Montserratians in England Are Still Getting Little, And Confusing Information
By Bennette Roach
The complaints emanating from England about the lack of information reaching Montserratians there continue.
Although information leaflets seem to be prepared, they apparently do not reach most of the Montserratians. Even media personnel complain. The Reporter's Hilton Samuel said that he often has to rely on information he receives from us. Well-known Pastor Roger Wade reportedly is the person many depend on for relevant information, a service for which he is not paid. This is in spite of Montserrat offices and employees in England. Enquiries from The Reporter have gone unanswered on this matter.
On Thursday this week, we received a document called "Return Briefing," which carries the following introduction: "This note seeks to provide Montserratian evacuees wishing to return to Montserrat with an accurate assessment of conditions on the island."
The document is dated March 1999, and deals with topics covering, in order -- Volcanic Situation and Emergency Arrangements; Housing; Health; Social Services; Education; and the Public Service. The informant says that the document is not widely circulated but came from the office where Mrs. Janice Panton is in charge. The document was produced in Montserrat with input from all the ministries and departments concerned involvement. One local official believes that the document is only issued to persons applying for assistance to return home.
The document, when taken in its entirety, is seen as discouraging the Montserratian planning to return home. Section 10 is the ending paragraph dealing with housing and it reads:
"10. The Government of Montserrat estimates that there exists on island, demand of around 770 families -- though work is underway to check these figures. Whilst new projects will provide housing for all those on-island in greatest need, some people may still be living in temporary accommodation in two years time. Given on-island housing supply and demand, the Ministry with responsibility for housing is, therefore, at present unable to make a contribution to housing returnees, though some returnees will be able to rejoin other members of their family who will have suitable accommodation."
The document correctly stated that areas south of Belham were closed to residents and businesses, but Chief Minister David Brandt in England this week certainly compounded that situation, when he said: "You cannot come home now, because we do not have any place to put you."
This seems to contradict the Chief Minister's position of about six months ago when he was calling for Montserratians and others to come to Montserrat. His emphasis may have been to those wishing to work. As time passed, as stated in the said document, "Emergency shelters are gradually being closed and will therefore not be used to accommodate returning residents or any other new residents."
Yet many observers are expressing difficulty understanding Mr. Brandt's latest position, with Salem and neighbouring areas open to residents -- and now even Isle's Bay -- full time and areas South of Belham Bridge now opened during daytime for visits, cleanup and repairs.
British officials are said to be questioning the wisdom of spending clean-up funds in Cork Hill when there seems to be sparse interest in numbers re-occupying. But that does leave some irate who are ready to re-occupy their premises in Foxes Bay and Richmond Hill.
The honourable Reuben Meade points out that in the Country Policy Plan (CPP), there was no plan for the return of people south of Belham. He said in a statement on ZJB radio, "it is full time that the Chief Minister accepts that their vision was limited with respect to the CPP…he should now go back and start planning to renegotiate with the British Government to get additional funds for restoring those areas south of Belham."
Mr. Meade noted that some people had already been going to clean ash from their driveways and properties, "but government needs to be very positive with the people of Montserrat with respect to those areas and what is happening at the Belham Valley."
Since the Chief Ministers return to Montserrat yesterday, this problem was put before him. He said that the people of England had expressed their concerns along these lines. Mr. Brandt said: "I have advised all Montserratians who are fairly scattered in England to form themselves in Associations wherever they are, as this is the easiest way to disseminate information to them."
The Chief Minister says only one office in England over which he has any control since the Montserrat Project office is under the control of the British Government.
Another warning which appears reads: "15. In the interim, and in the absence of a new social welfare policy statement, the services providing financial assistance, such as public assistance, foster care and food vouchers, cannot be offered to those who return."
This has caused an uproar among those hearing this, since the somewhat pertinent question asked is, "What is the difference if we are receiving assistance here (in Britain) or in Montserrat?" This is often followed with the comment, "We are more likely not to need that kind of assistance in Montserrat, especially if things are done to improve our condition."
Click here to read the full test of the 'Return Briefing'
Caribbean Media Leaders Mark Second Press Freedom Conference
By Bennette Roach
For three days beginning last week Thursday, Miss Rose Willock, manager of government-owned radio station ZJB, and Bennette Roach, Editor of The Montserrat Reporter, participated in the 2nd Annual Caribbean Media Conference, which was held at the Holiday inn Hotel in Trinidad.
Last year Roach attended the first conference, held in Jamaica.
This year it was held in association with IAPA, UNESCO, CBU,CANA and the Trinidad and Tobago Publishers and Broadcasters Association.
Editors from throughout the region attended the conference, which was preceded by an Editors Conference, hosted by the Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MATT) and held on Friday, April 30, 1999. The objective of that conference was to bring together all editors of print and electronic media to discuss matters related to the day-to-day operations of a news department. They discussed such topics as Ttechnology, training for editors and reporters, media and the law, sharing information (regionally), understanding the role of the editor and evaluating the public interest.
The theme for the main conference was "Technology - It's Impact on Media Ethics and Freedom of the Press." At the opening , the Honourable Basdeo Panday, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, delivered the feature address on the topic, "Changing Media Ethics in the Caribbean."
Mr. Panday and his government in recent times have had several run-ins with the press, one such instance being quite current. In his address he referred to it by saying that the previous Saturday he had, "ignited a fresh controversy, which has been raging all week."
He concluded his address by saying: "If you could bring yourself to concentrate on the song and not on the singer, it could be the easiest thing for this conference to adopt some permutation of these principles," which he had crafted for the purpose, one of which said, "Abide by the same high standards to which they hold others," referring to journalists.
Mr. Panday told the conference, "You have given me my day in your court, I could not have asked for more…you the jury, I urge you to ensure that fact and fairness and compassion are accorded as prominent a position on your agenda as I am certain you will give to freedom."
Much of the discussions and decisions of the conference centered around press freedom and self-regulation. At the end of the conference, several resolutions were adopted, including one to resurrect or recreate a Caribbean media association.
Like last year, the conference was held to coincide as closely as possible with "World Press Freedom Day," which was May 3, 1999. It was the last WPFD of the 20th century.
In a joint statement, Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations, wrote this excerpt: "Press freedom is a cornerstone of human rights and a guarantee of other freedoms. It encourages transparency and good governance; it ensures that, over and above the mere rule of law, society enjoys the rule of true justice. There are, however, those who still question the value of freedom of speech to their societies; those who argue that it threatens stability and endangers progress; those who still consider freedom of speech an imposition from abroad and not the indigenous expression of every people's demand for freedom."
"Press Freedom, Public Right to Know Are Rights, Not Grants of Government"
Freedom of the Press is vital not only to editors and publishers, but also to every single human being.
The press and media operate on the principle that the public has a right to information and a right to know. It is the vehicle through which people learn about the news of their fellow humans, their communities, their environment, their nations and their world.
Montserrat is one of those places where the press may boast that it enjoys freedom of speech and of the press. But the question may be asked, why do we see so few people openly expressing their opinions and views, while others ask why anonymously?
The Declaration of Chapultepec takes its name from a castle in Mexico, which was the site of the Hemispheric Conference on Free Speech on March 11, 1994. At that meeting, Oliver Clarke, managing director of the Gleaner Company in Jamaica, who chaired the signing ceremony, said a free press was fundamental and vital to democracy. "It serves as a bulwark and an antidote to any abuse of authority . . . . It is our life blood," he said.
As was pointed out, this declaration ignores national borders and belongs to everyone.
Many media houses, broadcast houses and publishers pay dearly, often with their lives and livelihood, to carry out and practice these rights, which are sometimes very easily agreed to by governments, but ignored at any whim and fancy when it seems not to suit their questionable interests.
It has been said: "While some governments are committed on paper to the concept of freedom of the media, their actions sometimes suggest they are uncomfortable with the ideas imparted and they want to be in control of all information at all times."
Right here in Montserrat, this only newspaper has struggled to continue in the face of very difficult circumstances. It has survived if only because it was seen as a necessary and legal instrument that supports even the legal structure of the country. It offers a voice to those who wish to use it as a means of expressing their opinions and desires. It is available to anyone who is straightforward and does not wish or try to slander or libel anyone.
Unfortunately, right here there are those who see the press as something to be feared, but very often it is those who have something to hide and who believe that everything is secret. These are those who do not understand that journalism, as the World Press Freedom Day statement rightly points, out is not an arm of Government or the powerful. These and others should draw comfort from the response of a past century publisher and Editor, Howard Greeley, who defined his job - "To comfort the afflicted," adding, "and of course, to afflict the comfortable."
Indeed, as Colin Bickler, a veteran journalist and lecturer in journalism, said in a feature address at a Media Excellence Awards last Friday night in Trinidad: "Our job is surely to question, inform and disclose, to get as near to the truth as possible, even if it upsets some - for it is difficult, if ever, to get at the whole truth."
Here in Montserrat we really need to understand that "the right to inform and be fully informed is firmly entrenched in International Law." Governments and their employees should remember that information is central to achieving development. And we journalists and editors must remember that we must be able to engage, entertain and honestly serve our audience. Journalists have to deal with that difficulty where their feelings, the personalities of the presenters, sometimes seem more important than the story they are supposed to be conveying.
Overall, it is important that we as a people do not surrender to the notion that freedom of the press is a right granted out of the benevolence of the government of the day.
With all of this said it is important, also, that we understand who, what, where and how our Government and people are! We need to open our eyes and minds.
An Unfair Deal For Generation Next
Dear Mr Editor
In a recent broadcast over ZJB the principal of the Montserrat Secondary School Look Out, said that the Caribbean Examination Council CXC has approved the Grade 3 as a passing grade.
So why isn't the Government of Montserrat still not accepting the Grade. This is unfair for the future Generation Next of Montserrat. I don't see the reason why the grade is not acceptable. Looking at Grade 3 one will see that it's the same as getting a Grade C for a passing Grade. I know when I was attending the Montserrat School A,B, C were all passing Grades. Other Caribbean Countries were accepting the grade long before CXC approved it, because they wanted to see the Future Generation Next of their countries become and do something with their lives and future. We the future Generation Next of Montserrat are not given the opportunity because we can not acquire a reasonable and respectable job with a Grade 3.
Instead when opportunity knocks thinking we are getting a real job, we have to substitute for the Civil Servants while they are on vacation or sit at home close to the phone waiting for it to ring. Only to hear we're sorry you were unsuccessful or there's no vacancy at the moment.
Sitting at home or walking down the street Generation Next gets all sorts of looks or comments; like those young people don't have any ambition, they wouldn't even go out and look work. It's not that we don't want to work it's that we're not given the opportunity to prove ourselves or show our skills.
I'm positive if the Government of Montserrat accept the Grade 3 there will be jobs available for the future Generation of Montserrat, in the Private Sector and Government Departments.
Labor Day Cleanup Participants Saluted
On Saturday May 1, (the real date for Labour Day) a number of young people from the Girl Guide movement and Catholic Youth Club (CYC) spent a considerable part of the afternoon picking up litter, especially drink bottles, at the Gerald's Heliport and Little Bay areas, as part of an on-going and apparently unending campaign spearheaded by Mr. Arthur (Brokes) Meade.
That very morning, as I waited for the ferry at Little Bay, I saw at least two men deposit empty bottles near to a little plant opposite Moose's Bar. There were other bottles in the vicinity, despite the presence of a large, practically empty bin, near to the bar. It is time to enforce the anti-litter laws to make us all more aware of our duty to keep our environment clean and healthy.
We say we love Montserrat. Actions speak louder than words. Thank you Mr. Meade for trying to make a difference.
Pat Ryan
What does it take to get NOTICED?
Dear Editor,
There is a group of true (and true in its full context) patriots who have served this country and to date in my opinion has not been noticed. I would just like to highlight some of their problems, with the hope that persons with the authority to bring about results, give them consideration.
The members of the R.M.D.F. have served during this ongoing volcanic crisis from the minute it started to present. They have been our scientists before we had an established observatory, they have assisted with setting up the observatory, they have been stationed on the flanks of the volcano to provide early warning long before we had seismographs. These men and women have cared for the elderly, rescued victims and recovered the dead from the volcano affected areas. It would take me forever to outline their contribution to ensuring that we still now reside on this little island. Without an organization like this we would have been taken off a long time ago. But what does it take to get noticed?
To date no member of this organization has ever received any housing allocation, and they were denied hazard allowances. They have not benefited from any assistance program to date. How can this be fair? The government erected 50 homes at Lookout - of this Health received 10%, Teachers 10%, Police 10% among other groups yet one of your lead disaster agencies was not considered. They are probably all outcasts without any family or loved ones. There is now a new set of homes being built and it would be interesting to see if any member will be noticed.
Let me throw out these questions?
Signed Concerned
Good Church Members
WHAT KIND OF CHURCH WOULD MY. CHURCH BE
IF ALL ITS MEMBERS WERE JUST LIKE ME?
Let each of us please his neighbour for his good, leading to edification. - Romans 15:2
Phillips Brooks (1835-1893), the great preacher, asked the operator of a local livery stable for the best horse he had. Brooks explained, "I am taking my wife for a ride and I want the very best for the occasion." As the livery man hitched up a horse to a buggy, he said, "This animal is about Romans15:I-13 as perfect as a horse could be. It is kind, gentle, intelligent, well-trained,
obedient, willing, responds instantly to Let each of us please your every command, never kicks, balks, or bites, and lives only to please its driver." Brooks then quietly said to the owner, "Do you suppose you could get that horse to join my church?"
Yes, what a powerful church we could have if we all had those qualities! We are naturally prone to think only of our own desires and wishes and to forget the good of others. Paul said in Romans 15:2, "Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification."
The more we grow in grace, the more we will think about the needs of others. In our church life we should not think only of ourselves but always be willing to yield our desires for the good of the whole. Our example is the Head of the church, Jesus Christ, for even He "did not please Himself" (v.3).
What kind of church member are you? -MRD
To think Jesus died for me
Upon the cross of Calvary
Should move my selfish heart to pray,
"For others, Lord, I'll live each day. " -DJD
New Physio for Windies Cricketers
West Indies cricketers will have a woman physiotherapist for the first time at this year's World Cup in England. She is Barbadian Jacqueline King, who performed similar duties with the barbados cricket team since 1986, and who takes over from Austrailian-born Denis Waight, who was the West Indies team's physio for over 17 years.
King is president of both the Barbados Sport Medicine Association and Barbados Assocaition of Physical Therapists, and worked with national teams at the Pan am Games, Commonwealth Games and Olympics, previously.
Both West Indies and Australia, who drew their recent Cable & Wireless Test series 2-2 and the crowd troubled one-day 3-3, left Barbados for England on May 2, 1999 for the World Cup which begins on May 14.
Stephen Camacho, chief executive officer of the West Indies cricket Board said, he was happy to welcome King aboard the team. "This is all part of our effort to strengthen the management team, and ensure that the players are as well prepared as possible for the rigours of playing a hectic schedule of international cricket," he said.
Meanwhile, former West Indies vice-captain Deryck Murray is concerned that West Indies captain Brian Lara could lose his control of the West Indies team prior to the start of the World Cup in England on May 14. Murray said he believes there are too many people in charge -- Malcolm Marshall who will be bowling coach, with Julien Fountain as fielding coach, Clive Lloyd, the manager and Dr Rudi Webster, the team's psychologist. "The focus of the West Indies team should be on the captain, the more you diminish his role you can create problems for him and ultimately his control of the team on the field of play," Murray told the Caribbean News
Chief Minister Meets Montserratians in London
By Hilton Samuel
Hundreds of volcano-displaced Montserratians packed into Hackney Town Hall on Tuesday, May 4, to hear news, update and plans of their disaster-stricken island.
Chief Minister David Brandt, passing through from a Heads of Overseas Territories meeting in Brussels, told the news-hungry crowd he was not there to encourage them to return home "right now."
"You cannot come home now, because we do not have any place to put you," the Chief Minister said, admitting that there are still some 300 plus persons in shelters on the island. He encouraged the Montserratians to put "pressure" on British politicians to release more money for housing on the island.
He said he is negotiating to get non-reciprocal citizenship for Montserratians similarly to that of Falkland Islanders.
Commenting briefly on the spending of funds allocated to Montserrat, the Chief Minister said he had major difficulties with the sums spent through British Construction firm Brown & Root.
"The temporary Government Buildings, which was meant to cost $750,000, turn out to be priced at $2.2 million," The Chief Minister said.
Investigation into this was unsatisfactory since, according tot the Chief Minister, the British Government brought their own investigators and did not accept the proposed participant from the Montserrat Government.
To remedy this situation, Chief Minister Brandt said his government is proposing to set up a department in Public Works to be responsible for developmental projects on the island. He said he is also advocating that regional experts be hired instead of British consultants, as that would be cheaper.
In what some described as a "cross-fire" question-and-answer session, the Chief Minister indicated he still has problems contacting Montserratians in order to fuel information to them.
In speaking to The Reporter, former ZJB DJ Algie Greaves said he had difficulty understanding that, because most Montserratians left through the voluntary evacuation scheme and would have been well documented and accounted for through their records.
In brief comments about the country policy plan, the Chief Minister told the crowd it contains information about development of "health, education, housing and road."
Many Montserratians, however, registered disappointment with the meeting.
Pastor Roger Wade told The Reporter that he was happy for the gathering but expected more.
"I expected someone to give some sort of plans of where the country would be in the next five years and ask us to discuss them. There were many unanswered questions and the meeting seemed very informal," Mr. Wade said.
Mr. Greaves said he felt that the meeting was pointless, as it did not address the country policy plan in sufficient details.
The meeting, which was organised by Parliamentarian Dianne Abbot's Office in collaboration with the Montserrat Project, was chaired by MP Abbott, representative for Hackney North. Members of the head table included Brunel Meade, Industrial Development advisor for Montserrat; Janice Poynton, UK Information Officer for Montserrat; Phil Ellis, Desk Officer for Montserrat in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, and Lazelle Howes, head of the Montserrat Project.
GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SERVICES
April 29, 1999Address by The Honourable Rupert Weekes
On the Refurbishment of W.H. Bramble Airport
Fellow Montserratians, friends, all, on Wednesday 14, April, 1999,
in a phone-in programme on ZJB hosted by the Ministry of Communications and Works, I
brought to the public’s attention some recent developments with regard to the
provision of a fixed-wing air facility for Montserrat.
I outlined the proposed options, and the present status of each option. I also pointed out the various limitations and difficulties that we have been experiencing with the present transport system, (i.e) the helicopter and the ferry; also the high cost of providing these services, given the fact that these sums are paid from the Aid Funds allocated to Montserrat for the next two years.
There can be no doubt in our minds that the lack of an airport on island severely retards our economic growth, poses great inconvenience to the travelling public, and hence, the urgent need for an operable fixed-wing air facility cannot be overstated.
Her Majesty’s Government have clearly stated they will not finance any airport facility at Thatch Valley, which is the preferred option for the Government and people of Montserrat. Geralds and Blakes, as we know, were not considered as viable options for obvious reasons; therefore we were left with the refurbishment of W.H. Bramble, which could not have been realistically considered at the time owing to the of volcanic activity. We have since been presented with the latest report of the Volcanic Assessment, which took place in February, 1999, and it indicated that volcanic activity is on the decline.
Even at this point, the Government of Montserrat was still vigorously pursuing funding for the preferred option for the Government and people of Montserrat, (i.e) the Thatch Valley option. Her Majesty’s Government has stated verbally and also in writing, that they will not fund any airport facility in Thatch Valley.
On Thursday April 22nd, 1999, I received a copy of a letter addressed to the Honourable Chief Minister from DFID London, informing him of a letter DFID had received from the European Community in Brussels, stating that LOME IV, under which 8 million ECUs were to be allocated for transportation on Montserrat, was to be concluded; therefore he will be required to indicate at his meeting in Brussels on April 27th,on which airport facility this money will be used, or Montserrat will lose this allocation.
Having considered all the facts, the urgency of the situation, and also the importance of having an operable fixed-wing facility on island, a meeting was called on Friday 23rd April to include members of the Airport Facility Committee and representatives of the Chamber of Commerce.
The issue was thoroughly discussed and I can safely say that no one in that meeting, if given a suitable alternative, would have opted to return to W.H. Bramble; hence, the decision to return was based on the following:
Having looked at the preliminary proposal and the scope of work to be effected, this facility will be able to accommodate the B-100 Series Dash-8, which transports 38 passengers, and provide a safe and reliable airlink in and out of Montserrat.
I am indeed mindful of the traumatic experience resulting in the closure of the W.H Bramble Airport in 1997, and as Minister responsible for transportation, I am also aware of the limitations of the ferry and helicopter service - the inconveniences caused by these services and all. I am bombarded daily with complaints, not to mention the sizeable amounts that are paid as rental from limited aid funds available.
On most days the ferry is underutilized, and we just cannot continue in this way for much longer because funds are limited. Further, in this regard, my Ministry has already been asked by DFID London to produce options to reduce the amount spent on the ferry and helicopter services before June of this year.
I would like to respond to a comment made by Mr. Claude Browne in a recent statement on Radio ZJB to the effect that I feigned ignorance of the decision to rehabilitate W.H. Bramble airport before the Budget Speech.
I believe that every individual is responsible for his or her action. Pretense is not one of my expertise. There is nothing to pretend about as it relates to this issue.
Neither myself nor any official within the Ministry with this responsibility has made any decision or was privy to any such decision before the public consultation exercise. It is a proven fact that even while we as a government and as a people were saying loud and clear that we prefer Thatch Valley and we want Thatch Valley, all of us were also aware of the resistance of Her Majesty’s Government to fund our preferred option.
Let me say the refurbishment of W.H. Bramble was reluctantly agreed to as a last resort. As I stated on Radio ZJB during the phone-in discussion on this issue, it was my honest intention to have this matter discussed as widely as possible because I knew it would generate some discussions for it is a topical issue.
People have various opinions on this matter, but the change of event did not allow the time needed for these discussions. The reality is that a decision had to be made in a short time, as I have already explained. So, let me assure Mr. Browne and all Montserratians that my preferred choice is still Thatch Valley, but considering all the prevailing circumstances, can we continue to spend large sums of already scarce resources on services with such limitations?
Can we afford to wait until we have sufficient funds to construct an airport at Thatch Valley? Should we subject the people at Geralds to the inconvenience and trauma of being relocated to God knows where so that the British may construct an airport at Geralds?
How much longer can we continue without an airport? When will we be able to fund an airport on our own? Who will pay for lands for this purpose, even if the Government of Montserrat was to acquire them?
These are just some of the questions we need to answer.
A decision of this nature can only be based on facts. We still have a considerable length of time to continue assessing the volcano. Rest assured that the safety and well-being of people is paramount to me. The airlines have already indicated their willingness to use this facility, but even before that, the blessings of the Civil Aviation Authorities will have to be obtained.
As Minister with responsibility for transportation, it is my duty to report the facts relating to this and any other matter that falls under my portfolio.
Bramble airport is not the best choice, but it can serve our purpose for the presenrt and the immediate future.
Part of my duty is to provide and ensure that external communications are in place. I have done this and will continue as long as I am mandated to do so.
Thanks for listening.
I hope the facts are clear.
Health Sector Reform for Montserrat
Montserrat has joined its other OECS member states in looking closer at health sector reform.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health John Skerritt led a five-member delegation to a three-day workshop in St. Lucia May 4th to 6th.
The other members of the delegation were Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Health Rachael Ryan, Acting Director of Social Security Winston Jemmotte, Chief Training Officer Ann-Marie Dewar and Cecil Browne from the Ministry of Finance.
The overall goal of the workshop was to strengthen the capacity of health ministries to implement reform.
Participants paid specific attention to reviewing content and context of health sector reform, identifying a frame of reference for planning and implementation, and to implement the changes.
While the workshop focused on reform in the Eastern Caribbean, participants also examined the experience of other countries in the wider Caribbean, the Pan American region and globally.
The PAHO/WHO Office of the Caribbean Programme Coordination in Barbados, and the PAHO/Washington Health Division of Health Systems and Services Development organized the workshop.
Canada and the United Kingdom Department for International Development (DFID) provided additional support.
Ministry of Communications And Works Focuses on Labour
The Ministry of Communications and Works focused attention on its staff this past Labour weekend.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Comunications and Works Eugene Skerritt said in recognition of Labour Day (May 3, 1999) the ministry hosted a party for the workers at McChesney’s Estate.
There was also a Thanksgiving Service at the St. John’s Anglican Church on Sunday May 2,1999.
During the service, Father Victor Peters based his sermon on Work ethics and admonished the congregation to do an honest day’s work if they are to expect an honest day’s pay.
Mr. Skerritt said the weekend activities were timed to coincide with Labour Day and to say thanks to the staff for their efforts and contribution over the years.
Montserrat Endorses Implementation of EMIS
The Education Management Information Systems (EMIS) has created a lot of interest Among OECS member states, and Montserrat has joined forces with its sub-regional neighbours to endorse the implementation of the EMIS.
The EMIS, which will be implemented in all OECS states, links all schools and ministries of education in the sub-region.
The New Education Management Information System was the main agenda item at a recent three-day software selection workshop in Grenada.
Assistant Secretary in the Ministry of Education Rachael Ryan represented Montserrat at the workshop.
The main purpose of the workshop was to expose key personnel in the education system to three student information system packages presently being considered for implementation within OECS member states.
Montserrat Progressive Society
Plans Annual Mother’s Day Gala
The Montserrat Progressive Society of New York Inc. will be hosting its Eighth Annual Mother’s Day Extravaganza this month.
The event will be held at Villa Barons Manor, 737 Throgs Neck Expressway, Bronx, N.Y. on Sunday May 9, 1999.
The special cocktail hour runs from 2:30pm to 3:30pm.
A number of individuals will be honoured at the function.
These include ZJB’s Station Manager Rose Willock, mother-of-the-year, and special honouree His Excellency Dr. Lamuel A. Stanislaus, Grenada’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
Dr. Stanislaus was the coordinator of Chief Minister David Brandt’s presentation to the United Nations last May, and he was also instrumental in raising funds for the children of Montserrat.
The Eighth Annual Mother’s Day Extravaganza will also have, as one of its special guests, Joseph Woods Sr., a centenarian.
Mr. Woods is the third centenarian from Montserrat to be honoured by the Society.
Last year’s centenarian, Mary Matilda Henrietta (auntie Hennie) Weekes-Boatswain, is Carib News’ Caribbean-American Mother-of-the-Year entry from Montserrat.
She is now more than 101 years young.
NDF Assists In Coping with Loss
Residents on Montserrat will benefit later this month from assistance in helping them to cope with their losses.
The National Development Foundation has organized a three-day workshop, in response to the volcanic disaster that has claimed at least 19 lives, and has destroyed many homes and properties.
The May 19 to 21 workshop will be held in conjunction with the University of the West Indies Department of Government Sociology and Social Work, and the Ministry of Education, Health and Community Services.
UWI lecturer at Cave Hill Karen King will be the main facilitator.
The Ministry of Agriculture is seeking to re-establish an export market for local farmers.
This follows some success in controlling the Pink Mealy Bug.
Honourable Minister for Agriculture P. Austin Bramble says his ministry has been able to keep the destructive plant pest under control, thereby reducing the incidence of the problem.
With this in mind, Mr. Bramble says the Ministry of Agriculture has been seeking to be re-certified as an exporter of fresh foods.
However, he says, this will depend on whether or not neighbouring islands are willing, at this time, to accept exports from Montserrat.
Revised Speech by Hon. David Brandt
At EU/OCT Partnership Meeting
Brussels April 28th, 1999.
I am very happy to be here with you, proven friends in Brussels, in order to explore and extend new avenues for further cooperation. (Let me take this opportunity to add Montserrat’s appreciation to that of the other Overseas Territories and countries for the significant financial and technical assistance which we have received from the European Union.)
The Government and people of Montserrat have benefitted significantly from your financial and technical programmes. They have had positive impacts on our economic and social development.
I must make special mention of your response to our volcanic crisis. All of you know how brutally Montserrat has been devastated by its volcano for the past four years.
Your interventions have provided shelter and social programmes for our people. For this we are grateful, and although our story is no longer in the headlines, we are in a desperate fight for our survival, and it is very reassuring to know that we have friends like you that we can always look to for support. We value our relationship with you and are indeed grateful for the assistance we have always received.
The existing partnership procedures have allowed Montserrat to become more closely involved in the decision-making process, and have facilitated a higher degree of representation of our interest via locally elected representatives. We would hope that consultation could be held on a more regular basis so as to increase our involvement in overall decision making.
This is especially important in our case as the political relationship between Montserrat and the EU is brokered through the UK. The partnership arrangement is the one innovative mechanism that provides a direct link to the EU for the Government of Montserrat, and we wish to have more opportunities to utilise it.
Montserrat wishes to leave this meeting better informed regarding the implications of changing trade arrangements and also to gain assurance that appropriate channels of information will be set up in the future in this regard. In this way
Montserrat will be better able to maximize the benefits of its OCT status to develop targeted exports that will contribute to the revitalization of the economy.
As a small economy, and as an economy that has suffered near collapse due to a natural disaster, it is imperative that you give Montserrat reasonable assistance as we adjust to the new international trading environment. In every sense, Montserrat is a special case that requires your assistance to ensure that an appropriate pace of integration is developed.
As a founding member of Caricom, we are concerned that these movements towards openness should be consistent with changes within Caricom itself.
Specific measures that protect infant industries are of particular benefit to Montserrat, as currently our manufacturers represent fledgling industries that are not sufficiently well placed to compete openly on the European market.
However, we are aware that new businesses must grow up strong. Therefore, as we anticipate the changes in the trade regime, I implore you to put arrangements in place that are long lasting and arrangements that can allow new investors to have the confidence to invest.
Arrangements should be clear and certain for a long period of time, with rules that do not change midstream. Countries that adhere to the rules should not suffer because others break them.
Trade arrangement with the European Union is vital for the success of our enterprises. We acknowledge that trade will not last unless it is competitive.
To be competitive, we need the aid to develop our human and natural resources.
Before the volcano began erupting, rice processing for the European market and electronic assembly contributed 98 percent of total merchandise exports. We are now getting ready to start processing rice again, and expect soon to be able to say the same for electronic assembly.
We will also look to the European Union for help in trying to build a new kind of tourism product that finds opportunity in our disaster. In addition, we welcome assistance in the development of export in volcanic materials for the construction industry, for which we understand there is great demand in Europe.
We have every hope of establishing a thriving offshore financial sector. We support strong regulation of this industry and we are convinced that with proper planning and with your help, we will not only be able to meet any obligations in this respect,
but actually benefit from them.
Grant funding for development projects has become essential as we fight to rebuild a viable Montserrat community. Funds from the EU have been accessed in the past through EDF. However, the most recent allocations were made under quite different circumstances, and given Montserrat’s particular situation, there is need for additional funds as well as improvements in actual project delivery.
The procedures outlined in chapter five of the decision have not always facilitated the expeditious delivery of projects. As I said the last time I was here, business as usual makes it difficult for us to contend with the problems we are facing.
We would, therefore, look to see a commitment by you to carefully re-examine these procedures in order to speed up project delivery to meet the urgent needs of Montserrat.
The revised OCT association decision allows the participation of OCT citizens in 22 community programmes, particularly in the field of human resource development.
This is a most welcome development, which goes a long way into taking more account of the human dimension of the OCT/EU relation. We seek clarification from you on how this facility can be implemented and to make the appropriate information widely available in all OCTS.
It has been a pleasure speaking to you today. I have no doubt that in these two days we will be able to do valuable groundwork that will lead next year to an OCT decision that will bring great benefits to all.
I thank you.
A pledge by Caribbean neigbours
To help preserve Montserrat’s culture
Several Caribbean territories are coming together to assist Montserrat in preserving its cultural heritage.
Director of Tourism Ernestine Cassell says these gestures of goodwill were made by the Jamaica Cultural Division and others, including Barbados.
Miss Cassell attended a recent meeting of regional cultural directors in Roseau, Dominica.
The Director of Tourism here says these islands have pledged their support and willingness to assist the "Emerald Isle" in getting the cultural office up and running again.
The Government of Montserrat has already made a positive step in this direction by establishing a Cultural Committee.
The Government has also announced plans to appoint a cultural officer and to re-open the cultural office.
Fraudulent EC Dollar Notes in Circulation
Resident Montserratians have been cautioned to be on the lookout for counterfeit EC dollar notes.
Separate incidents of counterfeiting are under investigation by police both in neighbouring Nevis and St. Lucia.
Fraudulent EC dollar notes in the denominations of 100s and 50s have been discovered in circulation in these two territories.
A release from the St. Kitts-based Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) office says it is believed that the notes, which have neither the size, colour or feel of genuine EC notes, are being passed mainly at night and under conditions of dim lighting.
The ECCB is reminding the general public in Montserrat and the rest of the Sub-Region that these counterfeit notes have no value, and that persons in possession of them may be prosecuted.
According to the ECCB release, genuine notes bear several security features which persons are advised to check for when accepting currency.
These include a watermark of Queen Elizabeth on the front left hand side of any note, which can only be seen when the note is held up to the light, a security thread incorporated into the paper on the front right hand side of the note, and the fish in the bottom left hand corner on the front of all the new bank notes in perfect alignment with those on the back.
The ECCB release also says each individual note bears a unique serial number, printed vertically on the left hand side, and horizontally on the right hand side of the notes, and all genuine bank notes are printed on special paper that gives them a unique feel.
The ECCB says posters and brochures detailing the security features of the notes are available at the bank’s headquarters in St. Kitts and agency officies in Montserrat, Anguilla, Antigua/Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER (FNP)
Anjella E. Skerritt (Mrs.) R.G.N., R.M., C.P.A., F.N.P.
Nurse Anjella E. Skerritt was born in
Jamaica, where she graduated from the Marymount High School for Girls with a diploma in
1980. In 1981 she began a three-year General Nursing course at the University Hospital of
the West Indies (UHWI), Mona.
This course was completed in 1984 and Nurse Skerritt worked at the UHWI for one year following graduation as a Staff Nurse. In 1985, Nurse Skerritt moved to Montserrat and she joined the Ministry of Health in 1986, where she worked as a Registered General Nurse at the Glendon Hospital.
Nurse Skerritt returned to Jamaica in 1988, where she attended the UHWI School of Midwifery and completed the post graduate course that qualified her as a midwife. From 1990 to 1993, Nurse Skerritt became a part-time student at the UWI Extramural Center in Montserrat, where she completed a certificate course in Public Administration.
From 1992 to 1997 Nurse Skerritt was assigned to Cudjoe Head, where she worked as a District Nurse. In 1995 she completed the RSA Computer Literacy and Information Technology (level one) course at the Montserrat Technical College.
Nurse Skerritt once again returned to Jamaica in 1997, where she successfully completed an 18-month course in the Nurse Practitioner Programme (NPP). She was awarded the prize for academic excellence on graduating from the NPP
Nurse Skerritt also completed numerous short courses and workshops, mainly in health- related fields such as: Counseling (CFPA), Reproductive Health (UWIDITE), Women’s Reproductive Health (UWIDITE), Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (CFPA), Mass Casualty Training and HIV/STD Counseling.
Nurse Skerritt has participated in the Girl Guide movement for over 12 years in Montserrat and was responsible for starting the first Girl Guide Company and Brownie Pack in the north of the island. This was accomplished in 1992 while she was working as District Nurse for Cudjoe Head.
Nurse Skerritt is presently working in Primary Health Care in the Ministry of Health as Family Nurse Practitioner.
I again ask forgiveness from the
elders of Harris' village for being limited in my cricket skills over the years. However,
as suggested in a Howard Fergus poem, I will also play my strokes with my pen or computer
keyboard and mouse pad in this instance. This literary stroke is a cover drive across the
Caribbean archipelago and all cricketing nations, in support of my former neighbour,
Montserratian and West Indies cricket umpire Basil Morgan.
On 25 April 1999, in the final one-day between Australia and the West Indies in Barbados, cricket official Basil Morgan lifted his index finger against Barbadian and West Indies opening batsman Sherwin Campbell. Campbell had collided with Australian fast bowler Brendon Julian, fell to the ground and was run out. Morgan ruled no obstruction and the batsman was subsequently given out. An enraged Barbadian crowd reacted by showering the field with bottles and other debris, which caused a 45-minute stoppage and a subsequent reinstatement of Campbell after a meeting with the captains and management of both teams.
Controversial Campbell run out
From looking at the video footage repeatedly, I concur with several cricket commentators around the region that there was no obstruction by the bowler. It also set a bad precedent when Campbell was reinstated to appease the crowd. According to former West Indies fast bowler Michael Holding, once the batsman is given out he cannot be reinstated once he has left the field. However, umpire Eddie Nichols of Guyana said that the decision to retain Campbell was made after a meeting among match referee Raman Subba Row, the captains of both teams and the managers, to pacify the Kessington crowd, which wanted the batsman to continue batting.
Morgan, who was the square leg umpire at the time, was nearest to the striker's end and the decision was his. Morgan had earlier called a run out of Michael Bevan following a similar collision between batsman and bowler. Umpire Nichols said he did not view either of these collisions as deliberate obstructions.
The match referee Subba Row stated in a post-match interview that there was nothing malicious in the collision and the umpires decided that Campbell was fairly run out.
Since Morgan's decision, many cricket analysts have given theories as to the reason for the crowd's behaviour at Kensington.
Writer/poet/columnist Ian McDonald wrote: "...it is true the Australians often play the game on the far side of fairness...it is true that many of the Australians are pretty unsavoury specimens of sportsmen - Steve Waugh dismissing Brian Lara by catching a bounce ball, the egregious Healey breaking the stumps without the ball for a claimed dismissal; the infamous sledging of Robert Samuels; McGrath spiting down the pitch; Shane Warne getting away with his ridiculous, incessant, prolonged and intimidatory appealing..."
McDonald says that such circumstances can make a crowd irate, but there is no defensible reason for the Kensington behaviour, which unforgivably included potentially lethal, and even precisely targeted, bottle throwing.
West Indies cricket commentator Tony Cozier advanced what the late Sir Frank Walcott, said 20 years ago when a similar incident happened in Barbados. Walcott said it was "More than a sporting discontent to be identified with an unpopular decision by an umpire" . . . it was, he said, . . . "a growing sign of social discontent in the area."
According to Cozier the Kensington debacle could be contributed to "liquid alcohol, the adrenaline pumped up by the ball-beating of Ridley Jacobs and Campbell and the accompanying beat of the booming speakers... and a manifestation of the racial tension that simmers so constantly and menacingly near the surface."
I am proud of Basil Morgan for standing as a beacon for Montserrat and the West Indies. A former colleague of mine, Kevin Lewis, made a similar comment last week. Although Morgan, my fellow villager, has a penchant for a quick temper at times and can be passionate regarding detractors, no one can be critical of his precision and effort in a game that has catapulted men and countries into international limelight.
As the West Indies team bids for the 2007 Cricket World Cup, one can only wonder about the impact of the tasteless images sent around the world on our efforts. The apology of Barbados Prime Minister Owen Arthur and others to the cricketing world has a tough battle for space in the minds of millions already convinced that we are hooligans, through the immediacy and accuracy of satellite technology. The WICB now needs to put its house in order, in terms of security and crowd control.
Chris Dhering and other West Indies Cricket Board Advertising Executives, must be congratulated for attempts at making cricket once again the game of the West Indies against the onslaught of basketball, baseball etc. However, preparations must be made for the crowds, such as all-seater facilities, turnstiles, proper aisles and security. The game, according to the late Trinidadian academic C.L.R. James, goes beyond the boundary.
To Morgan, we must feel good when he stands on the green in his white jacket, and the commentators remark that he is from Montserrat, a tiny island in the Eastern Caribbean that is surviving with a volcano -- an island that can produce an umpire good enough to officiate at such a level. Something must be happening on that island that makes it able to produce such talent even in the face of disaster. I can no longer look out my verandah and shout to Basil across Maggie Ghaut, but it gives me great pleasure to relax in my living room in South America and see his face a few feet away from me on the television screen. I hope he makes it to be a National Grid qualified umpire.
MINISTRY OF HEALTH NURSES WEEK 1999
Introducing the Family Nurse Practitioner
Introduction
Nursing in Montserrat has developed over the last century from the traditional concept and function that many persons still visualize as who a nurse is and should be. This growth in the function and roles of Nurses is termed the "Expanded Role of the Nurse". This is a dynamic process and it allows Nurses to develop professionally to appropriately meet the changing needs of the communities that they serve. This Expanded Role of the Nurse allows Nurses to specialize in many fields resulting in Nurses becoming qualified as: Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Anesthetist, Public Health Nurse, Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, Nurse Researcher, Nurse Auditor, Nurse Economist and Nurse Legal Advisor just to name a few.
This growth and expansion of the professional Nurse promotes cost effective quality health care where acquired skills and knowledge are utilized appropriately.
Montserrat health care system has benefited from the services of the Public Health Nurse, Nurse Anesthetist, Nurse Educator, Nurse Administrator, Psychiatric Nurse and other specially trained Nurses. The latest addition to the cadre of professionally qualified Nurses in Montserrat is the Family Nurse Practitioner.
The Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)
The FNP is a part of the Primary Health Care Team and will rotate among the District Health Centers on the island. The duties of the FNP includes: physical examinations of a medical nature; making medical diagnosis, ordering laboratory or other investigations, interpreting findings of these investigations and prescribes medications as necessary for the client in addition to specific Nursing functions. Only common conditions/disease processes are managed by the FNP under the direct supervision of the District Medical Officer (DMO) who countersigns prescriptions for medications. All complicated medical cases are referred to the DMO, Physician and or Surgeon for management.
Montserratians & Friends Ireland Tour 1999
5 - 9 AUGUST
DUBLIN…………GALWAY…………LIMERICK
Day 1
August 5th - Flight from Heathrow to Dublin 5th E1155: 0955/1110.
Lunch and sight seeing tour of Dublin - Evening reception. Accommodation: Green Isle Hotel, Dublin.
Day 2
August 6th - Depart to Galway - sightseeing - evening reception. Accommodation: The Galway Bay Golf & Country Club Hotel, Galway.
Day 3
August 7th - Visit Feakle International traditional music festival - evening reception.
Accommodation: The Galway Bay Golf & Country Hotel, Galway.
Day 4
August 8th - Depart Galway for Limerick sightseeing - Accommodation: Morrisons Island Hotel, Limerick.
Day 5
August 9th - Return flight from Cork to Heathrow 9th August Flight E1182: 1855/2010
Inclusive fares include:
………………………………...….TEAR AND RETURN……………………………………
All inclusive cost: £345.00 per person, double occupancy (single room supplement: £70.00)
Please enclose deposit of £75.00 per person.
Final Balance £270.00
Cheques payable to: Montserrat Volcano (UK) Fund
Send to: Montserrat Volcano (UK) Fund
5 Westminster Bridge Road
London SE1 7XW
Tel. 0171-928-7861 or 0181-838-0126
By Justin Cassell, A.D.O
EAT from the LAND not from the CAN
Promoting Backyard Gardening : "A little bit of space can grow a lot of food"
HOPE FOR THE FUTURE IN AGRICULTURE
The loss of hundred of acres of productive agricultural land in the south of the island and the migration of farmers of all ages have given rise to speculation that there is no future in agriculture. None of us will deny the devastating impact which the volcanic crisis has had on the sector. The fact remains the focus must be on the future.
There will be new production areas, new target crops and commodities, new technology and new farmers. In that regard it is heartening to see the efforts of one farmer, Mr Leroy Weekes. He is at present cultivating 2 ½ acres of land at Upper Blakes. The quality of his produce and the consistency of his effort set him apart as a farmer for the future. The department will continue to work closely with farmers like Weekes and others similarly inclined because we are convinced that there is hope for the future in agriculture.
Notes from the Nursery
Available this week are: -
Farm supply stores have informed me that seeds of the following crops are now.
Available:
Remember to Mulch
Rainfall in May is sometimes erratic and unpredictable. Now that a few heavy showers have been falling those who can make the time should remember to mulch.
Mulching return big dividends in terms of water conservation and yields in the dry season. For those who would like to experiment especially the Backyard Gardeners, you can use a large piece of plastic, such as a lawn bags. Place it over well tilled soil which has been watered, pin the edges down with a covering of soil and stones and make holes big enough for your transplanted vegetables to grow freely, water regularly, tell us of your results.
Remember to Tune In to Radio Z.J.B
Next week's program Farmer’s Corner will focus on promoting Backyard Gardening.
Mini Agricultural Fair and Exhibition
There is undoubtedly a need to give the Agricultural Sector a higher visibility. It is important that the entire community rallies around the department in our efforts to revive agriculture. While it is true that some people maybe convinced by our word on radio and in the newspaper a tangible visible display of what we are doing and farmers are doing will definitely have a greater and longer lasting impact. In that regard a Mini Agriculture Fair and Exhibition is the best means of achieving that objective.
Areas of focus would be as follows: -
Date and Venue for the events will be announced later.
EXTENSION NEWS
In an attempt to determine local consumption the Ministry of Agriculture is embarking on collection of data from farmers commencing on Monday 10th May, 1999. This data will be used to determine average weekly consumption of the various vegetables and this information will then be used to help farmers to plan their production. This will in turn help the farmers in their marketing problems.
Safety Forever
Another ash expert? Hooray!
It’s time for a hazards replay.
This doctor, to each greeter,
Is a Baxter named Peter,
To DFID he’s Dr. Delay.
Why Make It Easier?
Returnees with no place to stay
Are told the Brits still cannot pay.
So why spend on Cork Hill,
Which there’s no rush to fill,
And more reason to keep them away?
Jus wonderin who is the senior civil servant with the single O'level pass in religious knowledge, who is preventing other people from going on training because they are not qualified enough.
Jus wondering if we should all remain duncy heads.
Jus wonderin if you have to be having relations with senior civil servants to walk in off the heliport or seaport and pick up senior post in the civil service with immediate effect, while Administration is telling other people how they abandon their posts.
Jus wonderin if some people get rewarded for running away from the ash, while the people who stayed are getting punished.
Jus wonderin which senior civil servants are getting their non-Montserratian live-in employees junior posts in the civil service, while qualified civil servants are being turned away in droves.
Jus wonderin if the government is preparing for the inevitable recession after the Brown & Root construction.
Jus wonderin if the Chamber of Commerce is still in existence.
Jus wonderin when the civil service salary increase will take effect.
Jus wonderin who and what suddenly woke up the former Chief Minister.
Jus wonderin what it will take to wake up the immediate past Chief Minister.
Jus wonderin if the Ministry of Agriculture would like to use the Vue Pointe Hotel as a pound for the stray animals in that order.
Jus wonderin which of his varying messages Mr. Brandt took out of his hat and delivered to the people in Hackney, London, this week.
Jus wonderin if it was the 12th man who gave him water during his speech.
Jus wonderin why the Montserratians in England are having so much problems getting information when there is a Montserrat Project office and a public relations office.
Jus wonderin if the would-be cultural officer could shed any light on the whereabouts of the strings of lights that were stored at the MDF headquarters in Geralds.
Jus wonderin why the police force need to carry guns or firearms in the normal course of patrol.
Jus wonderin who in this inexperienced bunch think they can train in the safe use of firearms in such a short space of time.
Jus wonderin if there is someone on island who would write in a description of the killing power and range of the 9mm Glock.
Jus wonderin why they will not use the long buses even from Cudjoe Head instead of the breaking down little ones all the time.
Jus wonderin why they yawn at the offspring's news.
C&W Year 2000 Readiness Statement
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
IS MOVING
From May 1, 1999 our new location is on the main road into Old Towne in the house between Salem Police Station and the Catholic Church
We hope this will be a convenient location for everyone.
Our numbers will remain the same.
Tel: 664 491 8666 Fax: 664 491 8668 Email: wirealest@candw.
Address: Box 355, Montserrat, BWI
Forward all Questions, Comments and Suggestions to: editor@montserratreporter.org
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