A Marketable Product for Our Volcanic Ash
Soufriere Hills volcano ash may turn out to be a big money earner for Montserrat.
L to R Hon David Brandt, Ken Boyea and Valdo Morant
This will be so if the company Thermoflex which Mr. Valdo Morant represents, can find joint venture partners here to market the new product of mixing ash and cement 50 - 50 to make building slabs and blocks.
"It doesn't require sand which we have used successfully before," Mr Ken Boyea commented. "It is made from volcanic ash with cement, steam and a formula," that was used in the experiment using an ordinary house blender in the Chief Minister's office on Tuesday this week.
Mr. Ken Boyea who said he became involved by taking over the patent for the Eastern Caribbean islands when it was done using cement 50-50, sees this as a more than perfect and successful solution for the sand mining which plagues and is a serious threat to the environment of some Caribbean islands. less than 1 % of the secret
What is new is that, "It is 50% cement and 50% ash, plus a less than 1 per cent formula nix which acts like a yeast formula making the end product expand into a light weight block."
Speaking to the local press, Mr. Morant said: "If we can come to Montserrat and set up a factory you would be able to cut your cement cost."
Both Mr. Morant and Mr. Boyea, the latter well known to Montserrat, explained: "When we did it with pure cement it worked out that it cost about the same as a normal block on the ground - the advantage with this system in place, you are now dealing with a light weight 8'x4' slab which means you can put a house up much quicker and cheaper.
In some places we are putting up one of these units every day. Although the cement block would be same as you use traditionally.
Previously about 70% of the cost was cement now you can cut that cost by using the volcanic ash which is not exactly free because you have to go and get it and store it. But it shows great possibility. The end product gets hard in about five to eight hours.
The two gentlemen said that the slab keeps out heat and needs little plastering because of the natural finish, pointing out that it is so light it makes good roof material, and if used on a roof, there is no heat transfer.
"It works well in hot countries and you can put your electric conduit inside of the block, so that it is a low cost. It would cut down the time of building. It can be reinforced just like ordinary concrete, the total weight will be much less and therefore better in earthquake. Plastering is less than normal."
Mr. Morant who has patented this formula, said he came here to present the product, but said: "We are looking for a joint venture here to produce the blocks for national consumption and also for export to the neighbouring islands.
He said that the product has been tried in many
countries. "We have used fly ash in the US and other volcanic ash. The ash does not
need any treatment," he said, explaining that it is the sulphur content in the ash
that makes it so useful to the formula.
Morant, originally from Cuba but based in the US, used an ordinary household blender and mixed a very small portion of equal amount of cement and ash, added his potion, with water of course, and poured them into two cups. In a short while within the hour, the mixture had doubled in size in the cups, with a smooth finished appearance.
"It will turn into a pale gray when the water is gone and it has hardened, and you can colour it you wish," he finally explained.
Nouvella is a Reason to be Proud - Excels at UWI
by Bennette Roach
It was a small but most impressive ceremony in more than one way. Most
impressive was the fact that being honoured was 25 year-old Nouvella Williams, daughter of
Mr. And Mrs. Leslie Williams of Harris'.
Dr. Howard Fergus made two presentations on behalf of the University of the West Indies (UWI). These prizes were delivered to Miss Williams in the form of checks from the Department of Mathematics at the UWI and Systems Caribbean Ltd. which deals in computing.
In chairing the small ceremony and delivering the prizes Dr. Fergus said, "More and more people are beginning to realise that although Montserrat is a very small it is producing distinguished people."
He described his mission: "I have been invited by the University of the West Indies to present to Miss Nouvella Williams two checks representing her achievement in the first year studying for her master of philosophy degree in mathematics."
Dr. Fergus said that she achieved a first class degreee, and is on her way to gaining a
PhD. "Already in her first year she performed in such an outstanding way that she won
two prizes," he said.
Before making the presentations the Doctor concluded, "Recently the Montserrat name is associated with things pitiful and negative. At last there is something to celebrate. I'd like to congratulate you."
As the others speaking after him would do he offered congratulations to the parents, saying to Nouvella, "The fact that you are a humble person adds a touch of significance to this ceremony."
Mrs. Oeslyn Jemmotte, Director of Education was in attendance and offered also words of congratulation. She described her own pride in her latest achievement recalling how well Nouvella had done in her O' and A' level exams remembering also how she was readily recommended for a scholarship in mathematics and computer science whereupon she performed outstandingly.
Mrs. Eudora Fergus Vice principal of the Secondary School spoke next and said she was pleased to offer congratulations on behalf of the school. She recalled also her diligence at her work. "The school is proud and hope that you will be a shining light and example to many more students. "When we hold up the name of Nouvella Williams, I hope your achievement will serve as a stimulus for those coming behind."
L to R Hon. Adelina Tuitt, Mrs Oslyn Jemmotte, Mrs Eudora Fergus
The Hon. Minister of Education Mrs. Adelina Tuitt who hosted the ceremony in her office spoke next and said she discovered that Nouvella knew exactly where she wanted to go. She quoted the golfer Jack Nicklaus who said: "Achievement is largely the product of steadily raising one's level of aspirations and expectations.". Of Nouvella she said, "She is a role model for our children, brought up in humble surroundings. We are proud of your results today. No matter how humble you are, no matter how poor you are, you can get where you want to get."
For herself Nouvella in reply to the kind congratulatory words said she was thankful firstly to the Lord and her parents. "I did not do it on my own, there have been a wide range of people who provided support, academic and emotional, for me. She reminisced about her teachers at the Sec. School and ended offering encouragements to all students. "I would encourage students not to be intimidated by the world around you."
Dr. Fergus offered to her, Chief Minister David Brandt's regrets who was unable to attend the ceremony but sent his congrats, taking pains to remind that she is from his constituency."
"We are Responsible For Our Own Future"
Early next week Government through its Development Unit will vigorously continue attempts to garner support, comment and even criticism for the sixth draft of the Sustainable Development Plan. The hope is to have a final draft by the end of July, 1998.
A covering note of the plan described as 'Montserrat Social and Economic Recovery Programme, a Path to Sustainable Development 1998-2002, signed by George Foulkes MP, London and David Brandt MLC, Montserrat, says: "The draft Plan is the result of wide-ranging consultation between the Government and people of Montserrat and Her Majesty's Government."
At first glance this note might shock many of us who might immediately begin to call 'names' and giving their own descriptive comments as well. But a little thought might cause the deduction that the Government and people may well be referring to the 'one and same person' on each occasion.
It is true that people (public and private) were invited to make input or comment from time to time, and 'workshops' held if only among civil servants in an exercise 'to develop the policies, objectives and strategies for the first three years on the path to the Sustainable Development of Montserrat.' The Chamber of Commerce through representation made its input, but to give the impression that 'wide-ranging consultation' took place, must be stretching the facts.
Of course we have seen this before, but what is important now is to take the lessons we learn and move on and grab this document and pay much attention to what is in there (or not in there), since Montserratians wherever they are, will not want to be haunted by it.
Everyone who can should make a very serious effort to become a part of the discussions with respect, not only to this document, but every matter affecting our future and our growth. Anyone who does not find it convenient to attend the discussions on Monday evening or Thursday evening or anytime when these matters are being discussed, should find time to do so with others who might attend, and be willing to present their views, even if they do not agree with the other's views.
There is a statement that appears many times in the document in many different ways. "…to meet the needs of those who choose to remain on the island." The document creates questions that should be asked. Everyone should attempt to understand and have a common understanding as far as possible about what is, or will be contained in the document.
As far as accepting the programmes about which our own Government Ministers feel uncomfortable, we should be bold enough to refuse them and stick to what we believe is right for us. That we will not get money for this or that, should not be the only important matter, it is what we will have and what we will not have three to five years from now and following. But, if we are always going to accept the saying, "who pays the piper, calls the tune', then we will be doomed for a long time.
The people (and that can be more of us than we may wish to believe) who have the greater responsibility in what becomes the final document, must ensure that we are not left wanting. We should never be made to feel or accept that we have no other choice. And that is a choice we have to make, we must take that responsibility seriously.
Bramble Responds to Housing Allocation Allegations
Honourable Austin Bramble, Minister of Housing Wednesday responded to allegations from MAWU’s General Secretary Hylroy Bramble, who over his twice weekly radio broadcast criticised the distribution of housing at Look Out as being biased.
The minister said this attempt was unfair since the means of distribution were transparent and objective.
"Everyone knows that there are hundreds of families who are in need of housing and who qualify for housing. To house hundreds of families hundreds of houses are needed. So the real problem – the big problem is that there were only fifty houses to allocate. With hundreds of families in need of housing and only fifty houses to be allocated the exercise was extremely difficult. In such a situation, whatever was done, some of the needy and qualified would have to be left out and some would be disappointed this time around. It is not for me to release the details of people’s private matters, which was revealed to the committee in confidence. I can assure you that without knowledge which was presented to the committee, it is difficult to accurately judge the decision that was made. Any independent analysis of all the information on which each allocation was made would prove that there were absolutely no biases, no prejudice, no favouritism and no nepotism," Bramble said.
The minister is accusing the general secretary for "ignoring some of the facts," and questions the charges as being too serious and far-reaching to be based on part truths. "We in government have no problem with him speaking out on matters of public interest."
Hylroy Bramble in one of his broadcasts asked "How can you and the housing committee justify to the people of Gages, Parsons, Amersham, Kinsale and St. Patrick’s among other villages, who have no access to their properties or whose homes have been totally destroyed that they do not qualify for housing when persons from Cork Hill and Salem, whose houses are still standing and who have limited access to their properties were allocated houses. How can you justify to Montserratians that they do not qualify for houses yet people from Santo Domingo and other places who have never built a house on Montserrat has qualified for housing?"
He said the houses were given to whom some member(s) of the housing committee felt should get one and not on merit.
The minister in a radio broadcast challenged Bramble with three questions - "Was it appropriate for the allocation committee to follow the bible guidelines? Do you believe in the injunction "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you? Are you aware that there are around 7,000 Montserratians who as a result of the volcano are at present living abroad and trying to survive in foreign countries?"
Bramble has promised to respond to the minister in due course.
One of the problems and perhaps the major problems in the ongoing exchange seemed to have been borne out of the fact that the criteria for allocating the Lookout houses has never been publicised.
Dr. Howard A. Fergus is getting ready to
release yet another book. It is entitled ‘Lara Rains & Colonial Rites’.
Speaking about the book earlier this week, Dr. Fergus said: "This book is important to me precisely because it is the first time that one of my poetry collections has been published by an international publisher in a metropolitan country."
He explains his excitement: "It does make a difference - you can publish books your self, but it makes a difference when out of objective evaluation s publisher decides that your work is good enough to publish."
He said that the other significance of the book is that it celebrates an international Caribbean cricketer, Brian Lara and his feat in Antigua. "Cricket is almost a metaphor for conquest and through this game Caribbean people have been able symbolically to win victories over their colonisers."
Speaking a bit more about the book he says in it there is a part about our own cricket hero, Jim Allen. The book also celebrates other cricketers like George Allen, brother of Jim and other persons who are not necessarily cricketers such as Robert Griffith, George Edwards and others.
Dr. Fergus revealed that the book was released in England while he was there at a reading where a friend and colleague Professor Markham of Sheffield University as well as Dr. Stuart Browne of Birmingham University were present.
Dr. Fergus also revealed that he is working on an Anthology: "Not just of my works, but one of my missions is to publish the work of Montserratian writers, I believe we have work of a quality worth publishing at the moment."
He went on to say that there are over twenty writers are envisaged in the new book called ‘Volcano Songs - Poems of an Island in Agony.
Lara Rains and Colonial Rites is expected to be in Montserrat in about two weeks after which the Doctor hopes to have a public reading of poems at which time the book will be released and made available to the Montserrat public.
CM Returns from Caricom Summit
The Honourable Chief Minister, David Brandt attended the 19th Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) which was held in Castries, St Lucia over the period 30 June to 4 July, 1998.
He travelled to the meeting following his visit to England where he spent time promoting and discussing the draft Sustainable Development Plan with Montserratians and British officials. He was accompanied by the Director of Development Unit Mrs. Angella Greenaway.
He was accompanied by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Claude Hogan who just recently took up this new post in the Chief Minister’s office.
The occasion of the 19TH Meeting also marked the Silver Anniversary of the regional grouping which was established by the Treaty of Chaguaramas on 4 July 1973 and where the celebration of the 25th Anniversary of CARICOM also formed a significant part of the activities in St Lucia.
The CM said that among the matters of critical importance was the situation in Guyana when the Conference received the Opposition People’s National Congress (PNC) leader Mr Desmond Hoyte to aid its deliberation.
He reported, "I believe we were able to come to an agreement which could bring some peace and tranquility to the people of Guyana… CARICOM will provide a facilitator to assist the implementation of an Agreement.
I believe that you will see the significance of protecting democracy in every corner of the Caribbean as any breakdown could result in a domino effect."
The CM reported also on his signing of Protocol ll which revises the Treaty of Chaguaramas establishing the Caribbean Community during the Summit.
"Protocol ll," he said, "deals with Establishment, Services and Capital. It means that a national from any CARICOM State has the right to establish business and move capital and services freely in and out of Montserrat."
The chief minister was asked about reports that other Caribbean nationals have been insulted while trying to do part time work here in Montserrat, but he responded that he was not aware of any such reports and promised to look into the matter.
In his statement issued immediately upon his return to the island, he said that the summit also discussed the need to harmonize our laws to facilitate the establishment and operation of the Single Market and Economy.
This is to include development of Legislation for customs, intellectual property, corporate taxes, social security, and free movement of university graduates.
This free movement of university graduates and professionals has been a topic of discussion throughout Caricom, since it is believed that not all of the states adhere to the idea. Trinidad came in for criticism on the topic for refusing to renew a work permit recently to well known Caribbean broadcaster Julian Rogers. It was on this background as well that the CM has been questioned this time and previous occasions.
Anguilla now a Caricom Member
Among the political issues was the admittance by the Conference of Anguilla as an Associate Member of the Community. Anguilla was previously an observer member.
The Conference also adopted in principle, the agreement establishing the Caribbean Court of Justice formerly called the Supreme Court. That court was intended to replace the British Privy Council as the final court of appeal.
This is a matter that has maintained the attention of many around the Caribbean, but the Chief Minister said: "Its implications for Montserrat are clear given our constitutional arrangements. It us however a matter which we must take under serious consideration."
The CM reported further that the situation on Montserrat was among the several items considered in caucus by Heads of Government.
He said "I was able to inform my CARICOM colleagues of several developments. These include:
The Draft Sustainable Development Plan; and the housing programme with particular reference to the CARICOM Village
The general thrust of my presentation was to reflect that the Government and People of Montserrat remained committed to rebuilding there homeland. I also called on the Community to assist through the provision of the variety of technical skills that we would need in the rebuilding effort and which is available within the region."
He said that he was pleased that regional leaders shared the view that Montserrat has the potential to produce a viable community. "I was pleased to accept on behalf of the Government and People of Montserrat, a cheque for EC$100,000 as funds raised by the Government and People of St Lucia as part of funds raised through attendance at the closing ceremony by the people of St Lucia who were anxious to see and hear His Excellency the President Nelson Mandela," he happily reported.
After informing Heads of Government of some gaps which developed in relation to the CARICOM Village, the chief minister said that he was again was pleased at their response. Barbados committed an instant BDS$30,000 and subject to a project proposal for technical assistance, the CDB will be able to provide a further US$100,000 towards the CARICOM Village.
The CM said that having just returned to the island he was unable to speak to some issues such as the housing allocations, the proposals for the airport, but said that British officials were due on island and that some of the matters will be coming up for discussions.
by Bennett Roach
Two weeks ago Montserrat offered its shores and a rainy day to a bicyclist whose dream and aim is to travel the world by bicycle by the 1st January, 2001.
A very fit-looking Mr. Jumber Lejava from the Georgia in Europe and country that was once part of the USSR, has already traveled 98 countries in his quest to cover 227 . He is shown in the picture with his bicycle and only a part of his gear which he carries around with him, which includes a tent. He uses other means of transportation only when he must, like having to travel over water as he moves from country to country. While on land he travels only by bicycle.
He knows of no one else who is making trying this feat and expects to accomplish it and he has changed bikes 8 times already having done 160,000 kilometres on this one.
He is a 57 year-old engineer and his feat is sponsored by the Maisuradze science group. During his tour he demonstrates some simple art of exercise, having himself won several competitions by doing the most push-ups within a given time. To accomplish his mission will be a test of physical endurance.
Montserrat is the 98th country and Nevis will be the one hundredth, as he goes back to Antigua, Barbuda, back to Antigua and then to Nevis and St. Kitts.
"I have been on this since 1993 and will finish on January 1, 2001," Lejava beamed.
When he finishes the Caribbean which he started in Curacao, he will move on to 65 countries in Africa, then South America, Europe and on and on until he has biked his over 227 countries of the world. He has visited the Artartica twice during which he took in Siberia.
Lejava spent one day on the island, but his movements were quite restricted as the moment he walked off the ferry at Little Bay, it happened to be one of those Fridays when it rained almost non-stop in Montserrat.
The bicyclist had just showered praise on the competence, kindness and efficiency of the Montserrat police, having sheltered before I met him, at the makeshift Police Headquarters in St. Peter’s. I had just taken a photo of him on the verandah when a police officer ordered, "This is not the place for that, you can do that out there (pointing outside to the pouring rain)."
I offered him sympathy for his ignorance and hoped that Mr. Lejava, whose limited English I admired, had not quite understood the behaviour I had just witnessed, and which I hoped would not change his opinion about the Montserrat police, generally.
Many Happy Returns Concert is For Real
"WE have been waiting for a major sponsor to help mainly to get
some Montserratian musicians to come and take part in the concert." These were words
of Mr. Peter Filleul who was visiting Montserrat this week Mr. Chris Runcimen discussing
and confirming plans for the ‘Many Happy Returns Concert due to take place here on
September 29 this year.
Chris Runciman
"We worked To provide an opportunity for for Montserrat and other artists to come. I found that Virgin Atlantic were opening new routes to the Caribbean in September. A television producer introduced me to Virgin who were quite interested in associating the promotion of their new routes with Montserrat largely because Montserrat is a very interesting destination for day trip tours may be from Antigua, Peter explained.
These two gentlemen along with Mr. Douglas Darby, a Foxes Bay expatriate living here were talking to ZJB and other media members and discussing the concert and its promotion.
Mr. Filleul said that as a result of many conversations with them (Virgin Atlantic), they are going to provide space on their first run to Antigua along with another 140 TV personnel and journalists. They will all come to Montserrat and have an opportunity to see: "Rather than just taking pictures of the ravages of the volcano, they will be able to take home with them some images of what Montserrat can be like in the future. The prettiness, the people, and of course the volcano," he asserted.
"It will be an opportunity to show them what will be worth visiting in future years," he said, pointing out that this will have to be very gradual while not encouraging thousands of people to come for there is no place for them to stay at the moment, but on a day trip basis it is very important to get into people’s mind that Montserrat is a place that is worth a visit. "We can get them over every day," he seemed anxious to say.
"They are coming to look for the opportunities for selling Montserrat as a destination for tourists."
That he said was the main thrust of getting these many other people involved. He recalled that the idea grew on him when he picked up a brochure which spoke about the annual pilgrimage reading in the essence of it, is what he wanted to achieve preserving the Montserratian culture and an opportunity to involve other people in the Caribbean and the entertaining artists.
Last August while Sir George Martin was staging a concert successfully raising funds for the Montserrat cause, these gentlemen staged a concert in Montserrat at Geralds, brought together a few of an old musical group which had performed here at Air Studios in the 80s.
How is this different from last year? "We needed to have a framework within which to hold the concert
That is the foundation upon which we can build in a gradual way. We can learn by the mistakes we find every year and come to something to make revenue for the island," he responded.
They said that the response from supporters, artists and others have been extraordinary and what attracts them to Montserrat is the island which has an atmosphere like a "drug which they wished we could bottle."
The following sentiments were shared by Chris when Peter said: "It is your island that moves me to be so involved. I came for two weeks and we stayed 3 and a half months."
They explained that it is this that make artists anxious to take their holidays around this time and give their own resources to it (making the concert a success).
Chief Minister Brandt, sat in on the discussions which he hosted at his office. He said that as far as government is concerned with its meager resources, "We will commit as much as possible to this venture. I don’t want it to be only something between the government of Montserrat and Virgin Atlantic. I want it to be a marriage between the whole Montserrat people working together to make it successful."
He went on to make a special appeal to those on island. "We know we do not have the living accommodation for the musicians and the news media coming to Montserrat in September, but I believe that we could play our part, those of us who have space in our homes to register with the Tourist Department their interest, so we can make these people feel at home when they come."
The CM said the first visit is very important: "If we fail at that time we will have a great difficulty in correcting our mistakes. They too will become our disciples. It is very important when newsmen get on your side."
"I value of the effort of these gentlemen and I government will be working with them step by step in order to make this a success," he offered.
Doug Darby who leads the organisation locally says that the concert would have taken place even without sponsorship, reminding us of the great effort being put in by Miss Ernestine Cassell at the Tourist Dept. He says that an exhibition is being planned for that week and it is hoped that the private sector will make use of the opportunity and everyone is expected to participate in the events being planned by the Tourist Board.
Government house earlier this week issued a press release stating one Officer and two Members of the British Empire will conduct an enquiry into the management of the HM Prison.
In August last year five prisoners broke out of prison including Winston "Sparrow" Gage who is still at large, in protest of prison conditions. The complained to the Governor Frank Savage that they had written several letters to him complaining about the conditions they faced in the prison, but had nothing about their letters.
These prisoners had turned themselves in and met with the Governor voicing their problems. Following several promises by the Governor they were returned to their prison quarters in Cudjoe Head and were later sent overseas to a prison in Cayman Islands.
The Governor in his release said: "Montserrat’s Prison service has faced considerable difficulties since the onset of the volcanic crisis. HM Prison is now temporarily located in three wooden buildings at Geralds; its fourth temporary location since the final evacuation of Plymouth in April 1996. To cope with the problems of adequately accommodating the prison population, 14 sentenced prisoners have been transferred to the Turks and Caicos Islands, one to the British Virgin Islands, one to the UK (for medical reasons) and 10 paroled. Until a new prison is constructed on Montserrat the policy will be to continue to transfer sentenced prisoners off island. In the interim the British Government is funding the construction of an eight-cell remand centre at Brades which is expected to be completed by the end of 1998."
The release stated further that a number of concerns have been raised with HE the Governor about the management of the prison and the treatment of prisoners.
"His Excellency has therefore decided to establish a three-man Commission of Inquiry to investigate these concerns. Mr. Kenneth Allen QC OBE, Mr. Karney Osborne JP MBE and Mr. James Greenaway MBE have agreed to serve as Commissioners and have been duly appointed by HE the Governor," the release concluded.
There have been numerous complaints from individuals and prisoners about the conditions in and concerning the prison and it is believed that any enquiry would be quite revealing. One individual with former connections to the prison welcomes the enquiry saying that "it is well overdue."
The Commissioners are expected to present their report and recommendations to HE the Governor by the end of August.
Umpire Morgan Officiates In USA Cricket Competition
Basil Morgan, who has become outstanding in his field is due to leave the island soon to officiate in a cricket series in the United States.
Morgan who is due to be in New York this weekend was been invited the US Criket Association to participate in the league for a second time. He will umpire for four weeks.
More Discussion On The Sustainable Development Plan
The Government of Montserrat has announced a series of meeting to further discuss the future development of the island.
The first will be held at Brades Pentecostal Church July 20, at 5:00 p. m. The other is scheduled to take place on the July 23, at the Methodist Church Hall in St. Johns Antigua at 5 p.m.
This is an attempt to give as many persons as possible the opportunity to have an input in the Economic Sustainable Development Plan of Montserrat.
The government says public participation in the process is welcomed and necessary as it starts the rebuilding process of the partially destroyed island.
Sources say that response reaching the Development Unit on the plan has been scant.
CM Visits Caricom Village Site
Chief Minister, David Brandt, this week officially visited the building site for the Caricom Village at Look Out. Mr. Brandt said he wanted to know what progress are being made and how to cater for the needs of soldiers that are involved in building the houses.
"It was my duty to come and speak to the soldiers at the site to find out from them what their problems are and how can make their burden easier. They have come here as strangers and it our duty to make them feel at home as much as possible," Brandt said.
CM Brandt said the Caricom Village is not only a Montserrat project but a joint project of the regional governments. He said he is committed to aid the soldiers in whatever way he can to complete the project on schedule.
Montserrat Water Authority (MWA) on Wednesday announced an eight hour restriction on water from Salem northwards. This went into effect earlier this week, leaving some persons in the North waterless for some 14 hours per day.
Officials at the MWA said that such arrangement will be extended to areas in the central zone if conditions don't improve in the coming weeks. They said this is the direct result of the increase in water demand and the decrease in the quantity of water coming from springs.
Investigations are said to be on the way to determine what to do in this critical situation.
In related news information out of MWA says a six-inch water main from St. Peters to Dick Hill will be ready in three weeks. The new pumping station is however delayed due to restrictive covenants in the Woodlands area.
A release from the MWA said it is doing its best within the limitations of the volcanic crisis. It extends apologies for any inconvenience caused.
Insurance Companies Hope to Settle All Claims By Year End
Insurance companies announced two weeks ago their intention to have all claims settled by the end of the year.
In a meeting with Chief Minister David Brandt, the three main companies settling claims said they have settled some 60 percent of the claims they have received. The meeting was in response to complaints that they were moving too slow in settling claims.
"Several insureds have complained to government ministers that their claims were not settled on a timely basis. They also said that the insurance was deliberately delaying the payments. I put these complaints to the companies and asked them to settle the claims promptly. I told them the government will monitor that situation closely, because several person have suffered so much hardship that we cannot allow a situation like that to continue," CM Brandt said.
The insurance companies announced they have overwhelmed with claims and intend to fast-track settlements. One Company, the Royal Sun Alliance said extra staff had been brought to help settle claims. Along with the large number of claims some insurance said delay in verifying the claims of the insurers has occurred because some properties are inaccessible.
Natural History and Environment of Montserrat In art Exhibition in Antigua
by Bennett Roach
The following note represents the very first bit of information provided by that office for publication to this media house.
The note which was sent to 'All Media Houses and dated July 15th, 1998 preceded by a request for it to be printed/aired, reads as follows:
All Montserratian Artists and photographers interested in displaying work on Natural History and the Environment of Montserrat in an Art Exhibition between July 25th -29th at the Dock-yard Museum are asked to call Nancy Nicholson at (268) 460 1614 between 10 a.m - 6 p.m. or the Montserrat Information Office at telephone number (268) 460 9676 between 8:30 a.m and 4:00 p.m as soon as possible.
Opening ceremony for the exhibition will be on July 25th 4:00 p.m.
The Montserrat Information Office operates under the auspices of Citizens and Friends of Montserrat is funded by DFID. It is located at Upper St. Mary's St. with a mailing address of P.O. Box 2906, St. John's, Antigua. Telephone (268) 460-9676/7 - Fax (268) 460-9677 and email mio@candw.ag.
Previous attempts to get information as to the functions of this office were met with promises from the Executive Director and later with refusal. It is understood that following the appearance of articles covering certain matters of the Information Office the Director is seeking to punish those she suspects of providing the information.
Asked if she was the only person who provided information from the office, she responded that all information about the office and its business, should come through her.
Cable and Wireless takes steps on road to 50%rate cut
Cable and Wireless and the Government of the Turks & Caicos Islands have agreed new telephone rates that will see international calls charges fall by up to 58% from 1 September 1998.
The new tariff offers phone users in Turks & Caicos savings of between 20% and 58% on current international call charges. The USA rate is cut by 30% during the day and 26% in the evening.
The Honorable Oswald Skippings, Minister of Tourism, Communication and Transportation in the Turks and Caicos Government, said, "This agreement is the first stage of an ongoing discussion between my ministry and Cable and Wireless which will lead to many changes in the way telephone calls charged"
In recent months, Cable and Wireless has renewed its 1997 pledge to cut international call charges by 50% before 2002, as part of a general restructuring of rates in the Caribbean. The reduction of international call charges in Turks and Caicos is part of that process.
Carol Lake, Director of Corporate Communications at Cable and Wireless, said, "Our customers want lower international rates, and we are listening. We are discussing proposals for price changes with government in several countries in the region. Our objective is to cut international call rates by 50% by the year 2002, and to restructure domestic rates. This ‘rebalancing’ is designed to bring all tariffs more closely in line with the underlying cost of providing service. Only by bringing prices in line with costs can we maintain our levels of investment. We’re pleased that this rebalancing process is well underway in Turks and Caicos."
Cable and Wireless is one of the world’s leading providers of international telecommunications services. Its business provide 17 million customers in 70 countries with a complete range of international, domestic and mobile communications. Cable and Wireless is the world’s third largest carrier of international traffic, provides mobile communications in more than 30 countries and operates the world’s largest, most advanced cableship fleet
The RFA Black Rover visited Montserrat on Wednesday for a two-day visit.
According to a Government House release, on board was Captain Robert Thornton, Black Rover’s new Captain, and Commander Colin Hamp of the HMS Sheffield who came on island to pay introductory calls on HE the Governor, the Chief Minister and various officials.
HMS Sheffield had planned to visit Montserrat this week for the first time on her six-month tour as West Indies Guard Ship. But has had to postpone her visit.
No reason was given for the change but the release stated: "HMS Sheffield regret that they cannot visit at this time and look forward to their visit in the near future."
At an Investiture at Government House on 1 July Major Joseph Gabriel Lynch was presented with the MBE.
Major Lynch was awarded the MBE Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth 11 in the New Year’s Honours list for 1998 in recognition of his 37 years in the Royal Montserrat Defense Force and tireless efforts as Commanding Officer from 1993 until his retirement on 31 December 1997.
VI ELECTRONIC BANKING SYSTEM HAS GLOBAL SIGNIFICANCE
by Richie Allen
Banco Popular is offering free software that will allow its customers to conduct their banking transactions from the comfort of their homes by computer. Instead of the hassle of fighting traffic congestion and encountering parking problems, not to mention enduring long lines in the bank, Banco Popular customers now only have to hit a few command strokes to access their bank acounts.
PC Banking allows one to pay bank loans, utility bills, and credit cards from their home computer. One can review one’s mortgage, savings or checking accounts, and has the ability to communicate with the bank by e-mail 24 hours a day.
When I first learned of the new electronic banking system, I was fascinated. My mind raced ahead to the Book of Daniel 12:4 where the Bible states that in the end-time, knowledge and travel will vastly increase.
If you are shocked by the news, then stay with me because this is merely the beginning of a global system that complements the preparations for the new world order.
You are perhaps already familiar with the trend of some government agencies, including credit unions, that require their members to maintain a bank account. Those reluctant to deal with banks have no alternative. The government is finding it easier and less costly to deposit your checks in the bank and allow you to withdraw it at your convenience.
Thousands of government employees already are using this convenient service. It is called direct deposit.
But what is the global significance of electronic banking in the Virgin Islands, you might ask. Well, for starters, do you know the British Government has announced plans to issue what is called a "citizen’s smart card" that will interface the British people with their government?
What this means in plain English is a card that will facilitate the payment of income taxes, national insurance and local taxes by the British and allow them to apply for passports, state benefits and other forms of government welfare.
According to Peter Kilfoyle, the British public services minister, the idea behind the smart card is to permit people to use the card to identify themselves to the various government computers all of which will be inter-linked with each other.
But that is not all. Mr. Kilfoyle says that in the next five years or so, the plan is to allow an individual to use a fingerprint or similar biometric system for positive identification. Now here’s the clincher. In January last year, the European Commission (EC) announced it was looking at the viability of a European ID card that doubles as a smart card plus a driver’s license, social security card, passport and bank card.
Such a card, the report concludes, would act as an ultimate ID card to traverse Europe. The card was developed by British Member for the European Parliament, John Stevens, in conjunction with the EC’s monetary affairs subcommittee which is responsible for overseeing progress towards the monetary union.
This is exciting news. Exciting because Bible students knew it was coming but just how
it would operate, we weren’t quite certain. Now it is all fitting into place. Let me put this in perspective as best as I can.
It is common knowledge that a group of nations in Europe would form a union which is to be the basis for the operation of the Antichrist. When he appears on the world scene, he will control the monetary system and establish laws prohibiting anyone from buying or selling unless he carries the mark of the beast.
Both the Book of Revelation and Daniel agree that the union of nations must be in place before the ruler of the new world order assumes his position.. Here’s the scripture. Dan. 7:7 tells of the prophet’s vision of a beast with 10 horns symbolic of 10 kingdoms. Then in verse 8, Daniel says: "I considered the horns and behold there came up a little horn before whom there were three of the first horns plucked up by the roots. And behold in this horn were eyes like the eyes of man and a mouth speaking great things."
It is important to note the prophecy, made many centuries ago, declares the little horn, which is antichrist, comes up last after the 10 horns were in existence. What do we have today? We have a union of nations called the EC. These nations have approved the launching of a single currency for Europe by Jan. 1, 1999.
Those countries are Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain. England, Denmark, Sweden and Greece are also members but have not yet committed to the concept at this time.
So it is evident everything is getting in place for the momentous event. The single currency for the EU. A smart card to be used in Europe as a passport, drivers license, and banking card. That card will be recognized by computers throughout Europe. Once it is accessed, one’s entire history comes up on a computer screen. So you can understand how easy it will be for the antichrist to identify individuals, to locate them, to track them down.
As the card is presented at a border crossing to a policeman demanding your driver’s license, the authorities will have a bead on you. You cannot access your bank account without the card. You are marked for life.
I came across a statement by German Ambassador Dr. Jurgen Oesterholt who told the European-Atlantic Group two years ago: We want a more unified Europe capable of competing in our modern world. We want the appointment of a single high profile figure to head the common foreign and security policy: someone who can answer Henry Kissinger’s famous question: Who is Mr. Europe.
He is coming Mr. Oesterholt. It wont’ be long before he is revealed to the world. Presently, his revelation is delayed by a spiritual force believed to be the church. That force is preventing rampaging wickedness, lawlessness and evil from engulfing and overwhelming all of us. But when that force is taken out of the way, according to 2 Thes. 2: 7, 8, then shall that Wicked be revealed. He will be made known to the whole world then.
The Apostle Paul adds that the antichrist will be somewhat of a manifestation of the working of Satan. He will be Satan’s man of business to carry out his dirty work. He will get his power from Satan. Initially, he will seem to have the answers the world is looking for to
solve its problems.
He will be smart, articulate, and performing miracles. He will be able to call down fire from heaven. The Bible says that using all power and signs and lying wonders he will deceive many. Israel will be taken in by him for during the last 7 years of this age, he will make peace with them, then renege on the peace agreement after three years. This will be followed by severe persecution against Jews and Christians. Right now, chances for peace in the Mideast appear slim. The peace talks are cold. War seems inevitable. Iran and Iraq are amassing weapons like crazy.
There is no doubt antichrist is coming. The stage is already set and in motion. It can’t be reversed. Let’s get back to the electronic banking system that has caught on here in the Virgin Islands. Do you know we are moving toward a cashless society where cash will not be accepted?
An article from the internet puts it this way. Electronic banking and the new smart card are the precursors to the micro-chip technology that already exists to get rid of plastic and mark the individual. How convenient that there will be no more credit card fraud, no more lost cards. Certainly, in the new world order, marking will play an important role in a cash-less society.
The antichrist will obtain his political, economic and military strength from the EC and the nations of the Revised Roman Empire to do as he pleases. Remember Dan. 12:4 states that knowledge will be increased in the last days. Well, the micro-chip technology seems to answer the question as to how the mark of the beast will be implemented.
REV.13:16 says...And he causeth all both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond to receive a mark in their right hand or in their foreheads. And that no man might buy or sell save he that had the mark or the name of the beast or the number of his name which is 666.
Anyone who accepts the mark of the beast is doomed to be lost forever with no hope whatsoever of salvation. Rev. 14: 9 states, If any man worship the beast and his image and receive his mark in his forehead or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation. And he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb.
And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up forever and ever. If anyone has any doubts that hell is beneath and is a place that burns with fire and brimstone, then you may argue with God. The fact is, the Bible says the people who accept the mark of the beast will burn forever. That’s plain enough. And their smoke go up. So they have to be down for the smoke to ascend.
And the Bible disproves another myth that some people have, that is, they will
see their friends in hell and have a party. That’s a lie from the pit of hell. The Bible declares, "and they have no rest day nor night who worship the beast and his image and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name". Read it in Rev. 14 for yourself.
But, it is not all bad news ahead. There’s some good news, too.
It is true the Bible says the wages of sin is death but it also declares the gift of God is eternal life. God will not force anyone to do anything they don’t want to, my friend. But the truth is, He doesn’t want to see anyone lost. That’s why he gives you another chance today to accept the salvation he offers you freely. Accept it, believe and live. Reject it and suffer the consequences. The decision is in your hands.. Choose life, choose Christ and live. It will be the best decision you ever made in your life.
Jesus and Satan have an argument as to who is the better programmer. This goes on for a few hours until they agree to hold a contest with God as the judge. They set themselves before their computers and begin. They type furiously for several hours, lines of code streaming up the screen. Seconds before the end of the competition, a bolt of lightning strikes, taking out the electricity. Moments later, the power is restored, and God announces that the contest is over. He asks Satan to show what he has come up with .Satan is visibly upset, and cries, "I have nothing! I lost it all when the power went out." "Very well, then," says God, "let us see if Jesus fared any better." Jesus enters a command, and the screen comes to life in vivid display, the voices of an angelic choir pour forth from the speakers. Satan is astonished. He stutters, "But how?! I lost everything, yet Jesus' program is intact! How did he do it?" God chuckles, "Jesus saves."
Forewarning
As debris fills Old Road "up to here,"
Limitations on golf grow severe.
Duffers, try not to choke,
There’s a penalty stroke
If an errant chip skips off the pier.
Sand Trap
Hey, beach sand mining’s now okay
‘Cause "Storms would take it anyway."
Rot! When fierce storms reach
A sand-barren beach
Those grinding seas don’t back away.
Jus wonderin if when all the traffic reverts to normal on the Nixon road that PWD would have noticed the necessity to widen parts of the road.
Jus wonderin why and who forced the Minister to withdraw his criticisms of certain reports.
Jus wonderin if when we accept an airport at Gerald's if we really expect to get another airport in 20 years.
Jus wonderin if we were to say no Gerald's and wait, how we will be punished.
Jus wonderin what it will do for our future economic growth and sustainable development if we start now to develop an airport at Thatched Valley.
Jus wonderin what will happen to the island if a road was cut leading to Rendezvous and Thatched Valley.
Jus wonderin if the discussions can change any plans in store for Montserrat.
Jus wonderin who is stepping on those high-up toes.
Jus wonderin why if who are afraid of criticism don't keep their mouths shut.
Jus wonderin what will happen when the Poligate scandal is exposed.
Jus wonderin when the Just… trio will fall.
Jus wonderin what good news the scientists will bring us next week.
Jus wonderin if the Soufriere Hills will solidify soon enough to avoid huge land and mud slides and rock falls when and if the rains really start pouring.
July 07, 1998
UNITED KINGDOM GOVERNMENT’s
(DEPARTMENT for INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT)
EMERGENCY HOUSING INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS
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Government of Montserrat
with Brown & Root Ltd
Three young University Undergraduates arrived from England on Thursday 09th July to spearhead Brown & Root’s month long Summer Sports programme in support of initiatives by the Ministry of Education, Sports and Community Services department and the Red Cross.
In concepturalizing this project, Brown & Root recognized that the Summer Vacation could be a period of boredom for some children, especially those who do not travel abroad. Hence it was decided to do something positive which would offer creativity, enjoyment and healthy recreation for the children of Montserrat. It is hoped to give them a memorable experience with a good blend of new skills and plenty of fun.
James Higginson, Robert Money and Thomas Balmer will run coaching sessions in cricket, football, basketball and swimming designed to compliment ongoing efforts by the sports department and other agencies. The emphasis is on the value of sporting activities in community building, and the health and happiness of the nation.
A selection of equipment and gear has been brought from England for the Summer programme and will be donated to the Sports department for the continued work with the children. It was also agreed that avenues would be explored to develop other forms of assistance to Sports on Montserrat in the course of time and as the needs are identified.
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