," added Arthur.
Opposition Leader David Thompson said while the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) supported the tax relief measures, they should have been implemented much faster, rather than spread over four to five years.

Two Trinidad Policemen  Ordered to Stand Trial

TRINIDAD (CMC) -- Two police officers have been ordered to stand trial in connection with the 1998 escape of convicted drug dealer Deochand Ramdhanie, who was later re-captured in Venezuela.
Magistrate Jai Narine ruled on Tuesday that a prima facie case had been made against Sergeant Conrad Farrell, a veteran of 32 years, and constable Sheldon Callender, with eight years service in the Police Force.
Both men were also granted bail in the sum of TT$25,000 (US$4,160). They are charged with several counts of misbehaviour in public office as well as giving false information to other officers who were investigating the September 17, 1998, escape of Ramdhanie.
Ramdhanie was serving a life sentence after being found guilty in May 1997 of possession of 10.5 kilos of cocaine.
He escaped from the Prince Town Magistrate Court where he had been brought to give evidence in a case involving car theft.

Two Found Guilty of Murder In St. Lucia Cathedral Attack

ST. LUCIA (CMC) -- Two Castries men have been found guilty of the murders of a Catholic nun and a priest, following the December 31, 2000, brutal attack on the main Catholic Cathedral here.
After deliberating for two hours, a mixed jury on Tuesday night returned a verdict of guilty on all counts, rejecting a plea of insanity entered by the defence team on behalf of
23-year-old Kim John and 37-year-old Francis Philip.
The two, who had originally pleaded not guilty to the murders of Sister Theresa Egan and Father Charles Gaillard, turned around and admitted to committing the act and offered no excuses for their actions.
In fact, they described the killings as a strike against oppression of the black race.
At 6 a.m. on December 31, 2000, the two men boldly entered the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, located in the city center, and began beating and setting worshippers alight.
At the time of the attack, scores of worshippers were attending early Sunday morning mass at the church. At least a dozen people were injured.
Sister Egan, 73, an elderly Irish nun, died the day of the attack, while Fr. Gaillard, 63, died months later in Martinique, where he had sought treatment for severe burns and other injuries.
The attackers also torched Bibles, the altar and other items in the church.

Independent Barbados Senator Calls for Referendum on CCJ

BARBADOS (CMC) -- An independent legislator has called for a referendum to be held here on the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), which is scheduled to come into being later this year to replace the British Privy Council as the final court of appeal in the English-speaking Caribbean.
The regional court will also act as disputes adjudicator for the proposed Caribbean Single Market and Economy.
Speaking during Wednesday's debate in the Upper House, Senator Sir Roy Trotman said he shared the view that the CCJ was a step in the right direction but lamented that there was little participation by civil society in its creation.
He argued, however, that the creation of the CCJ was a major step for the nation and suggested that a referendum be held to determine the feelings of the public on the court.
"I believe that this occasion would have been a useful one for us to have gone the route of a referendum. Such a referendum could be the beginning of an approach in which we begin to see the matter of governance as moving beyond the limited ideals and scope of the House of Assembly to a wider scope of governance in a globalised community," the trade unionist said.
Leader of Government Business in the Senate, Senator Jerome Walcott, told the Upper Chamber that the CCJ will be more than just a court of last resort for its member states, stressing that it will ensure regional judicial autonomy.
"In addition to replacing the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council, this court will be vested with an original jurisdiction in respect of the interpretation and application of the treaty establishing the Caribbean Community and the Single Market and economy.
"It will have both original and appellate jurisdiction," Mr. Walcott said.
Government Senator Dale Marshall, in echoing the sentiments, said the region must seize the opportunity afforded it for the establishment of the CCJ as an opportunity to have our judicial inquiries be determined by "like-minded Caribbean people".
Senator Marshall, who is an attorney at law, denied that the court was a hanging court and argued that the law was the law and should not be mocked.
"We have in our law provisions which say that if you are found guilty of murder you shall face that dreadful punishment of being executed. That is our law. It is recognised by our constitution. It has never been repealed and as the law of the land it cannot be  mocked. While I say this court is not a hanging court, a court cannot be selective in the cases in which it will make a determination. So long as an appeal goes before the CCJ on a capital case, then the law must be applied," he said.

St. Vincent Health Minister Tells of Recalled Condoms

ST. VINCENT -- Dr. Douglas Slater, St. Vincent and the Grenadines Minister of Health and the Environment, announced this week that a brand of condom supplied to the Ministry of Health is being recalled.

The Minister said on advice from the suppliers, Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Pharmaceutical Services, it was indicated that there was a problem with a batch of ‘Jock’ condoms distributed.

Dr. Slater says the Ministry of Health and the Environment immediately recalled all batches of ‘Jock’ condoms for immediate replacement by the suppliers.

He indicated, however,that none of the faulty condoms were supplied to this country but that all were recalled on advise from the suppliers.

He said the Ministry of Health and the Environment has replaced all ‘Jock’ condoms with a new brand called ‘Trojan,’ which are being distributed throughout all health centers in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Dr. Slater also said that there will be no further distribution of ‘Jock’ condoms until his Ministry is advised by suppliers that it is safe to do so.

Barbados Broadcaster Carl Scott Laid to Rest

BARBADOS (CMC) -- Veteran broadcaster Carl Scott, who died tragically here just over a week ago at age 50, was laid to rest Wednesday in a funeral service well attended by members of the local media fraternity.
Hundreds, including family members and friends, also packed the James Street Methodist Church in the city to say a final farewell to Mr. Scott, whose broadcasting career spanned more than three decades.
Former colleague David Ellis, who delivered the eulogy, described him as "one of the country's best and versatile broadcasters" and as "a household name in Bajan radio."
He said Mr. Scott was a reliable and trustworthy friend; one who believed in justice and fair play and was always respectful of others. 

Police have arrested and charged a young male suspect in connection with his death, after Scott's partially clad body - bearing two stab wounds to the throat and chest - was found lying at the side of the Spring Garden Highway, just outside the capital, in what police are treating as an apparent case of murder.

ILO to observe World Day for Safety and Health at Work on April 28

Tens of thousands of workers and employers from Lima to London and Bangkok to Brazil will mark the World Day for Safety and Health at Work on 28 April, drawing attention to work-related accidents and illnesses that annually take some 2 million lives and cost the global economy an estimated US$1.25 thousand billion ($1.25 trillion), according to the International Labour Office (ILO).
The observance of the World Day is intended to bring a tripartite focus to the annual Workers' Memorial Day that has been organized by the worldwide trade union movement since 1996.
"Injury and disease are not all in a day's work", says ILO Director-General Juan Somavia. "Fatalities, accidents and illness at work can be prevented. We must promote a new 'safety culture' in the workplace - wherever work is done - backed by appropriate national policies and programmes to make workplaces safer and healthier for us all."
Costs of workplace injury and illness
In a booklet issued for the world day entitled 'Safety in Numbers', the ILO reviews current knowledge about the toll of workplace illness, injury and death which it says costs some $1,250,000 million US dollars ($1.25 trillion) in annual losses in global gross domestic product (GDP). The ILO said its estimate was based on a calculation that accidents and work-related illnesses cost some 4 percent of annual GDP.
In addition, the report says that costs borne by society due in part to work-related accidents and diseases include early retirements caused by disability that on average shorten working life by about five years; absenteeism that varies from 2 to 10 percent depending on sector and type of work; unemployment that may stem from impairment of working capacity due to illness and affects an average of one third of all unemployed people; and poverty at home caused by the partial or full loss of income and is especially acute among women workers.
The report also cited ILO data showing that some 5,000 job-related deaths occur each day, or some 2 million each year. In addition, the report notes that workers suffer approximately 270 million occupational accidents - of which 355,000 are fatal - and 160 million occupational diseases each year, including some 12,000 child labourers who die from work-related causes.
The booklet also highlights the impact of poor health and safety on a company's bottom line and provides information on how workers and employers can work hand-in-hand to create a 'safety culture' to improve workplace occupational safety and health.

Caribbean on Heightened Alert To Counter Deadly SARS Virus

BARBADOS (CMC) -- With no cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) yet confirmed in the region, Caribbean countries, concerned about the threat posed by SARS, have stepped up precautionary measures against the deadly pneumonia-like virus.
Less than 24 hours after the World Trade Organisation (WTO) issued updated travel advice against Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), the governments of Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica on Thursday urged their respective citizens to consider postponing travel to affected countries.
The separate travel advisories issued by the two Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states were in keeping with World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines.
WHO has advised that "as a measure of caution" all but essential travel be postponed to Toronto, Canada, as well as Beijing and Shanxi Province in China.
"This is an extension of a similar travel advisory issued by the WHO with regards to  Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region," the WHO said.
The advisory followed a temporary ban imposed by Belize earlier this week on the entry of persons from Asia, as well as Canada, as it seeks to ward off the possibility of an outbreak of SARS.
An official government statement on Tuesday said that no visas or entry permits would be issued to visitors from Mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, India and Canada.
In addition, entry into Belize may also be refused to any suspected case of SARS from any other country, the statement said.
Health authorities in Barbados and Antigua and Barbuda have also been following closely international developments related to the virus, which has now claimed over 250 lives internationally.
Most of the deaths have occurred in Asia, with Chinese Ministry of Health on Thursday reporting an additional 125 probable SARS cases, including the first case from Anhui.
The cumulative total of 4,439 cases with 263 deaths is now being reported from 26 countries.  This represents an increase of 158 new cases and 12 deaths compared with on Wednesday.
On Thursday, the Antigua government announced that a group of Chinese construction workers, who were due to take up employment on the Eastern Caribbean island, had been barred from entering the country.
The Barbados government was also being advised to suspend issuing visas for any new Chinese contruction workers, as health authorities sought to fine-tune a national contingency plan to tackle any outbreak on the island.

Dominica’s Top finance Man Is Considering Stepping Down

DOMINICA (CMC) - - Swinburne Lestrade,  Director-General of Finance and Planning,  says he is considering calling it a day at the end of his current contract, which expires in July.
Mr. Lestrade - one of the key architects of Dominica's economic stabilization and adjustment programme - said he felt his role in which he was often "a bearer of bad news" was not appreciated.
"I have a strong sense that some people do not appreciate this role, including people within government circles," he said.

"These persons do not appreciate that it is a role that I myself do not enjoy.  I wish it were otherwise," he added.
Under the Stabilisation and Adjustment Programme introduced last year, government has already instituted a controversial 4-percent stabilisation levy, as it seeks to slash in half the country's worrying fiscal deficit, which almost quadrupled between 1997 and 2001 to about 12.5 percent of GDP.
It was Mr. Lestrade who delivered the bad news to the Dominican public last January that the stabilisation programme may have to be extended as it has not met all the targets set in the first year.

Opposition members have also taken issue with his EC$27,000 (US$10,000) monthly salary, at a time when government is proposing additional cuts in the public service that would amount to a 10-percent reduction in salaries.
Mr. Lestrade maintains, however, that the stringent measures are necessary if Dominica's economy is to recover.
"I should perhaps be looking forward to relinquishing that role when my term expires in July,".he said.
He took up the top finance position in the Pierre Charles administration in February 2000, after previously serving as Dominica's Ambassador to the Organisation of American States and head of the St. Lucia-based Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States Secretariat.

St. Kitts/Nevis PM Signs UNICEF Pact on Children

ST. KITTS -- St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr. Denzil L. Douglas has expressed thanks to a leading United Nations agency for helping to ensure a higher quality of life for the women and children of the twin-island Federation.

Speaking at a signing ceremony on Tuesday afternoon, Dr. Douglas noted that the agreement with the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) assists his government in advancing the needs of children and provides certain basic services that would continue to enhance their development.

Dr. Douglas, who signed the Standard Basic Cooperation Agreement on behalf of the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, said he was pleased that one of the three programmes that would be pursued over the next five years deals with early childhood education, “an area that this Government has placed tremendous emphasis on, in the empowerment in particular of our women folk, especially those who are the head of household.”

“With the challenges that we are seeing on a daily basis in St. Kitts and Nevis and in the Caribbean region, we need the continued cooperation with international agencies like UNICEF, in order to ensure that we are doing the right thing at the right time (and) in order to save and empower our adolescents,” he said.

According to Dr. Douglas, the third component of the agreement, which deals with child protection, is an area which has received much support from his St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Government through the Ministry of Social Development, Community and Gender Affairs, through the ministerial guidance of the Hon. Rupert Herbert.

BWIA Plans New Worker Pay Cuts

TRINIDAD (CMC) -- One week after the Trinidad and Tobago government agreed to provide a multi-million-dollar bailout package to the financially strapped airline, BWIA, workers are being asked to take a salary cut of 5 to 15 percent.
BWIA Communications Director Clint Williams said the salary cut being discussed is for a one-year period, in order to save cash.
He added that the airline, which sent home a total of 617 workers in January as part of a restructuring plan, has protected jobs and salaries "as best as it possibly can."
A salary review for all employees was a condition attached to financial support given by the Patrick Manning administration to the ailing airline.
BWIA must also review and revise executive compensation contracts and all other salaries and allowances, with effect from April 1, 2003, in order to benefit from the latest TT$116.8-million (US$19.46 million) package.
"We're going to have to find a way to meet that. Without it we won't qualify. The door is still open, but we don't have three to four months as we did in the past," Mr. Williams said.
However, the Aviation Communication and Allied Workers Union said in a press release on Wednesday that BWIA made a "unilateral decision to cut salaries by 5 to 20 percent, effective April 1, 2003".
The union said that the workers are still living on 1998 salaries and as a result pay increases should be looked at rather than pay cuts.

BWIA unions oppose plans to cut workers' salaries

Trinidad, CMC - Trade unions representing workers at the cash-strapped national airline BWIA on Thursday warned that they were prepared to go before the Industrial Court here to prevent the airline from unilaterally cutting back on members' salaries.
The airline has indicated it would be cutting back on salaries by as much as by 20 per cent.
However, the President of the Superintendents Association Theo Oliver told a news conference that under the collective bargaining agreement with the company, management must "consult and agree" with unions before any changes are made.
The union also joined the Communication and Transport Workers Union (CATTU) in reiterating calls for the resignation of BWIA's Chief Executive Officer Conrad Aleong, while insisting that mismanagement was behind the airline's financial problems.
With the airline yet to settle outstanding severance payments to 617 workers who were sent home in January, CATTU President Jagdeo Jagroop questioned the move by the airline to institute salary cuts at this time.
"Are you saying that workers have to dip into their pockets to help pay severance?" he asked.
Speaking to reporters at the end of the weekly cabinet meeting on Thursday afternoon, Prime Minister Patrick Manning also reiterated his government's position on its offer of financial assistance to BWIA.
"Let me make it clear, there are no sacred cows. We have said to BWIA, TT116 million dollars (US19.46 million dollars) would be available to you under certain conditions, if you meet the conditions, you get the money," he said.
He also noted that the other option facing the airline was insolvency, if it did not want to meet the conditions attached to government's financial package.
"They have options. They can go into liquidation if they can't bring expenditure in line with revenues. If they are insolvent they can go into liquidation. We said to BWIA this is an IMF style arrangement," Manning said.
Last week, Public Administration Minister Dr. Lenny Saith said the conditions called for increased production by flight staff; a review and revision of executive compensation contracts and all other salaries of employees; as well as a review and revision of the airline's policy on free and rebated tickets to staff.
Government, which currently holds a 33 per cent stake in the airline, also wants the Board of BWIA to seek to get from private sector shareholders, commitments as to their own contribution to the airline.
Saith said the Board would also be required to carry out a review of the current management team structure of BWIA "in the shortest possible time", while government undertakes its own internal adjustments as a result of the new financial package to BWIA..

CARICOM Council Keys On Culture, Youth, Sport

SURINAME (CMC) -- Issues pertaining to culture, youth and sport will be the focus of deliberations at this week's Eighth Meeting of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Council for Human and Social Development (COHSOD), taking place in Suriname.
The April 24-26 meeting will receive an update on preparations for the staging of the Caribbean Festival of the Arts (CARIFESTA) here from August 25 this year. The event is being seen as a major one, marking CARICOM's 30^th anniversary.
The Council will also follow up on a number of issues discussed at its seventh meeting held last October, including the CARICOM Single Market and Economy; the Regional Plan of Action on Children's Issues; Regional Drugs and Crime Control Programmes and a Report from the Civil Society Task Force.
A presentation is also to be made by the University of the West Indies on the establishment of a Caribbean Health Education Accreditation Board (CHEABWith respect to youth, the COHSOD meeting will receive a number of reports on an integrated approach to youth development and human and social development through sport, a statement issued by the Georgetown based CARICOM Secretariat added.

Antigua to Open New Hall of Justice

St. John's: Prime Minister, Lester Bird this morning, paid a visit to the new Hall of Justice located at the top of Parliament Drive in St. John's.

 Mr. Bird and his delegation which included the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs, Mrs. Barbara Belle were given a guided tour of the spanking new facility by Registrar in the High Court of Justice, Ms. Sanyu Richards.

 Pleased with the new building, Prime Minister Bird said, it's a structure of which the people of Antigua and Barbuda must be proud, adding that: "This facility is light- years ahead of any Court House I have ever practiced in as a lawyer."

 Mr. Bird, himself a lawyer by profession, expressed satisfaction with the high quality of work that has gone into the construction of the three storey building and complimented Hadeed Construction for a job well done.

 "The facilities here are extremely modern obviously well adapted to the different changes to the rules. I hope that the administration of justice will be swift and more efficient and that we will be able to demonstrate that in this jurisdiction, we have provided all the facilities that will help to enhance the administration of justice".

 The building houses three fully air-conditioned court rooms on the second floor these are separate and distinct from the family court room which is located on the ground floor.

 According to Ms. Richards, the building is fully computerised and internet ready and includes all the  amenities of a modern court house. Staffers will therefore be working comfortably and will have state-of-the-art equipment at their disposal

 A number of new and improved security features forms part of the structure which includes a 'strong room' for the securing of prisoners.

 Operations will commence at the new facility next month when the May Criminal Assizes opens.

Photos

1. The Modern Court Room No.1 on the second floor.

8. The new three-storey Hall of Justice beings operation next month.

Hindu religious leader in Trinidad commits suicide

Trinidad, CMC - A Hindu spiritual leader in Trinidad has committed suicide after members of his congregation reportedly chased away a man with whom he was suspected of having a homosexual relationship.
Police say Naziph Ali, 40, was conducting a service at the Sai Sadhana Shanti temple in Penal, south of here, on Thursday night when the worshippers demanded that the man leave the premises.
In the midst of the controversy, Ali retreated to his home nearby and locked himself in before putting a gun to his mouth.
Eyewitnesses, who were able to see him through a glass door of the house, said a loud explosion soon followed. Worshippers, who broke down the door, found Ali sprawled out on the ground with blood oozing from his mouth and eyes.
Police said he died on the spot.
The troubled religious leader had only last month started seeing a psychiatrist.

Barbadians to go to the polls on May 21

Barbados, CMC - The people of Barbados will go to the polls on Wednesday, May 21 to elect a new government to manage their affairs for a new five-year term.
Prime Minister Owen Arthur made the announcement in Parliament here on Friday.
He told the Lower Chamber that "immediate on the dissolution of this parliament, the Electoral and Boundaries Commission Review of Boundaries Order 2002 will come into effect", dividing the island into 30 constituencies.
"The result is to create the new constituencies of  St. James Central (in the west) and St. Philip West  (in the east) and to give effect to the re-alignment of certain boundaries prescribed in the Order," Arthur said.
The island was previously divided into 28 constituencies.
Meantime, Nomination Day has been set for May 6, 2003.
Friday's announcement has not come as a surprise as it was widely expected that the Prime Minister would announce the poll this year, ahead of next year's constitutionally due date.
Reacting to the announcement Opposition Democratic Labour Party (DLP) Leader David Thompson said he would fight hard to retain his eastern St. John constituency, while warning the electorate to carefully examine the ruling Barbados Labour Party's stewardship over the past four years.
Thompson also charged that a level of "squandermania" has taken place in Barbados, with many a doubtful project being undertaken by the Arthur administration.
He further accused government of failure to grapple with the major issues confronting the island, adding that the DLP plans to use its campaign to highlight problems such as those being faced in education, with the provision of health services and owing to a lack of tax relief.
But political scientist and pollster Peter Wickham believes the election with the "mother of all battles" for the DLP.
Pointing to the findings of the latest public opinion poll conducted by the Caribbean Development Research Services (CADRES) which showed that Prime Minister Arthur commands about 60 per cent of electorate's support and that his BLP is favoured to win the election, Wickham said it was clear that the BLP was on course to secure a third consecutive victory at the polls.
"I think there is generally a feeling that the DLP is really not ready for the race and hence the Prime Minister has decided that he will go now take advantage of that," said Wickham.
The opposition party, which has been grappling with an internal leadership struggle, is yet to finalise its full slate of candidates for the election.
However, the BLP,has already completed its slate of 30 candidates.
In the last election, the BLP won 26 of the 28 seats with the remaining two going to the DLP. 

Barbados moves to root CSME in its domestic law

Barbados, CMC - Barbados this week moved to become the first parliament in the region to have embedded in its domestic law, the provisions for the creation of the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME).
Prime Minister Owen Arthur, in moving the Second Reading of the Caribbean Community Bill 2003 in the House of the Assembly on Tuesday, said the island was not prepared to allow the CSME process to falter.
Arthur, who has lead responsibility for the creation of the region's single market and economy, noted that while the CSME was not due to come into force before 2005, Barbados, along with Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, have given a commitment to become CSME ready by next year.
This means that they will seek to fast track the process of removal of restrictions, he added.
Under the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas establishing the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), provision is made for the "the full integration of the national markets of all member states of the Community into a single, unified and open market and the free movement of goods and services within the market".
Arthur told the House that the next 18 months would therefore witness an intensified effort by his administration to translate the CSME from a revised treaty to 400 pieces of legislation.
Among changes envisioned will be amendments to the country's immigration, customs and company acts, with Arthur emphasising the importance of making provisions for the free movement of people.
He said Barbados, whose economy has benefited tremendously over the years from the skills of nationals of other CARICOM states, would go beyond the requirements of the Revised Treaty to ensure that there was no "elitist approach" to integration process in which university "graduates, musicians, journalists and self employed people can move freely while we say the rest of the Caribbean cannot".
He also stressed the need for stabilisation and strengthening of the poorest and weakest economies in the region, while hailing the CSME as an "historic" opportunity for Barbados, given the emphasis that is to be placed on the liberalization of services in which the island already has an advantage.
Arthur told the House that the prospect of "full economic development" was now in the island's reach, although there will be costs associated with the setting up of the CSME.
In response to concerns raised about a system of governance that will be necessary to the deepening of the integration process, Arthur noted that the only existing model of a single market was that of Europe's.
But he made it clear that the region was not seeking to replicate Europe's example, while acknowledging that the Caribbean still needed to define for itself, a suitable form of political governance that takes into account its own peculiar circumstances.

SPORTS

Fire Department Team Easter Monday Winner

The Montserrat Fire Department rejoiced in victory last Monday morning after winning the Annual Easter Monday Road Relay.

They won by 43 minutes (min) and 40 second (s), ahead of the Police Force in second with 46min and 53s lead and the Defence Force third position with 51mins and 25s.

Montserrat Secondary School (MSS) Cadet Corps placed fourth in a time of 55mins 14se, followed by the two teams from the women's football (soccer) development programme.

One of the Athletes from Fire said, “The race was not difficult for us, even though our practice time was short… since before the race we were certain about winning.

 “Our team members are athletes, so from this we knew we had an advantage over the others. . . . Our team was the fittest team that competed in the race, so it would have being very disappointing for us and our fans if we were to lose this race.”

The entire event took an hour and 15 minutes..

West Indies failed to keep alive chances of wining Sir Frank Worrell Trophy

The West Indies team failed to keep their chance alive of wining the sir Frank Worrell trophy after losing to Australia by 118 runs. At lunch the Windies were 210 for 3 on the fifth day of the second test at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad. The Windies were looking good with the Trini crowds on their side. R. Sarwan was later out catch by D. Lehman at mid-on off Andy Bichel going for a pull shout. This was the slow death of the West Indies, as Jamaicans M. Samuels, D. Bernard and C. Baugh all failed to reach double figures. They were then bowled out for 288 in the second session of the days play.

Thou the Windies Captain Brian Lara knocked an impressive 91runs in the first innings and 122 runs in the second innings to make his first century in front of his home crowd.

He was also supported by his countryman D. Ganga with 117 in the first innings, but in spite of their efforts the team still collapse to the assusies.  The assusies now leads the four match series 2-0 with the next match is to be played on April 1 2003at the Kensington Oval in Barbados.

The Australian vice-captain Ricky Ponting who scored his first double century in the first innings and 45 in the second was named “Man of the Match”.

SCORES: Australia 576/4 dec. & 238/3 dec.

                 West Indies 408 & 288

(UWI) Vice Chancellor’s XI VS Australia

West Indies opening batsman Chris Gayle, who was omitted from the West Indies team for the first two test matches of the 2003 Cable & Wireless test series against Australia has been selected to play the Australians in a tour game this weekend. He is included in the University of the West Indies Vice (UWI) Chancellor’s XI for a three-day match against the Australians starting Saturday at the University’s Cave Hill Campus.

Philo Wallace, the former Barbados captain and West Indies opening batsman, will captain the Vice Chancellor’s XI and Kenya’s leg-spinner Collins Obuya will be part of the squad as a guest player.

Youth Vibrations

FEATURES

THIS LAND IS MY LAND

Oh no, I am not a racist. And I am not paranoid about Caribbean nationals coming into Montserrat. As my friend keeps telling me Montserratians are all over the globe, making a name for themselves, whether it be by fair or foul means. So who am I to complain about people just as crazy as I am who want to come rebuild and live on Montserrat?

What I am paranoid about is the fact that we, yes, you and I, are allowing our people, be they Montserratian or long-standing expatriates, to leave Montserrat and go to other places to live because we are cowardly. What I am angry about is that fact that our cowardice and silence is allowing a cemetery to be built in the middle of a possible EC$50-million investment. What I am indignant about is that we are allowing an obdurate lowly British civil servant and an irreverent money drunken gang of four to destroy our tourism and denigrate our expatriate appeal.

Every intelligent, moral and fine upstanding Montserratian that I know is sick and fed up.  They are sick and tired with the governmental process, the toothlessness of the paper tigers and paper tyrants that we have. Every able-minded Montserratian prayed for the vote of no confidence to succeed even though it was very clear that the government had the votes to defeat it. Across the length and breadth of Montserrat there are disillusioned expatriates, distraught Caricom nationals and disenchanted Montserratians still asking themselves what did they to their country during the last election. But I have this friend who loves to tell me that the people must enjoy the government they elected. She feels that the country deserves the government it elects. And that is why when I complain that this land is no longer my land she laughs and tells me I gave it away during the last election.

I know that she is right. Man look at the Public Servants. I wish you had the opportunity to go to a few of these few meetings I get to attend. You would be just as appalled as I am. You get to sit there and listen to people from Australia, from Nevis, from Jamaica, from Trinidad, from Japan, from Britain, from everywhere in the world except Montserrat, tell you what is right for Montserrat. And they do more than that. They tell you how they build and/or buy house here and how they are here to stay. They want to surpass Montserratian senior civil servants. Only they interfacing with the Minister. They let you know in no uncertain terms that it is the Montserratian worker who will bite the dust. They have relationships and connections, you see. They jump from cars and slap off throwaway Montserratians who may have been ignorant of their oriental heritage. They demand that people must deposit they salary checks to the bank. They bring their whole family here to start up business and take bread out we mouth. And they get permission to do it, while in the meantime plenty businessmen literally starving and can’t pay their bills. They refuse to give concessions because they say businessmen owe taxes. They throwing people out of their factory shells because they run things. They send back the money for the port crane. They playing Chief Minister without ever facing the polls. They running the country and running it right into the ground. And they don’t mind because they could pick up and go back to Caricom when they done mash up we country. I tell you. This land used to be my land. But like my friend says, is I who give it away during the last election.

So you want to call me racist because I could tell you that there is a great "exodus" conspiracy going on. Look at it. So long they telling you how the Belham Valley is a death trap. They closed the hotel. They closed the villas. They displaced the expatriates. They shut down tourism.

So long they telling you that the ferry and the helicopter is only emergency transportation. But they still reduced the helicopter flights. They change the schedules. They building some kinda temporary airport, but then it change to permanent.

So there you go, they have just locked off Montserrat. And it don’t make no never mind what the powers that be tell you. The airport is not safe. It is only safe to those who tell you that when the airport finish that they never have to work again!

And to make sure that the few people we have here leave and those that are away are never coming back, we telling them that they cannot get houses or jobs. And to make maters worse our leaders telling them not to come back because ain’t nothing going on in Montserrat. Not even the rent! And we chasing those we have here because we can’t see our way clear pass the huge salary increases for the chosen few. And we can’ stand being hounded for taxes and begging for exit certificates like "little boys." And we can’t stand having our properties being put up for sale. And we can’t stand weapons violation being swept under the carpet while tax incentives are dished up. But most of all we are really fed up of having legislation being rammed down our throats in disguise as a good thing when we know full well it is not what it seems.

Montserratians and residents of Montserrat are just plain weary and tired of a really boorish ogre who depopulates our country while being aided and abetted by a presumptuous despot with delusions of grandeur.

And tell me now, if we weren't such cowards we would dash our tormentors away in the morning.

Whither the Public Cemetery?

By Claude Gerald

As tongues wag and eyebrows raise the gulf between burgeoning questions and few answers on cemetery versus other developments at Blakes Estate widens, rankling key stakeholders. Is a public cemetery in its conceived form necessary and incongruous with a proposed upscale housing development at the same site? And how credible and substantial is this competing proposal?

A public site to bury the dead becomes an issue with the 1996 ‘long haul’ evacuation of Plymouth and the entombing of the once sprawling cemetery on the suburbs of that quaint city. Since then the politics of disposing of the dead is constantly discussed at all levels of the society. The associated costs are magnified even more with the difficulties and associated uncertainties of a consensual spot to administer the last rites to the departed.

Traditionally church cemeteries served members only in the North of Montserrat where the population now shelters, and those churchless were relegated to an unceremonious send off at the now overfilled Carrs Bay cemetery. The fact is this stigmatized site sores the eye, demeans the dead and it is indisputable that many a hawkish businessman in a tight land market would wish to unearth it, grab the space for its seaside virtues and dispense with the remains elsewhere, and this is the real dilemma: how to best allocate land resources to better serve the burial and other needs of a society still in a state of flux? Psychologically this resting place amounts to nothing more than a convenient spot to hurriedly with, backhoe and all, cover the war dead to avoid the spread of disease- causing organisms that may aggravate more demands for further disposal space.

The State has failed to address the issue to any satisfactory degree after seven years of chaos. The Government of the “selected” Chief Minister David Brandt engaged in virtual tomfoolery in addressing the issue and worsened it. It tried to involve the people through normal channels to garner opinions, quite rightly, but remained powerless to offer directional leadership from the mix of views, as it engaged in “wanting to be popular” manouvres that never gain currency in any management system. An opportunity lost to demonstrate the ideals of government/citizen interactions.  Thus it dawdled in micromanagement and politicking, wallowing in its own confusion, whilst the present government inherited a mess that has become increasingly messier as it too fails to ventilate on the issue, seemingly intent on endorsing the status quo.

The official intention to fix a cemetery at a specific site at Blakes Estate Yard has encountered the wrath of Dr. Roy Lee, President of Blakes Estate, a servile plantation relic with multi-developmental possibilities. Challenges are ongoing in the High Court and petitions (600 already endorsed) are flying around, supported by a bevy of community meetings, to wrest the development of premium real estate with “economic, cultural, social and emotional” significance from concerted efforts to place a major cemetery. The immediate surroundings are being eyed, speculatively, for a planned middle income-housing scheme purported to be a huge jolt to sustainable economic activity on a snail crawling island. Scheme proponents claim this matches tastefully with the FIFA sponsored football field to set the pace for economic growth that a cemetery will injure irreparably, arguing that there is no mutual co-existence among objectives for societal good.

Dr. Lowell Lewis in his previous incarnation as Cabinet member opined that negotiations to ensure satisfactory settlement are singularly shrouded in personality conflicts amongst interested parties. He reasons that alternate sites can be accommodated and a hardnose determination to play hardball by elements of the ruling administration without regard for the common good i