.

Montserrat is moving ahead with a 10-year project to establish a new town in the safe north of the island, two years after volcanic activity began destroying the capital of Plymouth.
Chief Physical Planner Alan Gunne-Jones, along with the local architectural and civil engineering firm, Ivason Galloway and Associates, are conducting island-wide public consultations this week on the development model, which has identified the construction of a cultural centre as the pivot around which all other development would revolve.

"The Cultural Centre, therefore, represents a very significant opportunity to underline this new development transition and to establish a standard for architectural treatment, the treatment of the open-spaces, general site layout which will establish the trend for the future of Little Bay," Mr. Gunne-Jones told the first in the series of consultations Monday.

Little Bay, which was the site used for solid and liquid waste disposal, aggregate storage, block making and the emergency jetty in the wake of the devastation of Plymouth, is expected to accommodate a seat of government, commercial centre, commercial complex, hotel apartments, recreational area, residential development and a port and marina.

The volcanic activity has rendered the W.H. Bramble Airport useless, so the Antigua-to-Montserrat ferry and helicopter services are the only means of international transport for the 4,550 residents of the 39.6-square-mile island, more than half of which has been rendered uninhabitable.

The 10-year project is expected to gain momentum after the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) completes an infrastructure audit of the area by year-end in accordance with the basic outline in the island’s Physical Development Plan, Mr.Gunne-Jones said

The Plan is to be submitted to government soon for approval.

"The volcanic activity has necessitated a shift in the development emphasis of the area from one which is purely tourism-related to one which is multi-purpose, catering for the wider development needs of displaced residents," the Chief Physical Planner explained.

Architectural and civil engineering drawings by a local firm are expected to be used to persuade local and international funding agencies to finance the development of the Little Bay area.

The entire area is 230 acres, but according to Mr.Gunne-Jones, due to environmental, typographical, drainage and archaeological constraints, the actual area is limited to 29 acres of developable land.
" I think that’s a significant point in response to this concern that everything should go into Little Bay," he said.

Links to several other areas such as Silver Hills-Rendezvous Bay to the north, Carr’s Bay to the South and Gerald’s are to be created, he added.

The new town would include a market place, a series of retail shops for visitors coming to the island via the ferry, buildings earmarked for government use, tennis and badminton courts, parks, hotels and other facilities.

To ‘Temporary’ GHQ

After spending a total of £2.25 million to construct the buildings housing the temporary Government Headquarters (GHQ), £160,000 more is being spent to buy a new roof to make the structures fully hurricane resistant, according to a top British-aid official.

Mr. Doug Houston, head of the Department for International Development (DFID), blamed the Montserratian government for weakening the hurricane resistance of the government complex, originally budgeted to cost £750, 000, by doing alterations to the structure.
"Some of the internal alterations that the Government of Montserrat requested may have affected its structural capabilities… At the present time, because of the alterations, the structure is not hurricane resistant…the structural integrity has been compromised in certain cases," Mr. Houston told the Montserrat Reporter.
He explained that the alterations, which included the movement of walls to make rooms bigger and the cutting of holes to install doors, reduced the certified resistance of the buildings to hurricanes up to 120 miles per hour.

When bolted down on steel and concrete foundation over the existing one, the new roof, made of pitch, aluminum and steel, at a cost of about £160,000, would iincrease the resistance of the mostly wooden structure to winds over 130 miles per hour, Mr. Houston said.

The temporary structures housing the Government Headquarters were built at a total cost of £2.25 million after the Soufriere Hills volcano destroyed the brand-new sophisticated structure in the now abandoned capital of Plymouth. The original quoted cost, without considering the site of the building and earthen works, ranged between £750,000 and £760,000.

Workmen last week were busy screwing on strips of wood around the glass windows of the GHQ to nail on sheets of plywood should a storm watch or warning be issued for Montserrat.

Apart from the roof of the structures that house, among others, the Chief Minister’s Office, several government ministries, the postal service, inland revenue, customs department, and the law courts, part of the catwalk creaks even when small persons walk on it.

Some weeks ago, heavy wind blew off one of the doors at the seaside GHQ.

Mr. Houston agreed that in hindsight the money used to construct and now strengthen the building could have been better spent.

"In terms of effectiveness, the objective of an immediate temporary structure was not met nor is the structure of adequate quality to provide a satisfactory permanent facility."

Communication among DFID, the construction firm Brown and Root, and the Government of Montserrat was "neither systematic nor coherent" and there was a lack of clear strategic planning, the report said.

"We found instances of lack of competence and cooperation by all parties- DFID, Brown and Root and the Government of Montserrat - but no evidence of deliberate malpractice," the report added.

An off-shore medical school, expected to be given the government green-light to open its doors here shortly, would have to ensure that students get sufficient hands-on clinical exposure rather than relying on Information Technology, a top medical official here said Wednesday.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gordon Avery argued that such high quality medical education at the proposed St. John’s University Offshore Medical School could only be achieved with a combination of theory and hands-on experience.

"This can be achieved by the teaching standards on Montserrat and by making sure that all the students get very good clinical bed-side experience," he told the Montserrat Reporter.

In an effort to ensure that the medical education institution has high technical and ethical standards, the Health Ministry official said that the operators of the school have agreed to collaborate with hospitals in the United States and the United Kingdom to afford their students practical exposure.

"They can't get that on Montserrat because there just simply aren't enough patients to provide that, so I have been in discussion with the university staff about placing their students in busy general hospitals abroad," Dr. Avery said.

The British-trained Chief Medical Officer with 36 years experience in a number of other countries has advised against the sole use of television and CD-ROMs in the teaching of medicine.

Dr. Avery could not comment on the reputation of the operators of the proposed St. John’s University Offshore Medical School but said that he has been assured they would be attracting experienced persons to teach.

"I do have a concern that they need to have a more direct academic medical input into it ... they need to have clinical medical people, not just academic medical people. They need to have people with clinical experience directly involved in the teaching," he said.

Upon start-up, the St. John's University Offshore Medical School would be subjected to scrutiny from Montserrat's Board of Higher Education to monitor the methodology and performance of the students here and during their hands-on exposure at hospitals overseas.

"It isn't all about Information Technology. It's a lot more than that really, and that's why it's important to get in contact with experienced medical clinical teachers," the government health official said.

The Offshore Medical School, he said, was also expected to open talks with a medical school in the US or the UK to "help them along with some of the clinical work and even be able to place some of their students."

The proposed institution, expected to be run along a model similar to that of the 21-year old Grenada-based St. George's Medical School, wants to open its doors at the beginning of the next academic year, but experienced medical sources believe that there might be difficulties in getting enough students.

The American University of the Caribbean Offshore Medical School, which folded up due to Montserrat’s four-year-old volcanic crisis, had brought hefty earnings to the island.

Also expected to be built into the approval of the new institution would be training and continuing education of local nurses, doctors and other health workers.

In addition to the fact that the University of the West Indies (UWI) has its own School of Medicine, Dr. Avery was not quite sure that the soon-to-be established institution here could have any "associate" relationship with any established university because of the "fast-track" image of off-shore medical schools.

"That they are fast-track people through the course and they don't give them enough clinical experience -- that's the reason why they might look with a little bit of concern

"It takes quite a long time to establish a reputation because you’ve got to prove that you are turning out doctors that are competent and also of a high ethical standard," he said.

This past week it seemed there was much to be joyful about -- a welcome change -- although some individuals may not have felt that good things were indeed happening or about to happen.

At long last the Physical Planning Department is finalising its plans for future development and physical appearance of Montserrat, and those who availed themselves of the opportunity presented saw several drawings of a concept for a Little Bay Development.

The presentation was done courtesy of the Development Unit in the CM David Brandt’s Ministry by Ivason Galloway of Ivason Galloway and Associates. Mr. Galloway was giving his time free, the Chief Minister said, "an example for all Montserratians to follow," Because government has no money and has to depend on others, Mr. Brandt said, the public and all Montserratians must do their part in developing Montserrat.

Many have long perceived that Little Bay would be the new (Plymouth) town and several development plans have been made for Little Bay, going back nearly 20 years, but none has materialised to date. In fact, at one of the consultations held for the ongoing discussions of the new concept, it was touted that at least two years ago plans were drawn up and advertised for a Little Bay development, but nothing had become of that. It even came to light that there were plans for a marina to be built between Carrs Bay and Little Bay with direct links to a development in Little Bay. Those plans it is said should still be in existence. Of course hurricane Hugo and now volcanic activity may be blamed for their unavailability. Efforts should be made to dig up those old plans to see how they can aid us in our current plans.

As pointed out during the consultations, the current plan is already severely undermined by the huge build-up of business sites that have taken place all over the north, particularly at Brades. And if one were to fall back and complain, it would be to berate the government for not moving faster on the Little Bay ideas, since it had been agreed and accepted a long time ago that at some time there would be some development at Little Bay; and to stretch that, from Carrs Bay and Rendezvous Bay.

But now that plans are being discussed, there is something to aid its momentum. Moneys have already been sourced from Sir George Martin for the erection of a cultural centre, ready to go and which will be part of the development, and the government has committed to building the necessary infrastructure for the development, which may stretch over a 10-year period.

As late as it seems, therefore, and since international assistance in the development of Little Bay was turned down, it is exciting that another Montserratian is beginning to find favour in the presentation of a concept that will take the first step in ensuring its development.

Indeed Montserrat has found itself, in the words of the Chief Minister, with no charter, no precedent to follow, and with everyone having to start over. But as we have declared in previous editorials, we should see this as a privilege and be the better for it.

It was reported that some 19 evacuees returning from the UK landed at Little Bay earlier this week. Without touching on the unfavourable implications, there are favourable ones, which we believe outweigh them.

Yesterday at 10 a.m. there was a handing over ceremony, which, except for the Chief Minister’s berating the Montserrat Reporter for reporting on the cost of exporting feral donkeys, was almost solemn. Mrs. Althea Sweeney’s joyful voice sounded almost tearful as she gave special thanks, representing all the 51 groups of persons who were about to receive keys to as many houses at Lookout.

There were showers of thanks and even praise, much going to the UK government, some coming from the Chief Minister. Again, with all the good words and the gratefulness for having come this far, it is little compared to where we should have been had we not aided and abetted the UK government in their snail-paced reluctance.

There is much more to be done and much to be corrected. So while we may feel that there is much for which to be thankful and happy, the job has only just begun.

Except for the editorial, opinion articles expressed in these pages are not necessarily those of the Montserrat Reporter editors, employees or advisers. Readers are encouraged to submit commentary articles. All viewpoints, unless libelous, in poor taste, or anonymous, are welcome. Send your contributions to The Editor, P.O. Box 306, Olveston, Montserrat, W. I., e-mail: editor@montserratreporter.org. Manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by a return stamped envelope. The Montserrat Reporter is a privately owned independent newspaper.

I often feel overwhelmed by the violence and hatred that seem so prevalent today. The small town where I live has fewer than 400 residents, yet in one year four murders were committed and one young man took his own life. The newspapers are filled with stories of murder and mayhem.

In the face of these events, what difference can I make? I helped raised money for the mother of the young man who committed suicide. I also attended a community prayer meeting called by the pastors of several local churches. But did I make a difference?

In these turbulent times, we may be tempted to turn from troubling situations and concentrate instead only on ourselves and our loved ones. But God calls us to do good works and assures us that our actions make a difference. Even if we do not see their results, we have the promise that our works will be "excellent and profitable for everyone."

Prayer: God, encourage us when we are downhearted. Help us to continue in your service, trusting your promise that our good works will make a difference. Amen.

Thought for the Day

Though we may not see the impact of our good works, every act of goodness makes a difference.

Dear Editor,

At the Annual Election for 1998 officers of The Montserrat Association of Montreal, Johnny Howes was elected president. His lack of skill in performance as president led to his not being re-elected in 1999, a defeat he has not accepted, still claiming to be the president.

As a result, still posing under the auspices of president, he has caused the society much trouble, and now there are issues heading for court. Awful senseless action, but still as persistent as a fly.

This action has held up any support that might have come to the island as aid/support to our volcanic-stricken countrymen.

Just thought that it would not be a bad idea to give this precis of the situation as it presently exists.

The society continues, as usual, and Mrs. A. James, now president, is doing an excellent job putting/keeping the membership intact.

Will keep you posted as to the outcome. Please keep the issue in your prayers.

Mary Lee

The Montserrat Association of Montreal

794 Carroll Ave.

La Salle, Quebec H8P 2V6

Dear Editor,

As a patriotic Montserratian I am appalled that five years after we first saw the onset of volcanic activities we are still in a conceptual phase and a temporary stage. In July of 1995, when the volcano first roared to life, I must agree that we were all caught off guard. I can still see the vivid pictures in mind of friends, families and fellow Montserratians scrambling to get a roof over their heads, whether they had to go further north or leave the island. This is even worse than Hugo.

I must confess, reports that circulate here in the U.S. may not be accurate, however, I can read between the lines and find the truth. Oh how I wish that things were different, but they are not. I remember after Hugo a certain politician at the time said that it is going to take 20 years for Montserrat to bounce back. It was not even a year later and, believe it or not, we were back. A few years ago I used to think that we Montserratians are a highly intelligent people, but with each passing year I wonder what has happened. Did someone revoke our intelligence? We have become a mind-dead people.

I think that it is full time that we as a people wake up and smell the coffee, as is the saying. I see the senseless accusations, that sometimes so trivial would stir a conflict. It is rather amazing how the people in America can mock the presidency but still get things done. We are too thin skin; we fight a weakling's fight. All mouth no action. Although some fights are won verbally, we are not verbal enough because we are not winning.

How much longer are we going to continue in a temporary mode, or how much longer are we still going to be in a conceptual mode? Someone always has the concept, but where is the model that the concept refers to? The time has now come that we get up, get out there and do something. Are we going to wait for another 20 years conceptualizing? Well by then it would not be necessary any more; if this is the case we may as well give up now - concede defeat.

It is my personal opinion that we are at a point where clamoring for this and for that is senseless. I have looked at the postings on the Montserrat Reporter's web page of the senseless use of land, especially in Lookout and at the Government Headquarters site, land that we are so much in need of, land that is so rare, now that we are restricted to the northern portion of the island. I live in a housing community here that is only two acres in size; however, there are 50 two- and three-bedroom family homes on it with all the amenities of a home. It even has a community pool. Why can't this be done in Montserrat to make maximum use of our land? But no, in Montserrat, we still maintain our old ways. Everyone wants to outdo the other person, so if you buy one acre I must get two. People, wake up. How many of us after getting this huge yard go out and enjoy it even one afternoon per month? Is it then necessary? I say we should impose strict land usage rules now - a half-acre is more than enough. We need to be able to effectively use the land space that we have if we as a people are to co-exist and work towards a better Montserrat.

I say it is high time we stop this madness and get on with the real task at hand. We need to get started, we need to rebuild and we need to do it now before it is too late. What are we to do when DFID closes? Are we ready to take charge? Charge of what? What do we have to take charge of?

I'll tell you nothing: except the concepts. What can we do with them then?. Don't sit there and say when we get our British passport. I know a lot of people are waiting for that. Anything we can do then we can do now. Rice mills were a prime example. We have a lot going for us already, let's just use it wisely before it is too late. Remember it is not just Montserrat getting this, it is all the other dependencies as well. So stap de an tink awe a go ride wan sail. It will be even tougher because the other islands could offer the same things we can - Duty free port to Europe. And they are at an advantage because land is not a scarce commodity.

The sooner we get going the better many of us who are overseas are very willing to come home but we can't just come home to twiddle our thumbs. We need a lot more happening on the development side, happenings that are of more permanence. We need to start looking at the long-term effects these things would have on us as a people.

Dwight R. Greer

Dear Editor,

Just a week ago, primary school science teachers from the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States paid a one-day visit to Montserrat as part of their annual meeting in Antigua.

Their visit was welcome, but it was disappointing to learn that the teachers had planned to conduct all their annual business here. They decided not to do so, according to Radio Montserrat, because of "increased volcanic activity" on Montserrat.

One wonders what or whose uninformed action prompted this last-minute change of plans.

What little "increased volcanic activity" Montserrat has had in the last year represents no serious threat to any responsible visitor to the island.

The thought that such advice prompted a change in the science teachers’ itinerary is doubly disappointing. They not only would have been in no danger but they also might have been able to take back to their students compelling stories, had they been here to witness first-hand one of Montserrat's "explosive" events, which create significant amounts of ash, a lot of local grumbling, but no menace to life and limb.

J. Donald Brandt

Woodlands/Foxes Bay

Thank God for your newspaper. We read it and learn about Montserrat...it seems to be the only realistic source of information about the island.

Please keep up the good work.

Dear Mr Editor

I am thankful that as a Montserratian overseas that I could have access to first hand news on Montserrat and not having to go on 'hear say'. Thank you very much for your hard work.

Some Montserratians are upset that goats, believed to be owned by the husband of a government minister, are posing a traffic hazard but police Monday said even though they normally await reports, action would be taken to avoid a road accident.

Deputy Police Commissioner Simon Morson said, "We haven’t had any specific report that goats present a problem" because normally the police force depends on the public to make reports.

While emphasizing the need for road users to report any incidents to the police as soon as they occurred, he accepted the view that police patrols would have spotted the potential danger the goats pose.

"We will endeavour to ascertain the ownership and we will generally, if an offence is committed, point out the offence to the alleged offender and see what happens from there," Mr. Morson told the Montserrat Reporter, adding that the law was adequate and owners could be prosecuted and fined a maximum of EC$1,000.

He also said the law gave members of the public the right to capture and impound stray animals.

Police have already contacted Director of Agriculture Claude Gerald and he has assured that action would be taken. When contacted, Mr. Gerald would not say whether the goats that usually sit around Fogarthy Hill would be impounded but maintained that "we’re not prejudiced…we only see animals."

A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told the Montserrat Reporter: "I myself have had four near head-on collisions on the hill, having to swerve to avoid the goats and at the same time persons coming around the curve…the situation still exists and I don’t know what the solution is at this time…I swear to God that in Montserrat nothing is done until a life is lost. "

The individual recalled filing a complaint with a senior officer of the Police Force but noted that until now nothing has been done.
The high-ranking police officer dismissed as "nonsense and rubbish" the idea that the Montserrat Police Force was decidedly reluctant to rid the Fogarthy Hill turn of the goats because they are widely believed to be owned by the husband of a government minister responsible for a range of social services.

"I personally believe that the issue is only being raised simply because the goats belong to the husband of a politician…the police does not want to get into any political wrangling," he added.

Popular host of Radio Montserrat’s morning show, Mr. Basil Chambers Wednesday drew attention to the goats at Fogarthy Hill and suggested that the area should be renamed ‘Goat Hill.’

On a number of occasions, the Jus’ Wonderin’ column of this newspaper has drawn attention to the presence of the goats at that busy thoroughfare.

Two senior Agriculture Ministry officials confirmed that the animals belong to the husband of the government minister, and that by weekend the goats were expected to be reined in by animal wardens.

The police can shoot or destroy animals that pose a traffic hazard on request of the Agriculture Department or the lawmen could initiate action to have them impounded.

The Director of the Montserrat Branch of the British Red Cross Mrs. Camilla Watts on Friday confirmed that she has learnt of a shipment of 1,000 books originating from St. Thomas, United States (US) Virgin Islands.

Dr. Eddie Donoghue, who describes himself as a "Montserrat native," said in a statement that he arranged the gift of books from the Rotary Club of St. Thomas.

But the Red Cross official could not confirm that Rotary was the donor as she only learnt of the donation based on a message Mr. Donoghue, who was expected on island today, left on her answering machine.

Mrs. Camilla Watts has declined granting any media interviews on the gift until it arrives.

The consignment of books, Mr. Donoghue explained, would include literature for the Public Library, the public school system and senior citizens of Montserrat.

The 29^th Biennial Conference of the Caribbean Union of Teachers (CUT) took place in Barbados from August 6^th to 15^th 1999. There were 79 delegates and an almost equal number of observers from 15 Caribbean Countries.

The Montserrat Union of Teachers (MUT) was represented by President Gregory Julius, Vice-president Hyacinth Bramble-Browne, Herman Francis, Public Relations Officer, and Pat Ryan, floor member.

This Conference was significant as it marked a number of milestones. There was full representation from member territories for the very first time. Delegates from the French Department of Martinique (Syndicat d'Enseignants) made their debut, and the Bahamas Union of Teachers was accepted for membership. This followed a request made at the last biennial conference, held in Bermuda in 1997.

Colin Greene of the Antigua and Barbuda Union of Teachers was unanimously elected to serve as President for the next two years.

MUT takes this opportunity to congratulate the new President, especially since CUT leadership in recent times has come from the larger territories.

For the first time, too, there was a Cultural Concert showcasing talent from across the region. Items ranged from poetry and skits to Limbo, Moko Jumbies and calypso. Herman 'Cupid' Francis gave a touching rendition (to the tune of how many more?) in which he considered the plight of the people of Kosovo. Pat'Belonger' Ryan, in keeping with the theme of Women's issues (covered on day 1 of the conference) sang Time for a Change, along with a tribute to Montserrat, which was sung in French. Coordinator of the concert was teacher/calypsonian Wayne 'Poonka'Willock.

This cultural event was well received by a large and appreciative audience. It is worth noting that one of the resolutions passed at the conference calls on Caribbean Governments to put Culture high on their social/educational agendas as they plan for the year 2000 and beyond.

The CUT conference is of importance to all Caribbean teachers, as it is the forum for discussion and adoption of policies and strategies for the next biennium. The Barbados Union of Teachers (Primary) and the Barbados Secondary Teachers' Union are to be highly commended for co-hosting and organising this conference, which saw yet another first, when a Public Exhibition was organised to allow member territories to display items of interest. The exhibition was held in the Grande Salle at the Central Bank in Bridgetown. The theme for the Montserrat exhibit was: STILL HOME... STILL NICE ... LIFE GOES ON.

The display of captioned photographs showed the various activities that have taken place on the island during the past year. On display, too, were local anthologies and the most recent publication, "Little Island... Live Volcano."

On the final evening of the conference, an award ceremony was held to honour CUT stalwarts Marjorie Marshall, Mildene Massiah, Ronald Clarke and Harry Husbands of Barbados, along with Joye Browne of St. Vincent.

CUT Executive 1999 - 2001:

Colin Greene- Antigua &Barbuda President

Urban Dolor- St. Lucia, 1^st Vice-President

Undene Whittaker- Barbados 2^nd Vice-President

Byron Farquharson- Jamaica 3^rd Vice-President

Secretary/Secretariat -Jamaica Teachers' Association (JTA)

Trustees

Dennis Thomas- Grenada

Shirley Hooper- Guyana

Montserrat hosted the 1987 Biennial Conference and delegates were housed at the AUC. The Montserrat Union of Teachers was congratulated for active participation in CUT activities throughout the volcanic crisis, and for full participation in all activities organised as part of the programme for this 29^th Biennial Conference.

Chief Minister David Brandt, hailing the "new relationship" between Montserrat and its coloniser, Great Britain, said the handing over of 51 houses at Lookout village in the safe-north of the island was a "watershed" for islanders.

"Without the substantial assistance of the government and people of the United Kingdom, I do not know where we would have been having regard to the disaster which we suffered," he told the handing-over ceremony held in one of the houses constructed by the British firm, Brown and Root.

Although the housing drive is continuing apace, Housing Minister P. Austin Bramble pointed out that there were still over 500 families on the local waiting list and 84 overseas-based Montserratian families have also applied for houses. There are at least 300 persons still in volcano shelters.

Even though "they have treated us quite well," the Chief Minister said, he described as "a little stimulation" the periodic criticisms of Britain's approach to Montserrat.

"The British government has helped us and it is not right for anyone to say they have not helped us," Brandt added.

In August 1997, Britain announced a grant of £6.5 million for the

construction of 250 houses on Montserrat. The 15-nation Caribbean Community (CARICOM) group of nations has chipped in with the construction of 15 houses to create what has been already named the

"CARICOM Village."

The Chief Minister noted that the British government was not only helpful in the housing sector but also in providing funding for the revival and startingof new businesses.

In that regard, he said, the National Development Foundation (NDF) has already received £856,000 pounds to on-lend to sections of the business community to restart operations and an additional £400,000 was expected to be disbursed to that non-governmental organisation.

"That is not a grant but it is a sum of money put aside by the British government on the instigation of the Montserratian government so that our local businessmen and our little men can start again," Brandt added.

NDF has expertise to help new entrepreneurs to start and sustain business activities.

Chief Minister Brandt also announced that the British Government has approved a request for the purchase of an additional 104 acres of land for distribution as lots "under certain conditions."

Mr. Doug Houston, Head of the local office of Britain's Department for International Development, has given the green-light for the continued construction of roads at the Lookout village and Salem.

Even though Montserrat is administratively "well prepared" for this year’s hurricane season there are some deficiencies associated with the volcanic crisis, according to Permanent Secretary of the Emergency Department Frankie Michael.
"We are at a disadvantage because some of the buildings are under refurbishment…at the moment there may be no prolonged occupancy, but only for overnight," he told the Montserrat Reporter.

Some persons have been raising concerns about the apparent slow pace of preparing shelters, arguing that authorities would be waiting until the last minute to clean them when a hurricane watch or warning is issued.

The disaster preparedness official said district committees were continuing work on cleaning and refurbishing the shelters, many of which once housed persons on a long-term basis as a result of the volcanic crisis.
Many of those persons have since occupied their own houses as the Soufriere Hills volcano began cooling down. "The housing stock has improved and its better this year than last year," Michael said.

At least three new villages have been constructed, resulting in gradual reduced occupancy of shelters normally spruced up for the annual hurricane season.

Police, Red Cross First Aid personnel and members of the District Committee Shelter Management, he said, have already been identified and are involved in mapping out strategies to cope with housing accommodation in the event of a storm.
Mr. Michael declined to comment on the hurricane-resistance of the mostly wooden structures that temporarily house a complex of government ministries and departments, including the Chief Minister’s office, Customs Department, the Post Office, Inland Revenue Department and the Law Courts.

Senior officials of the local office of Britain’s Department for International Development (DFID) Monday blamed the Montserrat government for internal alterations to the structure, which, they said, have since weakened its resistance.
Mr. Michael, however, assured that all government departments had "internal" emergency plans to cater for the storage of documents and equipment should a hurricane strike the island.

Maintenance personnel last week began screwing on strips of wood around the glass windows of the Government Headquarters to affix sheets of plywood in case a hurricane watch is issued.

Breathing Ailments Reduced Since Vulnerable Left Island

There is a significant decline in respiratory ailments caused by volcanic ash and dust, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Gordon Avery said Wednesday.

"We really can’t say that there has been a big increase in respiratory problems every time there is a big ash-venting," he told the Montserrat Reporter.

Contrary to expectations of a big increase in cases with respiratory illnesses during "big" ash-venting last June, he said that was not so.

While figures on the number of respiratory ill cases were not immediately available, Dr. Avery attributed the decline to the fact that a large number of "the people who were all prone have all left" this 39.6-square-mile Caribbean island, a colony of Britain.

He acknowledged that a very small number of the island’s remaining population of 4,550 persons do experience health problems such as grit in their eyes and sore-throat caused by ash.

"The people in the north of the island are virtually at no risk at all because they are exposed to very, very little dust and it’s only if they were in their special occupations," the trained Public Health Officer added.

"The question about whether or not it is having a bad effect on the people still left…one of the thoughts is that the people who are left are not prone to respiratory problems and we are actually monitoring this in the clinics at the moment," he told the Montserrat Reporter.

During the early months of the eruption, when a large percentage of the island’s then population of 10,000 persons lived and dwelled in areas closer to the Soufriere Hills volcano, he said that there were "nasty chest complaints" of asthma and bronchitis.

With about half of the population fleeing under a voluntary evacuation programme to the United Kingdom (UK), North America and neighbouring Caribbean countries, Dr Avery said:

"That’s solved our problem for us because they have simply left the island and because they wouldn’t be exposed anymore."

The dust is known to contain tiny particles of the mineral cristoballite silica, which scientists say can cause silicosis if there is prolonged exposure. But according to the CMO, in the four years of the volcanic crisis, there has been no reported case of that damaging lung-disease.

In neighbouring Martinique, where there was a massive volcanic eruption in 1902, studies have not turned up any known cases of silicosis even though the majority population there was exposed to normal dust-levels.

The study on that island, Dr, Avery related, revealed that only quarry workers fell victims to silicosis because they did not wear the precautionary dust-masks.

In that regard, he observed that Montserrat might be having a special category of workers such as landscapers, gardeners, construction workers and drivers who stir up the dust and ash more than other persons.

Britain’s Department for International Development (DfID) is expected to conduct a "detailed" study of the respiratory health of Montserratians in the United Kingdom (UK) and those in their native land.

The CMO, who has previously worked in the Solomon Islands, Saudi Arabia, his native United Kingdom during his 36 year career, is expected to deliver a presentation later this year on the health risks of the volcano.

SPORTS

Get Up, Stand Up!
By Peter Adrien

"It's a set up!" shouted an angry Ottey fan. This reflects the response of the Caribbean people to the news of Merlene Ottey’s being tested positive for the controversial drug nandrolone. The case is being emotionally discussed in almost every boardroom and rum shop and, on every sporting facility and street corner from Jamaica in the north to Guyana in the south.
Caribbean people want to know whether the Jamaican queen of sprint is a victim. If she is a sufferer, who is behind the plot? And is there a conspiracy to destroy Caribbean athletes? A section of the Caribbean population is convinced that some white interest is "hell-bent" on isolating the English Caribbean because of its friendship with Cuba?
Recent developments in track and field are affecting everyone, on and off the track.

Some athletes, embarrassed by the crisis, are either condemning or separating themselves from the scandal. Trinidadian Ato Boldon said, "We're at an all-time low; maybe the worst since Korea in 1998. It's been a rough month to a track and field athlete. I was in Monaco, and in 24 hours I see Dennis Mitchell get banned, Linford Christie gets busted, Sotomayor gets busted and you've got Ben Johnson wandering around the lobby of the hotel."

And all this happened on the eve of athletics’ showcase event - the World Athletics Championships in Seville.
The number has increased since. The not-so-well-known sprinter Tony Douglas was thrown out of the Dutch team competing in Seville, and a scandal was stirred when Jamaican 200-metre champion Merlene Ottey had to pull out because of doping. The development brought the sport, the athlete, and the Caribbean into the spotlight.
The integrity of the traditionally respected sport is in jeopardy. Athletics chief Primo Neibiolo, re-elected President of the athletic governing body, the International Amateur Athletics Federation (IAAF), is concerned that the developments undermine the credibility of sport and that public suspicion grows over the legitimacy of the sport.

He is absolutely correct. Since classical Greece, athletics have been a prestigious sport; have commanded the admiration of all classes, races and ethnic groups; have been the subject and object of writers, playwrights, musicians, sculptors, artists and designers.

Participation in athletic events at the highest level has been the aspiration of thousands of athletes, and all who have excelled in these events have been either immortalised or revered by their countrymen.
But with the escalation of the doping problem, how many of us will respect or admire the athletes after performing their many superhuman acts?
It would be disgraceful if scepticism and suspicion should so overcome us that we begin to question the legality of every extraordinary feat of the athletes - after all, many of them subject their bodies to the most
ruthless discipline to excel.
American female sprinter, Marion Jones questioned: "There have been so many cases recently that I'm not 100 percent sure it's (the testing method) the correct testing procedure." And medical science is now questioning the procedure in the light of new information.
Nandrolone, one of IAAF’s banned substances, is an anabolic steroid, used by some sport people to improve performance. Australian Open tennis champion Peter Korda also tested positive for the drug but claimed that he did not know how it got into his system.
Was he honest or was he covering up? Dr Mike Wheeler, an expert at St. Thomas Hospital, London, informed BBC News that nandrolone, a close chemical cousin of testosterone, was thought not be found naturally in the body until this year. But studies have shown that normal people can have a small but significant level in their bodies - 0.6 nanograms per millilitre of urine. And this level is "awfully close" to the level at which an unacceptable number (usually more than 0.01 percent) of innocent athletes might produce positive tests. The athlete's stress level in training andcompetition could raise the natural level of the banned substance.
There is some evidence that after an event an athlete's testosterone goes up and, if nandrolone is produced from testosterone, it could be that nandrolone goes over the detection limit. Moreover, there is evidence that nandrolone can be found in meat injected with steroids, or vitamins. In women, the presence of nandrolone may be due to pregnancy or the use ofnsome contraceptive pills.
Dr. Wheeler suggests the use of methods that separate naturally occurring nandrolone from induced nandrolone and that the drug testing must be informed by new scientific knowledge.
In light of this evidence, could it be that Ottey's body naturally produced the detection limit, or could she have gotten it from food products or from birth-control pills, which would obviously have to be taken by a female athlete who is sexually active?

These are rational scientific issues that require scientific investigation.
These issue as well as the moral issue demand that the athletic authorities revisit the testing procedure with respect to new information and type of sampling (whether urine or blood). No athlete must be allowed to endure emotional pain after he or she has suffered so much pain through strenuous exercise and self-discipline. And no athlete must be allowed to enjoy the world's admiration for achievements that have been obtained by illegal means.

I am not an authority on drug testing and I will never claim to be. But if medical science questions the testing procedure, the athletic authorities must listen to reason and subject the testing procedure to replication.
These sporting developments have particular implications for the Caribbean. First, it could frustrate our attempts to develop the services sector sports tourism. Cricket, soccer and athletics have tremendous economic potential.
Second, the returns from the massive injection of scare financial resources on infrastructural development, research and development, training and education and accessing technical expertise could be affected. Jamaica, which stands to lose most from the developments, has spent phenomenal sums on sports development. Together with them, we have enjoyed an enhanced international image, tremendous tourism promotion, and significant foreign earnings from sports.
Third, the developments could impact negatively on Caribbean athletes. Their competitors could perceive them as frauds; this could affect their performance, have spin-off negative effects on the sports industry, and slow down the pace of our sporting development. For example, the withdrawal of the Cuban high jump world record holder, Javier Sotomayor, for testing positive for cocaine could jeopardise Cuba's bid to host the 2008 Olympics.
One therefore could understand why the government and people of Jamaica and the people of the Caribbean came in defence of their darling athlete. Merlene Ottey confessed: "I have applied only the highest ethical standards to myself and expect the same from others. I have always proclaimed fairness in sports and adamantly oppose the use of banned substances. I owe it to my country, my beloved sport and all my fans around the world to prove that this is a terrible mistake and I will do everything
in my power to find the truth and prove my innocence."
And I am among the many persons in the Caribbean and the world who believe every word of the athletic queen. We demand immediate action from Ottey, the governments, the Caribbean people and the IAAF. Bob Marley, Jamaican reggae superstar, calls upon all Caribbean people to "Get up, stand up; Stand up for your rights."
Let us aggressively rally around Ottey!

PHYSICAL FITNESS ISN'T THE ONLY ACTIVITY TO HELP
PROLONG SURVIVAL IN OLDER PEOPLE

Social and productive activities, such as playing cards or shopping, are as effective as fitness activities in lowering the risk of all cause mortality in older people, claim researchers in this week's British Medical Journal.
Professor Thomas Glass, from Harvard University School of Public Health along with colleagues from Chicago and Conneticut, found that activities that required less physical exertion may complement exercise programmes or may be an alternative form of activity for frail elderly people.

Glass and others studied over 2,800 people aged over 65 years from New Haven, Conneticut, over a 13 year period and found that all three types of activity -social, fitness and productive- were independently associated with survival.

They define social activities as including church going; playing cards, games or bingo; day trips and going to the cinema.
Productive activities include gardening; preparing meals; shopping and community work.

The authors conclude that social and productive activities confer equivalent survival advantages compared with fitness activities. They say that this observation is important because it suggests that activities that entail little or no physical exertion may also be beneficial to older people.

It is widely accepted that e-mail is the most popular Internet application. Research done by The Yankee Group found that there are 263 million e-mailboxes in the world, and more than 100 million of them are managed by ISPs. The Institute for the Future has found that the average white-collar worker sends and receives an average of 30 e-mails per day.

But how many people use e-mail, and how many messages are sent? "eMarketer" recently set out to answer this question, and concluded there were 3.4 trillion e-mail messages delivered in 1998. That's 9.4 billion messages every day in the U.S. alone. For comparison, there were 107 billion pieces of first class mail delivered in the U.S. in 1998, "eMarketer" reports.

According to "eMarketer," 81 million Americans use e-mail at least occasionally. The average American sends or receives 26.4 e-mail messages a day. The total number of messages sent by U.S. Internet users is 2.1 billion, "eMarketer" reports. That means the remaining 7.3 billion messages are commercial e-mail messages, and "eMarketer" estimates 96 percent of these are spam. Thanks to commercial messages, the average U.S. e-mailer receives twice as many e-mails as he or she sends. Along these same lines, research done last year by the Pew Research Center found that 45 percent of Internet users are frustrated by unwanted junk e-mail.

"eMarketer" found that 84 percent of Internet users use e-mail.

According to Pew, 85 percent use e-mail, mostly to communicate with friends and family. Pew also found that 21 percent of e-mail users are on an e-mailing list, and 88 percent of e-mail users use it for personal reasons.

Montserrat could be the source of studies about the impact of the volcano on health if an offer for British medical students to come here gets the nod, a top Health Ministry official has said.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Gordon Avery said that he dispatched a letter to the Deans of the 30 Medical Schools in the United Kingdom last week, inviting them to send students to this island.

"I am asking them to come out here because they would come and deal with the special problems which are in Montserrat to look at our respiratory health problems to do with the volcanic ash and the psychological problems which we think are quite serious," he told the Montserrat Reporter.

He said the island's authorities, however, could accommodate only three students to come here.

While medical students would be better exposed to "really bizarre medical conditions" in places like Africa, the British-trained Public Health Physician assured that there was a variety of health projects that they could pursue research on while here.

Medical experts have already theoretically established that the volcanic ash and dust contains cristoballite silica, tiny respirable mineral particles that can cause the deadly silicosis disease of the lung if there is prolonged exposure.

The Chief Medical Officer, who has practiced in his native Britain, the Solomon Islands, and Saudi Arabia, noted that shortly after the volcano began spewing material in 1995, there was an increase in the incidence of respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis and asthma.

That incidence has since fallen because most of those prone to those illnesses have left the island.

Already, a number of students in the field of geophysics and volcanology have come here to conduct research related to the volcano even though it is only venting ash and gas as it winds down from its phase of violent and deadly eruptions.

Britain's Department for International Development is to shortly commission a study on respiratory illnesses among Montserratians on island as well as those living in the United Kingdom (UK) under a voluntary evacuation package.

EAT from the LAND not from the CAN

This is another serious complication in obstetrics.

Post partum haemorrhage is severe bleeding during the third stage of labour or within 24 hours after the expulsion of the placenta.

Atonic haemorrhage is the more common type and is always from the placental site. As the name implies, it is due to lack of tone in the uterine muscle.

Atonic uterus, antepartum haemorrhage, fibroids, mismanagement of the third stage of labour and blood coagulation disorders is additional hazard.

- Mismanagement of the third stage is probably the most common cause of post partum haemorrhage.

- The Grande multipara may have a lax uterus thus contracting is inadequate.

- Rapid expulsion of a large baby; the muscle fibres in the upper segment of uterus does not have time to retract properly.

- Twins; the over distended uterus may not contract well and the large placental site provides a more excessive bleeding area.

- Bleeding, big uterus, boggy uterus, pallor, rapid pulse, collapse.

- To treat post partum haemorrhage the bleeding should be brought under control. The foot of the bed is elevated and patient is treated for shock.

- The blood volume is restored, fresh blood is used if blood clotting disorder is suspected.

- Blood transfusion is most likely necessary.

Most or all of the aforementioned conditions may require blood transfusion. This is the main reason why expectant parents are asked to get blood donors on standby, in case of necessary blood transfusions.

Yes! Your previous pregnancies have been uneventful but obstetrical emergencies happen in seconds.

Standby donors will be tested and blood crossed matched before hand. In case of emergency, blood will be taken from these donors.

I hope that the District Nurses and Private Doctors will get more cooperation on this note. Time wasted in emergencies, searching for donors and doing test can be very crucial to both mother and baby.

The hospital does not have a blood bank and because of our small population emergencies are far and few and it will be wasteful bleeding donor unnecessarily.

It is better to have donors tested crossed matched and bled only if necessary.

The United Kingdom National Academic Recognition Information Centre (NARIC) has announced its endorsement of the CAPE Exams.

This announcement signals good news for Montserratian students who sit the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Advanced Proficiency Exams (CAPE).

NARIC is the official UK body that determines comparability between international and UK qualifications and advises universities on entry qualifications.

NARIC has concluded that CAPE qualifications will satisfy the general minimum entrance requirements of British higher education institutions when six CAPE units are studied.

This is similar to the Number of units being accepted by the University of the West Indies for normal matriculation.

NARIC says based on the syllabus content and duration of CAPE courses, qualifications obtained from two unit courses are comparable to the GCE advanced level in areas such as Accounting, Biology, Chemistry, French, History, Literatures in English, Mathematics, Physics and Spanish.

This means that Montserratian students with CAPE achievements will be able to use them to gain entry into universities in England.

The acceptance of the mix by UK admissions tutors will vary according to the nature of the course that students wish to pursue at university level.

NARIC says while six units will be the minimum requirement, students may do a total of seven units – three two-unit courses and one single-unit course. This will maximize their chances of entry to some universities where competition for entry is intense.

NARIC says it would be pleased to commend CAPE as a higher education entry qualification to UK higher education institutions and to present its full flexibility.

NARIC’s objective will be to ensure that CAPE is well understood by the full range of admissions tutors, so that students with CAPE qualifications will maximize their personal benefits from UK higher institutions.

Two of four prisoners who have returned from the Turks and Caicos Islands and the BVI have been released after serving their time.

The other two will serve the rest of their prison term at the newly-built Remand Centre in Brades.

In making the announcement on Wednesday August 25^th, His Excellency Governor Anthony Abbott said a work programme for the local prisoners would be reintroduced.

Under the programme, some persons serving time will be allowed to work at jobs in the community during the day, and then return to the Remand Centre in the evening.

This programme was interrupted when volcanic activity started here in July 1995.

As a result of the volcanic activity, some local prisoners were sent to the Turks and Caicos Islands and the BVI to serve their sentences because of the inadequate space and security arrangements which existed at the makeshift prison accommodation on the island.

A team from the Office of the Chief Minister, the Department of Public Works, the Physical Planning Unit and the Sports Department has been looking at the possibility of establishing a multi-purpose hard court for residents.

The team has been looking at possible sites in Lookout, Little Bay and Salem.

Representatives from Ivason Galloway and Associates were also with the group during a visit to Little Bay earlier this week.

Chief Physical Planner Alan Gunne-Jones says the proposal for a multi-purpose court in Little Bay is compatible with what is contained in the recently published design concept for the area.

He says consideration is also being given to the idea of possible earth works to create more of a playing field for the Lookout School and community.

He says after the visit earlier this week, the next step will be to consider the cost estimates of the earth works for the project.

Mr. Gunne-Jones says the money for the multi-purpose hard court has been budgeted into the Country Policy Plan.

Montserrat’s lone International Cricket umpire Basil Morgan is preparing himself to officiate in the upcoming regional Red Stripe Bowl limited overs competition.

He will stand in all four of the matches, which will be played in Anguilla.

It’s the first time since the inauguration of the tournament in 1995 that Zone 2 matches will be played in the Leeward Islands.

The other two games will be played in Antigua.

A total of eight teams will be participating in this year’s Red Stripe Bowl one-day competition.

They’re the Leewards, Windwards, Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Bermuda and the United States of America.

The championship starts the first week of November.

Morgan is the only umpire from the Leewards to stand in all of the Red Stripe Bowl championships.

Meanwhwile, Morgan and his colleagues are to meet in Antigua before the start of the competition to discuss the playing conditions for this year’s Red Stripe Bowl tournament.

The meeting will be held October 8-10.

The Housing Unit in the Ministry of Agriculture has moved a step closer to the allocation of the next set of houses in Lookout.

Fifty-one houses were handed over to the Unit on Thursday August 26^th.

The keys will be presented to the successful applicants next week.

The houses to be handed over include a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom units.

Housing Director Sarita Francis says the Housing Allocation Committee has agreed to the allocation of 31 three-bedroom houses and confirmation letters have been sent to persons selected.

This number includes 15 Caricom houses, two Force Ten and 14 blockwork houses.

Mrs. Francis said letters were also sent to 32 households identified for two-bedroom houses and letters are being sent to 102 persons who will receive one-bedroom units.

The Housing Director says these persons will be notified as to when the houses will be ready for handing over.

Mrs. Francis said the allocation Committee met and awarded the houses, based on need, using a points system.

The Government of Montserrat has announced the start of public discussions on the design concepts for the Little Bay Area and the new Cultural Centre.

The public presentations will be facilitated by Ivason Galloway and Associates, the company responsible for the designs.

The first public presentation took place on the evening of Wednesday August 25^th at the Salem Primary school.

Residents in St. John’s and its environs will get their opportunity September 1^st at the St. John’s Anglican Church, while those in Brades will be involved in their discussion September 2^nd at the Brades Pentecostal Church Auditorium.

During the presentations, members of the public will be invited to view the designs, make suggestions and ask questions.

The Development Unit says the development of Little Bay and the Cultural Centre are central to the redevelopment of Montserrat, particularly, in relation to tourism and commerce.

Principal Environmental Health Officer Trevor Howe says it has become necessary again to ask owners and operators of trucks and pickups to ensure that materials they transport are properly secured.

It has been brought to the attention of the Environmental Health Department that operators are not securing properly the refuse, construction debris and other building materials they transport, despite numerous notices and warnings.

This practice permits the materials to fall or be blown from the vehicle, littering the streets.

Mr. Howe says the practice not only makes the environment unsightly, but also endangers pedestrians and drivers.

He draws to the attention of all truck and pickup operators, the Public Health Collection and Disposal of Refuse Regulation and the Public Health Nuisance Regulations, which state that it is an offence not to properly secure goods being transported.

The Environmental Health Department is therefore urging members of the public and private sectors, who transport refuse and other materials in open trucks, to secure the materials with suitable and adequate covering.

Mr. Howe says litter wardens will be on the lookout to serve notice on all offenders.

Local Calypso Monarch Herman "Cupid" Francis did his island proud at the recently held Leeward Islands Calypso Contest in Anguilla.

Cupid walked away with the third place position, emphasizing Montserrat’s rich cultural heritage in the performing arts.

The competition was won by Anguilla’s own "Gossip", with "Mekou" of Nevis finishing in second place.

The recently crowned Calypso King of Antigua/Barbuda, "Onion", finished fourth.

The competition attracted 13 participants from St. Thomas, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, host Anguilla, St. Croix, St. Eustatius, French and Dutch St. Maarten and Antigua/Barbuda, among others.

Montserrat Establishes 2000 Commission

The Department of Culture in the Office of the Chief Minister has decided it would be in the interest of the island, from the standpoint of culture, tourism, and the general developmental and rehabilitation processes, to be involved with celebrations ushering in the new Millennium.

Most countries of the world, and indeed many in the Caribbean, have organized activities which will celebrate the new Millennium.

Against this background Dr. Vernon Buffonge has been appointed coordinator of the Montserrat 2000 Commission, which will soon be established to move forward with the idea.

The Commission will have specific terms of reference, which will include responsibilities to ensure that this occasion, which can only be celebrated once every 1,000 years, be given the proper relevance and significance with respect to Montserrat.

The Commission will also be charged with identifying activities to be organized both on a local and international scale for the year 2000, which could be of particular interest for Montserrat.

The Commission will have these additional terms of reference :

1. To examine any existing initiatives both private and public, and provide the encouragement and support necessary to contribute to their success.
1. To consult with the churches, service clubs and other NGOs to identify which activities or projects may be planned and executed jointly.
2. To plan specific activities celebrating youth, the family and getting to understand better ourselves and our place in the global picture.
3. To provide official sanction to initiatives that may be considered fitting for the Millennium celebrations.
4. To select a logo and theme for the celebrations in Montserrat.
5. To publish and circulate a one- or two-page newsletter reporting on the celebrations and related matters.

The Coordinator, Montserrat 2000

The Chief of Staff, Office of the Chief Minister

The P.S. Education, Health and Community Services

The Director of Tourism

The Manager of Radio Montserrat

The Chairman of the Christmas Festival Committee

The Press Officer, Office of the Chief Minister

The Information Officer, Governor’s Office

The President of representative of the National Youth Council

The Chairman, Montserrat Christian Council

The President, Montserrat National Trust

The Cultural Officer

Alphonsus "Arrow" Cassell

Doug Darby

Dr. Howard A. Fergus

The Commission is scheduled to have its inaugural meeting on Monday August 30.

The Government of Montserrat is now in possession of an additional 51 houses at Lookout.

The British construction cirm Brown and Root handed over the houses at Lookout Phase 2 to the Department for International Development (DFID), who in turn handed them over to the Ministry of Agriculture, Land, Housing and the Environment at a brief ceremony on Thursday August 26^th.

The handover of the first 51 houses at Lookout to the Government of Montserrat represents the approaching completion of the largest housing project on island since the volcanic crisis – 165 homes.

The 150 new homes built by Brown and Root and funded by DFID will comprise 102 one- bedroom, 32 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom houses.

A further 15 three-bedroom houses are being built by CARICOM at Lookout.

Rent levels are based on the floor area of the homes and range from EC $230 monthly for one-bedroom houses to EC $600 for the largest houses.

Three distinctly different types of housing can be seen: traditional blockwork houses with both timber and concrete roof structure, and the distinctive Force 10 modular housing.

All 165 homes have been allocated. The first families will move in from September 1. The Housing Unit will be opening a temporary site office in September to better assist new residents with settling into their new homes.

Three young people represented Montserrat at the recently-held Caribbean Youth Camp in Dominica.

Lyndon Kirwan, who represented the National Youth Council and Rotaract, and Annesta James and Donalia Cuffy, from the Montserrat Red Cross, joined over 200 young people from across the region at the Caribbean Youth Festival which explored the theme - "Caribbean Youth: connecting today for tomorrow."

Participants discussed a variety of topics related to youths and their involvement in national development.

Some of the topics included Caribbean youths and politics, how youths can help facilitate Caribbean integration and unity, Caribbean entertainment and the cultural industry, the future shape of Caribbean education, and the role of religion in the lives of young men and women.

The youths also addressed global issues, including the World Trade Organization’s impact on small states, the banana issue, global communication and living with AIDS/HIV - personal stories of young people.

The youths were also taken on nature tours to allow them to see more of Dominica.

Miss Cuffy took part in one of the workshops organized at the camp, which focused on Youth Credit Initiatives and looked at all the issues related to small business success.

The soft mortgage scheme was delayed

Because GOM was dismayed:

Why help people who’d pay

But give nothing away?

The result is compromised aid.

For new visitors, some advice.

You’ll find clocks here not too precise,

The leisure called liming

Rules out precise timing,

So relax, ‘cause Montserrat nice!

Jus’ wonderin’ why a one-bedroom house was allocated to a family of six although the Housing Unit had the application form to be housed sitting on their desks.

Jus’ wonderin’ why eye and lung-irritating poisonous wall-panels are being used in newly constructed office-space even though there is a stated warning.

Jus’ wonderin’ if Jus Wonderin recognizes that it is the carrier of the Reporter

Jus’ wonderin’ if administration has a succession plan for itself and the Ministry of Housing at the Accounting Officers’ level.

Jus’ wonderin’ when the oldest foreign-owned supermarket will clean its yellow shopping baskets.

Jus’ wonderin’ what lessons were taught when a teacher went to another house for her other half.

Jus’ wonderin how many ex-soldiers shoot their ladies with lies.

Jus’ wonderin’ how soon more houses will be available especially since BROWN will be ROOTing up.

Jus’ wonderin’ if the donkeys will have to go through immigration and customs when leaving for St. Kitts.

Jus’ wonderin’ if it is animal cruelty to coral the donkeys with little grass to eat and no shade.

Jus wonderin if we will really have to wait ten years to see a whole new town.

Jus wonderin if they 'tink' that Jus Wonderin is everybody's watchdog.

Jus wonderin if we will be lucky enough to have the dome remain as it is to provide a picturesque view or break down causing more pyroclastic flows, surges and ash clouds.