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'Labour Speaks' Reply to CM Barred from ZJB

Hylroy Bramble of "Labour Speaks"

The weekly paid for program "Labour Speaks" has been denied air time on ZJB radio for all of this week and Mr. Hylroy Bramble, commentator on that program, said he intends to take the matter to the courts.

Mr. Bramble has told The Montserrat Reporter that he has consulted with Mr. David Brandt, attorney-at-law, to pursue the matter with the Chief Minister’s office under whose authority the radio station lies.

Listeners to ZJB radio last week would have heard Chief Minster John Osborne berate the Labour Speaks program, saying that Hylroy Bramble has a slave mentality. The Chief Minister was responding to the question in the program of Tuesday, November 12, 2002, which asked; “Comrades is it true that the government of Montserrat is paying house rent to the tune of $8,000 per month for the chief minister?”

This newspaper’s readers would have noticed the matter had also been questioned in the "Jus Wonderin’ " column and the fact that the newspaper had not questioned the payment of rent by government "lock stock and barrel" for the chief minister.

After learning on Tuesday that the program was not aired, the Permanent Secretary (PS) to the Chief Minister was asked why it had not been.  The PS, Mrs. Sarita Francis, responded that she was following guidelines she met in the office for airing of the program and she had been waiting for comments from the Attorney General’s office to clear the program for airing.

The program, the text for which was shared with the Reporter, was responding in part to the Chief Minister’s attack on Mr. Bramble and the rent issue and begins thus: “…our honourable leader in his attempt to debase me by calling me a slave went so far that parts of his angry response amount to what many consider to be racist slurs. Brothers and sisters his anger was evident, his response leaves much to be desired and yet, more unanswered questions.”

Mr. Brandt, acting for Mr. Hylroy Bramble of Banks, writes to the PS on 19^th November, 2002: “I am instructed that my client slavishly followed what was required of him in the guidelines laid down by Government. My client was informed that you as Permanent Secretary gave instructions that his recording should not be published on Tuesday the 19^th November.

“My client is aware that the Honourable Attorney General’s Chambers sanctioned his programme and informed the relevant authority of that fact.”

The letter to the PS further stated: "You wrote a condemnatory letter to the Manager of the Radio Station castigating him for publishing the said broadcast.” (Tuesday 12^th November).”

Up to the time of press today, management at the radio station confirmed it had not received any clearance for the program.

Mr. Bramble has provided The Montserrat Reporter with a copy of the Broadcasting Guidelines with respect to his program "Labour Speaks," which he said he had received only this week. He said he had been operating up to now on just verbal advice from the station.

An excerpt from these Guidelines reads: “Criticism of the Offices of HE The Governor, the Hon Chief Minister and Hon Ministers should in no circumstances be permitted.”

These were supplied by Attorney General Charles Ekins dated May 28, 1999.

These were obviously produced during Mr. Brandt’s tenure as Chief Minister, but it is equally obvious that his office paid no attention to these guidelines since he and his ministers were constantly criticized by the "Labour Speaks" program.

It may also be recalled that the Chief Minister and then Governor Abbott had exchanged views on the control of broadcasting on radio ZJB, and since then there has been ongoing discussion as to who should control authority over the radio station.

In the letter of 19^th November, 2002, Mr. Brandt is asking for four items, among them “a written explanation as to why my client’s program was not published on the 19^th November and a copy of the condemnatory letter within mentioned.”

These were to be supplied by noon today or “legal action will be taken…without further notice.”

In late news Acting Chief Minister Lowel Lewis said today that the political directorate was unaware of the non-airing of Labour Speaks this week. He told The Montserrat Reporter that there was a delay since the first response from the Attorney General’s Chambers was now replaced with further advice from the Attorney-General’s chambers which said that the said program “contains items which can be considered to be abusive and potentially libelous.

In that case he said, the program “will not be allowed to be aired as is.”

(Editor’s Note: The Montserrat Reporter is shocked to learn of the existence of these guidelines and will present them to the public in depth in a later issue of the newspaper) 

Sir Howard Acclaims Country  Conference

Professor Sir Howard Fergus, resident tutor of the University of West Indies (UWI) here in Montserrat, said late last week, as he saw off some of his guests at the end of the  School of Continuing Studies Country Conference, that he could “only speak in superlatives” about the success of the conference.

He repeated how pleased he was that his superiors allowed the conference to eventually toke place in Montserrat and was full of praise for Mr. George Goodwin’s “unpretentious” address, which followed Professor Fergus’ welcome, had  set a good tone for the conference.

Professor Fergus said he thought the conference “was completely successful.”

He spoke about his excitement over the papers presented by Montserratians, naming among them to be Mrs. Roselyn Cassell-Sealy, Mrs. Angella Greenaway, Mr. Claude Hogan, Mrs. Margaret (Annie) Dyer-Howe, and the Montserratian diaspora , Dr. Vernie Barnes, Gracelyn Cassell and Mrs. Gertrude Shotte.

In concluding his comment the Sir Howard expressed gratitude for the cooperation he received locally, which he called "remarkable," and applauded the timeliness of the completion of the Police Headquarters, where the conference was held. He said he was also grateful for the support received from several senior civil servants. 

EDITORIAL

"UWI Country Conference Reveals An Island That Doesn't Need to Beg"

The University of the West Indies (UWI) resident tutor could only speak in “superlatives” when he was asked to comment on the just concluded Montserrat leg of the University’s School of Continuing Studies Country Conference series.

Professor Sir Howard Fergus expressed the belief that the conference “was completely successful,” and said that the cooperation received locally was remarkable.

He said that “there is a Montserrat social space, quite bigger than the geographical space."

Every person who heard any part, attended or took part in the conference would agree with Professor Fergus’s expressions of satisfaction, but he made another very important observation when he said, “there were a number of key issues that should be followed for the way forward.”

Some people were amazed that although Mr. George Goodwin, who gave the feature address on the opening day, had said Montserrat was undertaking a ‘virtually impossible task," the conference overall left Montserrat with perhaps a vision that indeed we have not reached the end of the road and that there could be hope.

The conference was the topic of discussion for the entire weekend and radio ZJB throughout the week kept reminding its listeners as it excerpted several parts of the conference.

But while every discussion of the conference left the island thoughts to ponder, who could have missed the attempt by some officials to use the opportunity to either explain away their failures or to blame others for Montserrat’s dooming state?

Among several other questions there were two by a DFID official, one to scientists who served here in the early and middle of the volcanic crisis, and the other to Mrs. Angella Greenaway.

The first question concerned whether the Seismic Research Unit (SRU), which was the first to serve Montserrat when the volcano began erupting, receives information or reports on the activity of the volcano from time to time. The scientist responded that such was the case. The question was undoubtedly posed in the light that recently there have been calls by local government members for the SRU to take a more active role in the monitoring of the volcano if not replace the British control, which would more than likely be cheaper for Montserrat.

Later that question was dealt with in detail, as it was pointed out that the fact that the entire region is very subject to similar volcanic activity at any time in the future. So it is imperative that regional scientists and volcanologists be actively involved in the day-to- day studying and monitoring to position them to be more prepared and ready to deal with the impending problems.

The other question was posed to Mrs. Greenaway, who was asked if there was anything Montserrat would have done differently, after she had presented her paper on “The challenges of achieving development in a micro-state – The case of Montserrat, 1995-2002.” The Development Unit representative may have found herself in a somewhat awkward position, having been so intimately involved in many discussions in which they were most likely coerced and left with no choice but to go along with the "still uncaring plan" for the few remaining in Montserrat.

Her answer, based on what she had just presented should have been a resounding “NO,". since the feeling among top civil servant officials and government leaders has been and still is that they were at all times faced with either "take it or leave it" positions, it was never possible to do anything different.

Our leaders by now may have learnt that dealing with those who have been erroneously referred to as our "benefactors" turns us into beggars. That we cannot be, because in dealing with those who are obligated, there is no such thing as a deal. It has always been elusive what it was that we had to "negotiate." We are where we are today precisely because we have been the losers in every "negotiation." We have been taken in almost whole, believing that if we say yes now, we can succeed and get more or better later. Instead, not only do we not get better, we get less. We should have made it clear long ago, there is nothing to ""negotiate." What we had been doing is negotiating away our dignity.

But as Professor Fergus has said about following “the key issues” that have been pointing us forward, there is hope yet.

In an article this week regarding European Union countries, where we must now turn our attention and vigorously seek aid, Poul Nielson, the EU's development policy commissioner, had this to say: "Untying of aid is an important factor in improving both the effectiveness and coherence of pro-poor development policy," adding that the 15-nation bloc has already untied aid handouts "to a high degree for more than 25 years."

Remembering the White Paper and its promises, can we say that we have benefited from this policy?

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 or monrep@candw.ag.  Manuscripts will not be returned unless accompanied by a return stamped envelope.  The Montserrat Reporter is a privately owned independent newspaper.

Jus Wonderin items may be called in at telephone 491-4715 or Fax 491-2430 or e-mail. 

SCRIPTURE VERSE THIS WEEK

Our Daily Bread – Read John 6:22-40

Jesus said to [the multitude], “ I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry.” – John 6:35 (NSRV)

The majority of the world consumes some form of bread. Although the kind of bread is unique to each country because of different grains, processing techniques, and consistency, nearly everyone eats bread.

“He (or she) is better than bread” is common saying in my country. It refers to a good and generous person.

Jesus fed the multitudes with bread. However, Jesus also said that no one can live by bread alone (Luke 4:4).

Jesus invites us to feed our souls by studying the Bible. Jesus is our lifeline through prayer in our relationship with God.

At the last Supper, Jesus referred to the bread as his blood. This signified that Jesus surrendered himself totally in order to save us.

For that reason, sharing Communion renews and strengthens us; it allows us to grow in grace.

Jesus taught us to pray for “our daily bread”. When we ask for daily bread, let us not forget to ask for and take in spiritual bread as well. This special bread cannot be purchased. It is a gift, a grace available to each of us.

Prayer: Blessed is your name, O God, for the bread of life eternal you sent in your son, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Thought for the Day

How does God feed my spiritual hunger?

Virginia Soto ( San Jose, Costa Rica.

Prayer Focus: Those who hunger for earthly and spiritual bread.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Sheep-killing Dog is Known, So Why is There a Problem?

Dear Editor:

This morning we heard in the news about a black dog that had killed nine sheep. The report stated that the loss of livestock by dogs was a serious problem in Montserrat, especially after some "animal activists" had raised objections against the (cruel!) shooting of dogs (and farm animals!).

I really cannot understand what the problem is in this case. The dog was identified. The dog owner is known. The dog owner owes the owner of the killed sheep compensation. 

If the dog owner does not pay for the damage his dog caused, the sheep owner should involve police. The magistrate court will than determine the amount of compensation the negligent dog owner would have to pay to the sheep owner. A fine could be imposed also. If the dog owner is found to repeatedly let his dog kill animals, the dog could be impounded and humanely  euthanaised  by order of the magistrate.

This is the civilized way to handle such problems. There is no need to involve gunmen.

The fund raised by the fines could be used to finance a modern animal control unit. If a system like that would be consequently applied, the marauding dog problem would be solved in relatively short time.

Yes, More Balance Was to be Preferred

Dear Editor,

I wish to thank Joseph Daley for admiring my courage in questioning the future of the Montserrat National Trust after losing their dynamic director, Stephen Macnamara.  He suggests, though, that he would have preferred a more balanced article, one which would have included the Trust’s executives’ reasoning leading to releasing Macnamara from his duties.

I agree that such an article would have been preferable. That’s precisely my point. Members of the Trust have been kept in the dark and only know the obvious: that Stephen Macnamara’s track record is spectacular and it came as a shock to many that his contract was not renewed. However, no one has been able to learn the reasons behind this non-action by the Executive. Everything is clothed in such secrecy that one can only speculate this group may have something to hide and/or be embarrassed by.

Note the last sentence of Sarita Francis’ response: “It is unfortunate that this matter was brought into the public domain and the committee wishes to reserve further comment on this matter at this time.” 

Why?  If they’re certain they’re in the right, this is the perfect opportunity for them to explain themselves.

C. Rhys-Jones 

'Montserrat Still Nice' Remains a Favorite

Dear Editor,

Whenever I want to lift my spirits, I play your song, "Montserrat Still Nice."  I hope that somehow your beautiful homeland will be restored and that your people will live there safely.  Many years ago, an ad was in a New York

newspaper which touted Montserrat as a good place for retirees and my husband and I thought about it.  I believe you also had a medical school there too. Is it still in existence?  My prayers go to God for the people and the island of Montserrat.  

This is an Emergency? Not in This Dictionary

Dear Editor,

I have just looked up the definition of EMERGENCY. It is: An unforeseen happening or state of affairs requiring prompt attention. What we have in Montserrat is, by definition, NOT an emergency. It might best be defined as a long- term situation. Therefore, the governor is acting illegally. His emergency powers are not applicable to this "long term situation" and I therefore suggest that he either revoke his improper invoking of the emergency powers act or become liable for civil penalties for violation of the Montserrat Constitution and our human rights under said Constitution.  I might add, that it might also be viewed by the court that HMG is also in violation for not reining in the governor.

Mad as Hell

Artillery Proponent Answers a Detractor

Dear Editor,

I am writing in response to Ahthene Nixie's recent letter to the editor of the Montserrat Reporter to say I am the author of the letter regarding using artillery shells to remove segments of the lava dome from the volcano.  I certainly agree that there is a danger of releasing undergassed lava from the dome, but this danger is increased by allowing the dome to grow unchecked.  The dome will eventually grow into a highly unstable mass and fracture under its own weight. 

I contend it is much more likely that a huge dome collapse would release undergassed lava than an artillery shell would be.  Moreover, an artillery shell is NOT an explosive device.  It is merely a 2" to 3" projectile, and certainly doesn't contain enough energy to shatter the dome.  It would merely release sections of the dome that are destined to eventually shear off as rock fall events, keeping the dome much smaller and less likely to collapse.

I completely agree with your assessment of Mt. Etna.  It is a significantly different situation than Montserrat.  The solution I propose is absolutely unique to Montserrat.  I do not advocate blowing the top of the mountain off.  I do advocate a very controlled approach to removing small extrusions from the dome to prevent a cataclysmic dome collapse.  It is the nature of science to observe rather than to act.  Montserrat is in serious need of action for the good of its people, property and economy.

I look forward to your response,

The Person Who Caused It Should Pay Police Overtime

Dear Editor,

In this day of unions and required overtime pay, how can the police be expected to work 24 hour days, three to four days in a row without additional compensation?  In the first week of the latest evacuation, some of the officers were in the station 24 hours day after day because the higher levels of officers could not find the manpower to give them reasonable hours.  This was the excuse given for not allowing the residents daily entrance to their homes.  I always thought that executives were supposed to be able to schedule their manpower properly.  Guess I was wrong.

Now that the zone has been officially opened everyday, the "management" has SOMEHOW found the officers to reduce the load on the small group manning the Salem station.  Have they hired additional help?  I don't think so, since HMG wants to reduce the number of police from the 60+ that we now have.  Of course, most of the management seems to have either never known, or forgotten how the police kept at least four substations plus headquarters operating before the volcano.

Another point -- since the governor has caused this mess that the police must deal with, and the police under his "emergency powers" come under his portfolio, why doesn't he FIND THE EXTRA MONEY to pay these officers for their overtime? 

Paul Breuer

Does Constitution Convey Arbitrariness, Rudeness?

Dear Editor,

It is with great wonder that I read week after week that the governor has attacked the principles of a free and democratic society. While I sort of understand the need for him to have the ability to declare an emergency and to order that he have emergency powers, I cannot understand how he can completely ignore our Constitution.  Is this not the constitution that was essentially written, approved and revised by HMG in 1989  ?  Is this also not the constitution that is now in the process of revision or being rewritten again?   If this is so, can we even THINK of continuing to give a civil servant, who has been appointed by another British civil servant, the ability to abrogate the very constitution approved by his government?

Article 62 of the present constitution gives each of us the right to freedom of movement around the Island and the right of abode in our home.  Where in the constitution does it give the right to a civil servant to cancel this right of the people?

As a matter of fact, where does it give this civil servant the right to speak rudely to a respected member of the Montserrat bar, to shake his finger at a resident and tell them that they didn't know his power, and finally, where does it give him the right to threaten residents with deportation or arrest for refusing to leave their home and wanting to protect their home from damage by thieves and or vandals.  Already in just this short time, four homes that we are aware of have been broken into and either damaged or robbed.  Might this be the reason that residents wish to occupy their homes?

Greatly concerned resident 

Displaced Person Asks What Else Need we Do?

Dear Editor,

This is for whom it may concern:

We want to go back to our homes NOW!

We have signed the releases, agreed to the terms and been given our numbers.

What else must we do?

Let us return, so we can be "home for the holidays."

A very sad displaced person

LOCAL NEWS

Hospital Workers Learn About Infection Control

The Health Promotion Unit, Department of the Ministry of Health, concluded a four-day workshop on Infection Control last Friday at the Glendon Hospital Conference Room.

Drivers, orderlies, nurses and doctor’s aides, and the kitchen staff were targeted at this workshop.

Health Coordinator Mrs. Almae O’Garro said that the Health Promotion Unit decided to have this workshop, “since there is a dire need to emphasize the importance of infection control within the hospital setting.” She added that many of the present hospital staff is new, and it is important that they are made aware of the possibility of infectious transmission, its prevention and methods of reducing these infections.

The workers were given pointers as to how they can reduce and prevent the spread of such infections amongst themselves, between themselves and the public, themselves and the patients and between the patients and public--

The kitchen staff on preparing, handling and storing of foods and the doctors and nurse aides on the disposal and handling of sharp instruments such as razors, disposable needles and scalpels.

Mrs. O’Garro said that the methods outlined in the workshop are easy and cost effective. These methods include; workers changing their ‘street clothes’ and putting on their work uniforms as soon as they get into the building and before they start working; thorough washing of hands, paying special attention to fingertips, thumbs and the webs between the fingers, the wearing proper shoes, and the correct method of sanitizing areas.

Mrs. O’Garro said that what was taught at the workshop is not restricted to the hospital alone, but is important to everyone and she was pleased with its success. Forty-six workers attended the workshop.

The Health Promotion Unit has scheduled at least two similar workshops to be held early next year for the workers of the Golden Years Home and the new Warden Support Apartments at Lookout.

OT's Prison Officer Pays Annual Visit to Montserrat

Regional Prisons Officer for the Overseas Territories, Mr. Christopher Gibbard concluded last Friday his one-week annual visit to Montserrat, during which he discussed with high-ranking officials, including His Excellency Governor Anthony Longrigg and Superintendent of Prisons Peter White, various subjects relating to the Prison.

A major highlight of these meetings was the restart of a prison exchange between the Officers in Montserrat and those of the other British Overseas Territories, including the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands and the Turks and Caicos. This exchange of Officers is expected to begin within the next two to three months and the duration of the visits will be for a period of one to two weeks.

A maximum of five Officers will be sent on the exchange programme and they will be replaced with an equal number from the other Overseas Territories.

Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Ruel Hixon said that the aim of this exchange is for the local officers to learn about the different systems, such as the prison population and the physical size, and the type of prison regime employed by the other territories.

During Mr. Gibbards’ visit, a one-week training session was held for the prisoner officers. A total of seven officers attended the workshop, as well as the secretary of the Remand Center who benefited from the sessions.

Mr. Hixon said the purpose of the training course was to update the officers on new policies and procedures, thus enabling them to be more competent to practice their job. Mr. Gibbard also did a training session with the officers, they were given demonstrations on how to use handcuffs, foot shackles and batons correctly.

The main purpose of Mr. Gibbard’s visit was to see how the plans for the construction of the new prison are progressing. Construction is expected to begin early next year.

The new prison will be built as an extension of the present Remand Center and is expected to be a single-storied building with 24 cells, housing a maximum of 40 people. Mr. Hixon said that the once the prison is completed, all long term Montserratian prisoners will be returned from the other prisons in which they are currently being housed.

At present there are 10 prisoners in the British Virgin Islands and the Turks and Caicos Islands whilst a remaining 10 are here in Montserrat. There are no female Montserratian prisoners here or abroad. Most of the criminals housed locally are remanded for petty theft, armed burglaries and wounding.

Montserrat has a total of 18 prison officers.

Commenting on the meeting held between the Prison Officials and Mr. Gibbard, Mr.Hixon said, “Gibbard was quite enthusiastic in what he saw so far as regards to the building.”

5 Boys, 5 Girls to Vie For Prince and Princess

The Pacesetters Sports and Cultural Club has attracted five boys and five girls for their Prince & Princess Pageant, scheduled to take place at Festival Village, December 15, according to President of the Club, Miss Rachel Collis.

The children will be judged on the three appearances: The Sports We Play & Introductory Speech, Talent, and Well Tagged Down. In addition to these segments of the competition, they will recount the 40-year history of the Festival from its inception to present.

Ms. Collis said that she is pleased with the response of the parents and the sponsors who have supported the idea of the Pageant. “We have found 10 very suitable youngsters who are taking their participation quite seriously,” she said,  adding that “the Pageant was organized out of a need to give children their little slice of being part of the Year-end Festival, a slice that is not a piece of the adult action, but one that is all their own.” She said the show will be strictly suited to young eyes and ears, while at the same time very entertaining for the adults present.

Sponsors for the show are Al’s Construction, Bill & Inez Construction, Cable TV of Montserrat, Delta Petroleum, Earth Affairs, Natural Resources & Environmental Consultants & Managers, Galloway Hardware & Building Materials Ltd, Jim Lee’s Computer Services, Montserrat Aviation Services Ltd. Paul Morris and NEMWIL.

The five males competing for the title of Prince are Alfred Allen, Dario Germain, Ke-Shawn Thornhill, KasJuan Sullivan and Encousie Wilson.

The females competing for the Princess title are Akeila Clarke, Ann-Marie Duberry, Aren Livan, Christine Martin and Juzana White.

The children photographs can be seen at the Little Bay Ferry Port, the Library and Nagico Insurance at Sweeney’s. 

Siren Test Studies Speed Of Escape from Closed Area

The Police carried out their first test drill by sounding sirens around the periphery of the exclusion zone Tuesday morning.

Police said the purpose of the exercise was for them to gauge how fast the residents can safely evacuate these areas, once the sirens have been sounded.

They listed three reasons for the siren test drill; to ensure that the sirens are in excellent working condition, to know whether the people are aware of what the sounding of the siren means and how they must react when they hear the sounding.

Supt. Paul Morris said, “The exercise was twofold -- to give them, an idea of the level of evacuation they can expect within a particular time frame once the siren has been sounded, and how fast they in turn, can react to the situation. He noted the importance of the exercise for the residents in the exclusion zone, and said, “Most people left immediately and responded very well indeed”.

This was the first drill done by the Police since the evacuation zone was opened for daily entry a few weeks ago. The residents of Isles Bay,

Old Towne, Waterworks, Lower Friths and Happy Hill have been allowed entry to these areas under rules stipulated jointly by the Volcano Executive Group (VEG) and the Royal Montserrat Police Force (RMPF).

Access to these areas is authorised daily subject to the Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO)’s approval from 9A.M to 2 P.M and is only for persons with homes in the areas, agents acting on behalf of absent homeowners or employees of the homeowner.

More than 300 residents live in the affected areas. 

Three Separate Accidents Cause No Serious Injuries

In the past seven days, there were three separate vehicular accidents causing damage but no serious injuries.

In the first, a gray mini-van went off the road and into Soldiers Ghaut at 2 p.m. last Friday. An employee of M.S. Osborne Ltd was driving the vehicle, according to management, who said it was the driver’s first day on the job. At the time of the accident the road was said to be wet but it was reported that the vehicle skidded, the driver lost control of the vehicle and it went into the ghaut, but he managed to jump out of the vehicle, escaping serious injury.

The body of the vehicle was slightly dented and the power steering damaged.

On Sunday, two cars collided in the vicinity of Brades. Reports stated that the collision occurred when the vehicle traveling in the southern direction attempted to turn off to the main road and was struck by the northbound vehicle.

And on Monday morning at 7 a.m., two other vehicles collided at the entrance of Sweeney’s and the St. John’s main road.

Speeding has been the underlying factor in most of these road accidents, police say, and they are planning a number of effective methods to deal with speeding.

Montserrat will Host Emergency Managers

The Emergency Operations Center will be hosting a Disaster Management Week, beginning on Monday, according to a press release from Mr. James White Jr., Assistant Secretary of Operations and Logistics.

Mr. White said, Disaster Management Week is an initiative taken by the EOC for Montserrat, which will allow them to test their disaster preparedness and response capabilities.” The participants will assess the island’s ability to provide disaster-related training (with an operational bias) initially to the Caribbean Region and to the wider world in the long term.

The major highlight of this week will be a major field exercise and an annual two-day National Emergency Managers of the Overseas Territories (NEMOT) Conference. Participants are expected from the British Overseas Territories including the Turks and Caicos Islands, Anguilla, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Gibraltar, the Falkland Islands and St. Helena.

John Adlam of the Conflict and Humanitarian Affairs Department for Overseas Territories (CHAD-OT), Nigel Kirby from the Department for International Development (DFID OTD) and Robert Perry from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) are the United Kingdom representatives for this conference.

Caribbean Disaster Emergency Response Agency (CDERA), Regional Coordinator Jeremy Collymore, Disaster Consultant for the British Virgin Islands Franklyn Michael, Sir Humphrey Maud of the Comprehensive Disaster Management Agency (CDMA), Robert Lyle of the British Red Cross, Regional delegate for the British Red Cross Marje Naarendorp and Ivan Alert, a representative for the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) will be in attendance.

On Monday the visiting participants will get a first hand look at the operation of the EOC, their equipment, warehouse facilities and telecommunication project. On Wednesday, the two day conference will be officially opened.

Rotary District Governor Ends Official Visit Here

Rotary International’s 7030 District Governor (DG) Leslie Harripaul is ending today a two-day official visit to the Rotary Club of Montserrat.

The district governor arrived by ferry on Thursday morning and met first with Rotary President Bennette Roach and his board of directors, who welcomed him to Montserrat. He later met with the full membership of Rotarians at their weekly luncheon meeting at Grand View, which had been rescheduled from Wednesday to accommodate the DG’s visit.

At the luncheon meeting the DG gave a power point presentation in which he stressed Rotary International President Bhichai Rattakul’s message for the year 2002-2003, “Sow the Seeds of Love”.

Governor Harripaul urged and encouraged Rotarians to continue living their motto of ‘service above self’ as they continue their service to the less fortunate of the community. He reminded  the club of the Polio Plus program whereby Rotary International has set a special challenge for the year 2002-2003 with the Polio Eradication Fundraising Campaign aiming for the complete eradication of polio from the world by 2005.

Today the DG was due to make courtesy calls on His Excellency the Governor and the honourable Chief Minister. His schedule listed a meeting with the members' off-spring organization of Rotaractors at a lunch session at the Tropical Mansion Suites.

The DG was scheduled to leave on the afternoon helicopter to return to his homeland Trinidad, completing another leg of his attempt to formally visit clubs in 14 territories from Antigua to French Guyana, which make up District 7030. 

REGIONAL NEWS

Throng Celebrates Life of Tim Hector

Compiled from dispatches

ST. JOHN'S, Antigua, - In a celebratory service, mixed with musical renditions and moving tributes, thousands gathered at the Antigua Recreation Ground on Tuesday bade a fond farewell to the late Antiguan journalist, politician and regional cricket administrator Tim Hector who died of heart trouble November 12.
Mr. Hector's family had requested that the service be not one of mournful sorrow but a celebration of the life and times of the Antigua/Barbuda and Caribbean personality.

Governor General Sir James Carlisle headed the team of dignitaries for official funeral service accorded to Mr. Hector by the Antigua government and attended by at least three Caribbean Prime Ministers, several government ministers, members of the opposition, as well as diplomatic representatives from across the globe.
Montserrat was officially represented by Minister of Communications and Works Dr. Lowell Lewis and Professor Sir Howard Fergus.

Among the musical renditions was one done especially by Sir McLean Emmanuel (King Short Shirt), The Mighty Swallow,

St. Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves, in a glowing tribute, described Mr. Hector as a towering thinker and an anti-racist, anti-imperialist, who danced to the beat of his own drum. He also said Hector was possibly the best Prime Minister his country never had.
"Though gone physically, Tim has left a body of scholastic work and sharp polemics which must be properly published for us to read and study," said Dr. Gonsalves, urging that,  "if we did not pay sufficient attention to him in his life, we must do so now in his death".

 "Tim Hector and his Outlet Newspaper have won many critical battles, including those for freedom of the press but his most vital contribution has been in the political education of the people of Antigua and Barbuda and the Caribbean," said Gonsalves.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Lester Bird also acknowledged the presence of Prime Minister Pierre Charles of Dominica as well as Nevisian Premier Vance Amory and St. Lucia's Foreign Minister Julian Hunte.
Mr. Bird said although Mr. Hector held no position of state, he was accorded an official burial in acknowledgement of his sterling contribution to Antigua and Barbuda.
"Throughout the history of the Caribbean, radical voices have played a significant role in the development of our civilisation," Mr. Bird said, adding that "throughout the last 34 years Tim Hector was an important voice in that radical chorus and while what he said and wrote had an impact on the wider Caribbean area, it was here, in his native Antigua and Barbuda, that he played his most decisive part".
Also, among those gathered for the celebratory service was Mr. Hector's close friend, former St. Lucia Foreign Minister George Odlum.
But it was the present day minister, Julian Hunte, who highlighted Mr. Hector's struggle to bring about change in his native Antigua, stating that he was a prophet and denied honour in his own country.
In a very emotional speech, Mr. Hunte said Mr. Hector faced tremendous odds and opposition, was victimised and demoralised, even crucified and nailed to the cross and imprisoned for his views.
Family members also reflected on Hector's "proud legacy of intellectual and political achievement". His daughter Indera, described him as a warm and loving father, who took great pride in his children's accomplishments.
"To him life was not a spectator sport," she said, adding that her father upheld the highest moral and ethical standards and spoke out against wrongs such as apartheid.
She also said he fought for social and economic transformation but it was time spent with his family that Hector loved the most.
He leaves his widow Jennifer and five children from two marriages as well several adopted children.

The ceremony was conducted by Bishop Donald Reece of the Roman Catholic Church.

Mr. Hector was buried at the St. John's Cemetery.

Jamaica Children Protest Rising Attacks on Youth

Jamaica, CMC - As Universal Children's Day was celebrated Wednesday, scores of Jamaican students took to the streets of the corporate area demanding an end to the unprecedented number of violent attacks against children here.
The students, who were mainly from primary and basic schools located on the western end of the corporate area, staged a demonstration and rally at the intersection of Spanish Town Road and Maxfield Avenue.
Special tribute was paid to innocent victims of crime in the country, including 13-year-old Shawna Palmer, who was shot and killed while attending a birthday party in the community of Greenwich Town on October 27.
Shawna was just one of the 119 children killed here since the start of the year. Of that number, 32 had not yet celebrated their 16th birthday, with 12 of victims reported to be 10 years or younger.
Noting that 83 teenagers have also been arrested and charged with murder so far this year, the protesting students have issued a 20-point list of demands.

Caribbean Sun Airlines Gets OK to Start Flights

Puerto Rico, CMC - Caribbean Sun Airlines, sister company of the Antigua-based Caribbean Star Airlines, has been given the green light to begin service to a number of Caribbean destinations out of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Tuesday awarded the Florida-based carrier a certificate of public convenience and necessity covering services from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Antigua and Barbuda, St Maarten, Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, and St Kitts and Nevis.

Caribbean Sun plans to launch scheduled services in December using Bombardier Dash 8 turboprops. It will connect with Caribbean Star and provide one-stops throughout the region.

Under the DOT’s ruling, Caribbean Sun can upgrade to 60-seat regional jets.

The creation of Caribbean Sun enables owner Allen Stanford to bypass the U.S. FAA International Aviation Safety Assessment programme’s Category 2 restrictions imposed on the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), which prohibit expansion of Caribbean Star flights from Antigua to the United States.

It also enables Stanford’s operation to better compete against American Eagle Airlines.

Johnson Discusses Winair-Caribbean Star Developing Relationship with Strugnell

 THE BOTTOM, Saba (SGIS) – Before leaving for Cuba, Leader of Government Commissioner Will Johnson, met with Winair Managing Director John Strugnell in St. Maarten.  The meeting focused on Winair’s developing relationship with Antigua-based Caribbean Star that will become effective December 1.

 Johnson told the Saba Government Information Service (SGIS), that he is in favor of the relationship and believes that there is a lot of potential for further development.

 “I brought forward to the board a year-ago about looking at the possibility of Winair working with Caribbean Star.  The board was against it.  I do not have anything against any Caribbean airline.  We have to look at what is practical.

 “Caribbean Star has more potential and is backed by capital.  Perhaps at some point in time Caribbean Star may want to take over Winair or buy part of the shares.  I am in favor of safety, quality service and competitive pricing with the end result being that the passenger is number one,” Johnson explained.

 Johnson added that his basic priority is guaranteed air service to the island year-round at an affordable rate.

 The new cooperation agreement entails that Caribbean Star will operate as a partner carrier offering convenient connections linking to Winair destinations.  Caribbean Star is based in Antigua and offers daily service to 14 destinations.

 The new alliance according to Commissioner Johnson will encourage regional tourism throughout the Eastern Caribbean with better distribution and scheduling of flights.

 The agreement between both airlines allows for coordination in flight schedules, marketing and sales, code share agreements and tour development programmes. 

PM Mitchell meets with Baroness Amos

Prime Minister Keith Mitchell met this morning (Wednesday, November 20) with Baroness Valerie Amos, Parliamentary Undersecretary for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs and member of the House of Lords, Non-resident High Commissioner John Whyte and Resident British Commissioner Vic Wallis.
Discussions focussed on several issues, including developments in agriculture, tourism, knowledge enhancement and security.
When asked about the most promising developmental area for Grenada, Prime Minister Mitchell said he is most optimistic about agriculture given the diversified base of the sector, the move to processing secondary products, the introduction of irrigation and the production of organic bananas and other fruits.
The Prime Minister said the decision by the Government in 1995 to take steps that would reduce Grenada's dependence on traditional export markets for bananas, which was criticised at the time, has certainly paid off considering the global climate of free trade and reduced subsidies. "Diversification into secondary products and organic fruits has given us a market niche we never had before," he said. Prime Minister Mitchell noted that Grenada and other Caribbean countries require technical support for negotiations with the World Trade Organisation.
"We are still feeling marginalised in this respect. We need help at the bilateral level to empower us to help ourselves. I believe our people have the talent, the skills and the ability to determine our future, once we have the knowledge," Prime Minister Mitchell said.
With respect to security, Prime Minister Mitchell said the demands on Grenada and other small countries to improve airport and port security since September 11, 2001 have been substantial. He said Grenada has implemented several measures to improve security, but requires assistance in training and other areas such as forensic science and DNA testing.
Baroness Amos responded positively to this request and said the matter will be discussed further. Specific reference was also made to a training course in security for airport staff, which is planned by the British Government for next March.
A request for assistance in the Ministry of Legal Affairs in the area of drafting legislation will also be taken under consideration.
The Prime Minister and Baroness Amos also discussed progress with respect to Caribbean Integration, the prospects for economic growth in Grenada and the Region, as well as the OECS Charter. 

Bankers conference gets underway

by Jason Inanga

 ST. KITTS – The 29^th annual general meeting of the Caribbean Association of Indigenous Banks, CAIB, got underway on Monday night, following a formal opening ceremony that included speeches by Prime Minister Denzil Douglas, Eastern Caribbean Central Bank Governor Dwight Venner and a cultural presentation.

 In a special address to the delegates present, Prime Minister Denzil Douglas challenged them to engage in frank but constructive discussions, citing the fact that lately, members of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union have been experiencing the economic challenge of high debt and fiscal imbalance at levels unprecedented since the 1970’s.

Prime Minister Douglas said it as important for the Caribbean Indigenous Banks to assert themselves in today’s environment.

Calling the hosting of the conference timely, Prime Minister Doulgas indicated that the Caribbean Indigenous Banks had matured substantially over the past decade.

He called for improvements in physical infrastructure and customer service, reminding the respective banks that they had a crucial role to play in the development of communities in some countries.

“What sets them (Indigenous Banks) apart from the rest is the extreme levels of local commitment to customers and countries, at large. I challenge you to rise to the next level of customer service, increasing financial literacy and education, taking this into the communities and schools on the various islands,” Prime Minister Douglas added.

He suggested the use of workshops and seminars as means of getting this done.

 Touching on the use of technology in banking, the St. Kitts-Nevis Leader indicated that it would be interesting to see the interplay between technology and banking and how exactly it would lead into new areas of banking. He said, “Certainly, no one is sure how secure internet banking will be, or how widespread  it will be to effect or affect changes in the banking sector. While consolidating trends seem to be appearing  within the Caribbean region, no one can say for sure that such will have increased efficiency.”

 The conference is scheduled to end on November 22 and it is also being used by delegates present as a means of networking to establish vital business contacts.

 Photo:cross section of some delegates during the ceremony

World Bank President to meet with OECS leaders

St. Kitts, CMC - World Bank President James Wolfensohn is scheduled to meet here in a round-table session with Heads of Government of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) on November 27.

The meeting is being viewed in several quarters as a strong vote of confidence for the sub-region’s integration effort.

 President Wolfensohn has indicated that he would like to hear about the challenges facing these small economies, and what the Washington-based financial institution can do to help at this time.

The announcement of  Wolfensohn's visit at the recent Special OECS Summit on the Economy, held in St. Kitts/Nevis, October 10 -11, comes as the OECS member countries battle to reverse declining output in the main productive sectors of their economies, including banana and sugar, agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.

This meeting will take place at the Conference Room of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB).

 The Governor of the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank Sir Dwight Venner, Acting OECS Director-General George Goodwin and the President of the Caribbean Development Bank, Compton Bourne, will join heads of Government at the round table.

11 Nevisians Given Keys To Bath Village Housing

Nevis -- Minister of Lands and Housing in the Nevis Island Administration, the Hon Malcolm Guishard, said Monday at the launching of the affordable housing project at Bath Village that there was no more secure stake one can take in a country than real estate and owning a home.

This was evident Thursday when 11 elated homeowners received keys to their homes, at a reception held in their honour. Minister Guishard, who is also the area representative, noted that the delivery of the keys emphasized the commitment of the Nevis Island Administration to address the issues that are of concern to the residents on the island.

He said that the houses were built because the people wanted an opportunity to turn their own key and to own the piece of the rock on which they live.  “We asked the questions and you provided the answers.  You told us the amount of money you were willing to spend, the terms and conditions that you would have been comfortable with.  We heard your pleas and we answered them, ” Mr. Guishard said. 

The Minister told the gathering which included Members of Cabinet, prospective homeowners, friends and well-wishers that it was not the Nevis island Administration alone who made their dream a reality, but appreciation must be given to the Federal Government, the St Kitts and Nevis Social Security Fund and the Nevis Co-operative Credit Union.

As area representative, the Minister emphasized on the commitment the new homeowners made to the Nevis Co-operative Credit Union, whose role is to oversee the mortgage payment on the houses. “Your prompt payment of mortgage dues will enable us to embark on further phases of this home construction programme, so that in a matter of years supplies would have caught up with demand for houses on Nevis,” he said. 

Panday Rejects Foe's Return, Calls Instead for Civil Unrest

Trinidad, CMC - The leader of the main opposition United National Congress (UNC) Basdeo Panday has dismissed attempts by some party members to bring back his former Attorney General Ramesh Lawrence Maharaj into the party he helped remove from Government a year ago.
Mr. Panday told supporters that while he had publicly indicated that he would be stepping down as political leader, he would not do so until a successor had been found.
Instead, he repeated his call for civil disobedience, boycotts and non-cooperation with the Government, warning that constitutional reform would be a long hard and bitter road in the future.
"Sharpen your tools of struggle, learn the art of the boycott, the art of civil disobedience and the science of  non co-operation. We are half the electorate and no government can survive without the co-operation of a large section of the people," he said.

Mr. Panday told a special meeting of the party on Monday night, that it was Mr. Maharaj, along with former Food and Production Minister Trevor Sudama and former Foreign Affairs Minister Ralph Maraj, who were responsible for the party being swept from power, following corruption allegations leveled against his former administration.
The three later formed their own political organisation, Team Unity, but Mr. Maraj has since quit active politics.
Mr. Panday said the party should be focusing its attention on attacking the ruling People's National Movement and providing leadership to flood victims, instead of being sidetracked by a leadership issue.

Top Commonwealth Official On 3-day St. Kitts/Nevis Visit

St. Kitts, CMC - Commonwealth Secretary General Don McKinnon is scheduled to arrive here today for a three-day visit focused on Commonwealth and St. Kitts and Nevis relations.
He will meet with Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas, Nevisian Premier Vance Amory, as well as Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Malcolm Guishard and other local officials,  along with representatives of youth organisations and students of the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College.
St. Kitts and Nevis has benefited immensely over the decades from the Commonwealth Youth Programme (CYP).
The London-based Commonwealth Secretariat, which is the principal inter-governmental organisation of the Commonwealth, implementing the decisions taken by its 54 member governments, has noted that younger people in the Commonwealth are getting higher positions in business and are becoming more active in civil society, non-governmental organizations, trade unions and campaigning groups.
It has been noted, however, that not many under-29 year-old youths are elected to parliaments, local councils or international agencies.
The Commonwealth believes this must change and Secretary-General McKinnon has urged member countries to involve young people more - nationally and in the organization itself.
Experienced leaders will always be needed. But today's problems also require young leadership, he says. 

Basdeo Panday's Trial Put Off Till Next Year

Trinidad, CMC - Deputy Chief Magistrate Deborah Thomas-Felix on Tuesday adjourned until February 24 next year the trial of former Prime Minister Basdeo Panday on three charges of failing to declare money he allegedly held in a London bank account.
Mr. Panday, who was Prime Minister here from 1995-2001, stood upright before the magistrate and pleaded "not guilty" to the three charges read to him.
Earlier his defence team, led by Senior Counsel Desmond Allum, had argued that the wording of the charges in the summons was different from that before the courts and as a result they were unable to advise the former Prime Minister.
"Clearly in these circumstances we have not had an opportunity to peruse these documents and to advise our client on how to plead," Allum told the court during the brief hearing.

According to the charges read out in court, Mr. Panday, the leader of the main opposition United National Congress (UNC), is accused of making a false declaration by failing to declare money allegedly held with his wife, Oma, in account number 39036189 at National Westminster Bank, London, contrary to Section 27:01 (b) of the Integrity in Public Life Act of 1987.
The three charges cover the period 1997, 1998 and 1999.
If convicted, Mr. Panday faces a two-year jail term or a maximum fine of TT$250,000 (US$41,600).

Jamaica to Assign Police To Fight Drugs in UK

LONDON, CMC - Jamaica and the United Kingdom on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at deepening cooperation between the two countries in the fight against the illegal drug trade.
In initialing the MOU at the Home Office here along with the British Under Secretary of State Bob Ainsworth, Jamaica's Minister of National Security Dr. Peter Phillips said the agreement represented another step forward in the process of collaboration between the Jamaican and UK authorities.
Under the MOU, Jamaican police officers will be assigned to work in the UK as liaison officers for a period of one year to assist in the fight against illegal drugs and associated crime.
The officers will have no operational function in the UK, and will at all times observe the laws, regulations and procedures of the UK.
The UK Government will pay the costs associated with this posting, including the initial start-up expenses, while the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) will retain responsibility for the officers' salaries and any other allowances to which they may ordinarily be entitled. 

Jamaican Voices Alarm At Tide of U.S. Deportees

KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC - Opposition Jamaica Labour Party's (JLP) spokesman on National Security, Derrick Smith, has warned that Jamaica could be in for difficult times if criminal deportees are allowed to be sent back to the country in droves.
Mr. Smith was responding to an article carried in Sunday's edition of the Jamaica Observer newspaper that said approximately 12,000 Jamaicans living in the United States had been targeted for deportation by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalisation Service (INS).
He noted, however, that the article did not clearly state what percentage of the deportees were being sent back to Jamaica because of their involvement in criminal activity and how many were being deported due to breaches in the immigration laws of the United States.
 He warned that the problem was not just confined to Jamaica.
"Way too many deportees who may have left their homelands years ago are being sent back to Jamaica and the rest of the Caribbean," said the JLP spokesman.
"While some are without a doubt hardened criminals they will bring criminal expertise with them and the governments of Jamaica and other countries will be unable to tackle the problems." he said.

The Observer newspaper reported that of the 12,000 Jamaicans awaiting deportation more than 700 were now in custody and are to be sent home soon.
The paper quoted security attaché at the Jamaican Embassy in Washington, Assistant Commissioner of Police Errol Strong, as saying that between 10,000 and 12,000 Jamaicans have been identified by the INS for deportation.
"Some of them are already in jail, some are illegal aliens, others have been convicted and are out there on the streets and can be picked up at any time," he said.
Data obtained from the Jamaican Embassy in Washington also shows that United States authorities have deported 15,797 Jamaicans over the last 10 years.
But, according to the Jamaican police, only 20 per cent of them have criminal records here.

BVI Sends 3 Delegates To Conference in Chile

Tortola -- A three-member British Virgin Islands delegation left for Chile Monday to attend an international conference on migration and human rights in the Americas convened by the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM),

Delegates are Director of the Development Planning Unit (DPU) Mr. Otto O’Neal, Chief Immigration Officer Mr. Vincent O’Neal, and Crown Counsel in the Attorney General’s Chambers Ms. Joann Roberts. The caucus, titled “The Hemispheric Conference on International Migration: Human Rights and the Traffic in Persons in the Americas,” beganWednesday in Santiago, Chile, and ends today. 

The meeting is aimed at strengthening cooperation among governments in international migration, identifying mechanisms for protecting and promoting the human rights of migrants, and combating trafficking in persons, thereby fulfilling existing international mandates on these issues. The main topics will be addressed during panel discussions in which representatives of governments, international organisations, civil society movements and academic institutions will participate.

Overseas Territories CMs Bridle at EU Tax Directive

Tortola -- The Cayman Islands Leader of Government Business the Hon. McKeeva Bush told a one-day emergency meeting among Caribbean Overseas Territories' (COTs) chief ministers  here last Friday that the Cayman Islands will not commit to a European Union directive on taxation as it stands.. 

The principal topics for discussion at last week's meeting were the 's draft directive on the taxation of savings income of European Union residents, and the United Kingdom's request for the COTs to commit to the directive by Friday, 15 November.

The ministers had met to discuss the directive and in an effort to reach consensus scheduled a follow-up meeting in the Cayman Islands this week.

Mr. Bush, led the Cayman Islands delegation, which included the Attorney General, the Hon. David Ballantyne.  BVI Chief Minister, the Hon. Ralph O'Neal, hosted the meeting, which included fellow chief ministers from Anguilla, Montserrat and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Chief Minister John Osborne and Financial Secretary John Skerritt represented Montserrat.

Participants made no commitments last week. They agreed to continue to work together on this and other matters of common interest at a meeting in the Cayman Islands this weekend.

Caribbean Court Overrules Release of Three Grenadians

Grenada, CMC -The Eastern Caribbean Court of Appeal has overturned a Grenada High Court order for the release of three of the 17 persons currently serving lengthy sentences for the October 19, 1983, murders of former Prime Minister Maurice Bishop and several cabinet colleagues.

But the Trinidadian attorney for the three men is likely to take the matter to the British Privy Council, which is the country's highest court of appeal.
Last week's ruling by Appeals Court Justices Albert Matthews, Ephraim George and Joseph Archibald, means that the three would have to remain in prison and continue serving their sentences.
The ruling upholds an appeal put forward by a team of state lawyers, headed by Karl Hudson-Phillip, the former Attorney General of Trinidad and Tobago. It also overturns a decision handed down in February by High Court Judge Brian Alleyne, ordering the release of Andy Mitchell, Cosmos Richardson and Vincent Joseph "forthwith".
The prisoners' attorney, Trinidadian Keith Scotland, had successfully argued before Justice Alleyne that based on the Grenada Constitution, the consecutive sentences for manslaughter which his clients were mandated to serve were illegal, since the penalty according to the section 80 of the Criminal Code is a mandatory 15 years.
But the Court of Appeal Justices felt that Justice Alleyne had misconstrued section 80-(2) of the Criminal Code and ordered that both Richardson and Joseph continue to serve their
three consecutive 15 years sentences, which amount to 45 years, and Mitchell his two consecutive sentences of 15 years, which amount to 30 years.
Scotland is likely to take the matter to the British Privy Council for final determination.
Maurice Bishop was executed by a firing squad at the height of a leadership battle within his New Jewel Movement (NJM) which took power in a March, 1979 coup that toppled Sir Eric Gairy's Labour Party government.

Antiguan Diplomat to U.S. Will Enter Active Politics

Antigua, CMC - Antigua and Barbuda's Ambassador to the United States Lionel Hurst has announced his intentions to enter elective politics, after spending nearly 20 years in the diplomatic service.
"While it is a great honour to serve as a diplomat of one's country abroad, it is an even greater honour to serve as a parliamentarian within one's country," Mr. Hurst said in announcing that he plans to offer himself as a candidate for the ruling Antigua Labour Party (ALP) in the next elections.
"I am certain that if nominated to contest the seat in Rural North, I will win," he said, adding that, "when I will have won that seat in our parliamentary elections, I will bring the same integrity, efficiency, boundless energy, intelligence, amiable patriotism and unflappable personality to the job of representing the people of my constituency."
Since entering the Diplomatic Service in 1985, he has served as First Secretary in the Washington Mission under Ambassador Edmond Hawkins Lake, Consul in the Miami Consulate and United Nations, OAS and USA Ambassador.
He was also the first Executive Director of the St. Johns Development Corporation.
Ambassador Hurt said he feels confident that he is ready to take the challenge of parliamentary representative.
"There is no deceiving of self in this claim. The job of parliamentary representative is hard, sometimes thankless, and subjects the holder and his family to ridicule and even abuse. I can take that abuse, I can endure the ridicule, I can achieve. I am prepared to serve," he said. 

UK minister pledges international support for Guyana

Guyana, CMC - The international community is backing Guyana's efforts to fight rising crime, reduce social problems and boost economic activity, Baroness Valarie Amos, the British Under Secretary of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has said.
The assurance was given as she wrapped up a one-day visit here Monday during which meetings were held with a wide cross section of local officials to examine ongoing strategies to overcome the country's political, economic and social difficulties.
Baroness Amos told local journalists that it is necessary for "...the people of Guyana to understand and recognise that there is international support; that the Commonwealth is engaged; that the United Kingdom and other donors who are giving money to Guyana are also very keen to see some kind of resolution of these issues of concern for the national interest".
The Guyana-born British cabinet minister, however, expressed personal concern about the deteriorating political situation in the country, challenging politicians to put the people of the country first on the agenda.
She said her visit also provided the opportunity for her to "remain engaged and informed about the situation here in Guyana so that Britain can give whatever support it can, particularly in support of the political processes which are ongoing at the moment."
The British official held talks with President Bharrat Jagdeo, Opposition Leader Desmond Hoyte , representatives from minority opposition Working People's Alliance (WPA)  and the Guyana Action Party (GAP), as well as members of the Social Partners mediating in the suspended dialogue between the People's Progressive Party/Civic PPP/C and the People's National Congress Reform, (PNC/R)
"It is very important that the government and the opposition come together and discuss some key issues, for example the crime situation, for the good of the country", Baroness Amos stressed.
She stressed that the needs of Guyanese must be placed first and called for the creation of a mechanism to allow them to raise their concerns.
She also expressed concern about rising crime and the difficulties facing security officials to crackdown on the crime.
The British minister however said "this is something that them people of Guyana need to work on together. What we can do is to work behind the scene to support those processes."                                                           

Constitutional Reform - St. Vincent & the Grenadines

Dominican Professor Nicholas Liverpool has been appointed Chairman of the Constitution Reform Commission.

This was disclosed at a Press Conference at Cabinet Room this morning.

Professor Liverpool was a distinguished professor at the University of the West Indies Faculty of Law.  He also served as a Justice of the Peace to the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, and is presently Chairman of the Constitution Reform Commission in Grenada.

Professor Liverpool has given the assurance that the exercise will be complete and thorough, and is urging Vincentians to get involved in the process.

He further stressed that all views expressed during the exercise will be carefully considered and submitted to the Government who will make the final decision as to which recommendations will be included in the new constitution.

The process is expected to begin here after Professor Liverpool completes his assignment in Grenada.

Deputy Chairman of the Commission Parnell Campbell QC has endorsed Professor Liverpool as an expert in his field, and said he is pleased to be working with the Professor.

Mr. Campbell also said he looks forward to the co-operation of the entire nation, adding that the organisations invited to participate in the process should consider it an honor and act accordingly.

Meanwhile Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves says Civil Society Organisations that have been invited to sit on the Constitutional Reform Commission have until the end of this month to submit the names of possible representatives on the Commission.

Dr. Gonsalves noted that Parliament agreed that the Commission would consist of 25 persons who will be formally appointed by the Governor General.

A deadline of November 15^th had been given for interested groups to submit the names of their representatives, however, this deadline has now been extended to the end of this month. 

Following consultation between these organisations and government, the names of the selected persons would be submitted to the Governor General.

Dr. Gonsalves pointed out that a lot of money is being spent on the exercise.

He disclosed that the Organisation of American States - OAS, has provided funding to the tune of US$40, 000, and has approved a further US$120, 000 for the building of civil society capacity.

In addition to this EC$500, 000 has been allocated in the 2003 estimates.

Canada assists OECS courts to reduce backlog

Barbados, CMC - The Canadian government has guaranteed 4.8 million dollars (E.C 8.14 million) to member states of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) to improve the efficiency of their court systems.
The five-year Judical and Legal Reform project co-ordinated under the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) is targeting magistrate's courts and will focus on reducing the significant backlogs of court cases and attempt to streamline the  administration of non-capital cases including theft, juvenile crime and domestic violence.
The need for the OECS Judicial and Legal Reform Project was identified during a meeting between OECS Heads and Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien in 1998.
OECS countries will benefit from the installation of automatic court reporting systems, the establishment of a legal-aid system, and the implementation of new sentencing options and programmes.
A release from CIDA described the establishment of a legal-aid system as priority, pointing to an in-depth analysis of court records last year which showed that a high percentage of accused persons go to court without legal representation.
"If we can help bar societies and governments develop the system of legal aid, then this project will serve to significantly increase the number of people that have access to
representation." said Michael Gardner of Gardner Pinfold Consulting Economists Limited, the Canadian firm managing the project.
The project will also see the implementation of new sentencing options and programmes called Restorative Justice.
Restorative Justice is a response to crime that focuses on restoring the losses suffered by victims, holding offenders accountable for the harm they have caused, and building peace within communities.
Canadian High Commissioner to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Sandelle D. Scrimshaw said  "this approach has proven to be an effective means of reducing crime and making communities safer."
Antigua, Grenada, and Dominica have benefited from Restorative Justice workshops being held this month.
The project is managed by a high level steering committee, which includes Attorneys General from each country, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the OECS, and representatives from the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), the University of the West Indies (UWI), CIDA, the OECS Secretariat, the OECS Bar Association and regional legal experts. 

SPORTS

MSS Road Races Open School's Sports Season

The Montserrat Secondary School Boys and Girls Road Race held on Tuesday signaled the beginning of their annual sports season.

Male and female students aged 11 to 17 years from the four schoolhouses competed against each other to win the title of champion.

The Boys Race saw approximately 100 boys participating, whilst more than a 100 girls participated in the Girls Road Race.

Both first place winners of the Boys and Girls Road Race, Chris Blanc and Laurel Allen, are from Red House. Second place winners Randy Fenton and Teisha St. Juste are from Green House. Marklon Dyer from Blue House placed third for the boy’s race and Kenesha Henry from Orange House placed third for the girl’s race.

The route of the race was from the school through Lower Salem into the upper region of Old Towne, Olveston and back to the school. The girls ran the same route, minus the upper region of Old Towne.

The ‘heats’ for the qualifying track and field races will begin next Tuesday.

The shot put and jumps will be held at the school while the relay races, sprints and long distance races will be held on December 3 at the Salem Park.

Montserrat Golfers Continue to do Well

Following good performances by the Montserrat golfers in the East Caribbean Golf Association (ECGA) tournament held over the first weekend in October this year, the Montserrat golfers came away with more trophies in the just concluded 2002 Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) championships and the Antigua Amateur golf open on Sunday past.

Montserrat’s Ivan (Pocket) Hixon placed overall second behind the stallion performer Trevor Levine of St. Kitts, who once again walked away with first place honours. Hixon led the Men’s team to a 1^st place low net in the OECS championships while other Montserrat players Leroy Daley took 3^rd place in the Men’s Flight B, Herman (Cupid) Francis placed 3^rd in the low net Flight B division, while Bennette Roach placed 3^rd in the Seniors Flight B division.

The Montserrat Men’s team comprised, Ivan Hixon, Dougie O’Brien, Leroy Daley, Herman Francis and Dwane Hixon, while the Senior’s team comprised Kingsley Howe, Wilston (Picket) Johnson, Bennette Roach and George Underwood.

The OECS Team championships held between November 15-17 was held in Antigua jointly with the Antigua Open, which fielded some 126 players from Antigua, St. Kitts, Dominica, Trinidad, Montserrat, St. Lucia, Grenada and England. The sponsor of the Antigua Open was Island Provision Ltd.

Ivan Hixon and Bennette Roach took low net prizes in the ECGA championships which were held in Martinique this year between October 4-6. These performances followed earlier successes in St. Lucia and Nevis tournaments earlier in April and June this year.

The successes of the Montserrat golfers do bring some excitement to sports fans in Montserrat, particularly when it is considered that opportunities to practise are non-existent in Montserrat and only available at considerable expense outside of Montserrat. Successive Governments have promised to assist golfers in the two major regional competitions and have paid the small ECGA and OECS associations membership fees. This time the ferry passages were paid for the golfers to travel to Antigua with more promises to assist further in coming years. 

FEATURES

COMMENTARY

UWI Conference Exposed Talent and Opportunities

By Claude Gerald

The November 13-14 Montserrat Conference, "Beyond Walls: Multi-Disciplinary Perspective," held at the new Police Headquarters, lived its theme and purpose fully.

The UWI-sponsored Conference facilitated a bunch of roving intellectuals from all walks who presented a variety of papers, reflective of the diverse and dynamic experiences that volcanic eruption engenders. This cranial invasion offered much needed stimulus and a pleasant diversion from the dreary negatives that so frequently bombard the mindset of an already burdened populace.

This was our turn to host the event, which is an initiative of the School of Continuing Studies of the UWI, and guided by Professor Sir Howard Fergus.

The local UWI Center starred mightily, hosting with aplomb and demonstrating very carefully that competence lies not in numbers and complex facilities but in a commitment to lead and excel, as any worthy center of learning should. This resulted in a smoothly flowing conference that started and ended on cue, and is one of the many factors giving immense satisfaction to all and sundry and the Center must be commended for its undertaking.

The people of Montserrat, mostly unaccustomed to such high levels of intellectual submersion, got a taste of real possibilities and the opportunity to replay this stimulating treat ought to be realized in short order and more regularly. A mind that is not growing is a mind that is dying and since a man is a body within a mind, it follows as day-night that settings of this nature, whether formal or otherwise, ought to be a part of the regular calendar of discourse and discussion among Montserratians.

This Conference points the way and the UWI Center should follow its lead and draw out individuals, help to organize fora where the many issues that are emerging in this evolving society could be researched and documented for posterity, and to inform policy. This island has become a live laboratory for research of much variety and exploitation of this potential so as to raise the intellectual capital generally must not be missed. If we make small beginnings, there is every chance that with growth and development, Montserrat could emerge as a research center where the gains to the society can be cost effective, and particularly favourable to the tourist sector for obvious reasons.

One patent positive of the Conference centered on the high degree of indigenous input that reflected quality in research and presentation. This no doubt is the tip of the iceberg, as there are many Montserratians with proven ability and potential who could figure significantly in future conferences. And now that the definition of who is Montserratian is being debated, the time is right to draw on the many accomplished citizens of local origin who are making a mark in other parts of the world.

George Goodwin Jr. of the OECS set the stage in the Opening Address on the difficulties Montserrat faces in the recreating of itself in light of volcanic difficulties. Its constitutional status essentially is a major factor in attracting aid normally afforded to members of the OECS; an awkward issue really, that drew comment from the Governor and the Chief Minister who were present, since Montserrat is a full member.

The team from the seismic research unit at St. Augustine Campus spotlighted geological events of a precursory nature that preceded the 1995 eruption, whilst Dr. Simon Young, formerly of the MVO, posited that Montserrat is the birthplace of volcanology for the New Millennium, a distinction assigned interestingly some 100 years earlier when neighbouring Martinique became the nursery for modern volcanology with the murderous eruption of Mt. Pelee. These presentations most fittingly began the Conference which itself is born out of the effects of the volcano.

Five afternoon presentations engrossed attention. Roselyn Cassell-Sealy’s thought- provoking piece on the relationship between good governance and people centered- development had more in the bonnet than realized -- and we must return to that theme in the future. The challenges of achieving development in a micro-state in the case of Montserrat was ably handled by Angela Greenaway, whilst Dr. Glenford Howe and Daphne Cassell expounded on how tertiary education in the OECS, Montserrat in particular, can meet challenges of a learning society. Gertrude Shotte, formerly Head teacher at the Kingsale Primary School, presented with much vigor a part of her doctoral work at the Institute of Education, University of London, on the way relocated Montserratians have fared and are faring in the schools of the UK. And Dr. Lennox Honychurch, UWI Dominica, scintillated with a look at a earlier migration of Montserratians to Dominica, their settlement and growth, cultural change and the customs which are very present even after 100 years.

Karen Ring, UWI Cave Hill, and Dr. Vernie Barnes, University of Birmingham, occupied the earlier part of the second day. The former presented findings on a continuing study on coping with loss related to the volcano; the latter examined the interconnection between theology, pastoral care and the relocation of Montserrat evacuees in a disaster setting. Later that morning, Gracelyn Cassell, UWI Mona, traced British colonial policy from 1929 on Montserrat, essentially showing that attitudes remain similar to the present. The Hon. Claude Hogan showed that the British policy of exclusion continues to inform the actions of British decision makers, whilst Professor Howard Fergus’s well-structured presentation examined constitutional modernization on Montserrat and the Cayman Islands.

Session four of the last evening saw presentations on the impact of climate change on Montserrat by Hon. Margaret Dyer-Howe; Jack Rozdilsky, a doctoral candidate at Michigan State University, examined emerging issues impacting post-volcanic disaster new towns on Montserrat; Dr. Lydia Pulsipher, University of Tennessee and someone intimately familiar with the island, presented an argument for knowledge–based tourism on Montserrat; Dr. Simon Young presented a positive side to the volcano suggesting that the people of this island could rise and soar anew with the right thinking.

Pro Vice-Chancellor, Non Campus Territories and Distance Education, Prof. Lawrence Carrington very ably and impressively discharged his duties on behalf of the University and left a lasting positive impression on the minds of those he encountered during the Conference. Distance Education will be very well served under his guidance. Of course we expect the University to expand its creativity and continue to look for new ways to serve the non-campus territories to make education available to those committed to personal advancement and self-growth.

Tourism Highlights

WORLD TRAVEL MARKET 2002

Despite the new location of World Travel Market (WTM) this year from Earls Court in South West London to ExCeL in East London, the show was a success for Montserrat, which took place from November 11-14, 2002.  This new location with its waterfront backdrop offers more space for the over 177 exhibitors who were present. Contacts were made with the press, trade and consumers who increased by 9 percent  to the show this year as compared to the previous year.  This is in spite of the commuting problems encountered by many people due to the new location of the show.  Many of the questions asked by the public were centered on the recent relocation of Isles Bay Hill, parts of Old Towne, Happy Hill and Lower Friths.  All persons were assured that the relocation was a precautionary measure due to the switch in dome-growth to the Northwestern section of the island.

The Montserrat booth was situated in the Caribbean Village and was decorated with the usual brochures, photographs and souvenirs on the island.  A ‘Sunset Hour’ was held on Monday 11 November where persons were invited to the Village and to the booths to mingle with the delegates and to sample some of the drink and food indigenous to the island.  On Wednesday November 13 Montserrat was featured on the BBC Caribbean Report where we used the opportunity to expound upon the safety of the northern zone and the number of attractions still to be found on the island.

Montserrat was also featured in four magazines that were being launched at WTM - The Caribbean Eye featured a five-page spread on Montserrat with several photographs.  The Caribbean Travel Planner also had an article on Montserrat with photographs and Caribbean World a glossy lifestyle and travel magazine, also had an article on Montserrat.

The Organisation of the Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) also featured the island in their Guide for Business, Investors and Tourists.  Montserrat was also featured in DO IT CARIBBEAN a newspaper with a circulation of 1.3 million.  The Travel Editor for Footprint Travel Guide will visit Montserrat in February 2003 to update the Guide. 

All tour operators ceased featuring the island when volcanic activity began in 1995.  However, two new tour operators - Westminster Travel and Caribbience - have assured us that they will feature the island in their 2003 program.  These tour operators feature long haul destinations and tailor their packages to suit their audience.  They will combine the island with a stay in Antigua and will offer both three and five night stay-over packages here.  Two other tour operators are also considering featuring the island in the near future. 

Wind of Change

By Montserratian at Heart

The Montserrat Country Conference was fantastic. I was so proud to see and hear so many interesting articles from so many distinguished Montserratians. If that conference taught me anything it was that we do truly have the talent and the ideas to rebuild Montserrat. And if it isn't sufficient, George Goodwin has indicated that we could seek the assistance of Caribbean institutions to get us over the hump.

But I am also convinced that Montserratians, whether they live here or anywhere else, know what is right for Montserrat and can rebuild Montserrat. We need to do nothing more than allow them to do so.

There is, however, a problem. Will they ever be allowed to do so? Not without changing the way some people in Montserrat have been conducting business or have been allowed to conduct business. And this change must be made from every level of society whether it be church, school, business or state.

Everything in this place is either a secret or somebody else’s turf or it is an "I run things!" kind of issue. So if you try a thing, somebody ready to slap you down to size or will do their best to keep you out of the loop. And if you rock the boat, well it is even worse. And that is why there was this big hullabaloo about the Trust and the cost of rent. And when the greed factor and the party supporter and caucus member story get attached to it, well then all hell breaks loose.

And that’s why we are having so much trouble today with the race card, the expatriate card, the non-national card and press freedom card.

You see everything in Montserrat today is personal and political at the same time. So funding for a project or an institution seems to get reduced to whether we like or hate the personalities involved or whether we can benefit from any of the activities that the funding brings with it. And if questions are raised or inaccuracies challenged then a non-national, an expatriate or a leader gets steamed and storms off to his or her little corner to sulk and pout. And what is interesting is that the expatriate card is being waved by both sides. The national say, "it’s because you are an expatriate why you hold such a view," and the expatriate say, "it is because I am an expatriate why you hold such a view." It was most amusing to sit aside and listen to the Trust issue debated by both sides. Unfortunately it would seem that only the President of the Trust got it right. In the long run, it is not about the personalities. It is about the work of the Trust. And both sides should be able to take as good as they give. In the game of Life everyone is allowed the opportunity to play the part of the instigator. A national can do it just as well as an expatriate.

And what is wrong if you ask a question? When I last checked Montserrat was still a democracy. Never you mind that the Governor and his minions may seek to still the voice of some recalcitrant native who would dare to ask questions of the hallowed sanctity of the Governor's Office, or that the Chief Minister would resort to “slave-naming” of inquiring nationals.

You see, the freedom of the press and the individual cannot be taken as lightly as they would wish us to take it. A man has the right to speak his truths and ask his questions as long as the man does not slander or libel another. And a writer has the right to pen his missives without fear or favor and with no concern of legal action as long as he respects the rights of others. Readers and listeners have the right to agree, to disagree with any expressed view point. They even have the right to turn off their radio and cast aside their newspaper. But ceremonial or de facto heads of State have no business attempting to curb press freedoms nor the rights of the citizen who speaks out on issues especially of national interest.

It is right and proper that questions be asked of representatives no matter whether they represent the people or the Queen. And it is right and proper that the representatives give responses to the people. It is unacceptable and downright irresponsible of Heads of State to attack their own nationals, calling them slaves, while at the same time waving the race card, even if they do so unwittingly.

Surely it is neither proper nor becoming of our esteemed leader to be belittling technical officers by inadvertently referring, oh ever so insolently, to them as the white man who was in the house. In fact it is wrong of him to have so alluded to the goodly gentleman and I am of the opinion that he owes him an apology. In addition he owes the national an apology for calling him a slave. This kind of behavior is just not on. It is not acceptable. It must be condemned. Many were outraged not just at the name-calling but at the wanton and shameless use of the race card. In this day and age, and in an attempt to attack a fellow citizen, to have our esteemed leader resort to reverse racism and reverse mental slavery is both disconcerting and shameful.

And this is what is so very wrong with the attitude of all of our so-called leaders. All of them, no matter they be church, school, civic, business or political leaders, behave like the "untouchables" of old. They seem to think they have all the answers. They take counsel from no one. And they clasp to their ample bosoms all money-making opportunities, shutting out the common man. We have reverted to the "me generation". It seems we are here for personal opportunities and we fight tooth and nail to get to a place where we can be assured of personal aggrandizement. We are into us.

We need help real soon because the few are bent on destroying the masses. But a wind of change is coming. I can feel it in the air. Can’t you?

VOLCANO LIMERICKS

Volcano Nannies

They're hired to deliver the goods,

And shut off more neighborhoods.

Their coalition strives

To 'save all your lives,'

They can't fret over livelihoods.

The Raj of 2002

Start with precipate evacuation

Leaving hundreds in sheer desperation;

When politics trumps science

Protests draw defiance

And arrogant self-justification.

JUS WONDERIN

Jus wonderin why those drivers speeding on the road even when it is wet.

Jus wonderin if something serious happen  it will mean anything to them

Jus wonderin if BG scientists hear what the doctor say bout involving regional scientists.

Jus wonderin if they realize that by being selfish with them info, when they need help, none will be found.

Jus wonderin if they goin jus shoot dogs this time.

Jus wonderin if the calypso crown would be taken to London.

Jus wonderin how much jingle cost thousands these days.

Jus wonderin if the old timers would be back for the Christmas.

Jus wonderin how badly the evacuation and shut down will affect the 40^th festival.

Jus wonderin if Scotland Yard going to be around here soon.

Jus wonderin if some high-up offices here need investigating.

Jus wonderin who is involved in inbreeding around the place.

Jus wonderin what the assets are that make some people reach the top so fast.

Jus wonderin how many people wager for the bet.

Jus wonderin if the wager increasing daily, weekly or monthly.

Jus wonderin who will reign supreme.

Jus wonderin why Labour Speaks wasn’t on the radio this week.

Jus wonderin if  the CM too embarrassed to take what is coming after his outburst on the race card.

Jus wonderin if the CM concerned any way.

Jus wonderin if they should change the old status and let RC priests get married.

Jus wonderin out of which school people are considering taking their children.

Jus wonderin who will compensate them people who lose all they livestock.

Jus wonderin what the animal rights group will say bout the problem.

Jus wonderin what the agriculture department will do about this.

Jus wonderin if the people start protecting them people livestock by killing them dogs, who goin take responsibility.

Jus wonderin with the moderacy in activity day after day they don’t let the people go back to them peaceful homes.

Jus wonderin if it is really the end of Montserrat they want by any means rather than this thing bout saving lives and killing livelihoods.

Jus wonderin why de Trust don’t just hit them with all the facts and let them go to shame letting the chips fall where they may.

Jus wonderin if all dem bright ideas from two days will find their way into the new development plan.

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