The Montserrat Reporter

Page g 1 Today’s Scripture

Friday, May 31, 2013

www.themontserratreporter.com

The Lord says, “Fix these words of mine in your hear ts and minds.” - Deuteronomy 11:18 (NIV)

MOU and SGP Vol. XXVIII No. 17

Week Ending Friday, May 31, 2013

Price $2.00

pressure on Government

UK Budgetary Aid increase

by Bennette Roach The question that had been languishing over the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed

by Montserrat and the UK on May 1, last year, has come to haunt Montserrat, but HMG is understanding and while easing the conditions merely exasperate the problems.

The question had to do with concerns over this section of the MOU” where it said: “The actual commitment of UK funds will be dependent upon: the UK Government having a full justification (including financial and economic justification) of the investment; the simultaneous contractual commitment of private sector entities to make key investments in hotel, yachting marina, residential and

other facilities;” At that point there was no mention or requirement regarding the port, but as of the review of the Strategic Development Plan and the review of the MOU with its attending Reform Matrices, HMG softened the pain by extending to Premier Meade’s government more time to meet its obligations emanating out of the MOU. Tom Kelly, head of the Review team explained following a press release on the visit said it was significant because it clarified the way forward on SGP in a number of areas:. One of those areas was as follows in that following the discussion GoM was, “provided more time to consider new ideas for financing the construc-

cont’d. on page 12

More

Director Hayes of OT Division of FCO visits...pg 2

MARP donates beach table...pg 6

ECCB not devaluing the EC dollar...pg 3

Kids Korner...pg 8

Man from Baker Hill...pg 5

Jack Warner cries foul, again...pg 11

Headlines...

24 HOUR ATM SERVICE Bank of Montserrat Your Bank. Your Future.

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Page 2

Friday, May 31, 2013

Director Hayes of OT Division of FCO visits The Director of the Overseas Territories Division at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, Mr. Peter Hayes visited Montserrat this week from May 28 to 30, 2013. Mr. Hayes is married with two children and came to the office with a wealth of knowledge and experience as he transitioned from his PHd in nuclear physics, acting head of the FCO’s Counter Proliferation and arms export policy department, and spending a year on secondment as head of public affairs at the London stock exchange.

Shifting to the public service, his most recent diplomatic assignment was as high commissioner to Sri Lanka and non-resident high commissioner to the Maldives from January 2008 until November 2010. He held a number of positions including principal private secretary to former UK foreign secretaries Jack Straw, Margaret Beckett and David Miliband.

Peter also served as counselor in the British Embassy in Washington DC covering energy, environment, science, and climate change, and HM consul general in Washington DC. In a meet with local media at a press conference hosted by Governor Davis at on Wednesday, May 29, 2013 at the Governor’s Office in Brades. That was shortly before he was entertained at a reception hosted by the Governor and Mrs. Davis at Government House.

Hayes impressed the media with his brevity and yet clear description of his impressions of Montserrat and the several persons and

and Financial Secretary Mr. John Skerritt.

Mr Hayes reported that he toured the geothermal drilling site and had an over flight of the volcano by helicopter. He was also expected to meet with MVO Director, Rod Stewart and DMCA Director, MDC officials who briefed him on the Little Bay

groups with whom he interacted, during his short visit, which he disclosed was part of a tour of the Overseas British Territories.

He his position at the FCO and said that his visit came, “relatively earlier in my time I took over this job as Director for the Overseas Territories about six months ago, in trying to get around each of the British territories,” adding, “I’m delighted to have the chance to visit Montserrat.”

“There is no substitute for actually coming: you can read the briefing, you can meet the people as they pass through London, but there is no substitute for coming even for a short period (two days), meet

development and on the port development planned for Carr’s Bay. The OT Director struck the chord of the importance of people understanding and embracing good change.

Along the way and following the meetings, he expanded on his impressions Montserrat. “I think first

the people here, sniff the air get a feel for things, the sort of the emotions, the environment, which you don’t get off of the page,” he opened.

He reported that he met all different sorts of people, community groups, “politicians of course,” government, the development corporation, some of the scientific work on the volcano and so forth, “ and to get a sense for myself of the challenges you’re facing here.”

Mr. Hayes was due to hold discussions with His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Adrian Davis; the Premier Mr. Reuben T Meade; the Leader of the Opposition Mr. Donaldson Romeo

Director Hayes visits with the media

of all it’s a very beautiful island, one that’s struck by her green, her verdant, the hill sides, the birds, the wild life its very striking, very beautiful,” he said with obvious sincerity, as he noted his impression of his sense of a community, “that has been through a lot.” He reminded, “things take longer to produce than one would hope, but there is a sense of a new opportunities coming as the development program Little Bay, Carrs Bay actually starts to happen… governments can help and then there is the funding, there are the investors but at the end of the day it’s about the people embracing the op-

portunity for change.”

With cabinet, he said they had broad discussions on a number of issues including cooperation and sharing of ideas between territories. “We had very broad discussions about lots of the challenges that we’re facing,” but he noted there was a “very strong sense of partnership - we’re working through these things together.”

There were discussions economic development, about public services, about law and order, about all of the sorts of things that government have to deal with.

They talked about learning, from each other,

to pull resources, “because again when times are tough, resources are tight you have to be smart, you have to find creative ways of getting things done,” as he encouraged, “working as a group, learning from each other which is a key way of doing things.”

The opposition he said, spoke for themselves. He pointed out, “There was a strong sense of common purpose. Their key objective is of course to build the economy to get Montserrat back on its feet, to get jobs coming in, to get young people coming back, or young people to stay and not

cont’d. on page 4

CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY SECRETARIAT

STAFF VACANCIES Applications are invited from interested and suitably qualified nationals of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Member States and Associate Members of the Caribbean Community to fill the following position with assigned duty station in Barbados: (i)

Senior Project Officer, Communications, CSME Unit

IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE OF MONTSERRAT PROBATE DIVISION In the Estate of JOHN W. SILCOTT, deceased NOTICE is hereby given that an application will be filed at the Probate Division of the High Court of Justice of Montserrat for a grant of letters of administration of the Estate of JOHN W. SILCOTT, deceased, late of St. John’s, Montserrat, who died on the 10th December 2004, to be issued to JEAN E H KELSICK the lawful attorney of YVONNE FRANCK of 34 Fendale Avenue, Boston, MA 02124, United States of America, the daughter of the said deceased.

ANY person claiming to be beneficially interested in the Estate is requested to send written particulars thereof to Kelsick & Kelsick, attorneys-at-law, P.O. Box 185, Bladen House, Brades, Montserrat, within 14 days from the date of the publication this Notice.

ANY person objecting to the issuance of the grant should notify the Registrar of the High Court of Justice not later than 14 days from the date of the publication of this Notice.

Full details of this position may be obtained by accessing the following web sites-www.caricom.org; www.caribank.org; www. oecs.org; www.crnm.org and www.caribbeanjobsonline.com Applications in English Language with full curriculum vitae details, including nationality, work experience, educational qualifications and/or expertise, language proficiency, coordinates (including email addresses) of three referees (at least two of whom must be familiar with the applicant’s work), and other relevant information, should be addressed to the Executive Director, Human Resource Management, Caribbean Community Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana and sent by email to applnhrm@caricom.org.

Dated this 24th day of May 2013 Kelsick & Kelsick Attorneys-at-Law

The deadline for the submission of applications is 9 June 2013.

Friday, May 31, 2013

Page g 3

ECCB rules out devaluing EC dollar The region reacted quickly from several quarters at the reported suggestion by the International investment-rating agency Moody’s Investor Services that Caribbean territories should devalue the currency or adopt the US dollar in an effort to address what Moody’s has described as a “debt crisis” in the region.

In a report published by WINN radio in St. Kitts-Nevis, it states that ‘The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) has ruled out devaluing the EC dollar within the next five years.’ The report quotes the Bank’s Managing Director, Jennifer Nero

making it clear that devaluation is not on the cards.

She confirmed there has been “substantial analysis” done on the matter of the value of the EC dollar, the report states.

The report further stated: “It’s under watch all the time, but as of this point in time there is no real reason for that (devaluation) at all,” the Central Bank official told Winn FM. “The currency has been within the acceptable bands, coming and going. The volatility is within range,” she affirmed. Asked specifically whether the EC dollar was likely to be devalued within the next five years, Managing Di-

ECCB Headquarters

rector Neto responded: “Well what we can say, we at this particular point in time, we don’t see that”.

Here in Montserrat ZJB Radio reported speaking to persons on the ground. It said that, “Agricultural Economist Claude Gerald says devaluation of the EC dollar or the adoption of the US dollar will not be a good idea for the Eastern Caribbean.”

Gerald, a regular columnist and social commentator in The Montserrat Reporter, is further of the view that smaller islands such as Montserrat, which are import dependent, will be adversely impacted if the EC dollar is devalued.

As to the adoption of the US dollar, Gerald believes the currency is losing its value and as such it would not be

beneficial for Eastern Caribbean countries to make that move.

Meanwhile Economist Peter Queeley who manages the St Patrick’s Cooperative Credit Union says the suggestions by Moody’s Investment Services that the Eastern Caribbean devalue its currency does

cont’d. on page 4

M S OSBORNE LIMITED VACANCY

ST PATRICKS CO-OPERATIVE CREDIT UNION LTD VACANCY NOTICE FINANCE & ACCOUNTING OFFICER Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for the post of Finance & Accounting Officer.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE The applicants should possess the following qualifications: • • • • • • •

Have a minimum of a Bachelors of Science Degree (BSc) in Accounting and/ or Finance.

Professional Qualifications in Accounting such as a CPA/ CGA/ ACCA will be an asset Previous experience working in a financial or accounting environment will be an asset.

Be computer literate with basic proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Customer oriented with a pleasant disposition.

Have excellent organizational and multi-tasking skills.

Be a strong team player with excellent interpersonal skills.

Applications, accompanied by curriculum vitae, should be address to the: The General Manager St Patricks Co-operative Credit Union Ltd P.O. Box 337 Brades, Montserrat West Indies Fax: 1-664-491-6566 E-mail: info@spccu.ms

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates to fill the under-mentioned position.

POSITION: SENIOR ACCOUNTANT JOB SUMMARY: The Senior Accountant is responsible for managing the day to day operations of the Accounting Department.

He/She must be able to apply accepted accounting principles and procedures to analyze financial information, prepare accurate and timely monthly and annual financial reports and ensure appropriate accounting control procedures KEY FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES •Financial Management

•Budgeting:

•Taxation

QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE: • • • • •

Level 111 ACCA Minimum 5 years experience in a similar Position Excellent knowledge in Microsoft Office Suite – Excel, Word, power point Excellent knowledge and experience with Accounting software Strong analytical and time management skills

KEY COMPETENCIES • attention to detail and accuracy • planning and organizing • strategic thinking • strong communication skills • information and task monitoring • problem identification and analysis • judgment and problem-solving • supervisory skills • teamwork An acceptable combination of experience and academic qualifications would also be considered Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Please send your CV with an accompanying cover letter to: M S Osborne Limited P.O Box 287, Brades, Montserrat W I Or email to hr@msosborne.ms Deadline for submissions is June 15 2013.

Deadline for submission of application is June 28, 2013

•Auditing

Unsuitable applications will not be acknowledged.

Page 4

Friday, May 31, 2013

Letters/Opinion

No devaluing EC dollar EDITORIAL What is the plan - number two, for the Strategic Growth Plan? cont’d. from page 3

The final review of the Strategic Growth Programme (SGP) began in Montserrat on Wednesday morning with a review team from the Department for International Development (DFID). It was supposed to be a final review and was agreed by Government of Montserrat GoM that this would take place when they both signed the Memorandum of Understanding which was centred around the SGP. There was a mid-term review between October 15-22 last year and we reported briefly about it, mostly with concern that at first there was boast that much progress was being made in achieving the milestones set out in a Matrix of actions. A final report that came early in this year was not as decorative.

The main concern we had even before the signing of the MOU was the suggestion that Montserrat had to perform in a particular way in order to receive the assistance to carry out the SGP. Besides since much or most of it, leaving out the Geothermal development which was already on the way, very special attention should have been shown to what seemed complimentary at first but is turning out to be noose. “The GoM have identified an ambitious strategy to move Montserrat towards selfsufficiency and away from financial dependence on the UK.” Then next: “Sustained economic growth focused on the north of Montserrat around Little Bay is only likely to be achieved through significant public investment, if it can be fully justified (including financial and economic justification)…”

Indeed much hinged, not on all those decisions that Cabinet had to take and the laws, SR&Os and Acts that had to concluded, but it was important that the crux of what was signed to in the MOU and the development plans were well on the way to some reality. At least all had to be in place for everything to be a go or going.

In the mid-term review such things like “Good progress has been made in meeting most of the milestones set for September. Particular successes can be recorded in the following areas…” But, it also said “ Performance has not been so strong in the following areas…” - Tax reform (milestone 13) being one of them, Access, the review of Regulatory functions.

The Review team gave its views, criticisms and recommendations on the way forward, particularly: “UKG and GoM should intensify their joint work on access to consider: how to address the vulnerability of Montserrat’s immediate access arrangements; and whether addressing it can be separated from the medium / long term issues about the port and breakwater.”

And: “MDC should start to develop alternative approaches to Little Bay development, considering various options and scenarios for levels of private sector interest in Little Bay. This calls for strong co-ordination with port plans and other options being developed for Carr’s Bay.” We believe that efforts have been made but somehow too much credit or belief, wittingly or otherwise are placed in certain capacities or abilities. Real scrutiny will show that agendas and motives are not all-together in sync with the overall goal of a successful Montserrat (all of Montserrat). That does create a blindness that create hazards and a lack of preparation or understanding of the bumps.

We note the UKG later reference to a “six-star vision’ for the development of the Little Bay and Carrs Bay and by extension of course, the new town. Now we have to be asking for more time just to get commitments to support or “ambitious and six-star visions”, because the UKG will only do so much. Some people are hearing the UKG to be saying, “we are not doing anything.” What’s become of the Charette plans?

The Premier is hopeful to succeed, at least with his agenda, as GoM has been given time before the noose tightens. The question had been asked ‘what if the vision/dream/plan cannot or do not materialise, what is the fall-back plan.” It is not too late, but doing it now might really send the wrong signal to the psyches, but it better be considered or else 2015-2020 can be a long ways away. That would be a shame because it is now 14 years this exercise began, life given again in 2008, it is now five years later.

The review team surprised us by saying that we are doing well with the communication situation, but they are somehow being duped on that score and it is for non-beneficial reasons.

The Montserrat Reporter Published by: Montserrat Printing & Publishing, Inc. - Editor: Bennette Roach Office: Davy Hill, Mailing Address: P.O. Box 306, Davy Hill, Montserrat, W.I. Typeset and Printed by Montserrat Printing & Publishing, Inc. - monp_p@candw.ms.

Tel. (664) 491-4715 Fax: (664) 491-2430 E-mail: editor@themontserratreporter.com or monrep@candw.ms - Web Site: http://www.themontserratreporter.com

make sense.

He says devaluation was originally based on the principle that developing countries can increase their export revenues due to lower prices for their

exports. But, this is not the case, he says, in the ECCU, where tourism related industries are now the order of business as opposed to agricultural or manufacturing products.

Moreover, Queeley says, given the openness of the ECCU countries and their heavy reliance on imported food supplies and petroleum products, devaluation will only serve to increase inflation.

He argues yet, there are some economic merits to the argument that the

ECCU adopt the US Currency and do away with the Eastern Caribbean Currency. But, this, he cautions would worsen the already high debt burden in the islands.

Manager Michael Joseph at Bank of Montserrat has agreed principally with Gerald and Queeley, acknowledging that there are pros and cons to the topic. “ However, in the recently published report, Moody’s Investor Services said currency devaluation and the dissolution of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU), while unlikely, could enhance the region’s competitiveness.

Director Hayes visits cont’d. from page 2 go elsewhere; to build their lives and their careers here,” which Hayes said, “that is an essential objective that I think we all share.”

Regarding a personal interest, he said he questioned about the Montserrat agricultural habits, encouraging that people here should become more engaged in backyard gardening. He said he himself produced much of his own vegetables. “…I have been asking lots of questions, which is purely personal interest although I present it as a professional interest. Because I grow my own vegetables- I am very interested to see the potential here for home gardens, for growers cooperatives;

given the cost of food importation and the wonderful climate and small amounts of ash - very useful as a fertilizer; that seems to be an obvious area for a scope for development,” he said.

He cautioned that he is about going into full time farming. “…but I think more in terms of part-time, you grow your own vegetables, you have a surplus, you get together with other people who have a surplus in different things and then you have a market stall and you sell it,” he advised, adding fittingly, “…and eating home grown crops tends to be healthier it helps to deal with some of the health issues on the island, reduces

the cost of food, it seems to be a win, win opportunity, so I’d certainly like to see more of that.”

Before ending the press conference he fielded questions on Prime Minister’s invitation to the OT’s to visit the UK on global tax matters which he said involved more than appeared.

He responded to questions on the role of the FCO in looking after the welfare and economic development in Montserrat, and ensuring that the partnership between the territories and the UK is real.

Visit www.themontserratreporter.com and listen for more on the press conference, and others.

Our Scripture Verse Today A Fixed Point

The Lord says, “Fix these words of mine in your hearts and minds.” - Deuteronomy 11:18 (NIV) Recently I went for a nostalgic drive through my old neighborhood and was shocked to find that I hardly recognized it. The landmarks I remembered were no longer t here, a nd soon I was hopelessly lost.

Life in the 21st century is a bit like that. Many landmarks that guided us are no longer here. We find ourselves feeling ill at ease in a world where boundaries are few and ideas about morality have changed, leaving us often

in confusion.

In earlier times, navigators at sea plotted their course according to certain, fixed points · a star, a headland, or some other permanent feature. As Christians, we also have such reference points. Our God is unchanging throughout the millennia, and the Bible provides eternal truth that will outlast all fads and philosophies.

GodÊs truths provide the only reference we need to guide us through life. And we are entrusted with the holy task of teaching these truths to others.

Colette Williams (South Australia, Australia)

Friday, May 31, 2013

Page g 5

The Agenda: Taxation Montserrat There must be some cause for concern with our system of tax laws. That must be the reason why the British Prime Minister summons our Premier to the UK to talk tax transparency. Something must be unsatisfactory with our tax system. In fact … the Montserrat Reporter had warned about this very thing. But you know what?

Let’s cut the crap and small talk. Read the real thing

right here and now!

Yes, we got some inside scoop on the discussions. We heard that something is coming; and it ‘aint de nex e lecshun’. It is an agenda, a tax agenda. We know exactly what have been discussed between the Premier and the UK Prime Minister. These ‘fellas’ are going to introduce a new range of taxes. It is called the agenda. The agenda on one hand cov-

ered the introduction of taxation on every service on which Montserratians are spending too much money; and on the other hand introduced taxation that will stimulate population growth, productivity and enterprise.

In other words, the new tax system will penalize Montserrations for allowing their natural resources to be underutilized. It will also seek to curb the urge

to spend money on some extraneous services.

Here are a few of the new taxes that came out of the meeting with the UK Prime Minister and the Montserrat Premier. Under the category of underutilization: Holders of diplomas and degrees will be charged a special tax based on a percentage of their potential earnings. There will be a tax on childless people between the ages

of 25 to 40. A penalty tax will be charged on unsold newspapers. It is expected that there will be a 25% tax on church collections. It has not been fully decided whether this last item is to be under the category of extraneous services or underproductivity. All businesses will be charged an advertisement and marketing tax which will be paid to The Montserrat Reporter.

This tax is very crucial in

New Cayman Islands Government sworn in The new Premier of the Cayman Islands Alden McLaughlin along with the ten members of his new government this morning took the oath of office on the steps of the Legislative Assembly (LA) building in downtown George Town with Governor Duncan Taylor administering.

In addition, the seven members of the Opposition, led by Former Premier McKeeva Bush who was nominated as Leader of the Opposition

CARIBBEAN DEVELOPMENT BANK JOB OPPORTUNITY The Caribbean Development Bank is seeking to recruit an experienced professional to fill the following position at its headquarters located in Barbados: LEGAL DEPARTMENT Legal Counsel Candidates must be nationals of one of CDB’s Member Countries. The Bank’s member countries are the Commonwealth Caribbean countries together with Canada, Colombia, Germany, Haiti, Italy, Mexico, the People’s Republic of China, the United Kingdom and Venezuela.

CDB is a multilateral development bank that collaborates with its Borrowing Member Countries to promote sustainable social and economic development, economic cooperation and regional integration.

APPLICATIONS Full details of the job opportunity, guidelines for the submission of applications and general information about the Caribbean Development Bank may be obtained from the Bank’s website at http://www.caribank.org. The closing date for applications is June 15, 2013.

CDB is a multilateral development bank that collaborates with its Borrowing Member Countries to promote sustainable social and economic development, economic cooperation and regional integration.

were also sworn in.

The political status quo in the Cayman Islands was shaken up at the end of last year with the arrest of then premier Bush on suspicion of fraud and corruption. He has since been formally charged with two counts of misconduct in public office, four counts of breach of trust by a member of the Legislative Assembly, and five counts of theft.

One week after his arrest on December 11, 2012, Bush was ousted from office when Cayman Islands lawmakers passed a vote of no confidence in him, which led to a split of the UDP and a subsequent minority government in the territory.

Just one member of the breakaway faction of the UDP that voted against Bush in the vote of no-confidence, O’Connor Connolly, was able to retain her seat in Wednesday’s election.

Premier Alden McLaughlin will have 11 people total in his new government. That includes himself, eight Progressives party members and two independents, Tara Rivers and Winston Connolly. Ms O’ConnorConnolly, as speaker, will not get to vote in LA matters, United Democratic Party Leader McKeeva Bush sat in the customary opposition leader’s chair aside his colleagues Bernie Bush and Capt. Eugene Ebanks.

In the “south-east” corner of the assembly floor, independent member Roy McTaggart fit in between returning incumbent independents Arden McLean and Ezzard Miller.

cont’d. on page 9

the process of stimulating economic growth. It was believed that consumers are unaware of the goods and services that are available to them and that forced advertisement must become a law on the books of Montserrat.

In order to raise awareness of the island’s lack of productivity, a host of new taxes will be unleashed on Montserratians. There will be a heavy tax on persons who allow their produce to be eaten by iguanas and agouti. Persons with properties that have fruit trees on them will be charged a tax on fruits that have not been collected and taken to a collection point to be processed and preserved.

The Prime Minister and our Premier discussed and considered that a tax should be collected on local produce bought; this is in order to compensate for the loss of import duties that used to be paid by the Dominica boat. As a consequence there will be a moderate tax on locally grown tomatoes, string beans, carrots and other vegetables and greens. To encourage the support of an integrated meat and fish industry it was agreed to charge a tax on every pound of fish, goat meat, lamb and pork sold from the backs of pick up trucks and cars. It was also agreed that this tax will be used to train butchers and meat industry workers, as well as to establish a modern fresh and frozen fish shop.

And there is much more! Bar tenders will have to save bottles from the drinks sold because a tax will be charged on the number of bottles counted.

There will be a stock verification with the merchant’s invoices to ensure compliance. This tax will recreate the lucrative bottle collection system of the late seventies.

Tax will be charged on the number of cats and dogs in each household.

Tax on owners of flower and vegetable gardens that attract roaming goats will be charged also.

There will be a tax on owners of cell phones and cell phone top-ups. Tax on owners of parked or laid up vehicles at the road

cont’d. on page 9

Page 6

Friday, May 31, 2013

MARP donates beach table at Lime Kiln

Against this background: “… in spite of its most compelling natural attractions, this lovely beach lacks a few of the very basic amenities, which modern man with his family (and friends) require to be comfortable in a picnic setting, while we rendezvous with nature and all its therapeutic properties,” the MARP was moved to make a donation, to the island through the Montserrat Tourist Board.

The Montserrat Association of Retired Persons on their

sixth consecutive Whit Monday picnicking occasion at Lime Kiln Beach, made a donation of concrete table with adjoining seats.

The event took place under what the MARP President Maloney described as, “…a most picturesque canopy of Almond trees…”

Mrs. Elveta Chalmers, acting director of the Montserrat Tourist Board (MTB) accepted the table and benches with a ‘shake hand greeting’. She thanked the organisation and looked forward to their use: “…

of Montserratians, residents and also for our visitors,” adding a suggestion, ”that we enjoy them, we take good care of them, and we do not destroy them.”

She looked forward to, “next year when we come back for our picnic, we want to come an meet them intact like how we have them this afternoon.”

Anthony Maloney, president of the association explained the decision to make the donation, on what was the sixth consecutive occasion of their picnicking at the beachfront. That he said is, “protected from the piercing rays of the noonday sun by a most picturesque canopy of Almond trees, which opens to a delightful, not very expansive beach, in close proximity to the soothing and tranquil waters of the Caribbean

sea.”

He invited everyone present The MARP invited the press to remain and enjoy the variety to note the occasion as he further of drinks, music, goatwater, explained that the organisation, “decided to divert some of its very slender resources to sponsor this concrete table with adjoining seats, made and installed by Mr. Alton Lindsey, for the enjoyment of all those Montserratians, visitors and tourists.”

He also spoke about reviving the picnicking tradition: “We are also here every year because as a Montserrat tradition, we’d like to revive the spirit of people recognizing that a Rendezvous with nature is very important from time to time for rest and relaxation, here is an ideal spot While thanking all present, Maloney acknowledged the presence of Rupert ‘Selsi’ Isles who he described as a benefactor who has been with and helped the association from its inception. He revealed their intention construct toilet facilities, when able, as their next venture at the MTB Acting Director Elveta beach location. from MARP

barbecued and grilled chicken, fish and ochros, and other variety of foods.

Chalmers accepts donation

Bank of Montserrat celebrates 25 years in grand style TThe Th he Bank Bank Ba nk ooff Mo Montserrat Mont n serr nt serr se r rat at ccontinues at ontitinu on nues es its ittss month mon o th long lon ong celebrations cceele ele lebr brat a io at ionss of of its its 25th.

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TThroughout Thro Th hro rougho rou uugghhoout ut tthe hhee M Month onnthh tthere h re he re w was ass tthe hee Bank Ban a k ooff Montserrat Mon onts tser er ra r t Radio Radi Ra addiio io Quiz QQuuiz iz in in which whhiicch school w sccho hoooll children hool chi hildre ldren ld ren ages re agges es 5 - 18 18 got tth the he opportunity oopppoort rtun tunit uniitty to w un win in attractive attractiv iivve ve prizes p izzess by pr by answering answer an ssw werrin ingg a question quees qu estion tition on about abboout outt the the he Bank.

Bank aannk. k.

Onn M May ayy 2244th the Bank held a Cus Customer sto tom meer Ap AAppreciation ppprrec ecia ecia iatitiion on Day Day ay at at which whic wh ichh customers ic c st cu stom oom mer e s and and shareholders an shar sh a ehhol older deers rs were wer eree treated treaate t d too eats eaatts and drinks ks and andd also alsso received recceeivveedd Bank re Baannk memorabilia memo me moraabi bilia lilia including innccllud uding inng Shopping Shoopppi Shop Sh pingg Bags, Bag ags gs,s, Cell Cel ell Phone Phoonne Holders, Ph HHoolder ldder ers,s, Travel Trav avvel wallets, waallle lets, ts, etc. ts ettc. c The h children chhiildre ren en received rece re ece ceivvedd Exercise Exxeercis rcciisse Books, BBoookks, Rulers, Rul ulerrs,s, pencils pen enci cilils ls and aannndd pencil pennci cilil cases, case ca sess,s, and se and nd computer com com ompu mppuute terr jumpjump ju mpmp mpdrives. drrivvess. The Thhe event even ev ent was was very veryy successful. suc uccceess ssfu ful.l. ful. fu The Thhe Bank Bankk also Ba aals lsoo had ls hhaad a Composition Compposition competition Co comp co m ettitioon in mp i which which Primary School children chililildr dren en were wer ere asked ask as ske ked too write wri rite a composition comp co mppos osittion ioon entitled entitititltlleedd "Bank en "Ba Bank nk of of Montserrat Moont Mont n seerrratt - Our Our ur Bank, BBan annk,, Our Our ur Future".

Fut Futur uuttur u e" e . Th TThree hreee pr pprizes rizes izzeess were w wer erre awarded. awar aw warde arrded ded. The de The h First Firirst Prize Fir Pri rize zee winner winn wi nner nn er was was Rhonnieka Rhoonnnnie ieka eka ka Sweeney Swe ween enney eyy from fro rom the rom thhe Lookout Loookkouut Primary Look Lo Prim Pr ima maarr y School, S ho Sc hoooll, second seccoond se ond nd prize priize ze went weennt to to Amari Ama mari ri Jeffers Jef e fe fers rs of rs of the the Lookout Lookkou Look Lo out Primary out P im Pr imaarr y School, imar Scho Sc hool ool ol, and annd the thhe third tthhir ird prize priizze winner pr winn winn wi nner err was waass Shekanah Shheekaana nah Irish nah IIrris i h from from m the the he Brades Braaddees Primary PPrrim i arr y Sc SSchool.

Scho cho h ol. oll. Th TThe he he Winning Wiinn W nnin ing Composition Com Co mppossitition ioon is is published pub ublliisshhedd in in the thhe Bank's Bannkk's Ba k's 's 25 25thth AAnniversary nnnnivver ersa sa M sary Magazine. agaz ag a inne.

On On SSunday unddaay Ma un M May ay 26 26thth tthe he Staff he Sta tafff off the thhe Bank Bannkk hosted Ba hos oste ted a Luncheon Luncheon for the Lu the Elderly Elldderlyy at at the t e Lookout th LLooook o ou ok out Community Coomm mmunit unniitty Centre.

CCeent ent ntre ntre re.. The T e Luncheon Th Luunncchheeon Lunc o was wass attended attttende ennde d d by by 1100 00 Senior Seennioor Citizens Cittiize Ci z nss from all communities coomm muunnit nittie iess inn Montserrat.

Moonnttsser er ra rat. at.t The Thhee Senior Sen enioor enio Citizens Ciititize Citi izzeens ns were wer ere treated trea tr eateed to to a sumptuous ssum um mppttuo uous us dinner diinnneer and aannd received rec re eceeiv ive iv ved gift gift bagss containing conntaain ininng various vvaariioouus necessities. nece ne cesssiittie ce ies.s Another Anot An othe ot her high high hi igh g point point ooiinntt of of the the Banks th BBaank nks celebrations ceelebr lebr le brattiioonnss is is the tthhe awarding aw waarrdi rdi dingg of of 25 25 Bursaries Bur ursa rsa sari rieess of of $500.00 $5500 $50 00.0 .00 00 each eaach ch to to Children Chilildr Ch dren dr en en attending atte at tte tend nding nd ing Montserrat in Monnt Mo ntsseerr r rat att Schools.

Sch Sc choools choo ls. The The awards Th awar aw awa arrds ds were ds wer ere made maade de in in the the following folll ow fo winng categories: catteeggoorriies: ca ess: Top Toop academic accad acad adem emiicc performers, perrfo former rm mer ers,, Students SSttuddeennts Stud nttss w with iti h the thhe most moost st Athletic Atthhleti leetitic potential, pootteenttia ial,, Most Mos ost improved im mpro proved pr oved ov ed students, sttuude udent deent nts, most mosst industrious iinndu d st s riiou ous students stud st uden ents ts and and most mos m osst outoutou tstanding staanndi st d ngg students. sttuude stu dent nts.s. TThe hhee sstudents ttuudeenntts wi tude will illll receive reeccei eivvee their the heiri awards aw waard rds at at a Gala GGal ala Cocktail al Coocckkttaaili CCeremony ere er rem emon ony an aandd Re Rece Reception cceept p io ionn to bbee held held he ld on on Saturday Saatuurd rdayy June Juunne ne 1s 1st st aatt tthe he Cultural he Cuullttuurraal CCe Centre. ennttrree.

The TThhe Bank BBaankk has haass also als lso published pubbllis pu ishe shheed ed a 25 25tthh AAnniversary nnnnivver erssaary ary r y Commemorative Coom mm meemora mooraatitive ve Magazine Mag ag agazine chroniclingg the thhe Bank’s Bank Ba nk’s’ss history hhis issto isto tory ry and and achievements. an achi ac hiev hi ievvem emenntss.

Manager M naage Ma ger off the the Bank, BBan aannk, k, Mr. Mr.r Michael Mic M icha ic haeell Joseph Joossepph summarized ssuumma mmarized the celebrations mm celebration onss inn the thhee following fol ollo lowi lo wing wi ngg words: wor orddss: "The "TThe he Bank Ban ank of of Montserrat M Moon ontser tsserr raat has has always ha alwa alwa al ways ys been in the forefro forefront ontt of of Nation Natition Nati Na onn Building, Buuiilddinng, both bbot o h inn the ot the he physical phy hysi siica cl infrastructure i fr in fras aasstrruc ucctu ture tu re aand nd the nd the he HHuman uum man an RResources. esou es o rces. Thus our Theme me RRebuilding ebbui u llddin din ing Ou ing OOur ur Co CCountry.

Coun ounntrr y.y. " We We are arree the the he leading lea eadi d ng institution iins nstititu tutition in Montserrat Mont ntse serr rrat rr att spearheading spe pearrhe head hea adinng the the Rebuilding th Rebu Re builildi bui ding of ding of Montserrat.

M nttse Mo serr rrat rr att.

"In "In th "I thee area area of of housing, hous ho usin i g, we have ve partnered par artn tner eredd with witi h the the GOM GOM on GO on a number num mbe ber of housing hhoousi ousiing ou n projects prooje pro ject ctss providing ct prov pr ovid ov iddiinng affordable afford af ordab able le housing hou o sing for our people. peo eopl plle. e.

"In the HR Department, Dep epar artm tm mennt,t, yyou ouu w will illl note note that that haat wee are aree taking tak akin ing care ing in caaree of of our o r Human ou Huma Hu m n Resources RReeso source urrcees from from infancy iinf nfan nf ancy an c cy right righ ri g t upp to gh to the t e Senior th Seeni nior or Citizens Ciittiz izen enss stage. stag st tagge. e We We had had the ha tthhe community coommun mm mun unitity unit ty Quiz Quiz Qu izz for forr children chiildre lddreen ages a es 5-18; ag 5-118; 8; the the he Composition Com o po p siitiion o Competition Coompet etit tititio ionn for io forr primary fo pprri rim imar a y Schools, S ho Sc hool o s,s, and and nd the the h Bursaries Bur u sari saari ries ess for forr all allll school schhoo o l children chhilldr d enn in in Montserrat.

Monnttsseerr Mo Mont err rrat aatt. For For the Fo thhe elderly eellde ldeerly rlly wee had haad the the Luncheon th LLuunc nc n on ncheon on May Maay 266thh "Itt ha "I hhass be bbeen enn a vvery err y su ssuccessful cces cc e sful es ssfful u Month Monnthh of of activities a titivi ac vititities vi es and es and n we we thank thhannk all aalll our ouur Customers Cust Cu ssttom tom mer ers rs and and Shareholders Shareh Shar reh ehol oollde ders ders fforr their fo t ei th eirr support. suupport.t supp ""Thank Tha hank nk you yoouu Mon M Montserrat". o ts on t er er raat" t.

BANNKK OOFF MONTSERRAT BA BANK MONT MO NTSEERR NTSE RRAT A LIMITED LIMIT IM MIT ITTED ED ED

Friday, May 31, 2013

Page g 7

Bishop Kenneth Richards administers confirmation sess wisdom, the wisdom that we have already spoken of in the first reading from the book of Proverbs, wisdom says, that I was with him from the beginning therefore I know all things, I know of this… it would be done so and become complete because it is based on

The Most Reverend Bishop Kenneth Richards of the Roman Catholic Church Diocese of St. John’s-Basseterre administered the sacrament of confirmation to 20 young men and women during mass on Trinity Sunday at the St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church.

Two young men were baptized during the service.

The sacred event took place this past Sunday, May 26, 2013,

Parish priest Fr. George Agger concelebrated the holy Eucharist with his Lordship during which the youths were confirmed and baptized. The celebration featured in particular the young people as the regular music and choir was joined and accompanied by the young Genesis steel pan, with the confirmants singing the meditation hymn accompanied by Genesis, You Have All my Future.

the knowledge that we have of God and the understanding that we have. .…then we can apply it to how we live our lives…and the things of God. So today commit yourselves…to this relationship with the Holy Spirit…by the grace and the word of God.”

Bishop Kenneth rendered the homily in which he directed some of his message to the youngsters. “…today as you commit yourselves to grow in faith and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, commit yourselves to therefore applying the word of God, so that the Holy Spirit can apply to you, because ultimately the Holy Spirit will lead you to that great gift, that great gift of wisdom. And when you pos-

CARIBBEAN DEVELOPMENT BANK JOB OPPORTUNITIES The Caribbean Development Bank is seeking to recruit experienced professionals to fill the following positions at its headquarters located in Barbados: INTERNAL AUDIT DIVISION Deputy Director, Internal Audit Senior Audit Officer Candidates must be nationals of one of CDB’s Member Countries. The Bank’s member countries are the Commonwealth Caribbean countries together with Canada, Colombia, Germany, Haiti, Italy, Mexico, the People’s Republic of China, the United Kingdom and Venezuela.

CDB is a multilateral development bank that collaborates with its Borrowing Member Countries to promote sustainable social and economic development, economic cooperation and regional integration.

APPLICATIONS Full details of the job opportunities, guidelines for the submission of applications and general information about the Caribbean Development Bank may be obtained from the Bank’s website at http://www.caribank.org. The closing date for applications is June 15, 2013.

CDB is a multilateral development bank that collaborates with its Borrowing Member Countries to promote sustainable social and economic development, economic cooperation and regional integration.

Photos - by Warren Cassell of Immaculate Images

Page 8

Friday, May 31, 2013

Kids time - In your own korner Hello everyone – It is kid’s time with Auntie Lyka “In Your Own Korner”. It’s now time for exams. I know you were preparing.

I wish you all the best. Here is a simple “Recipe for Success: Study while others are sleeping; work while others are loafing; prepare while others are playing; and dream while others are wishing.

For as long as the boy could remember, he had heard about his ancestors creating cups, bowls, masks, and musical instruments out of gourds. His whole life he had seen his father decorate the hardshelled fruits. And he longed to be a gourd artist himself, but every time he had declared this wish, his father had said that he was yet not ready.

The Gourd Artist

by Ella Kennen

That night, the boy had a dream. A dark thread lay on the horizon. As he reached for it, the thread began to unravel. It grew and grew until it blanketed the sky. It became the night itself, with the moon and stars and wisps of clouds. The boy reached up and drew the night sky to him until it lay cupped in his hands.

After he woke, slivers of the dream world lingered over him. The boy lay for a moment, puzzling. A dream like that was no mere dream. Then he remembered his father’s words. “Training always starts with a sign.” The boy stared at his hands. Surely, fingers powerful enough to draw in the sky could work with a simple gourd. He grinned.

“I need a gourd,” he announced at breakfast, shifting back and forth between his feet.

His father glared at his restless limbs and said nothing.

The boy willed himself to be still. “I saw a sign,” he explained. “It is time.”

His father frowned. “It was the wrong sign.”

The boy’s jaw dropped. He closed his eyes, willing the dream to come back to him. How could something so incredible not be right?

“It was the wrong dream,” his father repeated, gently now.

The boy set his jaw. His father was wrong, he knew. But he also knew not to speak his mind.

“When will I be ready?” he asked instead.

“When you can see the world through the gourd.”

The boy tried to hide his frustration. “How do I

rain’s fuel – cared for the plant.

Then the hand returned to hang the now hard and ripe gourd. The boy’s rays warmed the gourd, drawing away its moisture. Molds grew on its surface, were wiped off, and grew again. Above the gourd, beside the gourd, within the gourd, the boy sensed the rhythms of the birds and winds and stars.

Suddenly, the boy woke up. The sky was purple, the air still. A year, thought the boy. It took a year or more for a gourd to grow and dry. And he had felt superior and impatient about painting and carving work that only took days, or even hours?

do that?”

Night Sky Dream by Ella Kennen

“I was like you once, restless.” His father smiled.

“Do not worry. It will happen. Just not today. For now, the chickens need feeding.”

The boy sighed, then set to his chores. As he walked across the field, he frowned at the horizon, the very thing he had held in his dream. He thought about the smooth hard shell of a gourd, an empty canvas just waiting to be burned and painted.

Hours became days became weeks. And while the boy still ached to work on a gourd – man’s work, not this simple tending farm – his disappointment eased.

Then one night, the boy had another dream.

The world dwindled until it was just a patch of dirt. A hand appeared, nudging a seed into the ground. In his dream, the boy became droplets of rain, nourishing the seed. He became the sun’s rays, coaxing the young tendrils to reach up. Days and nights passed. The boy learned every part of the plant, from the fine hairs on its roots to each vein on its leaves.

The plant grew and grew and eventually flowered.

When a bee came, the boy could feel pollen mixing with pollen. At the base of the flower, a gourd started to grow. And still the boy – the sun’s heat and the

Though exhausted, the boy crept out of bed. He walked to the yard and stared at the rows of gourds, shaped like bells, pears, apples, globes, and giant string beans. Later that morning, his father found him in the yard.

“I had a dream,” the boy whispered, staring at a gourd. “The whole world is in there.”

His father nodded. “You are ready.”

The boy looked at the hard smooth shell that hid within it the earth, the waters, the sun. For a moment, fear gripped him. How could he put a brush against something so much bigger than him? “I... I don’t know what to paint.”

His father smiled. “Just follow your hands and your heart.”

And he did.

About the author and illustrator...

Ella Kennen spent her first 15 years living in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She’s been hopping around ever since and currently lives in England. Ella is a doctoral student in Public Administration. Her writing has appeared in such diverse publications as Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education, Latino University, Girl’s Life, and Appleseeds Magazine. You can find out more about her at http://ellakennen.wordpress.com

Pre-School Corner Hello to you my preschool friends. We colour by numbers

Colour Me See you next week right here

In Your Own Korner.

Where we will have fun Kids write your stories, tell us about yourselves. Email or post - Write to Aunty Lyka, at P.O. Box 306, Davy Hill, or send email to: kidstime@themontserratreporter.com

Answer as quickly as you can.....

Friday, May 31, 2013

Page g 9

Active or “extremely active” hurricane season predicted by NoAA WASHINGTON D.C., United States – The United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is forecasting an active or extremely active hurricane season this year.

In its 2013 Atlantic hurricane season outlook, NOAA’s Climate Prediction Centre, said 2013 would be prolific in raising storms out of the Atlantic and the Caribbean.

For the six-month hurricane season, which begins June 1, NOAA’s Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook says there is a 70 percent likelihood of 13 to 20 named storms, with winds of 39 miles per hour (mph) or higher.

NOAA said seven to 11 of those storms could become hurricanes with winds of 74 mph or higher, including three to six major hurricanes - Category 3, 4 or 5 and winds of 111 mph or higher.

“These ranges are well above the seasonal average of 12 named storms, six hurricanes and three major hurricanes,” it said.

NOAA acting administrator Dr Kathryn Sullivan said with the devastation of Hurricane Sandy still fresh in many people’s minds and another active season predicted “everyone at NOAA is committed to providing life-saving forecasts in the face of these storms”.

Hurricane Sandy killed many people as it made its way across the Caribbean to the north-east US. NOAA said three climate factors that strongly control Atlantic hurricane activity are expected to come together to produce an “active or extremely active 2013 hurricane season”.

It said these comprise a continuation of the atmospheric climate pattern, which includes a strong West African Monsoon, which is “responsible for the ongoing era of high activity for Atlantic hurricanes that began in 1995”.

Warmer-than-average water temperatures in the tropical At-

lantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea also contribute to the “active or extremely active 2013 hurricane season”.

In addition, NOAA said El Niño is not expected to develop and suppress hurricane formation.

Meteorologists say El Niño is a warming of ocean water off the west coast of South America, which often depresses the Atlantic hurricane season due to higher instances of wind shear as storms develop.

In its absence, the Atlantic season can be more active, forecasters say.

“This year, oceanic and at-

mospheric conditions in the Atlantic basin are expected to produce more and stronger hurricanes,” said Dr Gerry Bell, lead seasonal hurricane forecaster with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Centre.

“These conditions include weaker wind shear, warmer Atlantic waters and conducive wind

cont’d. from page 5

this Chamber must be utilized for the benefit of the country at large,” he said.

Previously it was reported: Mr. McLaughlin said in previous discussions about forming a government, coalition-supported and independent members had “insisted on more than [the Progressives] were prepared to offer”.

“There are five of them and we were offering two [ministerial] seats,” Mr. McLaughlin said. “We think we’ve been more than fair.”

“Within the next two weeks I will take a delegation including the Minister of Finance to the UK to meet with the British Government to resolve some of our budgetary issues for the upcoming fiscal year,” he added.

Pointing to the port and the airport expansion as key projects, he said getting them properly tendered and on stream would be an early priority for the new government. However, creating jobs was priority number one.

cont’d. from page 5

on the number of members (and their weight). Persons found walking in the afternoon before 5.00pm will be taxed too. Walkers cause too much distraction during the rush hour. There will be surtax on all personal income tax to employ special tax collectors to police the new tax system.

We know that these new taxes seem ridiculous; but this is the situation in which Montserrat finds itself. In fact, the Premier agreed that things must get worse in order for persons

New Government

In his first address as the country’s leader, McLaughlin told the MLAs the Cayman Islands was on a new path with an inclusive government. He said although the Westminster system of government was adversarial in nature, the challenges facing the nation would not be solved by “opposing for opposing’s sake”, “I am not asking for a free pass, and my government will always welcome constructive criticism, but I believe that the experience that resides in

side will be very heavy.

So too will be the tax on underused lands over three acres. If I am not mistaken, I believe that there will be a tax on the owners of beautiful gates and gardens.

There will be a special tax on persons holding positions as directors of boards and members of certain committees, especially those brought about by the new Constitution. Exercise clubs and their patrons will now have to pay tax based

Administrative Officer, Global Fund

residing on Montserrat to appreciate the true value of a fair tax collection system.

Lastly, the Agenda strongly recommended that a new political party be founded just for young people; and that the mission and vision statements of this new party must contain the word ‘TAXATION’. It was unanimously agreed that DFID will finance the new political party.

To be forewarned is to be forearmed; so says ‘The Montserrat Reporter’!

CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY SECRETARIAT

STAFF VACANCY

(i)

Oceanic and atmospheric conditions in the Atlantic basin are expected to produce more and stronger hurricanes this year, says Climate Prediction Centre expert.

Taxation Montserrat

CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY SECRETARIAT

Applications are invited from interested and suitably qualified nationals of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Member States and Associate Members of the Caribbean Community to fill the following position (funded by the Global Fund) with assigned duty station in Guyana:

patterns coming from Africa,” he added.

NOAA’s seasonal hurricane outlook comes as Colorado State University (CSU) predicts four major hurricanes and nine hurricanes for the 2013 hurricane season.(CMC)

STAFF VACANCIES Applications are invited from interested and suitably qualified nationals of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Member States and Associate Members of the Caribbean Community to fill the following positions with assigned duty station in Guyana: (i) (ii)

Programme Manager, Services, Tourism and Transport Project Officer, Maintenance, Administrative Services

Full details of this position may be obtained by accessing the following web sites-www.caricom.org; www.caribank.org; www.oecs. org; www.crnm.org and www.caribbeanjobsonline.com

Full details of these positions may be obtained by accessing the following web sites-www.caricom.org; www.caribank.org; www.oecs. org; www.crnm.org and www.caribbeanjobsonline.com

Applications in English Language with full curriculum vitae details, including nationality, work experience, educational qualifications and/or expertise, language proficiency, coordinates (including email addresses) of three referees (at least two of whom must be familiar with the applicant’s work), and other relevant information, should be addressed to the Executive Director, Human Resource Management, Caribbean Community Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana and sent by email to applnhrm@caricom.org.

Applications in English Language with full curriculum vitae details, including nationality, work experience, educational qualifications and/or expertise, language proficiency, coordinates (including email addresses) of three referees (at least two of whom must be familiar with the applicant’s work), and other relevant information, should be addressed to the Executive Director, Human Resource Management, Caribbean Community Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana and sent by email to applnhrm@caricom.org.

The deadline for the submission of applications is 9 June 2013.

The deadline for the submission of applications is 2 June 2013.

Page 10

Friday, May 31, 2013

Summary Report of Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly held on 28th May, 2013.

1.

The following papers were laid on the table;(a) Financial Secretary (i) Schedule of Virements # 5 of April – March 2012/2013; (ii) Schedule of Virements # 6 of April – March 2012/2013; (iii) Montserrat Land Development Authority Property Management – Government of Montserrat Housing Stock – Financial Statements for the year ended 31st December 2008; (iv) Montserrat Land Development Authority Property Management – Government of Montserrat Housing Stock – Financial Statements for the year ended 31st December 2009; (v) Montserrat Land Development Authority Property Management – Government of Montserrat Housing Stock – Financial Statements for the year ended 31st December 2010; (vi) Montserrat Social Security Fund Financial Statements for the year ended 31st December 2011; (vii) Golden Years Foundation for the Care of the Elderly Financial Statements for the year ended 31st December 2012; (viii) Report of the Auditor General on the Audit of the Public Accounts of Montserrat for the Fiscal Periods ended 31st March 2010 and 31st March 2011; (ix) S R & O No. 12 of 2013 - Registered Land (Amendment) Rules 2013; (x) S R & O No. 18 of 2013 - Air Navigation (Airport Charges) Regulations 2013; (xi) S R & O No. 19 of 2013 Air Navigation (Communications and Navigation User Charges) Regulations 2013; (xii) S R & O No. 20 of 201 Air Navigation (Fees) Regulations 2013; (xiii) S R & O No. 21 of 2013 Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (Brownean Motion) (Exemption) Order 2013; (xiv) S R & O No. 22 of 2013 Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (Silcomm TV) (Exemption) Order 2013; (xv) S R & O No. 23 of 2013 Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (WakaWaka Mas Montserrat Community Group) (Exemption) Order 2013; (xvi) S R & O No. 24 of 2013 Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (Returning Montserratians) (Exemption) (Amendment) Order 2013; (xvii) S R & O No. 25 of 2013 Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (Caribbean Essence W.I) (Exemption) Order 2013; (xviii) S R & O No. 27 of 2013 Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (Montserrat Football Association Inc.) (Exemption) Order 2013; (xix) S R & O No. 28 of 2013 Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (Gerard & Doreen Farming) (Exemption) Order 2013; (xx) S R & O No. 29 of 2013 Air Navigation (Airport Charges) (No.2) Regulations 2013; (xxi) S R & O No. 30 of 2013 The Immigration (Economic Residence Permit) (Fees) Regulations 2013; (xxii) S R & O No. 31 of 2013 Income and Corporation Tax (Appeal) (Amendment) Rules 2013; (xxiii) S R & O No. 34 of 2013 Customs (After Hours Work) (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations 2013; (xxiv) S R & O No. 35 of 2013 Police (Amendment) Regulations 2013; (xxv) S R & O No. 36 of 2013 Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (Williams Electrical Services Limited) (Exemption) Order 2013; (xxvi) S R & O No. 37 of 2013 Physical Planning (Sale of Products and Services) (Fees) Order 2013; (xxvii) S R & O No. 38 of 2013 Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (Montobacco Ltd.) (Processing Fee) (Exemption) Order 2013. (b) Attorney General (i)

(ii)

2.

S R & O No. 26 of 2013. Proclamation Declaring Monday March 18th, 2013, Monday June 17th, 2013 and Tuesday December 31st, 2013 as Public Holidays; S R & O No. 33 of 2013. Criminal Justice (International Co-operation) (Designation of Prosecuting Authority) Order 2013;

The First Reading of the following Bills took place: i.

‘Income and Corporation Tax (Amendment) Bill 2013’

T&T - Cops raid Clico in search of evidence

(Excerpts) from The Trinidad also listed the names of several Financial empire. The Lindquist executives who the police were audit is reported to have provided Guardian

Heavily armed police officers from the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) last week raided the offices of financially troubled insurance company Clico and its parent company, CL Financial, looking for evidence to support the criminal case that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is building against former high-ranking executives of the companies. This was confirmed by police and government sources yesterday.

Finance Minister Larry Howai said yesterday that the execution of the search warrants related to “pre-intervention actions and it does not have any impact on the current negotiations,” between the Government and the CL Financial shareholders for the recovery of the $20 billion spent by the State following the collapse of the group, which was once chaired by Lawrence Duprey.

The police officers were granted the search warrants for Clico and CL Financial on Thursday and executed the warrants on Friday. The warrants listed scores of specific documents that the police were searching for and

attempting to question.

Director of Public Prosecutions Roger Gaspard officially started the criminal investigation into the collapse of the CL Financial empire in early November 2012, according to a statement he issued on November 8, last year. But more than a year before the DPP started the probe, Attorney General Anand Ramlogan on June 7, 2011, directed that all files pertaining to the company should be handed over to Gaspard’s office.

The Attorney General’s directive came days after the Central Bank initiated a civil lawsuit against former top-ranking CL Financial executives and their privately-owned investment companies, alleging that Clico’s assets and income were fraudulently misappropriated to the detriment of the insurance company’s policyholders and mutual fund investors.

The Central Bank’s lawsuit is based on an investigation conducted by forensic accountant Bob Lindquist following the January 2009 collapse of the CL

details of at least three suspicious transactions.

In November last year the DPP warned media houses not to publish “anything which might jeopardise, hinder or otherwise prejudice the investigation or any possible proceedings which might result from it.”

And just weeks after he announced the start of the official police investigation on December 3, 2012, Gaspard attempted to convince the sole commissioner into the collapse of CL Financial, Sir Anthony Colman, to suspend the public hearings of the Commission of Enquiry, as such hearings had the potential to provide prejudicial publicity to the investigation being undertaken by the local police.

And just weeks after he announced the start of the official police investigation on December 3, 2012, Gaspard attempted to convince the sole commissioner into the collapse of CL Financial, Sir Anthony Colman, to suspend the public hearings of the Commission of Enquiry, as

cont’d. on page 11

First Reading 28th May 2013 The Bill seeks to amend the Income and Corporation Tax Act (Cap 17.01) by amending sections: 6, 34, 51 and 75. ii. Registration of Business Names (Amendment) Bill 2013 First Reading 28th May 2013 The Bill seeks to amend the Registration of Business Names Act by (1) Providing for a business registered under the Act to file an annual return with the Registrar no later than 1st April in each year (2) Empowering the Registrar to remove from the Register the name of a business that fails to file the annual return or pay the annual fee (3) Appointing the Commissioner of Financial Services as the Registrar (4) Removing the cap placed on the amount that may be charged for issuing a copy of a certificate of registration or a copy or extract from any registered statement (5) Removing the cap on the amount that the Governor acting on the advice of Cabinet may set as the fee payable for registration. iii. Port Security Charge Bill 2013 First Reading 28th May 2013 This Bill seeks to provide for the collection of a security charge at the ports. The Bill covers the following areas: Imposition of a Port Security Charge, receipt exemptions, Carrier to collect Port Security Charge, Offences, Enforcing Payment, Power of the Court, Refunds, Regulations and Repeal of the Airport Security Charge Act (Cap 7.09). iv. Merchant Shipping Bill 2013 First Reading 28th May 2013 The Bill seeks to implement the registration and transfer of vessels and safety of lives at sea. The Bill is divided into several parts as follows: Part 1- preliminary matters, Part 2 - registration of ships, Part 3 – national character and flag, Part 4 – proprietary interests in registered ships, Part 5- safety and environmental protection and Part 6 – safety of life at sea.

Bills that had their first readings can be read in their entirety at any of the following places: Legislature Department #1 Farara Plaza Brades Montserrat

Legal Department Valley View Brades Montserrat

Sgd. Judith C Baker CLERK OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

Public Library BBC Complex Brades Montserrat

Government of Montserrat Website

Friday, May 31, 2013

Page g 11

Jack Warner cries foul, again

Caribbean360

PORT-OF-SPAIN, Trinidad - Former special advisor to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation (TTFF) Jack Warner has blasted a CONCACAF integrity report, accusing him of financial fraud, as a deliberate plan to mislead.

Warner, former national security minister in the Kamla Persad Bissessar administration, also questioned the procedure used to gather the information describing it as flawed.

The report accused Warner of using deceptive methods to secure funds from CONCACAF and FIFA as well as induce FIFA to transfer funds earmarked for development purposes to bank accounts he controlled.

A CONCACAF integrity report accused Warner of using deceptive methods to secure funds from CONCACAF and FIFA as well as induce FIFA to transfer funds earmarked for development purposes to bank accounts he controlled.

“The procedure used to gather information was flawed because it authorized Counsel to conduct necessary interviews in person, by telephone and without

reference to the committee,” said Warner in a written statement read out during a news conference in Port-of-Spain Tuesday.

“In other words some people

did not even know why they were giving the information. These witnesses imparted their information without taking oath and in the absence of the members of the Committee who must now look at that information and make findings”.

Warner has since resigned from his posts as minister of national security, chairman of the United National Congress and MP for Chaguanas West after the CONCACAF report, condemning his actions, were published.

He told journalists that he has had consultations with three eminent legal minds in Justice Zainool Hosein, Andrew Mitchell Q.C. and Bertram E. Commissiong Q.C. regarding the charges lev-

eled in the report.

“However, the lawyers concluded that the Committee made clear pronouncements as to the culpability and guilt of Jack Warner. These are not, and cannot be supported by the evidence and the facts,” said the embattled Warner.

“The conclusions appear to be driven by a desire to castigate, malign and punish rather than to present a true and fair representation of the state of affairs and or the circumstances surrounding a number of transactions addressed in the Committee’s report”.

The CONCACAF report also claims that Warner accepted money intended for FIFA that

landed into his personal bank accounts.

But Warner said he was not questioning the quality of the committee members comprised of Sir David Simmons, Judge Ricardo Urbina and Ernesto Hempe “but the independence and fairness of both the process and findings”. “ I want you to be mindful of our past that Jack Warner has been sanctioned, castigated and maligned; treated as guilty without due process or an investigation into the publication of documents to determine its veracity or validity,” said Warner.

“I have been a victim of a degree of intrigue and collusion of the highest level”.

cont’d. from page 10

confirming the raid, Howai announced that he had signed an agreement to further extend the CL Financial Shareholders’ Agreement, which was set to expire today, for a further 60 days. That initial agreement was meant to provide the Government with control over the CL Financial board for three years from June 12, 2009 to June 11, 2012. It had already been extended twice, from June to December 2012 and from December to May. In a statement, the Ministry of Finance said: “Yesterday,

Senator the Honourable Larry Howai, Minister of Finance and the Economy, signed an agreement extending the CL Financial Shareholders’ Agreement, which was set to expire on May 26, for a further 60 days. “Within the 60day period, the Government and CL Financial will seek to conclude talks aimed at agreeing on, among other things, the means by which sums owed to creditors of the financial entities that formed the CLF Group, including the Government, will be repaid.”

Clico raided

such hearings had the potential to provide prejudicial publicity to the investigation being undertaken by the local police.

Sir Anthony declined the DPP’s request. The DPP is an independent public office, the holder of which has the power to start, continue or stop criminal proceedings before any court, in respect of any offence against the law of Trinidad and Tobago.

Extension of CL shareholders’ agreement Yesterday, as officials were

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STAFF VACANCIES Applications are invited from interested and suitably qualified nationals of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Member States and Associate Members of the Caribbean Community to fill the following positions: DUTY STATION – GUYANA (i) (ii)

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Deputy Programme Manager, CSME Senior Project Officer, CSME Regulatory and Administration Procedures Consumer Health and Safety Officer, CSME Consumer Protection and Policy Officer, CSME Free Movement and Labour Officer, CSME

Full details of these positions may be obtained by accessing the following web siteswww.caricom.org; www.caribank.org; www.oecs.org; www.crnm.org and www. caribbeanjobsonline.com Applications in English Language with full curriculum vitae details, including nationality, work experience, educational qualifications and/or expertise, language proficiency, coordinates (including email addresses) of three referees (at least two of whom must be familiar with the applicant’s work), and other relevant information, should be addressed to the Executive Director, Human Resource Management, Caribbean Community Secretariat, Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown, Guyana and sent by email to applnhrm@caricom.org.

The deadline for the submission of applications is 23 June 2013.

Page 12

Friday, May 31, 2013

www.themontserratreporter.com

Budgetary aid increase cont’d. from page 1 tion and operation of a port through a PPP drawing in private sector investment, alongside on-going efforts to attract private investment for hotel, marina and other tourist infrastructure.”

In the joint press conference of DFID and GoM, he admitted that there had been some adjustments, additions to the SGP with specific reference to the foregoing. He said: “…the work that is still to be done - we’ve agreed an action plan that will make sure that that will be implemented or at least the work on that would be completed by August of this year and then we can reach some sort of decision…” advising that the government has until August to make good the Letters of Intent and the interest shown by private sector investors, to build the port and related, the town, and develop Little Bay. The press received clarification for the people’s benefit, that “Private sector investment” referenced

local and foreign (and the Disapora).

UK Pressure Although Kelly informed of the letter from the UK ministers of DFID and FCO, “UK Ministers have written to the Premier reiterating HMG’s commitment to Montserrat and clarifying the next stages of our joint work,” in spite of that seeming forwarding gesture , It was suggested to the DFID team that the UK was putting pressure on Montserrat with the conditions, even with the time extension.

The extended response

by Kelly was: “What the government (UK) is saying is, the initial idea, the initial time table hasn’t been met.

Is there another way of doing this, can we look at other ways of funding the port for example? That’s where the PPP (Public Private Partnership comes in.

Why the government want to give more time for the PPP is that, that then is a definite way of financing the port where the cost and the risk of port develop-

l-r: Allan Clarkin, Tom Kelly, Dr. Kato Kimbugwe ment are shared between the private and the public sector. So, what the government is saying is, the original timelines weren’t met rather than closing the book right now and trying something else, let’s see if

JUS WONDERIN

Jus wonderin if expediency is the newest and highest pillar of governance.

Jus Wondering if a tru Twisty tell e twisted ministers dat dey ha fu put up wid e carse e nar change.

Jus wonderin if dictatorship no more efficient and effective dan democracy.

Jus wonderin if the Minister of Religious Affairs and Housing suffering from blindness, amnesia and/or other mental afflictions, or religion no matter.

Jus wonderin if the lay Minister no see wat evrybody else a see at Lookout: corroded galvanize roofs, corroded metal columns, corroded metal doors, rotten hurricane shutters, handrails and doors, and more.

Jus wonderin if our elected ministers and FfID/public officials a disrespect an try fu deceive ar’we so.

Jus wonderin if the Premier a try fu mislead suppliers wen he say dat de Complaints Commishun decision final when the Procurement Regulations actually say in section 48(3): “The decision of the Complaints Commission shall be final and immediately binding upon the procuring entity and Public Procurement Board.”

Jus wonderin if what I see, hear and read on de Reporter site, that DFID and GoM shouldn’t be pleased with their successful investment in educating us about our rights, rather than calling people litigious when we simply seek redress from the acts of public officials that look like they irrational, disproportionate and procedurally unfair or just downright unlawful.

Jus wonderin how many more government tenants will sue their landlord for breach of contract.

Jus wonderin if DFID support human rights so how dem so critical when ar we exercise them o a we no human too.

Jus wonderin if DfID no guilty too fu nar help a we dee same way dem help dem kith and kin.

Me a wonda if dee “good contractor” DFID a tark bout in dem Review on de education infastructur project a de seeam wan who build de EU house dem a Lookout dat guvment ha fu fix all 60 u dem.

Jus wonderin if de DFID review a evidence-based or gasbag-based.

Jus wonderin if dis paatnaship ting wuk only one way

wid one side dictating evryting.

Jus wonderin wat being a British citizen mean fu a we.

Jus a wonderin who a revew wat DFID a do wid a we an sey bout a we.

Jus wonderin wat de udder paatnas a get fu ge a we dee funs.

Jus wonderin if justice no require transparency and accountability from all partners Jus wonderin if a’we a review DfID dee same wey dem a review a we.

Jus wonderin if PIU really stan fu Premier Implementation Unit.

Jus Wonderin if DfID and FCO had a hand in creating and sustaining this PIU ting described in the June 2012 DFID Review of the Education Infrastructure project as “… the parallel ” [to GoM] “put in place to speed up delivery of infrastructure.”

Jus wonderin if de Premier and e DFID partna no decide since June las year dat dem a go gee PIU dee Education Infrastructure project.

Jus wonderin if a no in a March las year dat DFID say in a dem Review of Restructuring the PWD Workshop project that “DFID will not approve any additional procurement “ until the findings of GoM’s investigation into procurement practices are officially shared with them.

Jus wonderin if DFID could len a we de wan dat write de review wey say: “The budget to date is still based on what is available rather than what is needed.”

Jus wonderin where we can find MDC’s Business and Financial Plan 2012-2015.

Jus wonderin why govment no fix dem houses de way dem promise in de leases a we sign.

Jus wonderin how govment no ha money fu fix dem house but ha money fu lend a we to fix dem.

Jus wonderin why DFID a mek a-we suffer so when dem shut dung the road project a-we depend on fu buy bread.

Jus wonderin why DFID no jus bring dem own people fu spend dem money since dey no trust us an jus lef enuf fu trickle dung to fill a-we belly.

Jus wonderin wey de Procurement Board publish dem decisions so awe cud see.

we can extend the timeline for this PPP interest. It’s giving Montserrat more time to look at more options to fund he port.”

GoM accepts The Premier as leader of Governments business, acknowledging GoM’s culpability in the arrangements, in addition explained, why extra time was desirable: “If we’re forced to go in a particular direction, the first person that comes to the table we’d jump, because that would leave the British funds.”

He explained further, acknowledging the pressures of the MOU, “the understanding here is, (to the UK) do not hold us to that time line, because you can cause us to make an injudicious decision. Therefore, despite what the MOU says, give us an opportunity to go out there and see if we can get the best possible investment for Montserrat, and they have agreed to that,” He noted.

He also pointed out the reasoning and accepted the UK’s lack of interest in fully funding, what he referred to as, “elaborate port which we designed…”.

“We made a mistake with the airport by building something, and in relation to the port we are designing a port which will meet future needs of Montserrat,” he pointed out. “We

don’t expect the British government to finance the elaborate port which we designed, in terms of all the things which we want in there. We have basically indicated, let us look at the private sector…” he concluded.

Tax Reforms The press noted to both DFID and GoM the continued continuation of the question of tax reforms. In fact it was reported as one of the areas that government had been failing in meeting its commitments under the MOU. While good progress was reported in the review on Investment policy; Tourism; and Access; “Performance has been below expectations in the following areas”: Tax reforms; Review of regulatory functions; and Institutions.

On the question of Tax reforms, Kelly pointed out while avoiding directly addressing questions on their continued reference to ‘tax compliance’ he assumed the question, “relates to recurring budget and how much government of Montserrat raising in terms of recurring budget.” He said, “That’s an issue that we discuss at our mid-year and annual reviews, as to whether or not these taxes, the old tax régime that government of Montserrat has implemented is raising the adequate

level of revenue.”

He said that they reference, “looking at a tax régime - that is attractive to private investment; that is on or off island, I think the question that you’re talking about Budget The press conference revealed that the Government of Montserrat had received settlement from DFID the budgetary aid for 2013/14. It was local DFid through Dr. Kato Kimbugwe whose pleasure it was to bear the good news. “Local DFID Montserrat is pleased to announce that the budget aid settlement amounting to EC$70.3million has been agreed.”

It showed EC$57.3m for the recurrent budget – increased from EC$52m in 2012/13, pointing out that the settlement enables continued provision of essential services, including assistance across health, education services and improving sea access and safety at the airport.

The accompanying release said that “during discussions, GoM highlighted significant budget pressures arising from capital replacement costs, rising pension costs and on-going financial liabilities.”

It noted that “DFID has increased funding across these areas to address these pressures.”