Parliamentary Committee Report Critical of Britain by Staff Reporter
A British parliamentary committee Thursday published a damning report on the handling of the volcano crisis on Montserrat, warning evacuation plans appeared inadequate and describing conditions in the emergency as "degrading".
The report said the all-party International Development Committee, which traveled to Montserrat to see the situation here for themselves, had been told "that if there were an emergency evacuation Montserratians would not know what to do."
In an unlikely event of a serious (volcanic) explosion, it could well be impossible to evacuate the population in time," it concluded.
The southern part of Montserrat has gradually been deserted since the Soufriere Hills volcano began erupting in 1995 after 350 years of dormancy.
Thousands of people have fled the island and the 4,000 who remain are crowded into the 14 square miles that remain habitable.
But the report said the responsible authorities had failed to respond coherently to the emergency, blaming a "less than happy relationship between the United Kingdom government and the Government of Montserrat."
It said no comprehensive survey of the needs of the remaining population had been undertaken and that the appointment of a manager to implement a plan to monitor the health of the population had been subject to "unacceptable delay." At the emergency hospital set up in the north to replace the one in the evacuated capital Plymouth equipment was "almost non-existent."
"We are appalled that vulnerable persons should be found in such poor and degrading conditions over two years after volcanic activity began," the report said.
"We recommend that there be provision by HMG (the British government) of resources which can be immediately used to upgrade the standard of the temporary hospital's care and environment."
The report said scientists put the chances of a volcanic eruption that would affect the north of the island and cause serious injury at between one in 30 and one in 300.
It said vulnerable groups such as the 250 frail elderly people and the 120 suffering mental illness should be advised to leave for their own safety, although not forcibly evacuated.
The report also called for a simulated exercise to check whether the current evacuation plan was adequate, and said it was essential to update neighboring islands such as Antigua, Guadeloupe, St. Kitts and Nevis on the plan to ensure a co-ordinated regional response to any disaster.
The report said that following the collapse of the Montserrat Building Society, the island's main savings institution, the Bank of England and British Treasury should step in to allow Montserratians access to the whole of their savings .
Britian should also provide guarantees to allow insurance companies to renew cover on property in the north of the island.
The committee also called for a survey by the British and Antiguan governments of the continuing needs of Montserratians who have fled to Antigua to establish the case for further British assistance.
It said Britain should meet the Caribbean economic grouping CARICOM to discuss the future of Montserrat and to help Montserratians elsewhere in the Caribbean.
New Laws for Montserrat
Montserrat's Legislative Council met Tuesday this week and passed, without opposition, the Volcano Relief Fund Act.
The Fund will benefit people who lost their properties and their livelihood due to the destruction caused by the volcano in the unsafe zone. It was a proud moment for Chief Minister the Honourable David Brandt, who had campaigned for persons who have suffered loss to be compensated.
The Volcano Relief Fund will be managed by a committee chaired by Speaker of the Legislative Council, Dr. Howard Fergus. The Minister of Education Health and Community Services, a member of the opposition, the First Nominated Member, and the Accountant General are members of the Committee. The Trade Union Movement, Montserrat Christian Council and the Chamber of Commerce are also represented.
Under the law the committee will be able to make payments to individuals in the form of grants or loans. Member for Central the Honourable Rueben Meade, who supported the bill, calls it a good creation, and says it will do some good for persons who have suffered personal losses due to the volcano.
Council also passed the Golden Years Foundation Act.
The law establishes the Foundation as a charitable organization. Minister of Education Health and Community Services the Honourable Adelina Tuitt praised the Red Cross, Old Peoples Welfare Association, the Lions and Rotary Clubs, the Montserrat Christian Council, and the Montserrat Foundation for establishing the Golden Years Foundation, and for filling a void that has existed for many years. The Foundation is constructing a $2 million home for the elderly and persons with special needs.
Other bills passed include the Workmen Compensation and Social Security Ordinances which should improve the conditions of workers by providing for the partial payment of National Provident Fund and employment injury benefits.
EDITORIAL
Inspiration, Hope and Direction Needed
A demoralized, enslaved group of Israelites had a Moses, who led them courageously through the wilderness waste into a "Promised Land - a land flowing with milk and honey."
Disheartened England during World War ll got Winston Churchill, who whipped their flagging hopes into a stirring Allied victory over the juggernaunt German army. A victory that was a significant turning point in history. An event that will redound to all eternity.
Then there was Ghandhi, who rose among the colonialized masses of India and drove the British shamefully off their territory. He won independence or, should we say, self-determination for his people through what is popularly known as non-violent resistance.
We cannot forget our very own Marcus Garvey, who paraded through the American and European Diaspora pumping fresh hope and courage into the blood stream of discouraged blacks. Blacks whose nerves were weakened by the criminal elements of classism and segregation.
Neither can we pass without mentioning Martin Luther King Jr. who inspired the dawn of a modern era for the black man.
Who do battle fatigued Montserratians have?
First we have a Governor, who, despite his glib words, displayed his insensivity towards Montserratians by calling them a "mob." More than this he refused to apologize even when he was told his derogatory remark was unacceptable. Many are of the opinion that he is rather indifferent in spite of his smooth and warm words. Others are disappointed that his actions do not live up to the song he sings. While we think he has good intentions, actions to demonstrate this need to be seen.
Then there is the Chief Minister. His efforts to fast track help in Montserrat are commendable. Note should be made of his successful initiative to bring insurance back to Montserrat. He seems, however, occasionally preoccupied with what can be called "gutter politics," a type of politics which focuses on "bigging-up" oneself by pulling others down. Mr. Brandt's more positive side was illustrated by his trip to London where he successfully countered, before the committee investigating the situation in Montserrat, some of the discrediting representations made against it. He would do well to pursue the further well-being of Montserrat by working strenuously for complete political harmony, in order to focus entirely on overcoming our volcanic crisis.
Then there are the DFID officials. The ones who are sent to watch and monitor "the British tax-payers money." Who, we understand, are experts at the art of delay and foot dragging. Diplomats, educated to implement the absentee British masters' wishes, which clearly seem to be "frustrate them, frustrate them, frustrate them."
Always the impression is given that the British Government is so benevolent and kind. Looking out for the best interest of the people of Montserrat. Never is it even hinted that they have an obligation. We are not, as Clare Short would like to consider us, simply some flood-stricken community in England, but a British Dependency -- or a colony for those who prefer -- with all the obligations entailed on the provider by the needs of the dependent.
That is why the battle fatigued people of Montserrat need a leader. One who recognizes the rights of our people to live respectably. A leader who will champion these rights. A leader who will lift the disillusioned spirit of the people, one who can inject hope and inspire a vision -- a vision so crystal clear that all distracted attention will focus and gravitate towards it. A vision of a reconstructed and revitalized Montserrat.
Editorial Policies
LETTERS
This is No Time to be Absent from the House
Dear Mr. Editor
I listened attentively to proceedings in the House when I returned from school on Tuesday. It was disheartening to realise that the Parliamentary representative for the Plymouth constituency was absent. This is the constituency that was so widely sought after by Mr. Brunel Meade. He promised to look after the interests of constituents whose needs can only have increased in the long months following the evacuation of April 3, 1996.
I am very concerned that an elected member of Parliament can be absent from the island at a time like this, presently drawing a salary while, as its seems to me at least, abdicating his sworn responsibility.
It would appear that within the ranks of the opposition only the Honourable for Central was present and giving an account of himself. Is it time to call for by-elections? Are there others willing to give more than pre-volcanic lip service to people who would vote them into office?
Are there regulations governing attendance in the in the House and prolonged absence from duty? Are elected members accountable to anyone? Should people in their constituencies demand an explanation of their actions/inaction?
I think it is time for my Parliamentary Representative to give an account of his stewardship. I want to know what keeps him from touching base with constituents.
Pat Ryan
A Response to H.E. Abbott's Statements of Thursday, Nov. 13
Dear Mr. Editor
I was astonished to hear the National Anthem followed by an address. Is H.E. trying to re-assert authority by re-introducing protocol ?
The issue of having respect for law and order and abiding by the rules is a serious one. One which all Montserratians should consider.
However, this 'law and order' crap starts at home. Yes, clean up the corruption in the police force! Stop the in fighting and favouritism and treat everybody fairly and equally.
We are in a so-called state of Emergency, tell me who is really in charge? The police or the Defence Force? (Check the Emergency Powers Act).
The angry Montserratians in Montserrat are those who stay at the checkpoint and watch the Elite and BOURGEOISIE of society go and come as they please.
The IRATE MONTSERSTIANS see their property in other islands and wonder- how the hell it got there.
The Irate Montserratians ask for police assistance and escort to retrieve valuable items. If not, at least get the assurance their property will be protected. But they (the police) do not do a thing but irritate you at the check-point.
As a Montserratian rightly said-"What good is life without a livelihood?"
Sir, I beg you, do not come here with your high handed approach to us. We have worked hard to get where we are (without British assistance). We do not appreciate being treated as the lower class. Get off your high horse and put yourself in our shoes. H.E. BE HUMAN!
If the housing situation is not solved soon, do not be surprised to see us (THE MOB) camping out on your lawn. At least we will not have a water problem, we will have clean kitchens and adequate bath facilities.
Besides, you should not complain. You do not pay the rent.
OFFICIAL MOBSTER
LOCAL NEWS
No Need to Fear
"The Beautiful Side of Hell" will be the tittle of the a soon to be published book by world famous volcano photographer Fournier. Fournier, who have been photographing volcanoes for over two decades, intends to show the world not only the beauty of volcanoes, but the tremendous benefits of these natural phenomena. He says volcanoes, which have a life of their own, are generally productive of good..
Commenting on the benefits of the South Soufriere Hill Volcano here, Fournier said that after the volcano stops the "soil would be very, very rich, because ash is one of the best fertilizer."
"Before the eruption nobody knew about Montserrat, but now everybody knows what is happening Montserrat. Many, Many people will come to see the volcano. Lots of people are curious about what is happeing here. They will come to see. Tourism will get a great boost. You will gain more than what you lost," he said.
His counsel to Montserratians is to learn from other places who have had to deal with volcanic eruptions.
"Soufriere Hill is not the only volcano in the world. There are 1,500 active volcanoes in the world and 500 nillion people living around them. People should learn about how these people adopt and survive around them. They should take example from these people,' he explained.
He feels the fear and apprehension, which surround the volcano is largely due to ignorance. He is against the idea of total off island evacuation.
"The volcano caught every one by surprise. Many people do not know how to deal with it, so many are reacting with fear and aprehension. There are many places where people with volcanoes," he said.
Pointing areas such as Indonesia, which has 17 active volcanoes, he said 3 million people live at the base of Merapi - one of the most active volcanoes of the world. This volcano, which is under constant observation, has a major eruption once every two years, he revealed. Fournier showed that people in this region have learnt to live with and among their volcanoes.
"In Jarva, the Tengger people live among three active volcanoes. Because the ash from the volcano fertilizes the soil, which produces good crops, the people venerate the volcano as a symbol of life. They have three harvests a year," he said.
He also identified active volcanoes, similar to the one in Montserrat, in Italy where millions of people live.
"In Ciciley Italy, the Etna, Stronboli, and Vulcano are active volcanoes where millions of people live," he said.
Fournier, who was sponsored to the Montserrat Association of Montreal, has decided to mount an exhibition of his work the benefit of which he intends to donate to Montserrat as a gift to help the island redevelop.
"I hope that you regain the name Emerald Island and what it stands for. I am interested in human ecology and the relationship between volcano and people," he said.
Mentally ill Woman Lives in Delvins
A haggard, malnourished Dorcas Hixon drifted aimlessly around her Delvins Village yard in the Exclusion Zone, Wednesday morning when press reporters approached her.
Hixon, known to be mentally unstable, had been defying Governor Abbott's Exclusion Zone order for months.
"I don't want to live at Salem - I want to live no place but here. A here me live since me small," she said when asked why she does not relocate.
"This is our island and this is the government house that they put me in, and I do not want to move. NO, NO, NO" she said.
She told reporters that she had not eaten for the day. She had cocoa, which she intended to cook in a wood fireplace behind her house.
"Me don't have any bread and cheese. No rice. The government people will give me some corn meal, or something," she said.
The 5 feet 10 inch woman, who is now only a shadow of her former self said she was told to go to the 'lime kiln bush" to collect food items.
Hixon said government officials came and carried her to St. Johns last month.
"Yes they did come and pick me up and carried me back down to St. Johns Bluff last month," she said.
"Darkie," as she calls herself, said she has no water but gets water from a pipe at the government bathroom.
"I get water out by the pipe side," she said, pointing to a concrete building in the distance.
"The volcano is ease off now. Only grass and wind and stone and pepper and salt and so," she said holding her soiled and worn skirt behind her. She said she is neither lonely nor afraid of the volcano.
Pointing to several old shoes on her wooden veranda, she indicated some man, who is her friend, is due back to collect them.
When quizzed about the state of her life she said, "Well me life no good since they divorce me." She went to mumble incoherently while twisting her ash-filled knotted hair.
Governor Abbott showed surprise and astonishment when the case was reported to him. Asked about whose responsibility she was, he said she was her own responsibility.
Bobb Webb, however, pointed out that it was the responsibility of the Police to get her out and the EOC to accommodate her, while the Social Services were expected to look about her well being.
Businessman Johnny Dublin says he is astonished that the authorities harass people who are conscious and careful about their well being yet allow a person like Hixon to live comfortably in the Exclusion Zone.
"I went inside a couple of times, and Dorcas has been in there for quite sometime having problems with food. If the British and local government had that kind of interest in people dying, what happens to Dorcas? She lives in there. Nobody goes inside to feed her, take her out and carry her to some place that is safe. But here am I, very able bodied, wanting an opportunity to go inside. I see no reason why people cannot be allowed to go inside and take their stuff out," he said.
Donald Romeo, who is championing the cause of the mentally disturbed, told the Montserrat Reporter that the Governor and Chief of Police are responsible for all and especially the mentally ill who remain in the danger areas.
"There has been total negligence on the part of the mentally ill. This case is evidence of what is happening in the entire island," he explained. He said that the authorities are disobeying their own law by leaving the mentally ill to roam around unmonitored.
"So far one mentally ill died and another was severely burnt on June 25. The remains of two bodies in Plymouth are suspected to be those of mentally ill, yet unaccounted for," Romeo said.
The Reporter learnt that Dorcas was taken to Glendon Hospital after the report was made on Thursday.
Physical Development Plan for the North
A population of 10,000 by the year 2008 is one of the main principles on which the Physical Development Plan for the North is based.
The five-year Sustainable Development Plan, which is in its draft stage, seeks to model the vision, which has been developed for reconstructing the volcano-hurt island.
"We the people, aspire to build a healthy, wholesome Montserrat, founded upon a thriving, modern economy and a friendly vibrant community in which all people through enterprise and initiative can fulfill their hopes in a truly democratic society," the vision states in part.
The Plan focuses on growth of economic and employment opportunities in agriculture, fisheries, tourism and business sectors.
Among other recommendations the plan recommends "The development of a limited number of small, high quality hotels/apartments in selected locations" to facilitate the development of eco and adventure tourism. They recommended that land be specifically reserved for agricultural production in Center Hill and in the Barzeys area.
<@Body text:>The drafters of the plan also emphasized the importance of developing housing accommodation and community facilities to meet current and future needs of the population. The plan revealed that land should be provided for housing both in existing settlements and new areas such as Virgin Island, Providence, Manjack, Geralds/Drummonds, Judy Piece, Dick Hill, Look Out and According to the plan the new town center is projected to be in the Little Bay area.
To successfully implement such a plan several proposals were made by the planners.
- the government find the necessary funding
- land be bought and distributed at affordable prices to meet developmental needs
- human resources be identified and charged with direct responsibility to implement the plan
- government be responsible for the management of the implementation authority
- private sector and community involvement in the implementation process
- regular monitoring and adaptation of plan to meet developing needs.
- The plan is expected to be executed in phases corresponding to population growth.
Another public forum to discuss the draft will be held at the Governor's Office McChesney's Estate, Wednesday, Dec. 3, starting at 9 am.
Daniel Retires
After three decades of serving the public of Montserrat, Joseph Daniel retires. Many top civil servants gathered Wednesday evening to wish him well in his future endeavors.
"As an educator, Mr. Daniel played a very vital role in molding the character of many Montserratians. He was deeply concerned about students' welfare and did all in his power to ensure that they made maximum use of their opportunities and that their abilities were fully developed,," said Director of Education Roslyn Jemmotte.
Not only did Daniel make a significant mark in the history of education on the island he also stamped his signature in the Agricultural Department. He serve in this area for 13 years. During his term in this ministry he chalked up some notable achievements.
"In 1983 he designed the advanced charcoal stove and a charcoal mini-kiln. He also initiated the Montserrat Wind Energy program and carried out energy interventions at the Glendon Hospital which resulted in electrical cost reduction of $3,00 per month," Jemmotte revealed.
Note was also made of Daniels successful efforts in maintaining stable fuel prices, while reducing company margins and increasing Government's Revenue, by the introduction of a margin adjustment levy.
In 1987 he designed a double decker solar food drier for the drying of sorrel.
During his varied 36-year civil-service career, Daniel served as Principal, Energy and Metrology Officer and Permanent Secretary.
"My work in the civil service was driven by a concern for people. This has been my motivation and major source of energy," Daniel said.
Daniel said he had to overcome many obstacles during his tenure in the civil service.
"Every time you overcome a hurdle it gives you a sense of satisfaction. If there are no hurdles then there are no satisfaction. You could get bored in the civil service if you don't have something to challenge you and something to overcome," he admitted.
The session was chaired by soon-to-be-retired MSS Principal Mrs. Camella Watts.
Internet to be Used for Epidemics
Dr. Vernon Buffong, the islands lone dental surgeon, represented Montserrat at a health workshop in Bogota, Columbia, last week.
According to Buffong, the workshop, which was dubbed "Health Crisis and the Internet," focused on harnessing Internet technology for disasters and epidemics. The forum was set up to give agencies and countries recommendations on Internet utilization in public health crisis management and its use in disaster reduction. It also focused on the detection and control of epidemics.
Reaction to Rams Closure
I could walk to Rams and do my shopping. I can't walk to St. Johns, if I want a pound of sugar. Not everyday I will have the $2.00 dollars to pay bus. Aged Shelteree.
Rams would be a great loss, because it is the major company that does not only retail but whole-sale marketing. 20 year old clerk.
The government clamps down and enforces laws. They don't care how people live or survive. Some of us can't buy in bulk, so we have to go to Rams and buy little by little. Rams have help the country through jobs and construction. It was down there I went and got a job when they were building. I don't see why they don't let people go and do their shopping there. P Aymer.
I think government is responsible for allowing him to put down that million-dollar structure. They must have known that the area wasn't safe before they gave him license. They should compensate him. Mason
They could allow him to open part of the day. Have a specified period of time for him to open and then close - maybe half day. Nurse
If they say close down, well just close. Shelteree
They should leave Rams open. Simply move the checkpoint a little in front of Rams and let nobody pass beyond that. Shelteree.
I think it is very unfair. Rams is one of the major importers, that means he pays a lot of duties. It will be bad for the economy. Look at where the barrier is on the lower road, it is way in from the river. Maybe it is because of the two houses of a certain civil servant there. I think that they could put the checkpoint in front of Rams. Salem Resident
Rams imports a lot of things that no other super market imports. He has things that you can't get from anyplace else. For example he brings in frozen goods, and fruits. Plus his services are essential for people who live around the area. It is difficult for someone to go all the way to St. Johns to get a loaf of bread. Teacher.
Controlled Entry into Unsafe Zone
An Emergency Operation Center press release this week announced the introduction of an other pass system that is designed to give residents who has property in the Exclusion zone controlled access to thier possessions.
"A system is being put in place for the retreival of goods and belongings in some unsafe areas. The areas of Richmond Hill, Fox's Bay, Delvins, Cork Hill, Weekes, St. Georges Hill, Woodsville, Belham, Isles Bay Hill, Happy Hill, Old Towne, South Olveston, Lime Kiln Bay, Salem, Friths, and Glebe are part of this new system" the release said.
Residents, who will be provided with a form, will be required to tell officials why they are seeking permission to enter the unsafe zone.
According to the release, only one member of each family will be allowed entry.
The Government has promised to provide transportation and men to assist in the removal of goods or belongings out of the exclusion zone.
The forms could be gotten from the Police Headquarters in St. Peters or the EOC in St. Johns.
"The forms should be filled in as accurately as possible and returned as soon as possible to any of these three locations. The forms will be processed and applicants notified in due course. It is important that the forms should have a telephone contact as the system is dependant on windows of opportunity which might be short lived," the release said.
Governor Abbott said this "calculated risk could be closed at any time." The operation, he said, will in any event be cancelled if the scientists warn that activity is escalating.
Some residents however are dissatisfied with the arrangement. Unconfirmed reports indicate that gates will be locked and reopened only at specified times - even with persons in the Exclusion Zone. Reporter was unable to reach the Police Commissioner up to press time to confirm these reports.
Factory Shell Ready for Use
The 15,000 square foot factory shell at Brades is ready for occupation. It is designed to host several businesses.
Information reaching the Reporter indicates that a list of possible uses is now being put together by the Development Unit.
Improvement to the Heliport
A hard surface has been provided for the helicopters to land on. High tension cables in the areas have been buried as a safety measure.
Several other improvements are said to be underway.
Shelterees get new Homes
Fifty keys were given to successful shelter applicants, at a handing over ceremony Friday, Nov. 21.
The ceremony, which took place at the Davy Hill housing complex, was chaired by permanent secretary in Agriculture, Esternella West. Short addresses were given by Brown and Root representative Leo Bedford, HE Anthony Abbott, CM David Brandt, Minister of Agriculture, Austin Bramble and a visiting MP from London. Absent Miniser of Public Works had his speech read for him by acting P.S. Erroll Irish.
Occupants were encouraged to take care of their properties.
Up to today, the Reporter learns that very few persons have moved into their new residences. Many of the two-bedroom prefab units have no utilities. Homeowners are expected to make necessary arrangements to have their water and electricity connected.
The houses are expected to house some two hundred persons. This has reduced the shelter population. Total number of residents in the shelters now stands at 742. The two largest shelters are Salem MSS (162 persons) and Brades Primary Schools (145 persons). Altogether, there are 32 buildings being used as shelters. This includes churches, schools, public buildings and purposely built shelters.
The houses were built by European based construction company Brown and Root at a cost of 12,000 pounds per Unit. They were built with aid money from the Department for International Development (DFID).
"We are delighted we have been able to deliver these first 50 houses for the people of Montserrat within budget and in such a timely manner," Brown and Root project manager Leo Bedford said.
The company is currently building another 50 houses at Look Out. They have been contracted to build 250 houses to accommodate up 1,000 people.
Brown and Root has six expatriate staff on the island and local contractors employ another 150.
Royal Visit Completed
The Duke of York (Prince Andrew) visited Montserrat for the second time Saturday 22 November.
He visited several shelters and spoke to many persons, hearing their concerns and giving words of encouragement. He assured those he spoke with, he would forward their concerns to officials in Britain.
Places the prince visited included the MVO and EOC, emergency aid projects, schools the hospital, and the shelters.
The prince left the island Saturday evening.
Calypsonians to Visit the Big Apple
A touring group of eight calypsonians, from the island are scheduled to visit Bronx, New York, in an effort to raise funds to help members of the fraternity.
The initiative, which was the brainchild of Owen Roach, will take the calypsonians to Workmen Circle Auditorium, in the Bronx. Here they will provide entertainment under the sponsorship of The Montserrat Progressive Society of New York. Guest artists on the show will include Everton "Reality' Weekes and acrobat Kenneth "Laser" Greenaway.
"I think that this move, first of its kind, will give the participants the exposure they deserve," corodinator Roach said. He feels the event will showcase the tremendous potential Montserratians possess.
Included in the group are Roland "Kenzie" Johnson, Earl "Hustler" Browne, Herman "Cupid" Francis, Eugene "Kassiba" Silcot, Cecil "Cepeeke" Lake, Owen Roach (Coordinator), Leroy Luke (guitarist) and MP for the Plymouth, Brunel Meade.
"We want the people of Montserrat to know we will not forsake them during the Christmas season. We will be back to perform along with the band Silicosis.
A fund raising concert will be held this week end at the People's Choice bar in Brades.
Sewage Dump to be Removed from Little Bay
Hon. Minister of Communication and Works, Rupert Weekes, Monday announced plans to remove the Little Bay Landfill dump to a new site at New Windward.
Minister Weekes, in making this announcement over government owned radio station ZJB, did not reveal a date when this will be done. Citing insufficient access to the location, he said the operations would start as soon as possible.
Reports coming out of the Emergency operation Center said the new "site will need some access roads cut in the area before the site can be used.
Independent journalist, Don Romeo, who is planning to sue government for dumping raw sewage in open pits at Little Bay, informed the Montserrat Reporter that the there are concrete roads leading to the area. Romeo feels that the situation is not being given the priority that it needs.
"They cannot be serious. First they said the dump would have been only temporary - it has been over ten months now. Their inactivity has convinced me that they do not understand the gravity of the situation," Romeo said.
Romeo said he feels that they are either slow in seeking help or "are weak in negotiating financial assistance."
"Look at it, the businesses were asked to move immediately with no financial help, but the government, which has the ability to help, has kept this thing dragging for so long," he explained.
The New Windward dumpsite belongs to Brian Hollender.
Hollender said he has granted full permission for the new dumpsite until full negotiations are completed.
Director of Health Services, Dr. Ronnie Cooper, informed the Reporter that all is being done to facilitate the process of removing of the dump
"It is not an easy matter to find a site. Nobody wants it near him or her or on their land; however we have found a place at New Windward. Interestingly, it is in the buffer zone, so if the volcano acts up then we will have a problem again" he said.
Cooper said he understands the concerns of environmentalists, however he said he feels that they are idealists. Practical decisions have to be made.
"We cannot put individual septic tanks at the Davy Hill Development. The sewage will quickly fill the tanks. In an emergency situation we must find some place to put it," he explained.
Cooper said that the water situation will soon be a crucial factor for Montserrat. The recycling of water for flushing, washing vehicles and watering lawn should be an option to look at.
"We cannot let all that water go to waste. We can double treat it and recycle it, as many developed countries do," he said.
FEATURES
The Up and Coming
Sporting a ready smile comparable to Sports Illustrated cover girls, 17-year-old Lyndene James is poised to be one of Montserrat's stars in the future.
Although warm and friendly, she is also a serious take-charge young lady.
Lyndene, a former city girl, now resides in the country - Banks. She is at present blazing an enviable track in the broadcasting world. A ZJB radio announcer, who started in August, she has tremendously improved. This, however, was the result of a lot of practice and observation at the studio.
Graduating with six O'levels, her dreams of a six-form education were interrupted with the closure of this department of Montserrat Secondary School. This disappointment, however, led to the door of opportunity - a job at Radio Montserrat.
Lyndene has her eyes set on becoming an accomplished journalist and broadcaster.
"I never thought of becoming a radio announcer, but I became interested after hanging out at ZJB and watching the other announcers at work," she said.
She is hoping to further her education next year and is interested in taking business-related subjects. One of her dreams is to open her own business.
Lyndene was awarded a certificate for "Simply the Best '96 -97" for her outstanding performance.
"The volcano has caused tremendous setbacks but in spite of all that you should keep pushing yourself and aiming towards what you want," is Lyndene's advice to discouraged young people.
GOODWILL FOR MONTSERRAT
By Howard A. Fergus
Some Montserratians at home will enjoy some benefits from continuing pockets of goodwill which exist outside for an island in tragedy. I continue to receive monies (not tens of thousands but very welcome nonetheless) to assist some of the most needy islanders.
Very recently Rev. Miles Witherford, a Pentecostal minister who pastors a predominantly white congregation in Birmingham, England, sent me 1,260 pounds (EC$5,700) to distribute as I see fit. The money was the proceeds of their 1997 Harvest intake. The members were instructed to bring cash instead of kind and the sum was donated to us in Montserrat. This is the second time in under 12 months that this particular church has made a donation. The link is made through a close relative of mine (J. Llewellyn Fergus) who attends the Witherford church.
It may not be tens of thousands, but it is a very valuable love-gift sacrificially made. Equally important is the Jamaican woman who gave me US$100 to give someone with children who suffered loss in the crisis; and the lady from the US Virgin Islands whose gift is in the post but does not wish to be named.
As a result of this goodwill and thoughtfulness, a number of persons will obtain a few extra dollars in the approaching season. An effort will be made to give priority to needy persons who suffered great loss and are surviving under difficult circumstances.
Meet Doctor Drakes
Mrs. Clarke:
Good morning, doctor. My child Andre, a first former, is slow at reading. What can I do at home to help him improve his reading ability?
Doctor Drakes:
Thanks for visiting me Mrs. Clarke. I am happy to learn that you are taking positive steps to help your child with his reading. Reading is an important skill to acquire. Inability to read means inability to follow written instructions. Secondly, weak reading skills will hamper the child's ability in other subject areas. Many students seem to have a problem with reading, however, there are several techniques you can use to help your child improve his reading skills.
1. Label items in the house, for example, stove, refrigerator, table, bed, chair, door, window, television. Let the child say, spell and write the words.
2. Encourage the child to draw the shape of those words.
3. Take those same words and write them on a paper or on a flash card. Ask the child to identify the words without looking at the original labels around the house.
4. Children learn through rhymes. Give him rhyming words to learn for example light, fight, sight and might.
5. Teach him nursery rhymes and children songs with rhymes, let him tell you the rhyme words. He must write them and spell them.
6. Individuals learn through repetition. Encourage him to learn "Rounds" (Songs). He should sing them and say the repetitive words. Next, let him write them and read them.
7. Encourage him to read the Bible, especially the Psalms. The Psalms have many repetitive verses.
8. Help him to read labels on tins, bottles and medication.
9. He should be assisted to read signs in the neighbourhood and headlines in the paper.
10. Teach him the different colours. Match the colours to their names.
11. Match figures to words, example 1-one.
12. Help him to read through the picture approach. Discuss what is happening in the picture with him. After doing this look at the reading. Let him attempt to read the words.
13. Read a story to him. Discuss it. Ask him to recall the story for you. He should now try to read the story from the book.
14. Encourage him to join the library. The librarian will help you to choose books that will help him at his present stage.
15. He can learn words in a group, example fruits, parts of the body. Match pictures to words.
16. Synonyms can be learnt to help improve reading, also homonyms and antonyms. Where possible add pictures to the words.
17. Crossword puzzles can help him to read.
18. Expose him to educational games, for example Scrabble.
19. Insist that he speak standard English. Most books are written in Standard English, not dialect.
20. Provide a wide variety of learning experiences for him, for example youth groups, sports-groups, Sunday or Sabbath school.
21. Let him talk about his experiences. Help him to write about these experiences and read them.
22. Teach him to write and read important data about himself - his name, his age, his school, his form.
The above list is by no means exhaustive. I am sure you will see a marked improvement in your child's reading if you follow the above suggestions.
Quiz
From the five words lettered ABCDE below each sentence, choose the one which could be used in place of the word in capitals without changing the meaning of the sentence.
Example: The teacher is very KIND.
A humble B generous C pleasant D frail E mild
A B C D E
1. My mother PURCHASED a book for me
A. borrowed B. loaned C. bought
D. obtained E. recovered
A B C D E
2. We do not PERMIT beggars to enter the fair
A. accept B. agree C. grant
D. allow E. encourage
A B C D E
3. The animals have CONSUMED all the grain.
A. collected B. trampled C. destroyed
D. eaten E. harvested
A B C D E
4. The little girl FONDLED her pet kitten
A. carressed B. loved C. felt
D. ruffled E. touched
A B C D E
5. There is a VACANT piece of land which attracts idlers.
A. desert B. hallow C. shallow
D. bare E. empty
A B C D E
In each of the next set of sentences, the word underlined is wrongly spelt. Choose the correct spelling from the five words given below each sentence.
Example: The bus has stoped.
A. stopted B. stopt C. stopped
D. stoppt E. stoptid
A B C D E
1. I have just read an intresting book.
A. intersting B. interesting C. intristing
D. interestin E. interresting
A B C D E
2. The libry will be closed on Saturday
A. libray B. libary C. librery
D. library E. liebry
A B C D E
3. We were told not to waist the water.
A. waiste B. wsate C. whaste
D. waise E. waste
A B C D E
4. As soon as we had reseived our prizes we went home.
A. reseeved B. received C. receeved
D. ricieved E. riceived
A B C D E
5. We did not take our umbrella because it was not neccessary
A. necessary B. neccesary C. necessery
D. necesary E. neccesery
A B C D E
Ways Food can Affect Asthma
Although asthma is still complex and mysterious, knowledge of how food can affect it is much clearer than ever before, based on a new understanding of the origin of asthma. (Incidentally, the number of Americans suffering from asthma has reached an unprecedented high, rising more than 50 percent from 1980 to 10 million cases in 1990. Deaths have nearly doubled.)
Recurrent attacks of wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath that can range from mild to life threatening characterize asthma. In such attacks, the small airways in the lungs suddenly become clogged with mucus and other secretions; if not cleared, the blockage can lead to suffocation. Experts now know that the major long-term underlying cause of asthma is a chronic inflammation and thickening of the bronchial tubes and nasal passages leading to dramatic muscle spasms, constriction of air passages and consequent breathing difficulties. Thus, new therapy is directed primarily at fighting the persistent inflammation.
Eating the right foods may alleviate or prevent asthmatic attacks essentially in four ways: by helping control underlying inflammation of air passages, by dilating air passages, by thinning down mucus in the lungs and by preventing food -allergy reactions that trigger asthma attacks.
Things to know about Asthma
ASTHMA, is a recurrent attack of breathlessness, characterized by wheezing and varying in severity. The illness often starts in childhood and tends to improve as one gets older.
About one in 20 of every population is said to be asthmatic but the prevalence among children is much greater - about one in 10.
Heredity is a major factor in the development of asthma. But the most common causes are house dust, house dust mites, animal fur, feathers and dander (tiny particles shed from animal skin, fur, or feathers).
A viral or bacterial respiratory infection, exercise (especially in cold air) tobacco smoke, other air pollutants or allergy to a particular food or drug may trigger asthma.
Asthma can also develop late in life with the first attack often following a respiratory tract infection. Emotional factors such as stress or anxiety, may also precipitate attacks.
ONION THERAPY
Number one: Eat onions regularly. The bulbs contain at least three natural anti-inflammatory drugs that strike at the basic cause of asthma. A prominent researcher in the field, Dr. Walter Dorsch of Johannes-Guttenberg University in Mainz, Germany, has discovered strong anti-inflammatory activity in both onion juice and specific onion compounds. In one such test, an onion chemical, diphenylthiosulfinate, displayed higher anti-inflammatory activity than the popular anti-inflammatory drug prednisolone. Dr. Dorsch has also found that onions have direct anti-asthmatic effects. In an experiment, guinea pigs were made to inhale histamine, the chemical that induces asthmatic symptoms. Their histamine response jumped 300 percent. But when he also fed the animals onion extract, their histamine response decreased, as did the risk of asthmatic attack.
And onions worked in humans. When subjects drank onion jucie befor being exposed to irritants, their bronchial asthma attacks dropped by about 50 percent! Dr. Dorch credits thiosulfinates in onions as sth major active anti-inflammatory agents. However, onions are the richest of all foods in another powerful anti-inflammatory compond, quercetin, which also can relieve allergies including hay fever. Quercetin, an antioxidant seems to stabilize membranes of cells that release histamine. In fact, quercetin is chemically similar to cromolyn, an anti-allergic drug that inhibits histamine release.
Dr. Eric Block, of State University of New York at Albany, has also detected what he calls another "bizarre sulfur compound" in onions that in test tubes helps "prevent the biochemical cascade that leads to asthma and inflammatory reactions."
Another possible explanation of onions' anti-asthma powers is that some asthma may result from a bacterial infection by Chlamydia pueumoniae, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association. Onions have a fierce reputation for destroying bacteria.
ABOLISH WHEEZES WITH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
If you want to breathe better, eat lots of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C. They, too, can help control asthma, probably by subduing inflammation, says Dr. Schwartz. His analysis of the diets of 9,000 adults discovered that Americans who had the most vitamin C in their blood were least apt to have breathing complaints from asthma or bronchitis.
Specifically, eating foods containing at least 300 milligrams of vitamin C daily cut the risk of asthmatic wheezing and bronchitis by 30 percent. That's the amount in three eight-ounce glasses of orange juice or three cups of cooked broccoli. Most Americans eat only one-fourth that much vitamin C.
What accounts for vitamin C's anti-asthmatic effects? Dr. Schwartz suspects many reasons, including vitamin C's antioxidant activity which can, among other things, neutralize oxygen free radicals that may stimulate inflammation. Vitamin C can also accelerate histamine metabolism (histamine is formed during allergic reactions) and affect smooth muscle involved in bronchospasms. Additionallly, vitamin C affect prostaglandins that help control inflammation. In other tests, high doses of vitamin C-from 500 to 1,000 milligrams a day- have staved off asthma attacks and improved breathing functions by relieving bronchial constriction.
NON-MEAT EATERS BREATHE BETTER
Fruit and vegetable power against asthma may be more complicated than just vitamin C. There's evidence that embracing vegetables totally and giving up all animal products helps relieve asthma. In a study of 25 patients, fully 71 percent improved after four months without meat and diary foods; after a year, 92 percent had improved! That meant no meat, fish, eggs, or diary products. Why did it work? Doctors say maybe because the diet deprived patients of possible allergens-agents in food that could trigger asthma. Or another possibility: A major cause of inflammatory responses is leukotrienes, and these are made from arachidonic acid, a fatty acid found in animal foods.
SPORTS
A Painful Reflection by Peter Adrien
Caribbean people are fed up: fed up with bad news. They are tired of being beaten to the ground, tired of being robbed of whatever glimmer of faith and hope is left in them. They were ravaged by Hurricane Hugo, Luis and Marilyn; and are being traumatised by volcano activity (in Montserrat), frequent earthquakes and tremors; are devastated by the World Trade Organisation's ruling on the European Banana Regime; are being distressed by American hostile trade and foreign policy; are being pauperised by free market policies, declining remittances from abroad, escalating prices, declining disposable income and rising unemployment; and are being terrorised by the alarming rise in the crime rate. The Caribbean people have definitely had enough bad news.
The people crave for something that gladdens the soul, something that elicits joy and shouting. The distressing news from the cricketing world two weeks ago was bad news for the reading public, and the people at large. I was glad when the good news came out of Jamaica that the CARICOM country had given us something to shout about, and I sought to overshadow the bad news by highlighting the good over the bad. But the number of telephone calls that I received and the number of persons who sought to engage me in conversation forced me painfully to reflect . However, I decided to reflect on the responses of the people to the first test defeat.
During my travels in the OECS countries, I conducted some thirty (30) informal interviews with cricket fans and fanatics, cricket followers and passive listeners, cricket analysts and commentators, cricket pundits and prophets, a few persons from the middle-class and salaried-class who by their posturing do not seem to care one thing about West Indies cricket or Caribbean development although unfortunately they make critical decisions for the region, and a few humble people who just love West Indies cricket, and perceive their importance through the success of West Indies Cricket Team. I sought their responses to the following questions: (i) how do you feel about the defeat and (ii) why do you think we lost the match?
The conventional wisdom is that the weakness of the team is related to the weakness of the cricket administration. The received view amongst men and women, fans and fanatics is that West Indies cricket suffers from a dysfunctional administration which cries out for replacement. The arrogance of the WICB is finally having its negative effects on the performance of the team.
The St. Lucian was very blunt: "What we have in Pakistan is not a West Indies Team. It is a Board Team under the leadership of A Board Captain." He continued, "while it hurts me to say this, I am a die-hard cricket fanatic but I am glad we are losing. I don't want them to win one single game to bring the Board to its knees. I know it will hurt all of us but unless they fail miserably this arrogant club will never do what it is expected to do".
A well-informed cricket developer in St. Kitts was convinced that 'what is going on out there is a disgrace engineered by Pat Rousseau and his acolytes, his stooges. These men are trying to destroy Brian Lara but they will destroy West Indies Cricket and themselves in the process. they donot understand history. They will cause a repeat of the Frank Worrell crisis in the 1960's."
One Antiguan young man was particularly analytical in his comments: "Apart from all the problems caused by the West Indies Board, the selectors, the players and the countries themselves, the quality of our cricketers has deteriorated badly. We do not have quality batsmen as before.... We only have Lara and Hooper, who for one reason or another are not motivated to perform... Their inconsistent performance is affecting Chanderpaul and a team which has depended too heavily on them for a long time. As long as a team does not have a pair of opening batsmen which can anchor the innings. .. and we do not have that, it is in trouble.
Campbell is a nagger but he is not a quality player. Stuart Williams is yet to establish himself... and he could have trouble keeping his place... The basic problem is with our quality of batsmanship."
There is a lot of sense in the analysis. Brian Lara and Carl Hooper failed, the team scored 151 and 211, and lost the first test match against Pakistan by an innings and 19 runs at the Arbab Niaz (Shahi Bagh) Stadium, Peshwar. But the bowling is not of superior quality, when one considers that Pakistan scored 381, and Inzamam-ul-Haq scored an unbeaten 92 batting on one leg. Perhaps, one could add that the quality of West Indies cricket has declined seriously since the departure of Viv and them. And the blame must be placed squarely in the court of the WICB.
The blunders in the first test were evident. In the first place, the choice of the eleven from the odd mix of players was ill-formed. The strike bowler, Franklyn Rose, was omitted to the amazement of everyone, and that Phil Simmons was preferred over Roland Holder, is mystifying.
Peter Adrien is a senior Economist at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank in St. Kitts in the West Indies. He is a popular sports commentator and author.
Contact him at the E-Mail address below for your documentation, critiques, analyses and comments. All Prices are Negotiable
E-Mail:adriens@Caribsurf.com
Web site: http://www.skbee.com/webpages/moses/peter.htm
JUS' WONDERIN'
Jus wonderin whether he troubled woman who returned to Delvins after being removed to St. Johns by officials walked back to her home or got an accommodating lift.
Jus wonderin how much scientific evidence the chief environmental officer has to prove his assurances that no raw sewage is reaching the pond or the sea at Carr's Bay.
Jus wondering when the long awaited hot mix plant will finally be assembled and in operation.
Jus wonderin how long it will be before the north's area of "relative safety" can be redesigned an area of "increasing risk".
Jus wonderin why, if all Montserratians are equal, at the check-points some are more equal than others.
Jus wonderin why Water Authority do not advise people when they will take off water.
Jus Wonderin how a family of six or seven will fit into the small houses at Davy Hill.
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VACANCY
Assistant Manager
Qualifications & Experience
(1) 15 years experience in Commercial Banking; must have completed at least the Banking Certificate (Cert CIB) course of the Chartered Institute of Bankers, London or its equivalent.
(2) Previously managed a Branch of a Bank or a large department of a Bank having a minimum staff complement of 10.
(3) Must be computer literature.
Alternatively
(1) 8 years Commercial Banking Experience with a strong bias in Financial Statement analysis and lending to small and medium sized business
(2) An Associate Degree from the Chartered Institute of Bankers London (ACIB) or BSC Economics with a major in Accounting or MBA.
Applicant is required to have:
A good overall knowledge of Banking policies operations and practices along with a thorough understanding of personal and commercial lending.
In addition, a wide knowledge of general business principles and an aptitude for Business Development will be an asset.
General Responsibilities:
To provide strong support to the Manager in developing, planning and administering the Bank's Credit portfolio to include managing and assist in negotiating Lines of Credit for the Bank from external sources e.g C.D.B.
Approve and decline lines of credit within delegated authority.
Provide training and guidance to all members of staff, especially in the area of credit analysis and personal lending.
Expected to assist with the overall management of the Bank.
Remuneration:
The salary package offered is commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Applications:
Applicants, together with copies of certificates of academic qualifications, a comprehensive resume and three references should be sent to:
Mr. Frank Edwards
Chairman
Bank of Montserrat Ltd.
P.O. Box 10
Montserrat
No later than December 1, 1997.
Gem Radio Caribbean
Forward all Questions, Comments and Suggestions to: roachb@candw.ag
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