Rep24 jul26 13 pages

Friday, July 26, 2013

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Today’s Scripture

In Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. - 2 Corinthians 5:19

Well #2 www.themontserratreporter.com

Vol. XXVIII No. 24

Week Ending Friday, July 26, 2013

Price $3.00

drilling done Geothermal TesƟng to run unƟl October

by Bennette Roach Reports on drilling for geothermal resource are that drilling at Well #2 for is complete. What is left is testing, and answers to the questions. ‘Is the resource really there, was the drilling adequate, was this a waste of money to date?”

Three weeks ago in the July 5, 2013 issue we headlined, “Hopes, Doubts and questions shroud geothermal resource exploration”, noting that Director of Public Works, Ron Beardsley who had been reporting on the progress of the drilling project for geothermal resource in the Cork Hill/ Weekes area, citing, ‘very good news’ as he reports that (see: http://www.the- resource-exploration/) the temperature at the geomontserratreporter.com/ We reported also that thermal site in the Cork Hill/ hopes-doubts-and-questhe project had been plagued Weekes area at Well #1has tions-shroud-geothermalresulting from equipment increased to 219.5°C.”

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Headlines...

and procurement problems.

Members of the CRM group, who can be credited to have insisted that Government of

Montserrat (GoM) and the resulted in the UK Governpeople, should own every- ment’s support. The group thing to do with the geo- have long questioned the thermal development. This, cont’d. on page 12

HMS Lancaster visits Montserrat...pg 2

MSS graduation story rerun...pg 8

Montserrat not a tax haven...pg 3

£85m scam...pg 9

Stand your ground...pg 5

Regional banks & ECCB discuss future...pg 10

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

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Friday, July 26, 2013

HMS Lancaster’s working visit to Montserrat

When Commander Steve Moorhouse the Royal Navy’s Frigate HMS Lancaster left the Little Bay port on Saturday July 14, following a three-day visit, it was after they engaged with the island in several, if not only with some sporting defeats, useful involvement in various areas. They worked with the youth and others, carrying out some upgrading of the elderly homes, along with training of the Police marine unit.

The ship hosted and even entertained several visitors to the ship, including the media who heard Commander Steve Moorhouse say, “…we competed poorly in Cricket, Volley Ball, we came second in both of those, so my fingers and toes are crossed for the football,” which he said they were coming off a winning streak having beaten the last three territories. “So we’re feeling quietly confident…” he said.

He confirmed: “we’re primarily here for humanitarian and disaster relief whatever those are -particularly an island like this where you actually got both sort of ends of that spectrum from the hurricane to the volcano…” adding that narcotic patrols are also part of their detail, which would commence following the tour to Montserrat.

He reported, confirming the activities that had been planned, expressing their reaction to the visit. “The experience of the last three days has been truly magnificent Lancaster and my ship’s company have been made to feel extremely welcome by everybody on the island…

I’ve got a really good under-

Commander Steve Moorhouse of HMS Lancaster standing now of the uniqueness of Montserrat from the volcano, considerations for disaster relief and also the opportunity to put 50 to 60 of my people ashore working in the community on a number of projects…”

He said working on the projects has also been invaluable, “…and the sailors have come back with a real smile and a sense that actually they have made a little difference to the quality of people’s lives on the island.”

The Governor’s office had informed that the Old Peoples Welfare association

identified four homes of people in need, elderly people in need, homes that are in need of repair homes without bathrooms, homes with leaking. “…So the project that we are going to do for the year is the Navy are going to send 60 men ashore and we found sixty volunteers to work with them from youth groups, Rotaract, Community college, Cadet core and Secondary school, Catholic youth organization, matching the number of sailors that are coming to shore,” Richard Aspin had reported.

The Commander responded briefly about his ship, himself and the Royal Navy, advising “every branch, job opportunity in the Royal Navy that’s in the dark blue service, is open to females, with recruiting policy across the Commonwealth. “We have had sailors, from Fiji, Kenya, Caribbean, Commonwealth islands… there is a broad spectrum of Commonwealth nations in

the armed forces. From engineers, through navigators, through chefs, stewards.” He informed there are females around the world, doing those roles hand in hand with their male counterparts and that the sister ship HMS Portland, is commanded by a female.

He said he came to Montserrat in March 1992 on the HMS Fraser, “as an officer under training,” anchoring off Plymouth. “I went to shore in the ships sea boat, onto the new jetty to call on the governor.”

“The Lancaster has been

here previously doing this deployment and I believe our sister Frigate Ian Duke was here 2008,” he also informed.

He explained that ships like the Lancaster and the Wave Knight operate separately, “so we can spread out more within the Caribbean potentially though in the events of a natural disaster of whatever format,” he said, adding, “we can come together,” further explaining his ship, “provide most of the man power,” while most of the stores are on the Wave Knight. Those disaster

relief stores are all there but actually what After welcoming some other visitors on board, during his brief, the Captain said that while the visit was routine, they were, “here to do is facilitate what you want us to do. It’s very much what the islands tell us what to do here,” to do whatever the Governor and Government wished them to do.

The ship’s men participated in a training exercise with the Police Marine Unit, the Commander commenting that he recognized the limitations of the ‘MV Shamrock’

Friday, July 26, 2013

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Montserrat and other Overseas Territories not tax haven

Upon his return from his response to the UK Prime Minister Cameron’s invitation to discuss global tax matters, Premier the Hon Reuben Meade told the media here that Montserrat and the other Overseas Territories (OTs) are not tax havens, and are in some cases way ahead of G8 countries as it relates to tax compliance.

He said this was clearly articulated to the UK P M Cameron by OT leaders during recent the talks in London following Cameron’s invitation in June to to discuss Tax transparency matters ahead of the G8 summit, where Cameron was to assume the chairman’s duties.

According to the British P M, the meeting was held in an effort to end what he called a scourge of tax evasion in the UK OT’s and Crowned dependences.

But the Premier had this to say on the matter. “As a matter of fact most of the jurisdictions in the Caribbean are even beyond what is being required by the G8 countries. We have operating the financial action task force, and we are complying with the legislation as it relates to the financial action task force.

“We do self-appraisal, where groups from within the region assess others - we make the modifications as are required.

“The tax information exchange agreement; We have gone beyond the minimum levels, and we have even gone beyond in

the volcano during the late 90s, “we may have been able to get into the financial services business a little more whole heartedly,” he said, “but by which time the fiber optics coming into Montserrat had been taken out.”

Premier Meade calls out the US

The Premier was critical of the United States for making comments about Cayman Island and Bermuda, noting, “all one needs to do is to look within the US…there is one building that hosts I think

Premier Reuben T. Meade terms of the registration of trust on the beneficial owners of trust’.”

Meade said that they (OTs) asked the Prime Minister, “To convince and convey to his colleagues in G8 and elsewhere that, we are not only not tax havens, but in fact we are tax jurisdictions that benefit from the legal framework established by those countries to facilitate the development of the financial services sector within our jurisdictions.”

Montserrat and offshore banking business As for Montserrat not benefiting from the offshore business like some other OTs, the Premier said, “Montserrat has gone through a process where

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we were dirtied and the period of cleansing is very long,” adding “we got out of the financial services business and other jurisdictions then leapfrogged ahead of us and were then became leaders in the markets.”

“When we went back to the market in about 92/93, the indication from the market was it takes a little longer than that for people to forget and therefore you are not yet cleansed,” Premier Meade continued, commenting that it was rather difficult to get into the market and by that time Cayman, Bermuda, BVI had already established themselves.

He added that by that time the requirement offshore banks was that you must have a physical presence of the country for new offshore banks, “and therefore Montserrat really did not get too heavily in that business.”

Besides, with the advent of

OVERSEAS TERRITORY OF MONTSERRAT IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE A. D. 2013

13,000 offshore companies, while claiming that the Cayman Islands and others are tax havens.”

Meanwhile, “in their own territory in the mainland United States, those facilities are made available for offshore financial services,” not targeting their own, “they target the smaller ones who they believe cannot fight back.”

A somewhat irritated premier accused the US, “…and what we are saying to the British government we want you to stand with us in our corner and say

to the United States and other such jurisdictions the overseas territories are being very diligent; they are doing things right, they’re not the repositories of terrorist financing.”

He reminded that all Territories have modified legislations and ”have the Antiterrorist Act. We have modified all of the legislations with in all of the overseas territories to ensure that it is rather difficult for you to be hiding money in these jurisdictions,” he concluded.

Charity Kayakers stopped over in Montserrat

Carolyne Coleby contrib- they stayed for their time in over the next month before Montserrat. They only had one returning for their studies in uted Four English university students arrived in Montserrat last Saturday on their 800-mile charity kayaking trip round the Caribbean. They are hoping to raise £40,000 for Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital and the Lyla Nsouli Foundation, in the U.K. They are Tom McAlpine, Michael Houston, Edmund Magnus and Woody Dewar, are well on the way to their target.

On Saturday, they left Guadeloupe at 3 a.m. and kayaked to Montserrat, arriving at 7.30 at night.

They kayaked past Plymouth at 3 p.m., but strong headwinds meant it took several hours to get to Little Bay. After clearing customs and getting something to eat, they made their way to the Mount Pleasant Campsite in Woodlands where

day of rest, which included a visit to the Calabash Festival and John Ponteen’s at Little Bay, before leaving first thing Monday morning for Nevis.

The team reported that they started in Grenada, kayaked up through the Grenadines and went onto Dominica before arriving in Guadeloupe from where they came to Montserrat. They are heading up to Puerto Rico

the UK. The kayakers website is http://thekxkayakers.co.uk/ which gives full information about the trip. Anyone can track their progress in real time online.

Any donations will be gratefully received.

It should be noted that the kayakers are funding their trip themselves and all money goes to the designated charities.

LEGAL NOTICE In the estate of JOHN ALFRED KIRNON, also known as ARTHUR KIRNON, deceased

LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE

NOTICE is hereby given that after the expiration of fourteen (14) days from the date hereof, application will be made in the Registry of the High Court of Justice for an Order that Letters of Administration with Will attached in the Estate of JOHN ALFRED KIRNON also known as ARTHUR KIRNON late of St. Peter’s, Montserrat, who died on the 6th day of April, 2000 at the Margetson Memorial Home, Glendon Hospital, St. John’s, Montserrat be granted to CHIVONE GERALD of Allen Markham & Associates, Banks, Montserrat, the Lawful Attorney of MARY KATHLEEN KIRNON and SARAH ROSALIND KIRNON the Personal Representatives of the deceased and two of the persons entitled to share in the Estate.

NOTICE is hereby given that after the expiration of fourteen (14) days from the date of this notice, an application will be made in the Registry of the High Court of Justice for an Order that Letters of Administration in the Estate of MARY HENRIETTA J. PONTEEN who died on the 11th day of June, 2013 be granted to JOYCELYN PONTEEN, one of the persons entitled to share in the estate of the deceased.

ALL persons claiming to be beneficially interested therein are requested forthwith to send particulars to me the undersigned.

ALL persons claiming to be beneficially interested in the estate are requested to send written particulars thereof to the undersigned within 14 days from the date of this Notice.

FURTHER, any person objecting to the issuance of a Grant to the Applicants should notify the Registrar of the High Court of Justice no later than fourteen (14) days from the date of the notice.

ANY person objecting to the issuance of a Grant to the Applicant should notify the Registrar of the High Court not later than 14 days from the date of this Notice.

DATED the 11th day of July 2013 Chivone Gerald ALLEN MARKHAM & ASSOCIATES

PROBATE DIVISION In the Estate of MARY HENRIETTA J. PONTEEN, deceased

Dated this 27th day of June, 2013 BRANDT & ASSOCIATES Attorneys-at-Law

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Friday, July 26, 2013

Letters/Opinion

Should Protocol be followed or just Mal-practice is almost cultural, stated to have been established EDITORIAL

no progress unless corrected Doubtful anyone would have difficulty realising that the ICAI report that we covered last week, though not comprehensively, might leave one wondering what may be achieved or come out of it.

We waited to hear reactions, maybe it is too early, but if either side were more happy than upset about it, something would have been in the air. What is in the air is deafening. But, we should still and will wait.

We were forced to fine-tune some issues or questions that cause concern and having to do with the suspension of the A1 road project especially when we learn the real reason for the actions by DFID, supported by sections of government.

From reports, there is a certain level of mediocrity and even dishonesty from all sides on the issues. That road project started wrong, as was confirmed by DFID with less money than was approved prior to the June 1995.

Minister Kirnon would have remembered, but in fairness, some work had been done in upgrading the road from Salem northwards (Fogarthy) since the volcanic crisis began. However, the least that could have been done was an insistence from Government (GoM) that the approved sum be what was approved earlier, rather than reducing even what was approved in the 2000s.

In addition to DFID not admitting or rather only admitting to quarterly reports, there were monthly reports on that project that exposed difficulties in carrying out the project as expected from the beginning. The regular person on the street observed something was wrong and we reported the concerns.

The problems were poor planning from the beginning and on the way (like the Hurricane Earl repairs and ducting), rather than management. Then on top of this ‘small mindedness, immaturity and other nameless attitudes’ set in.

The problem we see here is a lack of capacity in so many areas. We have asked about of GoM and the UK government (UKG) about this for over four years. If anything comes out of the ICAI report we expect to see action in this regards, recalling also DFID’s 2013 Budget Aide Memoire in February.

While the new or current UKG wanted to stamp its own policies on how they do business and look after their dependent territories (OTs) it appears they have some work to do, just like is required with our ‘public servants’ here in Montserrat, at all levels. The lack of or the problems we face, it is good for some but deadly for others, the result, an economy that sees no light.

We have to tell the truth to our own people. One way to do that, requires much the same as the UKG supports independent and other investigations even on themselves. They call that democracy, so what do they call it here?

This applies no less to GoM who must really grow up and cut out that which leads to only more corruption.

A few other questions of concern, have to do with the ease with which GoM and by extension UKG question the people for resorting to the courts.

They spend enormous sums to prosecute matters of no benefit to our economy, and on the other end instead of accepting when the courts say they are wrong, they go to the appeal court even to the Privy Council. Is this because there pot is limitless, so frustrate the unfortunate away to suffer more? This is in the face of several outstanding judgments against them and a growing number of new matters. And, there are those, that the already broke can only think about. It is bad advice from the Premier to tell people when GoM screw-up, take the matter to court and then complain people are too litigious.

There is a serious culture of mal-practice in Montserrat and about Montserrat. It is costing the country that which it doesn’t have as well as its future, at the same time building golden elephants. Yes, who benefits?

We remember too well Minister Duncan, following their promise to be different and to correct, was asked whether he could be specific about what would be done to change the current situation of Montserratians continuing to leave and those wanting to return not finding it possible because of the poor state of the local economy.

He offered hope to correct the situation TMR had expounded on many times prior. “We have enormous confidence in Premier Meade and the partnership that is built up which is very frank, very straight forward, very honest and open on each side, to try and work out the best way forward…” he declared.

We wonder if this was mockery or sincerity, but we should hold them to that.

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

It’s that time of year again when many have just attended a series of graduating ceremonies and/or similar functions. Over the past 5 years, I have made an interesting observation at these functions on Montserrat. At the beginning of addressing the audience, the various speakers would make one of the following statements: “Protocol is established”; “Permit me to adopt the protocol that has already been established”; or “I adopt the protocol already established” At the beginning of 2011, I resolved to refrain from using expletives but by early July reneged on my promise every time I heard someone approach the podium and say “Good day! Protocol is established!” What exactly does that mean? I am on a quest to find out.

The Oxford Dictionary defines “protocol” as a “system of rules governing formal occasions”.

Such rules include how to address members of the audience and in what order. Protocol dictates that a keynote speaker should be aware of the important people that are attending and address them using their formal titles starting with the most important person. That

one rule of protocol results in the ceremony being an additional 30 minutes since there is a constant disagreement as to who on Montserrat is “important” (the one thing that seems to be the consensus is that the Governor tops the list).

So the list could get awfully long with the Director of Education, the Permanent Secretary and Education Officers getting consolatory mention.

It appears as though the phrase “Protocol is established” is used to avoid addressing the plethora of “important” people that religiously attend these functions.

How is the protocol established?

The custom is that the person who chairs the ceremony first establishes the protocol by addressing in descending order the important people. For example “His Excellency the Governor - Mr. Adrian Davis, Honourable Premier – Mr. Reuben Meade, Honourable Minister of Education – Mr. Collin Riley” etc. Having done this the keynote and other speakers are expected to address the audience in the exact same manner as established by the chairperson.

The practice of simply stating “Protocol is established” may lead one to ask the following questions: If the protocol is estab-

lished why must I say so?

The chairperson has already expressed that he is establishing the protocol and never require each speaker to repeat such an announcement. This practice makes no sense.

How does one adopt the protocol?

One would have thought that adopting the protocol was as simple as addressing the audience in the exact manner the chairperson indicated. Is it sufficient to simply mention “I adopt the protocol that has been established”? Shouldn’t protocol be followed and not stated that it is adopted?

In other words adopt it through your actions and not through your statements. You do not adopt something by saying you’re adopting it. You actually adopt it.

Maybe protocol also dictate that I should not be questioning the protocol. In Montserrat you are despised when you question a procedure, policy or practice.

You are expected to slavishly and blindly follow the established procedures, policies and practices. No wonder we’ve been doing several right things in the wrong manner… but then again…that’s Montserrat’s protocol.

Sickout at CLICO

Employees protest ‘uncertain’ future

By Curtis Rampersad Publications Editor A number of employees and agents of insurance company CLICO yesterday failed to report for duty, forcing several branches around the country to close early.

The agents, many of whom called in sick, were said to be protesting what they feel is an uncertain future with the larg-

est insurance company in the Caribbean.

Their protest followed news earlier this week of a new framework agreement between Government and CL Financial, the parent company of CLICO. The framework for the new agreement is currently before Cabinet and envisages that Government will recover the more

than $20 billion it pumped into CLICO and CL Financial subsidiaries in 2009 after the insurance firm collapsed and its former chairman Lawrence Duprey approached the then-PNM administration for a financial rescue.

On Wednesday, former finance minister Gerald Yetming was re-elected CL Financial chair cont’d. on page 10

Our Scripture Verse Today Tell Them God Loves Them In Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. - 2 Corinthians 5:19 (NRSV) During the 1980s, a group of prominent nationalist Afrikaners met with Bishop Desmond Tutu. The meeting was to introduce young Afrikaner leaders to what was then called „the struggle.‰ The participants heard the life stories and viewpoints of their compatriots, and stayed with people from the townships. The group members saw the devastating effects of apartheid on the lives of ordinary black people.

They also discovered · and for many this left the deepest impression · that despite the young AfrikanersÊ role in maintaining apartheid, the people they met did not bear personal

animosity toward them. On the contrary, they welcomed them with hospitality, generosity, and forgiveness. Bishop Tutu told them, „Please go and tell your people that God loves them, that they are extremely valuable and important in GodÊs eyes, and that they should never forget this . . . . If they can discover and embrace this, they will also have the faith and courage to view all other people in the same way.‰ Not only did the message leave a lasting impression, it changed lives, helping people to see their God-given worth and to appreciate it in others. The participants gained a new perspective on those they had viewed as dangerous enemies, whom they had labeled „communists‰ and „terrorists.‰ Carel Anthonissen (Western Cape, South Africa)

Friday, July 26, 2013

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On Standing Ground...by Edgar Nkosi White

Stand Your Ground is the new expression for right to kill blacks with legislative approval.

It has just received legal sanction in Florida with the Zimmerman case and his acquittal in the shooting of Trayvon Martin a seventeen year old unarmed black youth. The shooting was justified on the grounds that Zimmerman felt threatened and had no way of knowing that the youth was unarmed. The case was further complicated by the fact that it took authorities some forty-four days to even consider arresting the shooter.

Zimmerman, who was a member of neighbourhood watch, pursued and confronted the youth despite being instructed not to do so by police radio.

The worrying thing about this case is that no matter what action Martin would have taken, he would—none the less—have ended shot. Had he run, had he been armed, the result would have been the same. We have no way of knowing exactly what words were exchanged. All we have is the sworn statement of

Zimmerman that he felt that his life was threatened after he confronted this youth, who was on foot while he, Zimmerman, (by car) had pursued the youth whom he felt was acting in a suspicious manner.

This case calls to account two fundamental principles of American justice. One is the right to bear arms and the second is the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Clearly, in the case of black youth that right of liberty is seriously curtailed.

Had young Martin been in the company of a white person, he would probably have reached home alive. Little has changed in that regard since emancipation.

It is hypocrisy to pretend any different. Straying too far from the plantation without written permission will still result in corporal punishment and in, more often than not, death: the greatest corporal punishment of all.

Still, the most frightening thing about the Zimmerman decision is that it gives carte blanche to any white vigilante to act on impulse and be assured that they can walk free from the most flagrant act of gun violence as long as there are no witnesses present who could be classed as credible.

The incident took place in the racially charged state of Florida. There was a general reluctance to even bring the case to trial. The shooter, George Zimmerman, took it upon himself to leave his car and confront Martin who was returning home from a grocery store and had

nothing more lethal on his person than a bag of candy. What could he have done to defend himself from a handgun?

Although the solution to every problem by the NRA and the other gun lobbyists in America is yet more guns, I don’t think in this instance, even they would have advocated that young Martin be armed. The question then is: should George Zimmerman have been less fanatical in his desire to be a policeman? What was it (other than the boy’s race) that made him feel that he was under threat even when advised to simply stay in his car unless he witnessed actual criminal activity?

There were two people present, (a third, a teenager, listening to her friend Trayvon on the phone describing everything up to Zimmerman’s contact with him) but only one, on location, survived to give their version of the tale. In actuality there were a host of other characters that took part in that tragedy.

When you have a society which is privatized and prison oriented.

A society ruled by scarcity and greed, and a general atmosphere of fear and violence with a talk show host stirring up the atmosphere of racial tension daily (in fact, instructed to do so by managers and sponsors). If you are being constantly encouraged to never travel anywhere unarmed even when taking your children to school or church, what other result could there be but a shooting murder?

From young Trayvon Martin’s standpoint, what must it be like to know that if you dare to venture beyond your home or neighbourhood, there is always the possibility that you’ll be gunned down with impunity.

Florida is filled with Latinos and Haitians and blacks from the South. It is a toxic mix of anger and resentment over years of racial abuse and discrimination at the hands of police and the powers-that-be which control business and housing. It is ridiculous to even attempt to claim that race was not a factor in this trial.

It must be understood that it is money which determines politics in America. Florida has spent a great deal of money to ensure legislation and this stand your Ground is a result of powerful Republican lobbyists.

It was the then Governor Jeb Bush (brother of George, and the one who was so very instrumental in getting him elected president) who in 2005, signed into law statute 776 which states: “A person has no duty to retreat and has the right to stand his or her ground if they think deadly force necessary to prevent death, great bodily harm or commission of a forcible felony like robbery.” And so the law only requires law enforcement and the justice system to ask three questions: Did the defendant have the right to be there? Yes. Was he engaged in lawful activity at the time? Yes.

Could he reasonably have been in fear of his death or great bodily harm? Possibly.

And so, having very cleverly restricted the area of the trial to these three, George Zimmerman was able to leave court a free man. His attorney made certain that the issue of profiling never entered the discussion. And even more cleverly, he never allowed his client to take the stand.

America is a place of paradox and irony. One would think that having a black president would be clear evidence of a more liberal attitude in America regarding blacks and the justice system. Not only have things not improved, they have gotten significantly worse. Young blacks are now more at risk than ever. What is evident is a general feeling of resentment which has resulted in a backlash.

The atmosphere is very much like post-Reconstruction when whatever small gains were put in place were quickly abolished and more and more draconian laws enacted. Now you get only as much justice as you can buy. Money determines justice if not right. Lobbyists determine legislation all the way to the Supreme Court because lobbyists determine appointments.

Corporations have achieved human status and the right to be regarded as people whereas the individual has lost any right to be heard. Talk about irony.

The situation becomes so absurd that it is as if the victim, Trayvon

Martin, should be made to apologise for forcing Zimmerman, the shooter, the inconvenience of having to kill him.

Once we take the stand your ground ruling as acceptable, we condone the lawful murder of unarmed black youth in any circumstance where the defendant can claim intimidation or threat as a defence. What is really on trial, however, is history. And what we’re asking is that our youth pay the price for all the guilt and fear of America. If we simply accept this verdict, we may as well paint a bull’s eye on their chest and send them out to be slaughtered. We can never call this state of affairs acceptable.

We, all of us, have need of illusions. We pretend and allow things to happen. I, for example, need to believe that it is the state of Florida which is responsible for young Trayvon’s death, when I know in my heart of heart’s that it could happen with equal ease up North in cosmopolitan New York or Boston.

It could happen just as quickly at the hands of uniformed officers or plain clothed-men with an agenda and the case would vanish without trace or murmur.

But I can’t accept that. I need my illusions.

The president has appealed for calm. But when does calm mean comatose?

Edgar Nksosi White is a novelist and playwright. His novel, The Rising is available on Amazon

Khelawan told the audience that Caribbean young people have the capacity to compete and innovate on the global stage.

“Our youth have a natural affinity for technology, but innovation is much more than simply having a good idea.

True innovation involves moving from idea to sustainable solution or product. This requires more than a creative spark,” he said.

He said, “The current education system can put a squeeze on creative expression and innovative thinking.

That’s why it is so important to provide opportunities and outlets for our youth to participate in innovation at an early age”.

Khelawan cited several examples of innovation in

areas such as fashion, music, software and the design of services started by young people. He also encouraged Caribbean youth to explore opportunities to innovate using technology in the civic domain by creating solutions to help citizens participate in community and nation building.

“To fulfill your potential to innovate, you first need to believe in yourself and believe that your ideas have value. The opportunities for innovation are endless,” he said.

Teleios’ Business Development Manager Lorenzo Hodges, who led participants in an idea-creation exercise at the camp, underscored the importance of creating solutions that address local needs.

Hodges encouraged the participants to, “Pay attention to what’s around you--your community, your city, its needs, what can make it better--opportunities abound…

The region can benefit tremendously from innovation that improves people’s lives and develops their local communities.”

The Youth Tech Camp is being hosted by BrightPath Foundation, a Trinidad-based international not-profit organization. The event targets youth between 12 and 15 years old with an interest in business, information technology, graphic design, software programming, web development, mobile apps creation. The audience included youth from the Caribbean, United States and the UK.

Caribbean Youth encouraged to innovate The region needs more youth getting involved in technology innovation and digital entrepreneurship. That is the message being delivered to young people attending a special technology camp now underway in Port of Spain, Trinidad.

“The great thing about modern technology is that it gives everyone a real chance to improve their world,” said Kevin Khelawan, Chief Operating Officer at Teleios Systems, one of the largest independent software development firms in the Caribbean.

Khelawan, the first person in the English-speaking Caribbean to receive the Mi-

Kevin Khelawan, Chief Operating Officer at Teleios Systems crosoft MVP (Most Valuable Professional) award, was speaking at the BrightPath Foundation Youth Tech Camp on the theme ‘Identity Powering Technology Innovation’ Teleios is a dominant player in software develop-

ment and mobile services in the Caribbean and is regarded as one of the region’s most innovative technology firms.

Drawing from his experience of building a team of local developers and writing awardwinning software at Teleios,

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Friday, July 26, 2013

Teacher and Student of the Year

Vernetta Williams and Nadia Browne, Teacher and Student of the year “…become an excellent worker, and it all begins with the word, work, work, discipline, discipline, discipline, preparation, preparation, preparation,” the words of Premier Reuben Meade at the recently held Teacher and Student Award ceremony, as he gave greetings at the beginning.

The event was held on June 25, 2013 where Mrs. Vonetta Williams and Miss Nadia Browne were the winning teacher and student respectively of the awards.

Right after prayer by Director of Education Mr Glenn Francis and welcome by the Chairperson, MSS Vice-principal, Miss Ethlyn Weekes, she called for the observation of a one minute silence in honour of recently deceased Mr. CT John, past principal of MSS. The theme of the Pre-

mier ’s greeting was all about work and success while hinting at the late start of the event. “…When you say something is going to start at 6:30 it should start at 6:30,” adding, “when we look at the development of a country, a country will only develop rapidly and speedily if we are disciplined, if we are willing to work hard, and we are willing to make the commitments to succeed. Success does not come easy, success comes from hard work and diligence.”

“These are things which we need in our lives has we go through school,” he noted in the brief greeting, with a word for students and parents. “…you need to understand as students, and I look at the younger ones in front, that no matter how young you are, and this goes for the parents as well, each of you must learn some responsibility at home…”

Selection of the teacher and student of the year was based on some criteria.

The selected student must be an excellent role model and must: 1. Wear the school uniform with pride 2. Show respect for self, peers, staff and the environment 3. Show helpfulness and empathy to all 4. Attend all classes and on time 5. Show willingness and an enthusiasm for and to learning 6. Have integrity 7. Fully engage with school life Those for selecting the teacher included: 1. Creates a climate for learning in the classroom that is characterized by enthusiasm for teaching and learning, high expectations and outstanding results 2. Engages other in supporting pupils’ learning and development including parents, teaching assistants and other professionals.

3. A c t i v e l y monitors the experience and progress of each class and adjusts his or her approach to take account of all

Friday, July 26, 2013

Page g 7

Teacher/Student Awards

1. the needs of the individual pupils and the class as a whole 2. Acts with a clear vision and sense of purpose, energy and commitment to pupils’ learning achievement and well being 3. Contributes beyond the classroom to the life of the school.

Mrs. Vernetta Williams, St. Augustine primary school teacher, was the winner from among the other teacher 2012/2013 Nominees: Mrs. Verna Johnson, Ingrid Tolan and Yvonne Julius. And MSS

student Nadia Browne emerged from among Nickiesha Scotland, Kijahrie Barzey, Khyra West and Tiffany Weekes. Students were taken from all schools on island: Lookout Primary, Montserrat Secondary, Brades, St. Augustine and Lighthouse Academy.

Several Ministry of Education officials including the Minister of Education Colin Riley and the Permanent Secretary, Philip Chambers, were involved in the introduction of judges and students, and reading of citations in the various

categories of awards. These included a Long Service Teacher’s Award that went to Mrs. Hyacinth BrambleBrowne.

Entertainment by Music Teacher, Mr. McCloyd White, solo dance by Dennesha Jones (MSS), as well as a renditSion by the MSS Band, (coached by Miss Rebecca Chalmers, another music teacher), all punctuated the two hours plus event.

At the end a vote of thanks by MSS Principal Cherlyn Hogan brought the event to a close.

Page 8

Friday, July 26, 2013

MSS Gr aduates 70

Rerun from July 05, 2013 edition due to poor printing

Montserrat Secondary School (MSS) Principal led the schools 2013 graduation of 70 students as she gave an overview of the Student Performance and Achievement; and the School’s Programme, which she said in the year under review was challenging.

previous year; by year end the population de-

The MSS Speech Day and Graduation Ceremony was the title shown on the program with the theme Purpose - Passion Progress: Class of 2013, 3rd July, 2013, at the Montserrat Cultural Centre in Little Bay. It was scheduled to begin at 4.30 p.m. on the outside, with a March Past of Mrs. Joy Darroux, one of the MSS teachers. With the audience standing, following the parade of the Cadets, came the procession of the graduates to the music of the MSS Orchestra which included the steel pans.

An opening prayer by Rev. Spencer Jeffers preceded the introduction of the chairperson for the ceremony by Dwanifiya Joseph, a Form 4 student. Mr. Glenroy Foster delivered the chairperson’s remarks, who later introduced the principal Mrs. Cherlyn Hogan, jumping down the program as MSS dancers were not yet ready with their entertainment.

Principal Reports

The principal delivered a long report on the school’s 2012/2013 academic year. She reported on Student Enrolment and Attendance – 190 boys and 166 girls, assigned to eighteen classes, two less than the

clined by five.

Students’ Performance and Achievements: (See full report in box on page 11 ) Other Accomplishments - Extracurricular activities continued to be made available to the students of the school. This year these included athletics, cricket, netball, Cadets, and dance.

There has been a spike in the interest in table tennis among students. This followed the donation of a table tennis board

by His Excellency the Governor and the Rotary club.

Positives for the year

The principal’s report boasted, “many positives this year.” These included: The female team took top honours in Easter Monday Relay the race while the male team took second place; Tiffannie Skerritt, a 5th form student from last year placed first for the essay she submitted during term 3 of last year for the Regional ECCB OECS Essay Competition; The ECCU Business Plan Idea was won by Nadia Browne (graduating valedictorian), a 5th Form student of MSS. Special consolation prize was awarded to Sharese Allen, another student of our 5th form.

MSS Sports Day 2013, sponsored by the Montserrat

Amateur Athletic Association (MAAA), was keenly contested.

Mikila Gittens of form 1 was the Victrix Ladorum while 5th former Jamal Halley was the Victor Ladorum.

Mrs. Hogan reported on staffing mentioning the absence of a Guidance Counsellor and the LEAP1 teacher. Also the “Unfortunate” shock the school suffered at the untimely passing of Miss Anya Duncan the wellliked and respected Math and Science teacher.

The report was considered to be more than comprehensive as she reported on community support, the pupil support unit… ending with a message to the students. “…but life beyond Secondary school beckons. You cannot put this off…I implore each of you, that as you embark on the next stage of your life, remember that education is the key to unlocking your future and opening up to you a world of opportunities and challenges to be managed…You must be prepared to work hard, efficiently and effectively. You must be willing to accept advice…Know that you have within you what you need to progress. You simply need to be mindful of that and act with purpose. Be passionate about excelling and achieving your goals,” she told them.

Entertainment came from the dancers, the MSS choir and later the Graduation choir.

Keynote Address – Sarita Frances

Keynote Speaker for the ceremony, former deputy governor Sarita Frances opened with a tribute to the late Charles T John who died and was buried on Friday, July 5.

She referred to him and counted him with, “These people, some of whom are in the audience today epitomize the concepts which form the basis of my address to you this afternoon…”

She addressed and beckoned. “It therefore means that we education experts, planners, developers, policymakers must constantly review, not only our development agenda, but also the basic education foundation that is required to equip and integrate young people to play a meaningful from role in the new Montserrat that is operating in a dynamic technological universe.”

Then she addressed the students about the concepts she recommends for their adherence: “…the need to identify your purpose as a graduating class, the need for you to develop your passion which is the engine that propels you alone a path to achieve your goals in this life leading to progress which will ultimately result to the benefits of your generation…” reminding them, “the baton for the redevelopment of Montserrat is being passed to you the youth of Montserrat…”

The certificates, prizes and awards to the graduating 2013 class with special awards presented by the valedictorian’s parents (Catherine Browne officiating). The students processed for their certificates and awards, then listed to their valedicto-

rian’s speech. Nadia.

The 2013 Valedictorian - A student who has remained on the Montserrat Secondary School MSS honor roll throughout her entire academic life.

She walked away with 10 awards for English, Mathematics, French, Spanish, Chemistry, Geography, Accounts and Principles of Business; also, she was the recipient of the top humanities student award and the prize for exemplary leadership.

In her address, speaking to and on behalf of the Class of 2013, she hinted and joked about the several jaunty-type exploits of their secondary school days, with teachers other students…

She said in her speech speaking to the general student body: “”To the MSS of the future cont’d on page 11

Friday, July 26, 2013

Page g 9

Anti gang legislation Conmen trio jailed £85m scam coming soon to St. Lucia Howfor is it that so many victims get sucked?

CASTRIES, St Lucia -- The government of Saint Lucia will soon enact anti gang legislation in Parliament as part of a strategic “no nonsense” approach to dismantling criminal gangs around the island. Many families continue to be plunged in mourning as a result of gang warfare, which has also eroded the social fabric of the state.

Prime Minister Dr Kenny Anthony said Saint Lucia can no longer ignore the rise in criminal gangs and the attendant gun related violence and homicides.

“In the past we silently ignored the mushrooming of gangs in our midst sometimes under the misguided notion of freedom of association but since when an association established for criminal enterprise to steal, murder and plunder at will is protected by our constitution? To date the police are

Prime Minister of St. Lucia, Dr. Kenny Anthony working assiduously to deal with gangs and the negative gang culture that spawns anti social behaviour and organise crime. We will support their efforts by enacting anti gang legislation as has been done in Trinidad and Tobago and about to be done in Jamaica,” Anthony said.

The prime minister also emphasized that communities have a key role in addressing the problems associated with gangs.

He said the police and citizens must work in tandem in order to effectively dismantle criminal gangs and their associates.

“This is no longer only an urban or inner city phenomenon; it has spread to encompass sub-urban communities as well.

The networks of drug trafficking, mayhem and malice must be defeated by a network of surveillance, intelligence and smart might,” he said.

The Saint Lucian leader also reaffirmed government’s full support for the police to deal with gangs on the island.

He says the safety and security of citizens and visitors alike remains paramount.

Three conmen who left thousands of victims penniless as they frittered stolen money on a private jet, yachts and holiday homes in the Caribbean have been jailed.

Richard Pope, Paul Gunter and Simon Odoni lived life in the lap of luxury while defrauding at least 2,300 Britons, many of whom lost their entire life savings and one of whom was driven to suicide.

They were jailed at a court in Florida, where Gunter, 64, was sentenced to 25 years and Odoni, 56, to 13 years and four months and Pope, 55, was sentenced to four years and nine months.

Detective Inspector Kerrie Gower said: “Pope, Gunter and Odoni are amongst the most ruthless and destructive criminals the City of London Police have ever dealt with and deserve every day they will spend behind bars

in America.

“Unfortunately this sentencing will not repair the huge damage they caused to the lives of thousands of people who were simply looking for a safe place to invest their money, but hopefully it will bring a measure of comfort and a sense of closure to those caught up in what was fraud committed on a truly massive scale.”

The 130 million dollar (£85 million) scam, a so-called boiler room fraud where unsuspecting investors hand over cash for worthless shares, was one of the biggest of its kind ever uncovered in the UK. A total of seven defendants were charged in March 2009, and two years later Pope, originally from St Albans, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.

Gunter, from London, and

Odoni, also from St Albans, stood trial in March this year, forcing three British victims to fly from the UK to Florida to face them in court. Another three were too ill to travel but gave evidence in the UK and the video footage was played as part of the trial. Gunter and Odoni were found guilty in May. Ms Gower said that the trio milked as much money as they could to fund their lifestyle partying on yachts, driving sports cars including a Ferrari and travelling in a private jet.

“These were arrogant criminals who were just ripping off UK investors,” she said. “Taking as much as they could from them and having criminal lifestyles, lavish lifestlyes, whereby they were purchasing boats, a plane and high value vehicles. We have 26 properties down in relation to Paul Gunter alone.”

Jamaica eyes expatriates as source of investment

Britain and Canada. Roughly expatriates.

“This can lead to a road- 2.7 million live on the island.

The Jamaican expaBy DAVID McFADDEN As- map for Jamaica’s future.

The people who have come triates already send home sociated Press here to this conference have about $2 billion a year in Jamaica (AP) substantial knowledge, conremittances in what has beIn a bid to kick start nections and interests that can come the island’s biggest Jamaica’s chronically staghelp take the country’s deforeign exchange earner. nant economy, the Caribbean velopment into many, many But Industry, Investment and country is wooing its citizens directions,” said Lloyd Grey, Commerce Minister Anthony living abroad to invest in the a retired engineer from Read- Hylton hopes to increase that island of their birth.

On Tuesday, hundreds ing, England, who was raised amount to help strengthen the of entrepreneurs and other on Jamaica but moved to economy.

“Achieving sustained Jamaican expatriates mingled Britain decades ago.

Jamaica and other Caeconomic growth, with jobs, with government officials ribbean nations have long remains the biggest chaland local business leaders, suffered from a “brain drain” lenge and the most intractable brainstorming ways to boost that has seen professionals problem facing Jamaica.

This growth and development. and skilled workers head focus on growth and developThe sessions were part of a four-day “Jamaica Diaspora” off to jobs overseas. About ment is therefore very critical conference aimed at tapping 3.3 million Jamaicans are if we are to break the vicious into the wealth, education believed to live outside the cycle of stagnated growth and and know-how of the island’s country, mostly in the U.S., poverty,” Hylton said.

LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE PROBATE DIVISION In the estate of JOHN CHARLES THOMAS JOHN, deceased NOTICE is hereby given that after the expiration of fourteen (14) days from the date of this notice, an application will be made in the Registry of the High Court of Justice for an Order that Letters of Administration with Will annexed in the Estate of JOHN CHARLES THOMAS JOHN who died on the 23rd day of June, 2013 be granted to DENZIL ALISTAIR JOHN WEST the sole Executor of his will and one of the persons entitled to share in the estate of the deceased.

ALL persons claiming to be beneficially interested in the estate are requested to send written particulars thereof to the undersigned within 14 days from the date of this Notice.

ANY person objecting to the issuance of a Grant to the Applicant should notify the Registrar of the High Court not later than 14 days from the date of this Notice.

Dated this 18th day of July, 2013 BRANDT & ASSOCIATES Attorneys-at-Law

Over 55 companies and organizations are participating in the conference in Montego Bay, which is home to a flourishing call center industry.

Leaders of other Caribbean islands like Grenada and St. Lucia have also been wooing nationals abroad and encouraging them to assist with developing their homelands, but more populous Jamaica has long had the most focused effort to forge relationships with its overseas citizens.

The push to entice more

Industry, Investment and Commerce Minister Anthony Hylton expatriates in investing in their homeland comes as Jamaica’s debt is roughly

150 percent of gross domestic product. In February, Jamaica launched a debt-swap program to satisfy conditions to forge a new pact with the International Monetary Fund and halt what the prime minister described as an economic crisis. In April, the IMF approved a four-year, $958 million loan package to stabilize the economy.

OVERSEAS TERRITORY OF MONTSERRAT IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE A. D. 2013 LEGAL NOTICE In the estate of RICHARD HENRY KIERNAN, deceased NOTICE is hereby given that after the expiration of fourteen (14) days from the date hereof, application will be made in the Registry of the High Court of Justice for an Order that Letters of Administration in the Estate of RICHARD HENRY KIERNAN late of Baychester Avenue, Bronx, New York, United States of America formerly of Dyer Piece, Montserrat, who died on the 21st day of October 1985 at the Manhattan Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, United States of America be granted to CHIVONE GERALD of Allen Markham & Associates, Banks, Montserrat, the Lawful Attorney of KATHLEEN KIRNON and SARAH KIRNON the grand daughters and Personal Representatives of the deceased and two of the persons entitled to share in the Estate.

ALL persons claiming to be beneficially interested therein are requested forthwith to send particulars to me the undersigned.

FURTHER, any person objecting to the issuance of a Grant to the Applicants should notify the Registrar of the High Court of Justice no later than fourteen (14) days from the date of the notice.

DATED the 11th day of July 2013 Chivone Gerald ALLEN MARKHAM & ASSOCIATES

Page 10

Friday, July 26, 2013

Regional development Eastern Caribbean fueled by banks, ECCB discuss future OECS Integration Process CaribbeanNewsNow St Kitts -- Officers from the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and representatives of the Association of Development Banks (ADBEC) have furthered their discussions on the vision for the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union’s (ECCU) Investment and Development Financial Architecture (IDFA).

It is envisaged that the IDFA will feature a more efficient and modern financial system which offers investors more diverse investment opportunities; alternative mechanisms to the private sector for accessing financing; and ensure the existence of an appropriate and well-functioning legal and regulatory system to protect investors and maintain financial stability.

This will entail: • Building on the successes achieved over the

past two decades and would involve strengthening the roles of relevant financial institutions and money and capital markets; • Establishing new institutions and financial instruments and products to fill the current gaps in the system; • Establishing the supporting legal and regulatory infrastructure and a conducive environment to support the growth of investment and savings in the ECCU. During the meeting, which was held on 5 July at the ECCB Headquarters in St Kitts, the role which the ADBEC could play in assisting with financing growth and the transformation of the ECCU was also discussed.

In addition, the ECCB and the ADBEC examined the business models of the development banks in the ECCU and the role of the ADBEC in the Investment and Development Financial

Architecture.

As providers of medium to long-term development finance and given their mandate to assist with the economic development of their respective countries, the development banks were seen as a critical component of the architecture. It was agreed that the institutions’ approach to financing development projects should be policy based whereby they can play a key role in channeling funds to finance projects which are consistent with the development strategy for the member countries.

There was consensus that the ECCB and the ADBEC would continue to engage in further discussions on the vision for the Investment and Development Financial Architecture

CLICO sickout

Good thoughts for OECS Integration Port of Spain, Jun 18 (Prensa Latina) The Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) turned 32 years today with new challenges and immersed in a process of change to increase the links between its members.

A key moment of the group was the launch, two years ago, of a regional economic union, which allows greater trade with the signing of the Revised Treaty of Basseterre.

The agreement created a single economic and financial space for member states and gives the green light to move unhindered capital, people, goods and services.

Another important milestone in the history of the organization was the opening in August 2012 of the OECS Assembly, based in Antigua and Barbuda, one of the five principal organs of the regional group.

The other important entities

are the OECS Authority, the Council of Ministers, the Commission and the Council of Economic Affairs.

Under the direction of the regional Central Bank, the EC dollar remains strong and allow to collaborate with the integration process.

The OECS comprises Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Granada, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands.

sick at CLICO branches would have been to show dissatisfaction over what agents feel is the uncertainty about the company’s future.

It could not be immediately determined yesterday how many agents and employees called in sick and how many of CLICO’s

eight branches (excluding its head office in Port of Spain) were affected.

Contacted yesterday, company official Margaret Chow said CLICO preferred to not comment on the agents not showing up for work.

Banking, Insurance and Gen-

eral Workers Union president Vincent Cabrera referred enquiries to deputy vice president Mario Als who could not be immediately reached on his cell phone yesterday afternoon.

The union represents the interests of CLICO employees, Cabrera said.

right: ECCB Headquarters in St. Kitts

...cont’d. from page 3

man when they group held its annual general meeting at the CLICO Box, Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain.

Shareholders and directors agreed to a 30-day extension of the agreement between Government and shareholders while Cabinet decides on the new accord.

This is where employees of CLICO are seeing a problem.

Government announced recently that CLICO will be shut-

tered and a new company, Atrius, will take its place.

CL Financial chairman Yetming told the Express by phone yesterday that the “good business” of CLICO would be transferred to Atrius and this seemed to have given agents some level of comfort with regard to job security.

But financial and Government sources have suggested with recent days that the State

may be re-considering forming Atrius because of the large amount of capital it may still require.

One option that has been suggested is to sell CLICO to another insurance group.

Yetming suggested yesterday that this may have “created considerable insecurity in staff who had calmed down after 2009”.

Staff members calling in

ISLAND OF MONTSERRAT IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE

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 positions:

A. D. 2013

DUTY STATION – BARBADOS

[PROBATE] In the Estate of CHARLOTTE HILLECHINA BUMBERA, deceased

(i)

Senior Legal Officer, Drafting, Legal and Institutional Framework

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that after the expiration of fourteen (14) days from the date hereof, application will be made in the Registry of the High Court of Justice for an Order that Probate of the Last Will and Testament of CHARLOTTE HILLECHINA BUMBERA late of Old Towne, Montserrat who died on the 10th. July 2013 domiciled in the Dependent Territory of Montserrat be granted to CAROL OSBORNE of Old Towne, Montserrat the Executrix named in the Will of the said deceased.

ALL persons claiming to be beneficially interested therein are requested forthwith to send particulars to us the undersigned.

FURTHER any person objecting to the issuance of a Grant of Probate to the Applicant should notify the Registrar of the High Court of Justice, whose address is: Office of the Registrar General, Brades, Montserrat, not later than fourteen (14) days from the date of this notice.

Dated this 25th. day of July, 2013 ……………………………………….

ALLEN MARKHAM & ASSOCIATES This notice is published by Allen Markham & Associates Barristers & Solicitors whose address for Service is Banks, Montserrat.

DUTY STATION – GUYANA (ii)

Two (2) Senior Legal Officers, Legal and Institutional Framework

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.

The deadline for the submission of applications is 11 August 2013.

Friday, July 26, 2013

Page g 11

MSS graduation ...cont’d. from page 8

Students’ Performance and Achievements Fifty four of the 2012 year five cohort wrote overseas examinations with the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC) in a number of subjects ranging from one to ten, with the majority writing seven or eight subjects.

The students were examined across 24 subject areas in a total of three hundred and sixty subject entries. Grades I, II and III passes were recorded in two hundred and seventy four (274) of these, yielding a pass rate of 76.1% down from the previous year’s average pass rate of 80.3%.

The fall off in the average performance of the students at the CXC CSEC exams occurred despite the 100% pass rate achieved in fourteen subject areas up from only seven in 2011, and there was an increase in the number of students obtaining 5 subject passes. A record number of 34 students obtained 5 passes at the CSEC level up from 25 in 2010 and 24 in 2011. Upon analysis, it appears that the performance of students in the top fifty percentile remained high and trending upwards, while the larger number of entries created a drag on the average with poor performances in the areas of Mathematics and English. Only 50% and 37% of the students achieved grades 1, 2 and 3 in English and Math respectively.

The students indicated that these measures, particularly the peer teaching, proved very beneficial to them and we anticipate improvements, particularly in these two key subject areas.

The Business subjects continued to perform well. For the 4th consecutive year, EDPM, Principles of Accounts and Principles of Business obtained 100% pass rates.

Agriculture and Physics, both of which were written at the CXC CSEC for the first time, returned pass rates of 100%. An excellent performance was therefore recorded for the Sciences, with all of the science subjects recording pass rates of 100%.

The Technical and Vocational subjects continue to perform creditably. Food & Nutrition and Technical Drawing continue to maintain their excellent performance. While further improvement in performance was recorded for Electricity which recorded a 100% pass rate. Building Woods and Building Construction also recorded 100% pass rates.

Some outstanding performances were recorded and are highlighted as follows: Two students recorded passes in 10 CXC subjects: Tiffannie Skerritt who obtained all grade 1 passes; and Michalea Greer obtained 7 grade 1’s, 2 grade 2’s and 1 grade 3 pass.

Joseph Cassell and Amani Greaves both obtained passes in nine subjects while; Carlon Brathwaite, Ayana Cassell, Tazia Briscoe and Trichelle Spencer obtained passes in eight subjects.

In total 34 student obtained 5 or more passes at the CSEC level.

For the third consecutive year, students of the MSS wrote the CXC’s Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) examinations. 49 students were examined across four subject areas namely Mathematics, English, Integrated Science and Social Studies. An improvement in performance was seen in both English and Science over last year. English recorded 95% pass rate up from 91% while Integrated Science recorded 100% passes up from 81% last year. Six of the students who wrote the English exams gained the Mastery level. The performance in Math held steady at 90%.

Congratulations are extended to all students, their parents, and their teachers who went beyond the call of duty working into the night and on weekends to prepare and encourage our students to give their most effective effort.

The school’s end of year examinations have just been completed. The students who excelled in their classes received their prizes at the final assembly held yesterday, Tuesday July 2nd. Mr Chairman of note was the number of boys who topped their respective classes in the end of year exams. 63% of the top students were boys.

What to expect for the 2013/14 Academic Year?

The Principal of the Montserrat Secondary School (MSS), yours truly, underwent a period of attachment to several schools across six Local Authorities in the London area over the period November 5 to 30, 2012. The visits to the schools were arranged and facilitated by Mrs. Miriam Kerr, a leading educator in London and trainer/ facilitator with the National College for School Leadership in the United Kingdom. Mrs Kerr’s programme and facilitation were excellent and I would also want to place on record the very warm and cordial reception and treatment that was accorded to me by all the school principals and staff I visited with in London.

It was rewarding to note that procedures and practices utilised at our school were also utilised by some of the top schools in the UK. These practices and procedures at the MSS are being strengthened as the school continues to improve. We will also incorporate, incrementally, emerging best practices from the world of education. A key element of our work will be the school’s endeavour to engage parents and to further encourage and promote their involvement in all aspects of our students’ school life. Research has shown and we have observed at the school, that the students who do best academically and behaviourally, have strong supportive parents who are very involved in all areas of their school life.

my alma mater needs you and is depending on you to fly the flag high proudly… there is nothing you cannot achieve. Work with the teachers and reach for the stars,” adding that her class came into the school with a passion for learning, “and though our passion we worked and we progressed through the school, you can do it too, you will do it.”

She concluded to the students, “Use your energy to promote a healthy culture in Montserrat and the wider world,” resounding a theme from all who speak to the youths.

As though revealing the reasons of her success so far, she called on parents, guardians and well-wishers, encouraging, “with your support, MSS could be tops in the region.,Encourage your children to be tops in the region, encourage your children to do their best.”

Finally she told her classmates, “The journey to perfection continues, let’s make ourselves, our school, our parents and country proud. You have what it takes with your hands on the plough no turning back.”

Token presentations and a vote of thanks by head boy Darion Darroux preceded the final act of the recession of the graduates, to end the three hour speech day exercises.

Page 12

Friday, July 26, 2013

Resource tests to run until October cont’d from page 1 drilling capacity of the Iceland Drilling rig, which has the capability of going down a depth of only 2,400 meters (approximately 7,872 ft.

Since that report we learnt that the drilling rig at well #2 had suffered another equipment breakdown, but this quickly remedied, and drilling had recommenced on July 10, the same day DFID’s Dr. Kato Kimbugwe was responding to the media on various matters surrounding the geothermal development.

One answer dealt with how DFID would proceed with the production development progress, following a successful resource exploration, which he said ‘there is confidence that the resource is there in Well #1.

Kimbugwe said, “I think the way we’ve dealt with geothermal sets the tone for all the other SGP (Strategic growth plan), investments in that at every stage we will test the market to make sure that there is no private sector interest before any sort of UK funding is provided for geothermal.”

Earlier, Premier Meade had addressed that subject at a press briefing as follows: “…the understanding that the GoM is putting forward is, let us as a people own that resource , let’s develop it and own it. Let us not go to the private sector to seek funding for the development of the production side of things once we can get to the production phase…we have MUL as a power company which is wholly owned by

the government of Montserrat, then let us deal with the development where MUL will take it forward…”

There was also the stated position of the Montserrat Geothermal Power Company (MGPC) group that said a month ago at a press briefing on June 28, “MGPC WILL on behalf of the people of Montserrat, provide a bid for the geothermal power complex in response to an Expression of Interest (EoI) or any other legally authorised tender.”

While all this happening and with drilling continuing at Well #2, and testing at #1, Dr. Kimbugwe told the media that testing will run through to October. “The next phase really after the current drilling is the testing phase which is

JUS WONDERIN

Jus wonderin column is compiled from contributions by readers and from de community. Send yours in.

Jus wonderin if people a behave demself now, dat awe no see no more maldow in dis column.

If you decide to stay at home during a storm, for safety, move to the room opposite to where the wind is coming.

What if a disaster strikes at your work?

Do you know the emergency preparedness plan for your work place? Many employees do not know their workplace plan. If you don’t know yours, make a point of knowing today.

An Emergency Family Plan will only work if everyone in the family knows their role.

17. Always keep enough food and water supplies in your home to meet the needs of your family for at least three (3) days.

It makes good sense to organize with your community how you will work together if an emergency strikes. Sharing plans and strategies in advance can pay off When TV and computer games no lon-

ger operate, board games or a deck of cards come in handy! Arts and crafts, crayons and downloadable colouring pages are always a great distractions for the kids - so make sure you’ve stored some of these supplies in your emergency packs.

Jus wonderin if you know a guy is gay when he goes to school, beach and shopping with different bags and different occasions, such as these.

Jus wonderin if he is also gay when he notices and only comments on the fashion a woman wears.

Jus wonderin if when one woman says, “I’m sorry,” she really saying, “You’ll be sorry,” or when she says, “Do wha you want,” she means, “You goin pay for it.”

Jus wonderin who agree with this saying by A.R. Bernard, Pastor, Christian Cultural Center “What is excellence at one level is mediocrity at the next.”

Jus wonderin all who just love mediocrity and see excellence as taboo.

A quote on excellence “I believe if we place a critical eye on the details, on quality, on excellence, on being better than any other, then there is no doubt that we will see growth

expected to be completed sometime around October,” he said.

Drilling began on or about February 22, this year, with drilling and testing (of the resource) expected to last six months (four and two months respectively).

Beardsley had said at the beginning of this month, confirming previous statements as to testing, “…we can start pulling it (water) out…and then we can do our long-term testing from that point,” he said.

Our information provided, “reports about the geothermal exploration from the drilling had indicated that the geothermal resource was definite, but its power had to be ascertained and testings were being done for verification.” That information was from the moment Well #1 had been capped back in xxxx. Further information had indicated testing would last for about two months.

In that earlier story we also reported that officials from the Government overseers of the project had said: “There must be temperature, pressure and flow, tested for a minimum of two months to “prove” the resource.”

Beardsley confirmed that later, but referred to it as, “our long-term testing.”

Well #2 - drilling completed Meanwhile reliable Reports earlier in the week now say that drilling at Well #2 is complete, although today a Ministry of Communication & Works official, would only say that a statement is forthcoming in the coming week. Also unofficial is the news that while it was thought that Well #2

would have produced more positive existence of the resource, the only better news is that the temperature from the well is better than that of Well #1 when drilling had ceased.

Geothermal Unit and Steering Committee That news is supposed to be good or better news, but although unofficial it did not change the doubts and fears that exist or surround the geothermal project. What keeps surfacing is that with a rig that can only reach straight down less than 2400 meters, the most encouraging information after Well #1 as we await the findings on Well #2, is, “they are confident the resource is there”. The following further statement by Kimbugwe in his response when he said, “…So once that have been proven in terms of whether you have a resource or not and the size of that resource,” once again cast doubt and uncertainty on the other statement of ‘confidence’.

Questions also surface on the management of the project, who speaks for it, who reports on it and to whom. According to project documents there was to be a “Geothermal Unit” which had to be in place prior to June 2012. The DFID rep was unable to name the entire Geothermal Unit, but said it was in place.

“Yes, you do have a geothermal unit. The geothermal unit is based in the Ministry of Communications and Works,” he responded, giving the names of two persons and two agencies, the other two he was unable to name, one of whom was to be an engineer.

That unit was, accordingly as the project dictated: “GoM will staff a new Geothermal Unit responsible for overall project management, procurement processes including evaluation of tenders and presentation to the GoM Central Tenders Board,. This Unit will report on all matters related to the drilling contract.

“The key positions in this unit will be: 1. Geothermal Project Manager – Contracted in for preparation, drilling and testing.

2. “Company Man” – Contracted in for the drilling operation which requires 24/7 cover (3 people on rotation.) 3. Civil Engineer (GoM local recruit) 4. Well Test Engineer (contracted) 5. Administrative and accountancy staff (GoM local recruit.) 6. Montserrat Volcano Observatory Staff – contracted for extra safety cover at unloading/loading.”

The dedicated Geothermal Unit was to, “be established to lead and oversee a successful drilling operation leading to the proving of a geothermal resource, on time and within budget. “…to keep an accurate track of progress and expenditure, and use this to keep amending the programme as required and rolling forecasts out on a monthly basis…”

Besides this, GoM was to establish a Steering Committee for the geothermal exploratory drilling operation, to monitor progress and hold the geothermal unit to account. “This will be made up of : Financial Secretary, Cabinet Secretariat, Ministry of Finance and Economic Development MCWL/PWD and DFID.”