.

Unrestricted Access to Isles Bay,

Daylight Only as Far as Richmond Hill

By Bennette Roach

Richmond Hill

Last week we carried an article which said "In the face of the scientific report’s suggestion of very little risk for some areas south of Belham to be occupied, Dr. Baxter, from his point of view, would not wish to see people occupy these areas for many more months to come.

We expressed that opinion for Dr. Baxter had said, "A full assessment of the health risk of the ash deposits would be needed before consideration is given to reoccupation of any of the areas south of the Belham River."

Some time following the publication of the newspaper on Thursday, the Reporter received a press release from Government House dealing with the report of "Scientific and Hazards Assessment of the Soufriere Hills Volcano," which findings identified a significant reduction in risk to people entering certain areas south of the Belham Valley. The release said:

"…The reduction in risk to individuals from volcanic events in these areas does, however, allow the Government of Montserrat to consider greater public access to them. The Government has therefore decided to implement the following changes to the policy governing access to the exclusion zone with effect from Wednesday 7 April:

"Access to Isles Bay will be unrestricted.

"Unless there is a dangerous escalation of volcanic activity, access will be allowed to Cork Hill, Foxes Bay and Richmond Hill during daylight hours. The gate to the South of the Belham Bridge will be opened at 6 a.m. and closed at 6 p.m. each day."

The rest of the release deals in a most negative way, threatening prosecution for entering other areas within the exclusion zone: "…including Plymouth, are still considered to be at high risk of being impacted by residual volcanic activity and unauthorised access is forbidden. Warning signs and barriers will be placed to ensure that restricted areas are clearly demarcated and anyone found in these areas by the police, without the written permission of the Commissioner of Police, will be subject to arrest and fine."

Junction at Cork Hill to Plymouth main road and Weekes main road

While saying that the volcano is going into repose, there is little effort to educate the public of the dangers that exist. The Reporter observes that this is more of the same, where there is little else but threats and little in the way of information on the dangers that still exist.

The end of the release did say: "Further information will be provided on warnings should there be a sudden escalation in volcanic activity, but anyone entering the exclusion zone should carry a radio tuned to Radio Montserrat."

The late issue of the release did not permit the information to be made public by the Reporter or Radio ZJB, it being such a long holiday weekend. By time the information was released, the obvious questions arose because access beyond Belham would only allow daytime occupation for visiting one’s property to do cleaning and make repairs.

Damage to a home in Richmond Hill caused by years of ashfall

(N.B. not all homes in the area suffered this badly)

ASH TESTING WILL BE KEY

Yesterday, in a phone interview, His Excellency Governor Abbott was asked when utilities would be available to the areas where access was allowed. The governor said that the idea of granting access is to, "allow residents to clean and secure their properties for eventual occupation," while government considers how to tackle the question of reinstating the infrastructure to the areas under consideration. He would not put a time frame on when the utilities would be in place but said that the government will now have to put the necessary preparations in place.

The Governor pointed out and agreed that re-occupation will be conditional upon Dr. Baxter’s visit in May, and after the necessary readings are obtained from equipment which will be installed in these areas.

Meanwhile, Governor Abbott revealed that he was due to leave the island for vacation following his participation in a Governors conference where all of the governors of the 13 soon-to-be-called Overseas Territories will meet for discussions.

Legalising Homosexuality

Discussion Panel at ZJB, L to R:

James White, Bennette Roach, Pastor Abraham Riley, Lawyer John Kelsick, Gerome Meade

On Wednesday night this week, press information officer James White from the Chief Minister's office, hosted a discussion/call-in program with a four-man panel on the issue of the 'decriminalisation of homosexuality in Montserrat.

The panel comprised of Pastor Abraham Riley from the Montserrt Christian Council, Lawyer John Kelsick, Gerome Meade from the National Youth Council and editor of the Montserrat Reporter, Bennette Roach.

Callers-in all expressed objection to the imposition of the legalisation of homosexuality, while questioning the British Government's promise of equal partnership. Others observed the fact that the matter will be imposed by Britain who claims its obligations to meeting its international obligations, whether local government passes the legislation or not.

Britain is asking its territories to adopt their 1967 law on sexual offences, and homosexuality in particular which says it is not an offence to commit buggery when "the act takes place in private and both parties have attained the age of 18," and with mutual consent. It seems all other sexual offences remain and that this will satisfy their international human rights obligation.

Pastor Riley offers the position, while referring to the Bible and Romans Chapter 1, that any country or nation that accepts homosexuality as normal lifestyle is in its final stages of moral corruption and the young Gerome Meade expresses the concern that young people will be placed at risk of accepting a lifestyle considered immoral and unspiritual when if the people of Montserrat says okay to its decriminalisation in any form.

There was also the belief that this matter came hand in hand with acceptance of British citizenship, but the panel in explaining that situation concluded that this was not the case. In an explanation on the White Paper, Baroness Symons, known to Montserratians the offer of British citizenship has "no strings attached," but reminds, the partnership is based on a "partnership of understanding, of rights and responsibilities."

Speaking on Thursday to Governor Abbott on the matter, he explained his statement that there was no link between the decriminalisation of homosexuality between two consenting adults by saying that the matter was "not tied to British citizenship." He commented also that the White Paper expresses the general principle of the way forward between Britain and its dependent territories which be called Overseas Territories. Although he would not go as far saying that 'nothing in the document is cast in stone', there was still room for modification as discussions would be ongoing and certain matters including legislation in respect of certain matters, need to be put in place.

The government of Montserrat initiated the discussion on radio with a view to understanding the feelings of the public overall on the issue. The Chief Minister on Thursday expressed satisfaction with the program, since he had publicly announced that his government would never pass the legislation themselves. He promised to follow up on the call from the program to discuss further the several other issues relating to the White Paper in similar fashion to that on the homosexuality legislation.

"Even ‘Partners’ Don’t Progress When They Have No Flexibility"

How much of a problem for Montserrat is this matter of ‘being in Grant-in-Aid’? Without the necessary skills to debate or discuss the matter, it should prove interesting to know how differently business between our two (or more) governments would have been conducted if the volcano had erupted to the same degree, say 10 to 12 years earlier.

Back then, until 1989 Montserrat practically ruled itself, and Britain withheld releasing funds even on approved projects, for reasons we can only suspect, but which they are yet to explain to the public.

This matter becomes relevant when one considers the spending power of the government where it is required to propose projects to satisfy general plans in the Sustainable Development Plan (SDP) and Country Policy Plan (CPP), both approved by both Britain and colony.

Montserrat was never rich monetarily, but always so in spirit and will, even though there are times recently when this might be questioned. What would have happened then if our economic situation had been the same in 1995 as it was in 1985? Would the British Government have responded then in the same hesitating and crawling manner of approving funds for emergency needs and rebuilding projects?

Chances are it probably would, for in the first instance the British were confident that occupation of Montserrat was the last thing human beings should do. Secondly, they have never understood, it being not in their style and interest to assist in any way other than to provide sustenance for its territories.

Even with that belief, they have gone to great lengths to create the impression that they are looking after the welfare of citizens of Montserrat. They have done so by allowing residents free entry to Britain with living assistance, and have financed them as well others who wished to go to other Caribbean islands.

They have said they would not prevent any one else desirous of providing assistance to Montserrat in its crisis, but noted they did not see any rush with assistance. So, after accepting that there were Montserratians determined to remain in Montserrat, they agreed to assist in the rebuilding of the island.

The problem, however, is that Montserrat who was just lifting its nose out of the mud was forced back into the 'Grant-in-Aid' mode, which obviously means absolutely no control of any monies it raises or receives from the British. The Government continues to complain that even when projects are approved the delivery of the funds has been slow. As for having a say as to when and how the money is spent, that is a no, no. Richard Teuten, who holds responsibility for Montserrat financial affairs in England, must earn a medal of some honour for seeing that not a penny is spent that cannot be "accounted for, be it wasted by DFID or any of their contractors."

Although the SDP and CPP are jointly prepared and agreed to by both governments, Montserrat still requires further approval to spend the money required for any of the projects already approved in those documents.

This problem must impede progress in any urgent plans the country must have to move forward. In addition, having committed themselves to be the catalyst for economic development, there isn't even any dialogue as to how that will go forward. It is here that the Chamber of Commerce and Industry will have to take some initiative and come forward with some proposals.

If we are to improve how we move into the 21^st century, Government will have to address this issue very forcefully in further discussions of the British offer of a modern partnership for progress and prosperity.

For as long as Montserrat has to be provided for financially and is allowed no responsibility for how the money is spent, it will be all the more difficult to stop holding out our hands. 

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Clare Short Snub!

Editor,

Clare Short has flown to the Balkans to view the crisis there. I will agree that what we experienced was not like what Kosovo is now going through, but I consider the fact that she never saw fit to visit Montserrat, as a snub to us. Perhaps she thought the matter was not important enough (not enough media attention I guess) to merit her direct attention and so she sent her lackies instead, George Foulkes and company.

Thanks To Supporters Of Montserrat

Dear Editor,

Over the past 18 months many people and organisations have contributed generously with their time, effort, cash or kind on behalf of the children of Montserrat and people living in shelters.

This voluntary operation was started off with a healthy donation of £1,000 from Sir Colin Marshall, Chairman of British Airways, towards the cost of purchasing toys and treats for children in Montserrat. Of this sum, some £700 was spent purchasing toys from Hamleys of Regent Street.

The Girl Guide Association, London, responded immediately to an appeal by contributing a further £300 towards the purchase of Leggo. When Hamleys learnt details of the project, they too came to the party with an additional £300 worth of toys. With the £156 which was refunded from value added tax it was possible to purchase two "first time" computers.

The Toy Company in Cornwall, Worlds Apart, did not hesitate when inquiries were made about purchasing some kites. They very kindly donated kites, frisbees, yo-yo and play tents totaling some 450 pieces.

Friends in the United Kingdom and Australia on hearing about the needs were spontaneous in giving support. I am deeply grateful for the efforts of those regional collectors in Britain, namely Linda Goodyear (Wiltshire), Helen Diston (Bristol), Anne Holmes (West London), Scout Master Les Hinton (Devon) and to Daphne Jowit and the pupils and staff of The Unicorn School, Kew.

Between them, they managed to collect and dispatch a wonderful variety of toys and books, which have now been distributed to the Primary Schools and the Secondary School at Lookout. In addition, organisations such as the Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, Boys Brigade, Cubs, the Day Care Centre and two nursery schools have also benefited in some small way.

Whilst the project was under way I approached the company Lloyd Pascale in Birmingham, who, when hearing of the ashy conditions on Montserrat, quickly donated 250 plastic, portable wardrobes for use in the shelters. The Montserrat Red Cross paid 50 to be flown out whilst HMS "Newcastle" brought the remaining 200 at a more leisurely pace. -The Red Cross undertook a systematic and effective distribution to the shelterees.

The Royal Navy has been magnificent! In addition to the transportation of wardrobes, the navy accepted delivery of the goods from the British collectors. HMS "Sheffield" brought out 37 large boxes of toys as well as donating EC$1,000 for local use. HMS "Marlborough" and RFA "Oakleaf" brought the kites and frisbees from Worlds Apart.

Sandy Viol in Perth, Western Australia, kindly collected over £100 towards the efforts.

There has been equally stalwart support from the local community. Adrienne Mars has been instrumental in the Mars Company's very generous contribution over the last two Christmas's by sending 300 Father Christmas candy bars each year. This Easter the Mars Company provided Easter eggs for the two nursery schools and Day Care Centre. Beryl Chadwick has kindly given EC$1,000 whilst Kevin West has also made a private generous donation. Fern Walmer gave 100 wooden kits for the children at the Montserrat Secondary School and the two Primary Schools to

assemble in art class. "Arrow" gave a large discount on 300 pairs of sunglasses for the children's Christmas party. Thanks also to the staff of DFID Antigua who have been so helpful in clearing and forwarding many of the items. Lastly, but not least, to Lady Martin who has been very supportive and sent money and balloons for the Christmas parties.

On behalf of all the recipients, I would like to express to all the above people, organisations and companies, my deep gratitude and appreciation, not solely for the material benefits they have so kindly provided, but also for the clear statement of support and thoughtfulness that their efforts clearly indicate to the people of Montserrat and the plight in which they find themselves today through no fault of their own.

I am sure the people of Montserrat will remember them all in their prayers.

Yours sincerely,

Mrs. Margaret Abbott

Disenfranchisement Is a Strange Penalty

His Excellency

The British High Commissioner

St. John's, Antigua

Sir,

Re: Disenfranchisement of Relocated Montserratians

In the Caribbean Magazine broadcast aired on Radio Anguilla on March14, I gathered that the Honourable Chief Minister of Montserrat had stated that those Montserratians who relocated to the other countries should not be eligible to vote in the next general elections. In other words, we should be disenfranchised.

I have not been able to obtain a copy of the newscast. If my understanding or interpretation of the content is faulty, I would be glad for the clarification on the subject while I share my views for the benefit of those who are affected and should be concerned.

Given the circumstances under which two-thirds of the island's population fled Montserrat perhaps within a year of the onset of seismic activity which has destroyed one

third of the island and rendered one third unsafe, I think disenfranchisement a strange penalty to be inflicted on those who acted on the Governor's message --Broadcast on Radio Montserrat --urging those who felt uneasy about the situation to leave the island if they were so inclined. "All roads to the airport are open," he said.

That message was the Governor's way of confessing the fact that at the moment in time, the Government was incapable of fulfilling its obligation to protect the lives of the less than 12,000 people, threatened by "a small volcano" now come to life and that he- the Governor - had grossly erred when he had assured us at an earlier date that he had adequate contingency plan and arrangements for successful full-scale evacuation in the event of threat of a volcanic eruption.

I draw attention to:

1. The government of Montserrat has not to this date established contact - for the purpose of dissemination of information - with the people who fled the island because of a natural disaster and
2. The British Government apparently does not consider such contact necessary.

I venture to suggest that had the flight been in protest against Government for example, 12,000 of us would have been rounded up and tagged in as many seconds, such is the efficiency of electronic systems today.

It is against this background I would question - inter alia - and in particular the propriety of the Montserrat Government to make decisions and to act on behalf of the "disenfranchised" in matters as important as acceptance or rejection of full British nationality now under consideration.

For the purpose of establishing that nothing contained in this is intended to be personal, I quote from my presentation sent to the Rt. Honourable Robin Cook in 1997 through the Minister and to His Excellency, the Governor of Montserrat:-

"The business of government is eternal. Hence it is of no consequence that the ongoing volcanic activity straddles the Governments of four Chief Ministers, four British Governors and three British Prime Ministers so far. As many more may be involved ere the activity ends."

For obvious reasons I am seeking to circulate this among the "disenfranchised," most of whom will recognize me as Cherrie Taylor, that being the name by which I am best known.

I am, yours respectfully,

Ida Taylor

Personal Identification - British passport #750132530

Cc His Excellency the Governor - Montserrat

Honourable Chief Minister - Montserrat

The Anguillan - Anguilla

The Montserrat Reporter

The Outlet - Antigua

The Nevis Times - Nevis

The Montserrat Web site

Beware Professional Advice Of Doctors Paid in Advance

To the Editor:

HMG may be efficient and thorough but no one ever accused it of subtlety.

To begin, let us hold in our minds the words of Robert May. In the December 19, 1997 report of volcanic scientists there is a section "Note by the Chief Scientific Advisor." On pp. 3-4, section 11 Robert May writes:

"In addition to the physical risks from volcanic activity there is the risk of developing silicosis from long-term exposure to the ash produced. While it is currently believed that this risk remains very slight in areas 1 and 2, given the uncertainty there is a possibility that Montserratians will attribute any future illnesses to their exposure on the island. This could lead to claims for compensation. The government should be wary of issuing advice which could be read as implying that the island is safe in the absence of more compelling evidence that this is so." (emphasis added).

Can there be any clearer statement that concern for the good of Montserratians is minuscule compared to conserving HMG’s purse?

Time for a chorus of "Send in the clones, where are the clones?" etc.

Call him Peter Baxter. We do not know much about Peter Baxter. His education may be extensive and impeccable, his experience vast, his heart as pure as the driven snow -- remember snow? remember pure? -- but one thing we know beyond question. His paycheck is signed by HMG and his reports will ensure that paychecks keep coming.

In other words, until proven otherwise, we are being treated to Chapter 4 of "The Hired Gun," to be polite. He is probably a nice guy, but in the guise of the next excuse to allow our gardens to wither, our homes to decay, the people to be terrorized – especially the children – and the hours of our lives to tick uselessly by, he is as welcome as the Eboli virus.
So, Peter, do not expect your ex cathedra pronouncements to be greeted with ringing hosannas. Gone are the days of, "Yes, My Lord. No, My Lord, Give me a boot in the pants My Lord. Oh, that felt so good, My Lord."

We note you come accompanied by your own horror show. No boiling surges, flying hot rocks or devastating explosions – how crass! You claim a silent, invisible host of ravening respirable ash particles, hovering in ambush for the unsuspecting lung.

Peter, do something useful. Give us an honest review of similar volcanoes. Find a Sprague-Dawley rat to play with. Recommend the government get water and power SOB (South of Belham). And get the hell out of our lives.

B.L. Anderson, M.D.

Unique Beauty in Each Creature

Thus says the Lord, the of the heavens, who is God, the designer and maker of the earth….Isaiah 45: 18

Examining mineral crystals through a microscope, a local photographer discovered a whole new world of beauty. He experimented with taking photographs of individual crystals and enlarging them, showing each crystal to be a fascinating blend of colors forming beautiful patterns and designs, each one unique and unrepeatable. Although we may copy God's beautiful design, God is the ultimate designer. If such unique beauty is designed into each crystal, imagine all the hidden beauty in this world that we never uncover. How magnificent is this God who designed each microscopic bit of creation as well as the immense stars of the expanding universe. God also designed me, more beautiful and complex than a crystal or a star. Beyond even that, God sent Jesus to show me the immensity of his love for what he has made. As I prepare for Christmas, surrounded by the decorations of glittering crystal and light, may I be reminded of God, the great designer and lover.

Praise be to you, God, the great designer and lover of all things.

NEWS BRIEFS

120 Exhibits Spell Success For MHS 4th Flower Show

Go Here for more Pics from the flower show

The Montserrat Horticultural Society hosted it’s mini Flower Show on April 3–4, 1999 at the McChesney’s Estate in Olveston. The theme for the Flower Show was "Emeralds emerging from the Ash," symbolic of the hope that life is returning to normal. It represents a contribution of the Society together with the wider community to the rebuilding effort. A Tea Party was an added attraction on Saturday April 3, under the patronage of Mrs. Eudora Fergus.

Twenty exhibitors participated in the Flower Show with over 120 exhibits in four sections -- Cut Flowers, Flowering Plants, Foliage Plants and Floral Arrangements.

Other highlights of the show were:

• the focal point symbolizing the theme, created by the members of the Society;

• several Floral Arrangement displays made of fresh and dried materials from Mr Easton Farrell of MSJ Flower Shop and Mrs Verna Brandt of Celebrations.

The previous Flower Show hosted by the Society ran from December 10-11, 1994. With the onset of the volcanic crisis in July 1995, the 4^th annual Flower Show of December 1995 was cancelled.

Mrs. Joyce Roach took first place honours with an overall score of 45 points, placing in all the categories, followed by Mrs. Daphne Cassell with 26 points.

Mrs Joyce Roach and Mrs Daphne Cassell

The results of the 1999 Flower Show are as below:

SECTION 1- CUT FLOWERS

SECTION 2 - FLOWERING PLANTS

SECTION 3 – FOLIAGE PLANTS

SECTION 4 – FLORAL ARRANGEMENT

OVERALL WINNERS

In a prize-giving and closing ceremony, the Montserrat Horticultural Society's chairman, Mrs. Evelyn Dyer, thanked all the exhibitors and supporters who assisted in the staging of the Fourth Flower Show, stating that the members of the Society look forward to their continued support.

Montserrat Secondary School Sports Day, 1999 represented much more than just fun and games and time out from classes. It was a sign of hope for an Education program that has struggled valiantly against the odds ever since the Soufriere Hills Volcano began its spate of activity. Indeed this has been the first sports day for the school since 1995, as with heats already completed, sports day April 3 1996 had to be cancelled because of the call to evacuate Plymouth.

There was tremendous excitement at school a few weeks ago when each student was finally assigned to one of the four houses: Red, Orange, Green and Blue.

The build-up was noticeably marked on Monday, March 29, when the Girls' Road Race and Boys' Cross-Country came off on schedule. Danielle Lee (blue) won the Girl's Road Race; followed by Shadika Willet (green); and Shornellle Lee (red).

The Boys’ Cross-Country was won by Leroy Lee of red house, followed by Wendell Thomas (orange) and Adius Thomas (red). By the end of that day, house standings were Blue -112 points, Red -106, Orange - 88, Green - 76.

Heats were held on Tuesday, March 30, at Salem Park. Members of the Sports Department were there to give invaluable assistance, which was greatly appreciated by the teachers, especially after such a long break from this type of activity.

There was keen competition with no signs of inter-house strife. Sports Day, 31.3.99 began earlier than in previous years, and many students were at the park well in advance of the appointed 10 o'clock starting line call up. There was the usual range of events, from the 60-metre dash for boys and girls, to fun events like wheel barrow, egg and spoon and needle and thread races. Blue House, as usual, won an exciting event, the tug of war.

Tuitt and Brandt on hand to cheer the athletes

As in former years, there was the cake table covered with beautifully decorated cakes donated by parents and well-wishers. The honorable Chief Minister and Minister of Sports, Mr. David S. Brandt, and The Honorable Minister of Education, Mrs. Adelina Tuitt, were on hand to witness the events and present medals to prize winners. They were both pleased with what they saw. Victor Ludorum was Deverson Semper of Blue House with 20 points and Victrix Ludorum was Shadika Willet of Green House with 19 points.

Blue House was the overall winner with 198 points, followed by Red House -180 points, Orange and Green Houses were third and fourth, with 136 and 129 points respectively.

The Principal and staff wish to record their sincere thanks and appreciation for donations from friends and well-wishers.

Eastbourne Sovereign Rotary Club Helps School Children Here Again

(Editor’s note: The Eastbourne Sovereign Rotary Club of England has generously supported the school children of Montserrat through the Rotary Club of Montserrat since the height of the volcanic crisis. Its most recent contribution was four cartons of biology and physics textbooks for secondary students here. The author, now a resident of Montserrat, was an active member of the Eastbourne club when he lived and practiced law in England.)

By Geoffrey Brewer

I was delighted when I heard on Wednesday, 24th March that Bennette Roach was again in Montserrat after visits to other islands on press and other business.

I had told the Rotary Club of Montserrat that Eastbourne Sovereign Rotary Club wanted, without further delay, the distribution of the volumes of Biology and Physics which had at last arrived in Montserrat and were being held by Customs.

The Rotary Club distributed the books -- large volumes of over 1,000 pages each -- and I had the pleasure of presenting the last of the books to Mrs. Kathleen Greenaway, headmistress of the senior school in charge of the 14- to 18-year-old at Lookout in the north of the island.

Earlier, on our return to Montserrat from a holiday in England in September, my wife Doreen brought over 30 primary books from St. Andrews Preparatory School, which she passed to Liz O’Garro, principal of Brades Primary School, which she acknowledged to Rotarian John Wilton, Geographer and Deputy Headmaster of St. Andrews.

These donations were in addition to amounts paid from Eastbourne Rotary Club over the years. The last of those was 500 pounds in November, which it is hoped will be the first installment of a sum of 1,000 pounds earmarked for educational purposes.

Our thanks are due to Richard Branson and Virgin Atlantic for the help and co-operation in England and for providing transport as far as Antigua.

Cayman Islands Say No To Legal Homosexuality

Compiled from Dispatches

The Cayman Islands on Thursday joined the ranks of Caribbean islands rejecting Britain's request that its territories legalise homosexuality before it grants citizenship to their residents.

"We abide by the views of the vast majority of Caymanians who live in a Christian community based on firmly held religious beliefs that homosexuality should not be legalised," the territorial government’s statement said.

Robin Cook, Britain’s Secretary for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, announced on March 17 that Britain would grant full citizenship to all inhabitants of its remaining colonies but requested they do more to fight money laundering, abolish capital punishment and repeal laws forbidding homosexual acts in private.

A year ago, the Caymans government refused landing rights to a cruise ship, saying its 900 gay passengers could not be expected to uphold appropriate standards of behaviour.

Homosexuality is a crime in all five of Britain's Caribbean territories - Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, the Caymans and the Turks and Caicos Islands. Strong opposition to Britain’s proposal has been expressed in all of them.

The Caymans government said the territory already "substantially complies with the international standards for financial services auditing and prudent borrowing."

The Caymans has 595 registered offshore banks and financial institutions. Some Caymanians worry that Britain could force banks to open their books to investigators from other countries on tax matters, which currently is forbidden under Cayman Islands' law.

1999 Hurricane Season Expected to Match 1998

Compiled from dispatches

The 1999 Atlantic-Caribbean hurricane is expected to mirror the pattern of last season, according to Dr.William Gray of Colorado State University, who released his revised predictions for this week.

Dr. Gray predicts 14 tropical storms and nine hurricanes -- four of them intense – for 1999, as compared to 1998’s 14 tropical storms and 10 hurricanes, four of which were intense.

Any storm which falls into the category of 3 to 5 on the Saffir-Simpson scale and with sustained winds of at least 111 mph qualifies as intense.

"We expect the current La Nina above average water temperatures in the eastern equatorial Pacific to continue through the 1999 hurricane season," Dr. Gray said. "This should be an enhancing influence on this season's hurricane activity."

He believes that La Nina and above average Atlantic water temperatures expected for the June 1-Nov. 30 hurricane season could create conditions favorable to storm development.

Gray and his staff say the pattern they predict is very similar to storm cycles of the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s.

GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES

Address by David Brandt UKOTA in London

Introduction to a Repeat of Mr. Brandt’s UKOTA address.

Following what Britain refers to as a "thorough review of its relationship with what were then called the Dependent Territories, a new partnership for progress and prosperity has emerged, but with certain conditions which the now Overseas Territories must adhere to.

Britain says the new partnership should reflect not only the close and long-standing links between the Overseas Territories and the UK, but also the new dynamics of a changing and forward-looking relationship.

The British White Paper for its remaining Overseas Territories speaks to modernisation as the key to this new partnership: modernisation of the structures and practices of the relationship in both Britain and the Overseas Territories.

As it now stands, the granting of British citizenship is being offered to those citizens of the Overseas Territories who do not already enjoy it.

As a result, the reforming and modernisation of human rights provisions, notably judicial corporal punishment, capital punishment and laws affecting homosexual conduct come into sharp focus.

Britain has stated that it would prefer to see Overseas Territory Governments enact the necessary reforms themselves, and failure to do so at the local Government level, will see the United Kingdom imposing these laws on the territories.

The law on homosexuality has been a major topic of debate here on Montserrat, specifically on moral grounds. This promoted the Government of Montserrat and in particular the Honourable Chief Minister David Brandt, to arrange a live radio call-in programme on the decriminalization of homosexuality on the night of Wednesday April 7^th, 1999, for residents on Montserrat to air their views on the issue.

The general feeling is that as far as the legal aspect is concerned, that has already been decided, but people are prepared to take a stand on moral grounds against a law which legalises acts of homosexuality between consenting adults which many dismiss as being repugnant.

Against the background that the people deem it unfair for Britain to impose such laws on its Overseas Territories with impunity, Chief Minister Brandt has called for republication of his speech to the United Kingdom Overseas Territories conference in London in February of 1998.

Text of the Address by Chief Minister David Brandt UKOTA in London.

Ladies and Gentlemen, we are today considering the future relationship between the United Kingdom Overseas Territories and the United Kingdom.

For most of us, this relationship goes back some 350 years, which in itself demands that it not be taken lightly. We must pay urgent and special attention to the fact that it is universally acknowledged, and has been for many years, that there are aspects of this long-standing relationship which need to be changed. So we are gathered here in an effort to address the question, "what rights should United Kingdom Overseas Territories have?"

Let me begin by quoting Jose Trias Monge, a former administrator in Puerto Rico who has already made an important statement that can be applied to our situation.

"The issue should not be whether further powers of self government should be extended to the colonies but rather what powers do the Colonies want to entrust to the former empire ... Nobody has the right to govern another. It is as simple as that."

I agree with this statement in its entirety, particularly as it implies that United Kingdom Overseas Territories must take a far more active role in how our affairs are to be determined.

Further, United Nations Resolution 1541 (V) states clearly that all people have the right to govern themselves and urges the worldwide dismantling of colonialism.

A 1989 Report of the UN Special Committee concludes in this way: "a non-self governing territory should have the right to determine its internal constitution without outside interference, in accordance with due constitutional processes and the freely expressed wishes of the people."

The United Kingdom subscribes to the UN Charter and is aware of its emphasis on the self-determination of all people. We have been assured this morning that the United Kingdom is not fighting to hang on to her remaining United Kingdom Overseas Territories in a relationship of imperial dominance. Indeed the presentation of the Foreign Secretary was encouraging in its commitment to self-determination, and by implication a diminution of dominating power over Overseas Territories.

All of us here, I think, have opted to retain ties with the UK. The questions, that concern us are:

What are those ties to be?

What changes are required in the existing relationship? And

How and when will they be put into effect?

The establishment of a new department with a Minister who has responsibility for the Dependent Territories is most welcome, and I would like to express my Delight that Baroness Symmons has been given this responsibility. I would like to point out, however, that unless an adequate budget is put in place to support the work of this Minister, this move may not be as beneficial as we might want.

The great challenge, as I see it, is for us to work out a relationship with the UK that will give the United Kingdom Overseas Territories more autonomy and self- determination without an immediate severance of ties. This relationship should grow to be more a partnership than a domination; a situation that all parties can be happy with and that will be free of the stigma of colonialism.

The details of such an undertaking are, of course, beyond the scope of this brief address. Nor can they be the purview of any one country. My purpose is to try to establish guidelines and parameters which can facilitate the huge body of work we all need to do.

No constitution, however well worded or thought out, can ever work well if it is an imposed document. It is my view that the rights, responsibilities and privileges enjoyed by any people should accrue from the mores, folkways, values and political ethos of that group rather than from a perceived tradition or an imposed culture.

The people whom the constitution should serve should play a decisive role in its formulation, as it would impact their lives, operate in their culture and is the instrument which regulates their society.

In short, the Constitution should not be a document that is imposed by some foreign sovereign authority. It follows therefore that under the new dispensation, no amendments should be made to any Overseas Territories constitution without the direct and active involvement of the people concerned.

In the current climate of partnership and mutual respect there can be no reasonable explanation for allowing to remain in place constitutions with clauses which offer varying degrees of power to an Overseas Territories Governor couched in language such as "in his discretion." This too has to be viewed as harmful to any people's quest for self-determination.

Further, we are increasingly being reminded that the British Government has, prior to today, no coherent and publicly articulated agenda for its Overseas Territories. I have myself sat on many street corners in Montserrat and listened to young men and women seeking to unravel the "British agenda." In fact, the orientation of the United Kingdom has engendered the suspicion that the only plan that exists, as far as Montserrat is concerned, is a plan to totally depopulate the island, as its people continue to struggle to cope with the crisis brought on by an erupting volcano.

It would be remiss of me if I did not at this point discuss the rights of United Kingdom Overseas Territories with respect to Developmental Aid from the UK government. It should be a fundamental tenet of British Government policy that where United Kingdom Overseas Territories are unable through their own resources to finance infrastructural development, the Sovereign power should be obligated to provide such support in a timely manner.

This right should not be subject to negotiation or the whims of any particular official. The United Kingdom Overseas Territories should have first unfettered call on British Aid funds, to support their legitimate needs, and this should be an indisputable right.

If such a doctrine had been in operation at the outset of the current volcanic crisis in Montserrat, I am confident that we would not have suffered the fatalities that we did on June 25, 1997. Furthermore, the ill will and rancor that pervade the mismanagement of this crisis, even as I speak, would have been prevented by such a doctrine.

I take this opportunity to invite the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association to send a fact-finding delegation to visit Montserrat to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the situation. Such a mission would do much to bring clarity to this situation. Many of us will be close to Montserrat at the Bahamas Conference and it would greatly encourage us if a small team from the DTA could take this opportunity.

I myself have had cause to speculate, particularly with respect to the disappointing slowness of HMG in making funding available to meet basic humanitarian needs in Montserrat.

I believe that most persons here are aware of the problems presently confronting Montserrat. Unfortunately, some of the difficulties have been compounded by decisions of some officials. The following example illustrates this dilemma.

Following strong representation by Montserrat, an Aid Management Office was set up in Montserrat. It took time, but eventually a good working relationship was developed.

Suddenly, without warning, this office was downgraded and all decisions relating to the Montserrat situation reverted to being made in DFID, London by officials who want responsibility for allocating housing. If we do not allow this, we were told, future aid would not be approved.

Certainly, it seems logical and prudent for us to use objective criteria for the allocation of housing, but we are being pressured to have this function dictated from London. Let me state here categorically, that notwithstanding our vulnerable condition, we will never be bullied into submission.

But back to the specific issue at hand. A good policy should have clear objectives, and as a bare minimum British policy should seek to accomplish the following:

1. Change the orientation of the British / Overseas Territories relationship from what rights the British are willing to give us, to what powers we would wish them to have over us.

2. Institute constitutional reforms which allow United Kingdom Overseas Territories to proceed to responsible government, having greater autonomy and involvement in the conduct of their domestic affairs. These reforms should provide for the increased involvement of Ministers in areas of governance expressly reserved for the Governor. This will begin the process of securing internal self-governance for United Kingdom Overseas Territories through the devolution of executive and administrative power from the Secretary of State and Governor to elected officials through a mechanism entrenched in the Constitution. If this necessary step is taken, the process whereby Ministers practice the exercise of responsibilities, which could one day be theirs, would finally have been set in motion.

3. Give United Kingdom Overseas Territories the right to interact with, and to receive assistance from states and international organizations without the active intermediation of HMG.

4. Uphold the right of British Citizenship, for those Overseas Territories who request it.

5. Institute greater respect for the individuality and cultural characteristics of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories and their people, who should have the right to determine their constitution without interference, in accordance with due constitutional processes and in keeping with their freely expressed wishes;

6. Provide for ongoing assistance to United Kingdom Overseas Territories from HMG for the development of their socio-economic institutions. This should ensure prompt and effective delivery of assistance to Overseas Territories and this entitlement should automatically result in prompt and effective delivery of assistance in times of crisis

7. Discontinue the practice whereby international treaties ratified by Britain are extended to the United Kingdom Overseas Territories without their consent. United Kingdom Overseas Territories should not be saddled with British international obligations, which they may not be able to, or wish to fulfill. While the comments made by the Secretary of State are appreciated, it cannot be acceptable that the UK government should have the right to legislate for the Overseas Territories without their consent.

I believe that, despite the past errors and mishaps, the British Government and its Overseas Territories share a foundation from which to develop constitutional models for the Overseas Territories on the basis of consultation, collaboration and mutual respect. In Conclusion, let us be reminded that we are all on the dawn of a new millennium where we are challenged by the global trend towards greater trade liberalization. Like the rest of the Caribbean, the Overseas Territories have acceded to a Charter of Civil Society and have committed to laying the foundation for a human-centered system of governance that eschews social justice.

Like many other countries of the world, the Overseas Territories are challenged by poverty and the scourge of illegal drugs which threaten the social fabric of our societies. We are however committed to democracy, good governance, respect for human rights, the rule of law and the attainment of the highest possible standard of living for our people. These are responsibilities we take unto ourselves as a people in our various communities. These are responsibilities that we seek nothing more than the very best chance to fulfill.

As we work together to fulfill them, let us be guided by this:

"The issue should not be whether further powers of self government should be extended to the colonies but rather what powers do the United Kingdom Overseas Territories want to entrust to the former empire ... Nobody has the right to govern another. It is as simple as that."

Thank you very much.

Clarifying the Financial Situation of the OECS

Statement by the Director General.

"It appears that the recent pronouncement by the Honourable Prime Minister of St. Lucia on the financial situation of the OECS has fed speculation regarding the survival of the Organisation. Numerous calls from overseas have expressed concern and dismay at what they perceive to be ‘the irresponsibility’ of the governments concerned in failing to support ‘a good thing’. Staff are concerned; as are our creditors. Generally, it appears, the image of the OECS has taken a beating. The following seeks to place the matter in perspective:

"1. Regional and international organisations tend to experience financial difficulties, whether it is the United Nations, CARICOMN or the OECS. Governments are often delinquent in meeting their financial obligations to such organisations, in some cases for reasons of dissatisfaction with the functioning and perceived orientation of the Organisation, (e.g. the United States in regard to the UN), or difficult domestic fiscal situations, or simply lack of responsibility - Rickey Singh calls it ‘a lack of morality’. Too often Governments view such organisations as second- or third- order priorities when it comes to making good on their financial obligations, even on the basis of budgets, which they have themselves approved.

"2. These kinds of financial difficulties will tend to be exacerbated in the circumstances of the OECS, consisting as it does exclusively of the smallest countries of the Caribbean, given the known fiscal limitations of these islands. Yet the OECS is in some ways the institution most deserving of strong financial support from its members: it is exclusively owned by them; it is an organisation that is very strong on accountability; it relates more intimately with its members than any other regional or international organisation in direct support of their development efforts, in economic and other domains.

"3. Certainly, since mid-1996, the Organisation has made strenuous efforts not only to work within our financial constraints, but also to restructure and re-organise with a view to increased cost effectiveness. Our Member Governments know this very well. The merger of the Economic Affairs Secretariat, (formerly in Antigua and Barbuda), into the St. Lucia-based Headquarters realised a saving of $1 million and has also made for a more integrated and synergistic operation. Similar measures have been put in place throughout the six geographical locations of our Organisation. We have effected an overall cut in our budget - an EC$ 2-million reduction in FY 1999 over FY 1998.

"4. The budget of the OECS for the current financial year is EC$13.5 million - this amount covers the Headquarters in St. Lucia, as well as the export and agricultural diversification office in Dominica, our missions in Brussels and Ottawa, and our small investment promotion office in Washington D.C. (our Civil Aviation Office in Antigua and Barbuda is self-financing.) This implies an annual contribution from each of the six larger members of just over EC $2 million, and about EC $0.5 million each from Montserrat, Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands. At this time, all Members (except Montserrat), are in arrears, two of them accounting for half of the EC $18 million of accumulated arrears.

"5. One of the purposes of the OECS is to execute donor-funded regional projects and serve as a channel for technical and financial support to our Members. The ‘core budget’ of the Organisation constitutes only a fraction of the funds that the Secretariat manages - its ‘non-core’ resources amount to approximately EC $100 million to be managed over the next four years. These funds are provided by bilateral and multilateral institutions in support of our work in the OECS countries in education reform, human resource development, solid waste and environmental management, telecommunications reform and social developent.

"6. The OECS is certainly not languishing – we are making energetic use of our staff and other resources to pursue mandates from our Member Governments in the vigorous pursuit of the goals and purposes of our Organisation. We have detailed our activities on numerous occasions, and will not repeat them at this time – suffice it to say that our members and the bilateral and international organisations that work with us in support of the development of our members are all fully apprised of our efforts and our achievements, Yet, as the Director General has often reported to our Heads of Government, and as implied in the St. Lucia Prime Minister’s pronouncement, the Organisation’s effectiveness is being handicapped by the disappointing level of contributions from the very Members that we serve. One example of a less than optimal level of effectiveness is in the area of the international economic negotiations which have just begun - Europe-Caribbean, the proposed Free Trade Area of the Americas, and the WTO. Precisely, the areas where our Member Governments are rather deficient on the ground, where they require considerable technical support, and where it makes such good sense to organise jointly to deal with these consuming matters. So that, while the Secretariat is certainly not languishing, it needs to become more effective in assisting its Members in areas where help is needed.

"7. Hence, the statement from the Honourable Prime Minister of St. Lucia first made to the OECS Authority in May 1998 and repeated more recently and more publicly. The Secretariat views this statement as an expression of frustration at the continued, almost defiant failure of some of our members to act responsibly in the matter, and confidence in the Secretariat’s potential for greater effectiveness, if only it were provided with the minimum desirable wherewithal. The pronouncement has already elicited an encouraging public response from the Honourable Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda, who admitted that his country was one of those delinquent member countries and undertook to do better. The Secretariat looks forward to further such responses.

"8. St. Lucia, as host to our Headquarters, is in a special situation. It is responsible for the physical accommodation of the Secretariat, (although a number of our accommodations have been provided by other means). It is also the beneficiary of the expenditures of the Secretariat and the 75 staff members based in St. Lucia. In such circumstances, host Governments, perhaps, have a special responsibility to be seen to be fully and financially supportive of the work of home-based organisations. It is worthy of note that St. Lucia, throughout the life of our Organisation, has been fully conscious of this special responsibility and has not let down the Organisation.

"9. No one country has been exclusively saddled with the responsibility for meeting the financial costs of the Organisation - generally, our Members have been supportive of the Organisation and shown apprecation for its efforts. At least one of them has improved its performance remarkably over the past few months.

"10. Finally, in response to the many expressions of genuine concern that the Secretariat has received over the past two weeks, it needs to be repeated that the OECS is not about to collapse. Its work is simply too important, much more so in the still unfolding hemispheric and global economic context. The Director General and staff have every confidence in the continued support of our Member Governments, stakeholders in civil society and the public at large. We will do our best to continue to live up to their expectations."

WHAT IS IT ABOUT SEPTEMBER 17^TH?

The Pan-Am crash - 1965

Hurricane Hugo - 1989

Flood - 1981

Big volcano blow out - 1996

Any others? Next? Hope not.

Montserrat is Safe, Believe It or Not

Those of us who were present at the Many Happy Returns Concert on March 19 will remember Kevin Lewis, the lead MC of the show. Kevin communicated with members of Evergreen Electronic group with an observation which he titled "Montserrat is Safe, Believe It or Not." Kevin is not the first person to articulate these sentiments, as many of us have had similar experiences as far back as 1995.

Occasionally some members of the group make some worthwhile comments.

What Kevin wrote, and some excerpts of comments follow:

"On my recent visit to Montserrat, while in transit at the airport in Antigua on my way back to Trinidad, I was surprised to find there still exists a somewhat negative attitude regarding travelling to Montserrat. I was wondering if anyone else has had a similar experience.

"While perusing a number of gift shops, in particular one well known record store, opinions were expressed in my presence that Montserrat is a dangerous place to be, and in the words of the store attendant, he is ‘afraid, and wouldn't be caught dead there.’

"What concerns me first of all is the fact that this type of opinion is even being expressed at this stage, when the worst of the crisis is obviously over.

"Secondly, considering that Antigua is the 'gateway' to Montserrat, I would really be concerned if this type of opinion is being expressed on a wider scale to people passing through.

"I would hope this type of opinion is isolated, and people are not in fact being discouraged from going to the island, but unfortunately, I have heard of similar stories before.

"If there is even just one doubting Thomas out there somewhere, we need to get the word out that Montserrat is still nice, still paradise, and still one of the safest place to be!" -- Kevin

From Antigua:

"It's always easier to spread bad news and to have people believe it, than to spread the good word.

"A serious marketing plan needs to be looked at for Montserrat - information regarding "Montserrat still nice" needs to get out there in an organised fashion.

"A good place to start would be blitz advertising in Antigua and then the wider Caribbean.

"Get people to, for lack of a better term ‘endorse’ the idea of visiting and living in Montserrat. A good marketing person who can be imaginative and work with limited resources needs to be hired to set this up in a systematic manner

"This is the key to the future success of Montserrat."

From Montserrat:

"I believe that Ernestine Cassell at the Tourist Board works on this every day. I know that she has traveled internationally, going to travel shows etc., trying to undo the bad press. It is not an easy task and I'm sure any suggestions sent directly to her, would be appreciated."

Montserratian in the USA:

"We need to encourage the ‘Newsies’ to return and finish the story. They were quick to cover the destruction, but very slow to return and cover the recovery. We know that Montserrat is safe but people who are not there do not.

"We may not be able to get the U.S. media to return, so we must do it ourselves.

"It has to be the responsibility of Kevin, Stone, Bennette and others to start using their medium to spread the word that Montserrat is indeed safe and is Paradise Recovering."

U.S. Homeowner in the U.S.:

"We have noticed an increased presence of Montserrat in items on the Caribbean travel boards.

"I agree with the advertising idea - but you REALLY need to get the runway at Blackburne/Bramble cleaned off and a temporary building set up for customs and baggage. I think that will make things fall into place quickly."

Again from the US:

"How do we get the word out? How do we get the U.S. State Department to change their Advisory Bulletin? How about Canada? Do they have a bulletin?

"I'm U.S. but I don't know. Does someone in the UK need to do something? Does the M'Rat Chief Minister or Governor need to get someone in London to do something? Official word needs to come from somewhere to the U.S. State Department."

BOARDING HOUSE LIFE

By Rhiana Meade

Many of us Montserratians come from very large families. On average, the number of children per household is about two, and I'm sure that many, if not all parents, will agree that they can be a hand-full at times. My father will be the first to tell anyone that although he loves his five children to pieces, we can be quite a hand-full when we are all together. With this in mind, picture having to look after 60 children between the ages of 11 and 17. Not only are they not your children, they belong to other people who rely on you to take good care of them. This is the task of a Housemistress or a Housemaster, at the Royal Hospital School here in Suffolk, England.

Added upon this is the fact that the Housemasters and Housemistresses are also teachers. One can just imagine the stressful days that they must have! I'm sure that some of my previous teachers like Ms. Jeanelda Howson would agree that having to teach 27 (sometimes mischievous) children in a class can be nerve racking enough, much less having to deal with 60 children, for 36 out of the 52 weeks in a year! The good thing is that there are other various house staff who help with the running of the boarding houses, thus easing some of the strain. The prefects (called badge girls and boys) in the Houses also help out.

This does not mean that life in the boarding houses is all full of stress, but rather quite the opposite. In the Houses where the younger children live, they share rooms, which are set out dormitory style.

This allows for students settling into their new environment quicker, along with making friends a lot easier, especially as the setting is done according to class number. Each House has its own history from past students who have passed through its doors, as they have made a great impact in the school and in the community outside of the school.

Even though the school is quite large in size, friendships are not limited to the boarding house, neither are you confined to your House.

After school, you can visit the other houses once you adhere to the rules that may exist in the specified house. You can also visit after prep (used to describe homework) for a limited time. However, to keep the spirit of competitiveness alive, there is a range of competitions between the houses - from singing competitions to swimming galas.

At times they can be segregated between the girls and the boys. Do not be fooled, this is not because the girls are unable to compete with the boys, but quite the opposite! The girls do not want to embarrass the boys, as they will surely rip them to shreds!

Living in the boarding house can be a lot of fun. There is always a friend nearby to talk to and someone who can help you in your rough times. The House staff also tries their best to help you with any problems or questions that you may have. At first, it may seem a bit uncomfortable as you are living in the same house with people you know nothing about. However as time passes, you make friends and life begins to look a lot brighter.

At Cornwallis House where I live, everyone is helpful and friendly.

There are about 40 girls in the house who are in upper and lower sixth form. Just like if you were living at home with your brothers and sisters, we sometimes have arguments between ourselves, but we try to forgive and forget. The house has two wings, the east and the west wings, with upper and lower Sixth respectively.

Each girl has her own room (study) which she can decorate to her own liking.

All of the girls have come over from the junior houses, but seeing that I have just arrived, I have been "attached" to one of the junior houses (Hood House). I participate in their activities and help out around the house.

The facilities in the boarding Houses are very good. Each house has at least three fully equipped kitchen areas, which become ideal when you want a midday snack! On top of that, fresh pints of milk are delivered daily to the Houses. The dayrooms (sitting room areas) enable us to relax after a hectic day. We either lounge around watching television, or play pool/table tennis set up for additional entertainment. Videos are also bought for the Houses, so if at any time the programs being aired don't suit your taste, you can always watch a movie instead!

There are numerous activities other than competitions, which are done as a "House". Just last term, the Houses got together and had their own Christmas parties. I must say that the Hood house party was "all that!" We had dinner, dancing and karioke, which everyone participated in with much enthusiasm. The Houses also go on outings to places such as Chessington Theme Park. This gives everyone well-deserved rest from all the school activities.

Within the House, everyone chips in to help keep the House in order and of course tidy. A rota is set up every half term with different stations (duties) around the house to be done. This ensures that tasks are evenly split and everyone does their part. Stations range from the distribution of milk to the kitchens, to the cleaning of the dayrooms.

In many ways it can be said that living in a boarding House is quite similar to home. The major difference is that you have 10 times the number of brothers/sisters that you would have at home!

For me the best thing about the boarding House is having my own personal space - my study. The worst is not being able to call all my friends as I would wish, since the phones in the house are forever busy!

One must not view the boarding House as very confining but instead, a place where you learn to discipline yourself and form friendships that will last for years to come. 

FARMERS CORNER

(Week Ending March 19, 1999)

By Justin "Hero" Cassell, Agricultural Development Officer

HIGHLIGHTS

A total of EC$736,000 has been allocated in the 1999-2000 recurrent budget for Agriculture. A sum of EC$843,000 has been provided for developmental projects.

It is envisaged that the above sums of money although not exceptionally large amounts will foster the implementation and development of a number of Agricultural projects and programmes within the Ministry. A number of these projects and programmes are highlighted below: -

• Supplies

• Maintenance of Equipment

• Maintenance of Vehicle/Plant

• Grants/Subsidies

• Books and Periodicals

• Printing/Binding

• Marketing, Prom & Demon.

• Loose Livestock Control

• Co-operatives

• Land Purchases & Management

• Irrigation

• Nursery & Experimental

• Livestock Units

• Forestry

• Fisheries

• Environmental Protection

DEVELOPMENTAL PROJECTS HIGHLIGHTS

In addition to the ongoing developmental projects, a number of new projects are slated to come on stream this year. These include: -

• National Forestry Action Programme-$464,000
• Landing Facility – Carrs Bay-$300,000
• Abattoir-$ 60,000
• Establishment of Marketing Facility-$150,000
• Medium Scale Farming – Upper Blakes-$ 16,000
• Fisheries Research/Training-$ 3,000

The following seedlings are available this week at the Brades nursery

Vegetable Seedlings

• Tomatoes

• Cabbage

• Sweet Pepper

Fruit Trees

• Lime

For persons involved in beautification, a wide variety of ornamental plants are also available

THE MARKET PLACE

Fair quantities of locally grown vegetables are available in the various green markets and supermarkets. Among these are tomatoes, okra, cabbage, sweet pepper, carrots, eggplant and lettuce.

KOSHER SEX

Platonic friendship — the interval between the introduction and the first kiss. — Sophie Irene Loeb
I have always detested the belief that sex is the chief bond between man and woman. Friendship is far more human. — Agnes Smedley
Love is a matter of chemistry. Sex is physics. — Anonymous
Husbands are chiefly good lovers when they are betraying their wives. — Marilyn Monroe
Any truly successful marriage must perforce distill the contradictory ingredients of passion and intimacy. We do indeed want our spouse to be both our lover and our best friend. And this is what kosher sex is all about.
One of the rules of dating is that when a man tires of the woman he is seeing (or in many cases, when a woman tires of a man), he cannot simply call her up and end it. No, that would be too heartless and cruel. Rather, dumping her comes in the form of the famous let’s-be-friends phone call. "I really like you," he tells her. "But I like you as a friend. I love you more like a sister." Or, "I really like you, but the lab results have just returned and I have only four weeks to live, and I’d like to spend it with my pets." Or, "I’m crazy about you. But I’ve decided that I’m just not good enough for you. So, I’ve found a new woman in my life who is far less perfect."

I even know a man who told a girlfriend he wanted to ditch that he had just discovered that he was gay and had fallen in love with his best friend. Excuses aside, everyone is supposed to understand that lovers cannot also be friends. Yet, amazingly, when it comes to marriage, people believe that entirely different rules apply.
Friends in Marriage
In my years of counseling couples, I have encountered two kinds of marriages. There are those couples who trust each other implicitly and explicitly. They are each other’s confidants and most trusted companions. They share every secret and they depend and rely on each other utterly. No wedge can be driven between them because they are inseparable. They have friends outside the marriage, but they relate to their friends as a single unit, as a couple. They are therefore more friendly with couples than they are with individual men and women. Communication is the norm in such marriages, not lovemaking. Their union is based far more on compatibility — similar interests — than on raw physical attraction.

These couples lack no intimacy in their lives. So what’s their problem? There is little or no passion. They have great conversations, but when they undress in the bedroom the newspaper comes out and the television is immediately switched on. Theirs is a love like water, not like fire. Based on trust and intimacy, their whole relationship is more about compatibility than attraction. It is not a passionate relationship and this has both positive and negative aspects. Positive because it means there is deep trust and they rarely argue. Why would they fight? They have no fire. They do not make each other’s blood boil. But since there is no flame, their marriage is predictable.
Lovers in Marriage
Then there are the husbands and wives who are lovers. Theirs is a passionate, fiery union. They fight and argue constantly. They do not, however, completely love or even trust each other. When they need advice about important life decisions, they do not seek it from each other. There is little calm in their marriage, and it is almost always tempest-tossed. But one thing they have is plenty of fire. They have a great intensity of emotion toward each other.
They are constantly arguing and making up, with great passion and fervor. Their lovemaking sessions are wonderful. But they can’t seem to get along and truly communicate outside the bedroom. They have physical knowledge, but not emotional intimacy. The wife has her friends, and the husband has his. They don’t really do things as a couple, and when they do, it is for a specific reason. They love each other, but they don’t necessarily like each other. They don’t share similar tastes and they are not similar types. Their marriage is a constant crescendo of highs and lows. For this reason they love each other passionately, but they also get on each other’s nerves. There is nothing dull about their marriage, but then, there is nothing serene about it either. Like a guitar, their strings are strung too tightly.

To be Continued

AN ISSUE OF HUMAN RIGHTS

Yes, decriminalise it

The discussions on homosexuality continue to be emotional, though interesting. The discussions are clouded with unconfessed fear and, like a door hanging with one hinge, lean and squeak about morality and culture.

The issue is neither morality nor culture. Morality is very subjective at times – and culture is what we live at any given time. Both morality and culture are the community alive. So if we say that homosexuality has been with us always, then what morality, what culture? Is homosexuality part of our culture to protect? Maybe.

However, for me the issue is human rights. The amendment of our laws to decriminalise homosexuality is to protect and to advance the human rights of every Montserratian in spite of his sexual preferences.

Everyone will agree that each human being is created equal and is equal before the law.

Everyone will agree that some of us are born with different sexual preferences.

Then if this is so, how is it that I can practice my sexual preference without the threat of criminal charges? Yet if you practice your "born with" sexual preferences in private - you can face criminal charges. I should have no greater human rights than you, even if you are that way.

At the beginning of this article I hinted that the discussions are fraught with fear. Yet it is I who have become frightened. I am afraid of the religious moralist who bases his morality on scripture. Scripture condemns adultery and fornication in the same way it condemns homosexuality. I am an adulterer. I am a fornicator. When these religious moralists put the homosexuals in their place, will they come for me? I say decriminalise it.

The happenings in central Europe are teaching me a lesson. Overzealous leaders can incite violence because of their morality and fear - or in order to maintain their culture. They can hide behind the laws of the land and persecute people like me. Religious policemen can become supercharged with morality and harass people like you who practice your "born with" sexual preferences in private.

I say decriminalise it! And if the amendment to the law protects the human rights of one more Montserratian, I will support the bill.

Again, the real issue is human rights; not passport, not morality, not culture. It is the protection and the advancement of the human rights of each Montserratian to live in peace and security in his private place. And besides, what is there to fear? Homosexuals are a dying kind. They cannot produce their kind, even in private; but we can. We can be fruitful and multiply. We can produce our kind. We will always be more than them.

However, in the meantime - we must educate ourselves not to fear the word homosexuality. And we must train our children in the way that they should grow up. It worked for our parents. It will work for us. Let us give the children a legacy of real human rights.

Montserrat & Friends Ireland Tour 1999

Last December during a visit of the newly appointed fund-raiser of the Montserrat Volcano UK Fund which was launched earlier in October 1997, it was stated the aims of the fund was to assist the process of rebuilding the island, helping relieve hardship on the island, and aiding the resettlement of evacuees.

His visit was with Mr. Tony Wade, chairman of the fund and the visit was to further understand the needs and wishes of Montserratians in their quest to redevelop Montserrat. It observed at that time that "Montserrat has a rich cultural history, popularly known as ‘The other Emerald Isle’, it being the only English-speaking Caribbean Island with historical ties with Ireland."

Page hoped to use this fact as part of his plans to achieve his goals for raising funds for Montserrat. He plans to have a campaign known as the Montserrat European Cultural Expo ‘99 during several months of next year, which he will take to Ireland.

These plans are well on the way and it is expected that Montserratians will participate in a big way as he moves forward to assist the island.

On this page is a form to be used by persons wishing to make this trip to Ireland. Some local organisations have already expressed plans to travel to Ireland for the occasion.

DUBLIN…………GALWAY…………LIMERICK

Day 1

August 5^th - Flight from Heathrow to Dublin 5^th E1155: 0955/1110.

Lunch and sight seeing tour of Dublin - Evening reception. Accommodation: Green Isle Hotel, Dublin.

Day 2

August 6^th - Depart to Galway - sightseeing - evening reception. Accommodation: The Galway Bay Golf & Country Club Hotel, Galway.

Day 3

August 7^th - Visit Feakle International traditional music festival - evening reception.

Accommodation: The Galway Bay Golf & Country Hotel, Galway.

Day 4

August 8^th - Depart Galway for Limerick sightseeing - Accommodation: Morrisons Island Hotel, Limerick.

Day 5

August 9^th - Return flight from Cork to Heathrow 9^th August Flight E1182: 1855/2010

• Four nights hotel accommodation with full Irish breakfast daily.

• Driver guide for the duration of the tour.

• Admissions to - Trinity College, St. Patricks Cathedral, Dvblinia, Guinness Hopstore, Kylemore Abbey, Blarney Castle, University College Galway and St Marys Cathedral in Limerick

All inclusive cost: £345.00 per person, double occupancy (single room supplement: £70.00)

Final Balance £270.00

Cheques payable to: Montserrat Volcano (UK) Fund

VOLCANO LIMERICKS

The Doom Doctor

South of Belham does not find terrific

Dr. Baxter’s annex scientific,

Which is, "Take it from me,

"It’s the risks you can’t see

"That would make your return there horrific."

Windies Shift

Like the Romans’ affection for Nero,

Brian Lara’s repute was near zero.

But fans warm to winnings,

So outstanding innings

Can make yesterday’s goat today’s hero.

JUS WONDERIN

Jus wonderin whether Montserratians at a meeting in Leicester, England, ever got an answer to what happened to the £5,000 pounds contributed and sent to Montserrat after Hugo by the Birmingham Montserrat Association.

Jus wonderin why any Montserratian employed or formerly employed by the Government of Montserrat would insist on being paid to speak to a function of the Leicester Montserrat Association..

Jus wonderin if the gamblin info was provided by sources close to the orator.

Jus wonderin what will happen if a visitor to Cork Hill does not make it back to the gate by 5.30 p.m. or when he/she gets there in a vehicle the gate is locked.

Jus wonderin when electricity will be restored to these areas.

Jus wonderin lookin at a distance at Cork Hill, it looks so green how ash could be such a problem.

Jus wonderin if we will see a greater number of people showing interest in returning to Cork Hill than eventually returned to Salem.

Jus wonderin if as many people went off-island from Cork Hill as from other places in the island.

Jus wonderin if British citizenship will mean that much to most Montserratians considering how many people from the north took the evacuation package.

Jus wonderin how many members of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry are interested in the affairs of the Chamber or never mind the affairs of the country.

Jus wonderin if public servants and officials care whether the country is in 'grant-in-aid' or not.

Jus wonderin if we have vampires in Montserrat who prey on infants.

Jus wonderin if the weather will be kind to us during the summer months and spread the rain fall.

Jus wonderin what purpose an emergency airstrip in Geralds will serve.

Jus wonderin if an airstrip will not seriously reduce the efficiency of any sport complex built around it.

Jus wonderin what LIAT or any other airline has to say about the seriousness of cross winds at Geralds reported to be just as bad as those at Cane Field in Dominica which force them abandon its use.

Jus wonderin when the CM will fill that serious void in his office.

Jus wonderin who is pamperin who after the many complaints of insults that cause civil servants to cry.

C&W Year 2000 Readiness Statement

BANK OF MONTSERRAT LIMITED

Dear Valued Customer,

Preparing for the Year 2000

As we are approaching the Year 2000, there are a number of computer related issues which, potentially we both may have to face and we trust that you have taken steps to ensure your own Y2K readiness.

During the last 12 months, we have been actively addressing and preparing ourselves to provide you with a continuous service. In this regard, we want to assure you that we have taken steps to ensure that by July 1999 we will be Year 2000 compliant. Thereafter, we will be testing our readiness on a continuous basis.

In addition to the above precautions, we have also made arrangements for alternative measures to service your banking needs, in the unlikely event that we experience any difficulty with our computers. Please be assured that we will be proactive in doing whatever is necessary to take care of your banking requirements.

We will be ensuring that we continue to deserve the confidence, which you have shown in us over the years.

Your Bank…Your Future.

MANAGMENT