Teuten 'Declares' No Thatch Valley
by Bennette Roach
Mr Richard Teuten, head of the unit with responsibility for Montserrat in the Department for International Development (DFID) in London, will leave Montserrat today hoping that he has cleared the air in so far as Montserratians believe that they have a say in the location of a new airport.
In a surprise if not unusual radio call-in program last night, Mr. Teuten was emphatic that since £85 million was all the donor funds available to Montserrat for the next three years, there was no chance of an airport being constructed at Thatch Valley.
Both he and an engineering advisor at DFID, David Gillette, brought in for the purpose explained after almost every question or comment by callers, as well as all those who supported the matter in the recent GIBB consultations, why there could not be an airport at Thatch Valley.
One caller questioned why the option for Thatch Valley was included with the knowledge that the funds would not be available, while another dismissed the whole matter by saying the British never intended for us to have an airport at Thatch Valley, since it was already decided we cannot have it.
Mr. Teuten said that the recent consultation was held for three reasons: (a) to inform Montserratians of the options as analysed; (b) to get the feel of key concerns of people on the island; and (c) to identify any outstanding issues that needed to be examined not hitherto identified.
He said that the first objective was not achieved, while b and c were successful. "We therefore felt further work was needed on our part to help clarify some of the points, to help clarify some of the issues, to answer unanswered questions and to learn new questions which needed further study," Teuten pointed out.
The whole point of the evenings programme was very clear when he declared: "The cost for the airstrip will have to come from donor funds already pledged - £75million from Britain and £10 million from the European Union. Any funds for new projects will have to come from new sources."
At one point Mr. Teuten said that the Government of Montserrat could spend the money on the airport, but he quickly backed up and said that could not happen, because some of the £85 million, "is already committed to projects."
Suggesting disappointment with the GIBB recent consultation, it was pointed out that the consultation was never intended to be a plebiscite or a referendum and that the Thatch Valley option was included in discussions, "to make it clear that the Thatch Valley option was not affordable."
In their quest to convince Montserratians that a return to W H Bramble airport for permanent use was a good option, both Teuten and particularly Gillette said that they had just received a report from the scientists on Monday, which showed that the present airport location was safer that Salem, which expected to be cleared for reoccupation.
Head scientist Dr. Simon Young, questioned about this, said today that he is aware there is a report due in a format similar to some previous reports, but it must be gross interpretation to suggest that Bramble airport "could be safer than any point north of Belham at any time." "At least this is the view of the MVO," he said, confirming that he had not spoken to any British official on island during this week.
This writer did not hesitate to point out to the gentlemen the difficulty in accepting their story after listening to our scientists who have been with us for over three years.
Mr. Gillette pulled a similar kind of story in trying to show that costs at Thatch Valley could not be lessened by disposing of unwanted material in the sea or using it as fill. He said that international standards prevented them from doing anything that would interfere with the marine environment. We have had many experts discuss and advise us on our marine environment, but never before has any one told us of any prohibiting international standard that impinged on our shores.
When it was pointed out that Twin Otter aircraft were no longer available, the gentlemen said they had just researched that there were 23 –28 such aircraft in the region (not in Antigua and LIAT does not own any). They were sympathetic to people losing baggage, but did respond to the problem of daily resulting wait for baggage arrival with the use of a 600-metre runway.
There was no sympathy, however, to the fact that Montserrat should be treated differently in its greatest time of need. Instead Mr. Teuten pointed out that Montserrat has received more aid than Bangladesh in a year and this demonstrates Britain’s commitment.
Interestingly it was learned that the feasibility study begun in November last year and was completed in June. Mr. Teuten agreed that several matters can be looked at again regarding the options, but none of these included Thatch Valley.
Many Happy Returns Awaits 250 Journalists
by Bennette Roach
As final preparations get under way for the Many Happy Returns concert, news reaching us says that the number of journalists expected has increased from 170 to 250.
Local organiser Doug Darby says that the plans are much more advanced than they were at this stage in the planning last year and, although they are prepared for the unexpected, he hopes everything works out well.
Still being organised is a move to bring Mighty Arrow's International Force Band to the island for the occasion. While many wait in anticipation, the new-named "Golden Elephants Band," with which Peter Filleul is associated, will participate.
Doug says that sponsorship is working out well, a point confirmed by Mike Emmanuel, who is responsible for putting that sector together.
Meanwhile work is progressing very well on the stage, which is being constructed by Brown & Root and Force 10.
The occasion is a big one and it is hoped that the commercial sector of Montserrat will participate in making the occasion a memorable one for Montserrat, as the Tourist Department is expected to incorporate the event in its Tourism Week activities
"Fulfill the Prime Minister's Promise as Cheaply as Possible and Forget Them"
If nothing else, callers at least got Mr. Richard Teuten, the DFID head man with responsibility for Montserrat, and company to reluctantly say that it was possible for them to fund further studies of Thatch Valley for consideration to erect a much needed new airport in Montserrat.
If it is perceived that we are labouring this subject, it is because we view the presence of a fully functional airport as absolutely necessary and important to the future development of this island into the paradise it was always intended to be, even with a smoking mountain in the centre of its southern half.
It is very obvious that Mr. Teuten will never clear funds for the development of a Thatch Valley airport, since these funds would have to come from monies already pledged for Montserrat’s sustainability over the next three years. These total £85 million - £75 from Britain and £10 million set aside from the European Union (EU).
It would seem that the Rt. Honourable Prime Minister Tony Blair’s commitment to our Chief Minister to give us an airport would have been treated separately. That this was included in a sum pledged for our sustainability, and then project daily changing figures to determine the viability of the airport project, was no more than an attempt to land us with an airport, with no interest in its consequences to Montserrat and its future.
It is very obvious also that we will be without an airport for some time. Montserratians will not agree for an airport to disrupt the entire inhabited life of the north, by having an backward spectacle at Geralds. Mr. Teuten pointed out that times have changed, but only when it suits them.
It is wonderfully amazing and confusing that they can interpret scientific reports to suggest that the volcano is more life-threatening to residents returning to Salem than workers and travelers at W H Bramble airport. Mr. Gillette said that scientists have issued a report which says the fatality risk from the volcano to Salem is 1 in 7,500; and 1 in 10,000 at W H Bramble. Scientists here dispute this, and say that it would be at least three years before the likely reoccupation of W H Bramble airport and its vicinities, whereas Salem has been cleared already.
This suggestion, and all the arguments put forward that the projected costs for developing Thatch Valley cannot be reduced are clear examples as of how far British civil servants will go to spend money in areas we see as more beneficial to our future.
It is therefore time for us to give up the idea of an airport immediately, and begin to renegotiate the idea and need, involving also any other possibilities. Our next move should be to begin the development of roads and infrastructure into the Silver Hills and Thatch Valley area, thus opening up the area to further development, which would encourage investors to investigate the possibilities. By this time the resources and possibilities for a proper airport should have been much better studied and prepared for.
We should not give up exploring an airport project, but should work tirelessly in developing those other areas which need very serious study and action. Indeed the airport is not the only project that will be vital to our future development.
Economic Advisor's Contract Extended
Mr. Oral Martin, Economic Advisor to the Government of Montserrat, has had his contract extended for another six months.
Mr Martin, who is from Nevis, will continue to advise the Ministry of Finance on fiscal policy and other public finance issues, and assist the Development Unit by providing economic input on projects and economic assessments, among other things.
His tour of duty is being made possible through the Department for International Development (DFID).
His initial contract ran from February to August 1998, while the current one will expire in February 1999.
Ferry Trips Rescheduled For Many Happy Returns
Montserrat Aviation Ltd. has announced changes to the ferry service for three days during which visitors, musicians, organisers and journalists will be using the service for the Many Happy Returns Concert in Montserrat on Tuesday, September 29.
The Saphir Express is one the ferries used in the service with which Montserratians are becoming quite familiar and are using more and more. On Monday, September 28, following the normal morning operation, the ferry will depart Antigua for Montserrat at 2 p.m. instead of the later time, and will depart Montserrat at the usual time of 5 p.m.
On the morning of Tuesday, September 29, it will depart Antigua again at the normal time in the morning and at 4.30 in the afternoon, but will not departing Montserrat for Antigua until midnight that same night.
There will be no morning service on Wednesday, September 30, but the ferry will depart Antigua at mid-day and leave Montserrat at 3 p.m., thereafter returning to its normal service.
Dr. George Irish Honored by UWI
As part of the celebration of its 50th anniversary, the University of the West Indies honored Dr. George A. Irish as one of a number of distinguished graduates who have made valuable contribution to its development.
He was nominated by Montserrat and recognized at a Special Awards Ceremony on 23 July 1998 for his outstanding work. The citation refers to his work as a Resident Tutor in Montserrat, his professorship in languages and comparative literature in Santo Domingo, his educational work in Montserrat in 1981-85, and his current work as Director of the Caribbean Research Center at the Medgar Evers College of the City University of New York.
Dr Irish has published several books on Montserratian society and has won himself numerous prestigious awards. He is one of the persons portrayed in the book, "Gallery Montserrat: some Prominent People in our History." Montserrat is proud of the accomplishments of this talented native son.
Bradshaw Has Sports And Huis Life on Track
Montserrat sprinter Julius Bradshaw (pic) has figured out where he wants his life to go.
" I want to study law, become a corporate lawyer and them maybe go into politics or something like that," said the softspoken, well-mannered 17-year-old.
Brashshaw, who will be competing in the 100m on Wednesday, is the island’s hope to rise from the ashes in their first games since the Soufriere Hills volcano’s eruptions devastated the country in 1995. The lush Caribbean island has been buried by ash, rock and hot gas eruptions from the volcano, which has destroyed some 90 per cent of its buildings.
The Montserrat contingent consists of four athletes, a team manager and a coach. Bradshaw moved to the United States after the disaster, and now lives and trains in Philadelphia. About his chances in the sprint, he only said : "Well, I’ve been training real hard, and I’ll try to do my best."
The teenager, who turned 17 only three weeks ago, is already taking advanced college-level classes in his high school and has no hesitation about how he will spend his spare time in Malaysia. " Well, I’m missing 12 days of school so I will probably be studying," he said.
ZJB Censorship Is Long-Standingy
by Salas Hamilton
I really felt moved to respond to the comments given, regarding the allegation by Reuben Meade that his speech was yanked off ZJB. One of the first principles of good journalism is finding out facts and then couching them in a tasteful manner that can be easily digested by the masses. I will try to give a little history about Radio ZJB, and hope that this shows that if Reuben's allegation is true, then it indicates that it is business as usual in Montserrat and the world regarding most media systems.
In my research into the dynamics of government radio broadcasting in Montserrat, interviews revealed that government intervention into ZJB goes way back. When the government took over ZJB from Frank Delisle and housed it at the Grove Agriculture Station, it began to operate eventually as an entity within the civil service structure. It went from
the phase of technological experiment by persons such as Denzil Edgecombe; programme experiment by Major Vincent Browne, John Ryan, Bennette Roach etc. Then with the installation of Wilsie White as the first manager under the new dispensation, Radio Montserrat greeted the decade of the seventies with its old Marconi transmitter.
From interviews with the Hon. Austin Bramble, who was Chief Minister for the better part of the ‘70s, he indicates that yes, he was sometimes accused of denying airspace to opposition MPs. Former CM John Osborne also told me '...he used to squeeze Austin from going on ZJB because Austin did the same thing to him...' Station Manager Wilsie White was called 'Government Parrot' for seemingly toeing the government line regarding information dissemination. Calypsoes with harsh government commentary were banned. One example was Arrow's PDP, which had lines to
the best of my recollection...
'...PDP, PDP, to hell with the Labour Party...
Willy Bramble do his best,
now is time he take a rest,
so hurray for the power house party...'
Although it was a private station, the Government of Montserrat was also asked by some neighbouring CARICOM Governments to apply pressure to Radio Antilles to ensure that its newscast was not too critical of incumbent regional administrations. Fortunately the editorial autonomy of the Big RA was left intact from any known political interference in Montserrat. This was possibly because of the RA contract and the accolades poured on the station for its fair commentary and equal opportunities offered all governments and opposition parties.
With the arrival of the Reuben Meade administration, Radio Montserrat was on its third Station Manager. There was a spanking new building, the envy of the Caribbean, and new transmitters were purchased. ZJB also was on both FM and AM frequencies. This was an option taken since Hurricane Hugo damaged the station. FM is easier and cheaper to erect, however it is not as effective in terms of power, especially in mountainous terrains. This explains why Montserratians overseas now cannot hear ZJB beyond some parts in Antigua, St.Kitts and Nevis on a clear day. It is only on FM.
I know of two programmes that were pulled under the Reuben Meade Administration. Cheddy and Owen's "Conscious Connection" and the Romeo's "Family Affairs." From my research these programmes were considered by some to be avenues for lashing out at government policy under the disguise of educational programming.The "Conscious Connection" was steeped in spreading the message of black consciousness and built up a strong following, especially from the youths on a Friday night. It reinforced the knowledge that Montserratians came from a race of strong,
beautiful and intelligent people. The programme was not as radical as some may have wanted to believe and followed the ideas of negritude.
"Family Affairs" (from the ones I heard) dealt with education on family life. (The programme was pulled after my research was done). However it was alleged that after a while the hosts of the programme journeyed into criticisms of the government of the day.
I hope I have given enough of a background to the development of Radio ZJB to suit the purposes of this discourse.
Now for analysis for more than broadcasting.
There is no balanced reporting/programming. All media persons strive for fairness in their work, however they write or broadcast from instruments influenced by opinion. Not even the BBC is balanced. It may be the best example, certainly way above CNN and other USA media houses, in an attempt at fairness. Therefore with regards to ZJB, some of the staff over the years are responsible for cutting divergent views from the air.
This is called self-censorship. Many staff members have this idea of what they should not put on the air even before it goes on. So the manager and the politician may not even know about it.
Montserrat cannot be a colony and a democracy at the same time. There is nothing democratic about colonisation. What is democracy? It is my belief that with the discussion of developing Montserrat, and its voice of the people, there must be some ideas on the path to self-determination. These ideas may be crude but most Montserratians are asking for the input into the development of the island. The medium for ventilating these views can only be ZJB at this time.
I cannot ascertain if Reuben's statement was really pulled, but if it was then one can assume that the authorities thought that Reuben was airing for public consumption, on a Government station, things not in the best interest of the country. Whether those views are right or wrong I will not discuss. However I maintain that some things should not be aired.
Even if ZJB was privatised, the government still has a responsibility to control elements of decency, law of the land etc...all part of the broadcast ethic as outlined by the various agencies such as the ITU. If Reuben's statement falls within this rubric then it should not be aired.
If it was fair and not taking the law into his own hands then it should be broadcast.
What is necessary in Montserrat right now is the opportunity for persons to air their views decently over the future path for the island. This must be done with all sectors in mind. However, what I have found, and I use some of the words from a certain learned Montserratian, in instances where there should be familial ties and unity in a territory that even
now has a diminished population, there is instead the harsh wrangling and (grudgeness) over tit bits thrown to the mongrels of society (be it UK tit bits or not). This is excacerbated by our mentality, spawned from a colonial ethos that our own is no good and every divergent view is considered to be a bitter weed to be trampled and dug up.
Therefore we end up with an exodus of Montserratians overseas (even before the volcano) who view developments back home from distant shores, while taking a sortie from the lines of battle.
Well, things are changing and a number of us are returning. Want to return. We must have a united front as we deal with the real issues.
These issues have on the top of the list our relationship with the UK and our development path. In the new mode of negotiation and diplomacy, I see the strengths of Reuben Meade, Chief Minister David Brandt and others
combining to reflect a resolve that Montserratians need to be respected as a people who have an opportunity to rebuild their land.
We must not be ravaged by petty wranglings among ourselves or we become divided in the face of the world and its asperities. Boy it would be nice to see a front of intelligent Montserratians working together; not against the British but guiding the British as to what we want and forcefully articulating a position reflective of a country not worrying
about a statement taken off the air. If my (utopia maybe) idea can be considered, then Reuben's time table for the opening of Salem would be discussed with the Government (was this done?) and presented to the Governor. That would be ideal. Maybe I am a dreamer. But that’s all I have. Dreams and memories of/for Montserrat where I grew up and lived.
Memories of Cheddy Browne sitting down at the Evergreen Tree espousing Pan Africanism, David Edgecombe creating plays at the UWI centre, Jim Allen writing history with a bat, Howard Fergus waxing warm with poetry,
Miss Gwen by Grand Stand sitting by Kelsick screaming "paper, paper, paper" every Friday, Arrow releasing, Howell publishing, La Buddy and Never Me liming, and the smells of Plymouth on a Friday afternoon or Saturday are etched into my landscape.
UK, Territories Mum About Tax Seminar
Early this month two members from the Ministry of Finance, Financial Secretary, Mr C.T. John, and Comptroller of Inland Revenue, Mr Haycene Ryan, attended a seminar on Harmful Tax Competition.
It was held at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in London on Monday 7 September 1998, mounted for all 13 Overseas Territories (OTs), 10 of which were represented.
The speakers were officials from Her Majesty's Treasury and Her Majesty's Inland Revenue. They are the technical persons representing Her Majesty's Government (HMG) on the international scene in this matter. The seminar was opened with a comprehensive speech by Baroness Symons.
Participants suggested that "Harmfull Tax Competition" has not been precisely defined, but it is thought to occur where legislation facilitates tax evasion or avoidance for non-residents, or where special tax rates or niches are offered to attract mobile capital.
This seminar was reportedly called for by the United Kingdom, which had recently been party to international agreements on Harmful Tax Competition. in the Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the big seven (G7 and the European Union (EU).
Following the agreements, OECD, G7 and EU announced plans to approach the problems, and member states of OECD have committed themselves to ensuring that the measures are applied to their dependent or associated territories, within their own constitutional framework.
It is reported that the Department for International Development (DFID) and Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) have commissioned a study to assess the economic impact of the initiatives on the OTs. The 13 OTs (including Gibraltar) will potentially be affected by the initiatives. In the first instance, the study will focus on British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Montserrat, Anguilla, Turks and Caicos Islands and Bermuda.
Our local participants have said that they wish to honour the agreement not to release details of the discussions. Mr. C.T. John said: "It was agreed that the details of the discussions were not to be made public."
However inquiries from overseas and UK sources said there were long and tough discussions on questions surrounding the fact that some of the OECD members abstained from the agreements; that other independent countries were not involved. There seemed to have been some concern that the OTs were not consulted before the UK made its commitments.
Apparently a list was prepared of some territories considered to have Harmful Tax organisations, while others were treated differently.
It proved difficult to obtain information of what seemed to be a ticklish matter where the OTs were concerned, but one which the UK government had become party to in finding ways and means to deal with. Baroness Symons, immediately following her opening speech at the seminar, described the matter when she said: "There is, of course, a difference between tax evasion and tax avoidance."
The Baroness was speaking during her two-day visit to the British Virgin Islands, 8th - 9th September. The Baroness said also that the UK government is looking at the impact on the economies of the OTs from some of the measures discussed with the OTs.
Montserrat will no doubt seek to benefit in these circumstances by obtaining training in these areas to help deal with these so-called new measures.
Government Information Service
Government Urges Legislation To Regulate Insurance Companies
The Government of Montserrat is leading the way in having new legislation governing insurance companies regulated.
Chief Minister the Honourable David Brandt, who has raised the problems facing Montserratians on the regional and international stage since insurance companies abandoned Montserrat in August 1997, has been prompting the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank to regulate the industry.
The Chief Minister hosted a meeting at McChesney Estate on Wednesday, 10th September, to discuss new insurance legislation. In attendance were His Excellency Governor Anthony Abbott, Minister of Communications and Works the Honourable Rupert Weekes, Minister of Agriculture,Trade and the Environment the Honourable P. Austin Bramble and members of the Montserrat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI).
Mr. Brandt said the meeting marked an important day for Montserrat because the ECCB "has taken a step which we regard as critical at this time."
He said, "Montserrat has suffered a lot in the past because of the action of some insurance companies. There were times in the past when insurance companies would deduce policies and when the time comes for them to pay they would not pay. There were times in the past when companies fail to pay in one territory and come and open business in another territory. There were times when insurance carriers promoted themselves by promising they are adequately insured, which did not turn out to be the case. There were times when insurance adjusters use percentages as the sum insured as a basis of settlement instead of accurately formulating damage reports as required elsewhere in the property insurance world. Insurance adjusters calculated depreciation on a standard rate based upon the sum insured when depreciation is really calculated by age and the property damage. Insurance carriers using policy language that is out of date both in the United Kingdom and the United States for over forty years. Insurance carriers failing to issue insurance policies until after the loss occurred and then attaching restrictive policy endorsements. Insurance carriers, management, brokers, and agents involved in the adjustment process of property claims when professional adjusters should handle such activities. Insurance carriers conspiring to increase insurance settlement payment deduction provisions of insurance policies."
The Chief Minister told participants at the meeting that Montserrat has suffered great loss and now more than ever appreciate the importance of having good insurance companies in Montserrat.
ECCB Insurance Advisor Harold Russell said the process began a few years ago in 1990, when the Monetary Council of the ECCB directed that the Central Bank become involved in the supervision of insurance business. This has resulted in that we are developing a model Insurance Act for the region.
A copy of the draft has been circulated among the insurance companies. Mr. Russell was pleased that the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Montserrat "has been taking such a great interest in this subject, which is unique within the region. And I can understand why there is such a great interest in it because I don’t think you can have meaningful economic development without insurance to support the infrastructure and support the development thrust."
He said "what is required is that we require strong companies. Companies that would have the financial strength to meet their obligations when these obligations become due."
According to Mr. Russell the legislation will:
Additionally under the proposed new law:
Mr. Russell said the legislation, which is in its draft stage, is intended to put the regulation of insurance businesses on a firm footing.
He says the purpose of the legislation is to ensure that people who pay insurance premiums are dealt with fairly when they make their claims.
NetworkGovernment Improves Road
With the Hill Top to St. Johns Road Rehabilitation Project going smoothly, the Government of Montserrat is turning its attention to a number of minor roads.
The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) under the Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) is sponsoring a project to improve the road network in a number of areas.
These areas are in Drummonds, Pasture Piece (leading to the Montserrat Defence Force Camp), Dick Hill, Cavalla Hill, and Davy Hill.
The projects cost a total of over EC$300 000, of which 73 per cent is financed by the CDB through the BNTF programme, which is in its fourth year.
Honourable Rupert Weekes Speaks Out on Airport Issue
The options for the airport project came under close scrutiny during the past week, as Gibb International, consultants who conducted the feasibility study for the project, hosted a series of consultations.
Residents were given the opportunity to participate in the discussions and to voice their opinion on what they think is the best option for Montserrat going into the new millennium.
Following the four nights of consultations, last Monday to Thursday, Minister of Communications and Works the Honourable Rupert Weekes hosted a news conference at which he addressed a number of issues resulting from the consultations.
Mr. Weekes also entertained questions from the media which comprised the Government Information Service (GIS), Radio Montserrat and the Montserrat Reporter.
He first gave an overview of the airport scenario.
" At a meeting or forum held earlier this year at Manjack at the DFID Office the consultancy firm Gibb International that did the feasibility study on the options for an airport siting in Montserrat made a presentation and several issues were discussed at that meeting.
"It was also decided at the end of the meeting that DFID would finance some members of the Gibb team to come and do a further presentation on the options. Well, as we are aware, this presentation started on Monday evening where we had one at St. John’s at the Anglican Church, Tuesday night we moved to the St. Peters Rectory, on Wednesday we were at Brades Pentecostal Church, and Thursday night at the Defence Force Headquarters in Geralds."
The Minister of Communications and Works said he was very pleased with the turnout and the participation of all who attended the series of meetings. He said people were very vocal, which tells him that the subject was one of great importance to all Montserratians.
"It also shows me that our people have been doing their homework or their private study if you want to call it that on the report that was presented and also the options that were presented to us." Mr. Weekes added.
When asked about what he learnt from the people whom he considered to be very vocal during the consultations, the Minister of Communications and Works said he learnt several things.
"But, the main one is that what we were saying last year as a people, we are still saying it this year. Based on what I heard at the Consultation exercise, is that Montserratians are saying that Thatch Valley is still the best option. That was the main thing that came out of the consultation exercise."
He added that residents, in expressing their views echoed the traumatic experience in terms of what happened at Bramble Airport.
" They are saying they do not think it is a wise decision to even think about rehabilitating Bramble Airport."
Minister Weekes explained that the Blakes option was not seen as an option, and the Geralds option, with all the negatives, seemed to be ruled out at a very early stage. "And personally, what I heard coming out of those presentations is that the figures presented for the Thatch Valley option, the general public felt they were grossly overstated."
Throughout the consultations it was stressed that the choice for the new airport will be left up to the people of Montserrat.
Ask how the consultations helped influence the decision as to which option will be chosen for the new airstrip, Minister Weekes said: "The consultation exercise was a very important one in the sense that as early as last year, when the options were discussed, the Government of Montserrat said that Thatch Valley was the preferred option of the people of Montserrat and also the Government of Montserrat.
He said this position was clearly stated to British Government officials.
"But what they were saying to us was that our preferred option seemed
to be a political view. They wanted the views of the people and I think
that at least with this government, when politicians speak, we speak
for the people. So they wanted to give the people a chance to air their
views and that was done," he added.
Mr. Weekes also stressed that during the consultations, the people
were even more vocal than the politicians in saying that Thatch Valley
still is the best option, the preferred option, and the only option that
Montserratians would wish to go for.
He said contrary to reports that a decision was made in England and that some document was signed to have the airport at Geralds, he knew all along that Government wanted the Thatch Valley option. He said with the negative impact of the Geralds option it would not make sense to construct an airport there.
Referring to the Consultants, he added, "I believe that they had their brief from their employers, and if they’re saying that the decision rests with the people of Montserrat, I think the people have decided and that their decision should be respected."
Mr. Weekes said after the Government of Montserrat informed the British Government or the DFID officials of the preferred option, they were the ones who indicated they wanted to hear from the people. " And as Minister with responsibility for air communications, I welcomed the opportunity and readily agreed to facilitate the process because I think that it is not a matter or an issue to be decided on by a minister or even a government, it is a national issue and people must have the facts and be in a position to assist in making that decision."
Commenting on the options of 600-metre airstrips, Mr Weekes said, coming out of the consultations, the idea of constructing such airstrips in this day and age is a backward step. He said the trend throughout the Caribbean as it presently stands is to improve the length of most of the existing runways.
"We’d remember as recent as 1995 we had a 1200-metre runway at W.H. Bramble airport and there were serious plans to extend in 1995 so why are we even considering in 1998 to construct a 600-metre runway.
The issue of costing also came up for discussion and where the funds were coming from to build the airport.
Mr. Weekes explained that the cost of the project would come from the 75-million pounds allocated to Montserrat, but he doesn’t think that anyone should be too worried about that at this time. " What we need to do is to find out the actual cost of the construction of the runway on the airport. We have been saying to the Gibb consultants, you’re saying that the airport at Thatch Valley will cost over 300-million EC dollars and we are saying that for us to make an informed decision we need them to separate the costs for us" he added.
The Communications and Works Minister says there are two committees established by his Ministry to look at the whole airport issue. They are a technical committee and a management or facilitation committee.
"I’m expecting a report very soon from the technical committee, which would be taken to the next level, the facilitation committee, and then a position would be put forward to Government and that would be the position that would be taken to the British Government."
He said no decision has been taken as to the site of an airport. "The consultations would’ve been null and void if a decision was already taken" Mr. Weekes added.
"I can’t see the British Government imposing an airport in Geralds. Montserratians are an educated people and this has recently been highlighted, based on the performance of our children even in England and Caribbean countries. We are an intelligent people and we know what we want and we are in the best position to advocate for what we want." Minister Weekes concluded.
In closing, Mr. Weekes expressed thanks to the Gibb team for its presentation exercise and for answering questions and listening to comments.
He also expressed his gratitude to Montserratians who participated and for the very important and relevant issues they brought to the floor.
Mr. Weekes said he hoped that all the parties involved will work closely together for the betterment of Montserrat and all Montserratians.
MFA Youth Training Programme Postponed.
The Montserrat Football Association (MFA) says the start of its 1998 Youth Training Programme has been postponed.
The association says the programme, which was originally set to kick off Saturday 19th September, has been pushed back one week because the training equipment has not yet arrived on island.
The MFA says all being well, sessions will begin next Saturday 26th September at the temporary playing field at Little Bay.
According to the MFA, the possible reopening of Salem this month-end will be a plus for the training programme in that a more adequate facility would be available for more training.
The MFA is appealing to boys and girls under the age of 19 years to turn out for registration and the start of the training programme on September 26th.
Overseas Nationals Must Comply With Regulations
In recent times, nationals of several overseas countries arriving in Montserrat to access employment opportunities have been refused entry because they do not fulfil entry requirements.
The Government of Montserrat welcomes individuals from its Caricom neighbours who would like to contribute to the island’s development process.
The Government of Montserrat has waived all work permit fees for Caricom nationals until the end of this year, however, it must be noted that there is a processing fee at this stage.
However, the acute housing shortage mitigates against the free flow of persons at this time and the following immigration and work permit regulations must be adhered to.
If you require further information please contact:
St. John’s
c/o Box 103
Montserrat
Fax: (664) 491 - 5340/6941
Telephone number 491 - 4010
LDA Invites application for self-build housing grant
The Montserrat Land Development Authority (LDA) is inviting eligible, relocated households to apply with the LDA to participate in the recently-approved DFID-sponsored Self-Build Housing Grant Project.
This second phase of the Self-build Housing project will offer financial assistance to up to 120 relocated households living in Montserrat.
This is dependent to a large extent on those households who have legal access to land in the safe zone to organize the construction of their own low-cost housing.
DFID’s Project Memorandum states that the goal of this project is to relieve needy relocated households living in unsatisfactory circumstances.
It is designed to offer assistance for a basic dwelling unit which households can move into quickly and can create into a home for themselves over time.
The LDA’s role, as the Project’s manager, is to ensure that Grant funds are used effectively and that the proposed dwellings can be completed.
The maximum level of assistance is equivalent to 75 per cent of the materials and labour costs of building a small, hurricane-resistant, wood-framed house to a minimum acceptable size for the number of occupants (345 sq ft for a 1-bedroom house; 435 sq ft for a 2-bedroom house; and 545 sq ft for a 3-bedroom house).
The LDA says the applicants would have to contribute the other 25 per cent of the materials and labour costs required to complete the dwelling.
The Land Development Authority says grant recipients may build, at their own cost, to a higher specification than the minimum, if they can demonstrate they have the means to do so initially, or may improve their property later if they choose and are able to do so.
The project’s Administrative Officer Sylvia White says the level of assistance provided is not determined solely by the number of bedrooms desired, but on the actual needs of the applicant’s immediate household and the household’s ability to contribute toward the completion of the dwelling.
A new component of this Phase of the Self-build Grant Project is a pilot programme that will grant 100 per cent financing for housing for up to twelve households in priority groups, who are unable to provide the normal 25 per cent contribution, but meet all other eligibility requirements.
For these twelve households who do not have any financial resources, the Land Development Authority may provide up to 100 per cent grant and manage the construction of their houses.
Assistance for Football Rehabilitation in Montserrat
The Sport of football in Montserrat has received a major and timely boost.
The European Football Association (UEFA) has made US $100,000 available to CONCACAF President Austin "Jack" Warner to assist Montserrat.
The Montserrat Football Association (MFA), in thanking Mr. Warner and UEFA President Lennart Johansson for their assistance, says these funds will be used for the rehabilitation of a football programme on the island.
The money will be drawn down in tranches.
Following a meeting in Antigua late last year, a proposal was written on the state of football in Montserrat at the request of Mr. Warner.
A subsequent letter was sent to UEFA General Secretary Gerhard Aigner for his consideration, hence the grant.
The project proposal, as spelt out in the letter dated 27th November 1997 to Mr. Aigner, is seen as a broad framework for the revival of football training in Montserrat with a view to sending national teams to participate in regional and international tournaments.
The MFA says the senior programme is well underway with some thirty players in training for the upcoming Leeward Islands Football Association (LIFA) tournament
scheduled for November.
This competition will be played on a home-and-away format with Montserrat to decide which Leeward Island will be its home base.
The MFA says basic training is being done here on Montserrat, while players will travel to the other Leeward Islands periodically for move intense training.
The overseas trips start this weekend.
Meantime , the MFA is scheduled to kick off its youth programme for both boys and girls this Saturday.
The governing body of football on Montserrat says by way of incentives, a football kit will be given to each player in the youth programme.
The MFA also says players who are selected to the various national teams -
Under-19, Under-17, Under-15 and Under-13 - will receive assistance through school from the association.
And in January 1999, as stated by football’s world governing body, FIFA, all
confederates will receive a grant of US $ 1 million in installments of $250,000 over the next four years.
The Montserrat Football Association says FIFA President Sepp Blatter has promised CONCACAF Confederates he has plans to fast track $50,000 to each member by October this year.
Browsers More Helpful Than Many Users Think
Thanks tp browsers, people are traveling far and wide on the Web. Unfortunately, many folks aren't making that trip very efficiently and are spending more time and energy than they need.
That isn't the fault of browsers, which have a number of built-in features designed to speed up work on the Web. But many of you, especially those new to the Internet, don't know about these shortcuts.
So if you feel like you're driving a car in second gear, fire up your browsers and read on. With the help of some obliging Web heads at Yahoo!, CNET, Netscape and Microsoft, we've pulled together some tips for browser users.
These will work with both Netscape's Navigator and Microsoft's Internet Explorer. Some of the suggestions below may sound complicated at first, but try them out at your computer. They're really quite simple.
•Tip Number One: Open multiple windows.
Wouldn't it be a pleasure to look at one Internet site on your screen, while the information from another site was downloaded at the same time, ready for you when you were ready for it? That, and more, is possible when you open more than one browser window.
Most people know that in a word-processing program, you can have many documents open at the same time and that you can switch back and forth among them as you see fit. The same is true for browsers.
But browsers do more than let you have many windows open at the same time.
They also allow these windows to download information from the Net simultaneously and independently of each other. This is a powerful capability, one that savvy Web surfers use all the time.
The key to multiple windows is the right-hand button on your mouse. (On the single-buttoned Macintosh mouse, hold the control key down while you click.) Ordinarily, when you're looking at a Web page and see a link you want to check out, you click on that link with the left mouse button. Doing so dumps the current page out the window, and loads the new page into the same window.
But if you use the right mouse button, and click on the "open in new window" option that pops up on your screen, something completely different happens. The first window stays intact, but a second window opens up for the new page. That means you can switch back to the first window right away, without suffering any of the delays common to the "Back" button.
You can also open up a new window through the "File" command at the top of the screen.
What's the advantage? Say you are searching a topic and get back a list of suggested links. By right-clicking on those links and opening them up in their own windows, you can check them out, but then almost instantly switch back to the search page. You can also easily compare one page with another
by switching between them, or keep a page up for later reference.
Using multiple windows also gets the most out of your Internet pipeline.
More often than most people think, the World Wide Wait occurs, not because the data pipe coming into your machine is too small, but because the computer at the other end of the pipe is too slow.
That means there is often a lot of unused capacity in your modem connection, which you can help fill by downloading different pages into different windows at the same time.
To switch back and forth between multiple windows, you can use the task bar in Windows 95 or 98, where each window is represented by a separate button.
You also can hold down the "Alt" key and then press "Tab" to rotate through your open windows -- and anything else running in your computer.
Note that when you have multiple windows open, clicking on the "X" in the upper right-hand corner just closes that one window; it doesn't shut down your browser.
•Now for the other tips:
The right mouse button can perform other navigation tricks. Use it instead of the "Back" or "Forward" buttons to go back and forth among Web pages you've already visited. Just right-click anywhere on a page other than directly over a link and a pop-up menu appears with a choice of "Back" or "Forward."
The latest versions of both Netscape's and Microsoft's browsers offer another alternative. Right-clicking on the "Back" or "Forward" buttons at the top of the screen will bring up a list of recently visited pages,
allowing you to jump right to the one you want.
Sometimes it's easier to move around with the keyboard than with a mouse.
You can hop quickly down a Web site a full screen at a time by hitting the space bar; the "Page Up" and "Page Down" keys perform the same function in both directions. The arrow keys will take you up or down a page line by line.
You can also go backward or forward among Web pages by holding down the "Alt" key and hitting either the left or the right arrow.
When typing in a Web address, you don't need to include "http://". Browsers are smart enough to supply it. (This shortcut might not work on some corporate intranet sites.)
It's easy to find a word or phase in the text of a Web page. You can jump right to it by typing "Control-f," or by clicking "Find" in the "Edit" menu at the top of the page. Both these commands work just like they do in word-processing programs, prompting you for the search phrase.
Why is she always too tired for sex?
It's a Matter of Timing
Today, the average significant other often goes off to a job of her own. But she still has to cook, clean, and rear the children when she gets home.
American men are working harder, doing about 160 more hours of work a year than they did at the end of the 1960s, according to Juliet B. Schor, Ph.D., author of "The Overworked American." But women are working harder still, having added about 300 hours of work a year to their schedules.
And you wonder why so often she says she's too tired to fool around. Part of the problem, says Harriet Schechter, founder of The Miracle Worker Organizing Service, which has helped thousands of couples and businesses to organize their lives, is that men still don't pitch in on the home front as much as they might. So if you want her to have more time for you, you have to give her more time. Or as Schechter as advises men: "If you want to get down and dirty, get up and clean." With many couples, time that might better be spent romantically is spent instead fighting over who is or is not doing his or her fair share of the dishes, laundry, child care, or (fill in the blank).
It's also important to start a daily ritual where you set aside a time when you and she can massage each other's feet, take a shower, or just be together and talk. Another good idea is to plan on both of you hitting the sack earlier than usual.
"It's really about putting that (your sex life) as a priority on your overall list and saying, 'Okay, I'm going to consciously make time for this.' And it works," says Schechter.
Why is he afraid to commit?
Singles Self Defense
"Some people move from relationship to relationship as a way of protecting themselves," explains sex therapist Derek Polonsky, M.D., author of the book "Talking About Sex." You may be one of those guys who say you're lonely but don't want to open up to another person.
Women and men often go through a period of multiple, uncommitted relationships, sampling what's out there to discover what appeals to them most.
During this phase, it's hard for any of us to say what we want, because we don't know. The decision to look for a long-term relationship requires that we all know not only whom we're looking for but also who we are.
Interestingly, many of the qualities that men say they want in a woman are things that women want -- or should want -- for themselves, with or without a man: High self-esteem; a sense of independence; a caring spirit; a sense of her own sexuality; and a sense of humor all are requirements for a happy, healthy life, solo or coupled.
And if she has all those things, then maybe it's time to take Dr. Polonsky's advice: Sit down and ask yourself why you're avoiding commitment. Maybe you had a bad experience. Maybe you hate being dependent or feeling vulnerable. We can understand this, but it's what a relationship is all about, friend.
Geralds Bottom
Once those loathsome latrines were installed
They left those who had smelled them appalled.
Now official approval
Will secure their removal
As those age-old complaints are recalled.
Bait and Switch
A Thatch Valley airport? You're wrong,
For DFID's not singing that song.
Think instead of a query
On the life of the ferry,
Which could be cut short before long.
JUS' WONDERIN'
Jus wonderin why the AM ZJB Radio station cannot be heard by Montserratians overseas and what provision has been made by Government to rectify the situation.
Jus wonderin whycomputer program lessons are not organized by the University Center, knowing that the world is gone computerized..
Jus wonderin why so much struggle over an Airport. Is it what‘s best for Montserrat or is it a take-it-or-leave-it situation?
Jus wonderin when Montserrat’s new Capital would be publicly announced. Investors need to know, in order to invest or reinvest.
Jus wonderin since the $10,000 packages, what other subsidy is in the pipeline for relocated Montserratians.
Jus wonderin if the GIBB consultants are going to be paid for the consultation they spent a week conducting.
Jus wonderin why anyone would consider a 600-metre runway for any island in these times that even Teuten says change so fast.
Jus wonderin if Teuten is afraid of people why chose a call-in radio programme or is it because he was worried people would call him a liar face to face.
Jus wonderin if the public has been advised of the legal aspects of "LAND LEASING"to avoid complications later.
Jus wonderin if government is organizing an export market for Montserrat of ash as fertilizer.
Jus wonderin why the CM wants the ladies at the EU houses to go and get friends to clean up the builders’ shabby work.
Jus wonderin why those who are supposed to be enforcing the law are breaking the law with who the song calls ‘jail baits’ and ‘baby food’.
Jus wonderin when the Editor will stop the people wonderin and start them confirmin.
Jus wonderin where Montserrat can find these international standards rules that govern where, how and when islanders can throw soil into the sea.
The Labour Department has received several application from Caricom Nationals seeking employment in the construction industry in Montserrat. Employers/Contractors interested in hiring Carpenters, Masons, Plumbers, Electricians, Drivers etc. are kindly asked to contact the Labour Department at Geralds for further information between the hours of 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. from
Monday to Friday. The telephone number is 491- 4010.
Jim Van Hecke & Associates Ltd Authorized agent for Nagico Insurances Invites you to Let the Magic of Nagico work for you.
Insuring Home, Contents, Buisness, Contractors, Medical.
Office located at A & F Service Center,Sweeneys St.John’s
Montserrat. Tel: 491-9301 Fax 491-9302.
NOTICE TO RELOCATED HOUSEHOLDS
The Montserrat Land Development Authority (LDA) is inviting eligible, relocated households who wish to build their own low-cost houses, to apply for a grant under the recently approved Self-Build Housing Project. Persons who have already applied should contact the LDA.
The Project will offer financial assistance to 120 relocated households living in Montserrat, who have legal access to land in the northern zone. The level of subsidy depends on household size and resources with maximum grants of $33,700 for applicants requiring a 1-bedroom house; $41,390 for those needing a two-bedroom house; and $50,800 for those requiring a three-bedroom house.
Application forms, and details of the project, including eligibility criteria and approval and inspection procedures, are available at the offices of the LDA, the Ministry of Housing, Community Services Department, and all shelters.
Applications and supporting documents should be returned to LDA's office in Palm Loop by 30th September 1998. Persons who require additional information or need help to fill out their application can call LDA at 4914758/2687 or visit its office between 9:00 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.
VACANCIES EXISTING IN THE MONTSERRAT PUBLIC SERVICE
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
AUDIT DEPARTMENT
INLAND REVENUE DEPARTMENT
MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
BROADCASTING SERVICES
MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE,TRADE AND THE ENVIRONMENT
MINISTRY OF HEALTH
HER MAJESTY’S PRISON
ROYAL MONTSERRAT POLICE FORCE
Details of these positions can be obtained from the Permanent Secretary, Administration.
Applications for the above positions should reach the Permanent Secretary, Administration, Palm Loop, Montserrat, no later than 30 September 1998.
CABLE TV VACANCIES
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