Issuu

Friday, January 11, 2013

Page g 1 Today’s Scripture

www.themontserratreporter.com Vol. XXVIII No. 02

Week Ending Friday, January 11, 2013

Price $2.00

Confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. - James 5:16 (NRSV)

Lawyer calls on Deputy Governor to appoint Registrar, face possible consequence by Bennette Roach

Lawyer Jean Kelsick at Churh Service - opening law year``v

Calls Human Resource handling of matter, incompetent

Attorney-at-Law, Jean Kelsick was the most recent attorney to call on Government to take action to provide long overdue adequate court accommodations, at the opening of the New Law Year, while speaking on behalf of the local bar association. He told the court, with newly appointed judge, Justice Anthony Astaphan presiding in Montserrat, following the address of the acting Chief Justice, the Hon. Honourable Justice Janice Pereira. “Montserrat is a mouse that is sometimes capable of roaring,” he said in his introduction. He said: “I will start my lord with the lack of a proper court house and facilities for the registry including proper facilities for the storage of registry documents. Both of these issues remain an open sore I regret to say. It is one that is raised annually by us at the private bar.” “…about five years ago my lord I remember that we wrote to the then Governor, pointing out to her the registry documents were either being lost or contaminated by water and of the pressing need to address this issue by providing

Headlines...

Attorney-at-Law, Jean Kelsick Alcohol and smoking cause 36m deaths...pg 3

Feedbacks...pg 4 Develop Murphy’s...pg 5

the registry safe and secure storage facilities. Not only are persons alive being affective by this adversity but there is a historical importance of legal documents…” as he added, “I think my lord most of us would agree that the structure in which we currently stand and sit, is an uncomfortable embarrassment to Montserrat.” Earlier this week the AttorneyKelsick revealed a letter he wrote to the Deputy Governor (DG), copied to members of cabinet, including H E Governor Avis, Honourable Premier, Attorney General, Minister of MAHLE, and all the Bank Managers. In the letter hereminded the DG of their conversation of: “the fact that there is currently no Registrar of Lands, as a result of which no documents have been processed by the Land Registry for the past 3 weeks.” The letter observed that David Gerald acted as Registrar of Lands for an extended period until he was informed a few months ago without notice that his contract would not be renewed.

cont’d. on page 2

Romeo meets with Diaspora...pg 6 Kids’ Korner...pg 8 Outsourcing causes problems...pg 10

Page 2

Friday, January 11, 2013

Time fo r new Re gistr ar

cont’d. from page 1 However, according to the Business of Cabinet report for quarter July – September 2012, released on December 6, 2012, “Mr. Gerald was appointed from the 21st July, 2012 until end of contract or until a substantive post holder can be appointed.” Kelsick in his letter stated thatthat, Mr. David Gerald acted as Registrar of Lands for an extended period until he was informed a few months ago, without notice, that his contract would not be renewed. Mr. Kelsickcontinued in his letter, “Remarkably, Government’s Human Resources Department (HR) had made no proper arrangements for a replacement.” “Not only is this oversight causing the general public serious inconvenience,” he said, “…it has the potential to give rise to grave injustice. …it is exposing Government to civil liability.” He cites as reasons, “…There is no Registrar to enable the lodgment of cautions to prevent the fraudulent transfer of land. It is usually necessary to lodge cautions at very short notice. This means that because of Government’s neglect persons run the risk of being defrauded of their land. And, “Charges to secure bank loans are not being registered. This means that banks are unprotected and therefore exposed to serious risk.” In a ZJB newscast, The Hon. Eastern Taylor-Farrell, Minister of Agriculture,

Damage sustained at Courthouse after fire

Land, Housing and the Environment (MAHLE) responded confirming Gerald’s part time activity. He reportedly said Mr. David Gerald had been working along with the ministry on a temporary basis since last December providing continuity in the land registry department, that he will continue to serve in this capacity until the position is filled. Kelsick considers as dishonest, the comment of the Hon.Taylor-Farrell, to his current complaint regarding the lack of a Registrar which falls under his

ministry. He says that Mr. Gerald merely serves a few days a week in an advisory capacity, while the Minister says hopefully by the end of this week they will have a better idea as to how the substantive position will be filled. The attorney who joined and on behalf of his senior and other attorneys on island, charged the government of its, “statutory obligation to staff the Land Registry with a Registrar of Lands at all times,” warning further, “Any failure on its part to do so renders Government liable to compen-

TERRITORY OF MONTSERRAT HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE A.D. 2013 LEGAL NOTICE In the Estate JOHN JOSEPH RYNER, deceased

sate members of the public is astonishing. This is one ity. This is a recognition that for any loss they may sustain of the most important posi- his expertise and guidance because of its neglect.” tions in the civil service,” he are needed. It would seem His letter concluded, noted, as he suggests, “HR logical to re-appoint him as “There will be no hesitation was compelled to return Mr. acting Registrar of Lands so on my part in advising my Gerald to the Land Registry that the Land Registry can clients to sue Government if in a purely advisory capac- function normally again.” they suffer any loss because of Government’s dereliction of its statutory duty,” while at the same time, accusing the HR department headed by a recently appointed Deputy Governor, of incompetence. “HR’s incompetent handling of this matter and its failure over the past three or so years to recruit a substantive Registrar of Lands TERRITORY OF MONTSERRAT HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE A.D. 2013

Land for Sale

Located in the Beachettes, 0.3 acres (13068 sq. ft.) For information contact 02085266025 LEGAL NOTICE

In the Estate WILLIAM DOWDY aka WILLIAM SEMPER, 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 Letters of Administration to the estate of JOHN JOSEPH RYNER late of Birmingham, England who died on the 29th October, 2001 be granted to SARAH RYNER lawful widow and relict of the 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 for Letters of Administration in the estate of WILLIAM DOWDY aka WILLIAM SEMPER late of Look out, Montserrat who died on the 06th December, 2012 be granted to WILFRED DOWDY aka WILFRED SEMPER brother and personal representative of the deceased.

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

FURTHER any person objecting to the issuance of Letters of Administration to the Applicant should notify the Registrar of the High Court, Brades Montserrat not later than fourteen (14) days from the date of this notice.

Dated this 04th day of January, 2013

Dated this 02 day of January, 2013

Hogarth Sergeant Solicitor for the Applicant

Friday, January 11, 2013

Page g 3

Alcohol and smoking cause 36 million deaths world wide In his December 18, 2012, Ministerial statement, the Hon Premier referring to the tobacco factory regardless of the opposition seemed proud to announce, “This project while two months behind schedule will soon employ a significantnumber of workers. This is evidence that we are rebuilding our manufacturing baseto create private sector jobs. We have reported extensively on this matter hopingto draw attention to the immoralalityand thecontravention of

WHO mandates and conventions that the Her Magesty’s Government has committed its Overseas Territories to. European Journalist Clemente Ferrer submitted thefollowing: "Noncommunicable diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide," said Douglas Bettcher, one of the leaders of the World Health Organization (WHO) in the last report about death causes in the world. According to the document, these diseases cause

36 million deaths per year, or 63% of all deaths worldwide. Of these 36 millionpeople, nine (9)million didno treach the age of 60. The main factors contributing to these deaths are alcohol, lack of exercise, poor diet and smoking, so Bettchersaid. The deaths occur primarily in developed countries, but are also increasing in poor countries. Noncommunicable diseases caused specifically 91% of deaths, as reflected in that

report. Of these deaths, 33% were due to cardiovascular disease, 27% to cancer, 9% to respiratory diseases, 5% to perinatal conditions, 3% to diabetes, 4% to accidents and the remaining 19% to other non-communicable diseases, according to thisreport, which covers all 193 WHO member countries. Leanne Riley, head of WHO's Department of Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion, said that the predominance of these diseases, which

are the leading cause of death in the world, is due to changes in lifestyle. Regarding physical activity, the report notes that 52.1% of the populationdoes not perform any physical activity, a percentage that is higher among women (56.3%) than among men (47.7%). More alarming are the figures about overweight, which affects 62% of the population, reaching 67% among men and 56% among women. In Latin America, 69%

of deaths are due to non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular or respiratory diseases, although the percentage changes were significant depending of the economic and health development of each country. The ranking is: Uruguay (87%), Cuba (84%), Chile (83%), Costa Rica (81% ), Argentina (80%), Mexico (78%), Brazil (74%), Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama and Paraguay (69%), Dominican Republic (68%), El Salvador cont’d. on page 10

Bank of Montserrat Limited FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 30 September, 2012 BANK OF MONTSERRAT LIMITED

BANK OF MONTSERRAT LIMITED

Statement of Financial Position As at 30 September 2012

Statement of Profit or Loss For the Year Ended 30 September 2012

[(Expressed in Eastern Caribbean Dollars (EC$)]

Notes

2012

2011

25,829,580 96,152,471 67,010,917 1,909,054 2,584,868 5,363,080 557,611 199,407,581

30,769,073 89,700,345 57,285,678 4,902,216 3,687,105 5,413,717 605,397 192,363,531

174,312,436 544,534 379,374 2,584,868 1,050,920 178,872,132

174,220,009 479,932 381,924 3,170,506 905,731 829,601 179,987,703

6,275,800 175,280 7,185,733 126,473

5,275,800 175,280 94,269 5,723,330 184,595

6,772,163 20,535,449 199,407,581

922,554 12,375,828 192,363,531

Assets Cash and cash equivalents Investment securities - net Loans and advances to customers - net Accrued interest receivable - net Other long-term receivable Property and equipment - net Other assets Total Assets Liabilities and shareholders’ equity Liabilities Deposit Liabilities Accrued interest payable Accrued pension liability Provision for CALMS Agreement Convertible debenture Other liabilities Total Liabilities Shareholders’ equity Share capital Share premium Convertible debenture Statutory reserve Retained earnings - appropriated for loan loss reserves Retained earnings - unappropriated Total shareholders’ equity Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

11 12 13 14 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23

22 24

These financial statements were approved on behalf of the Board of Directors on December 12, 2012 by the following: Sgd. Kenneth Allen Mr. Kenneth Allen, Q.C. Chairman The notes on pages 10 to 54 are an integral part of these financial statements.

Sgd. Theresa Silcott Mrs. Theresa Silcott Director

Notes

2012

2011

11,792 4,408,421 5,140,271 9,560,484

5,734 5,846,028 4,510,578 10,362,340

Savings Demand

(2,931,699) (87,496)

(3,093,638) (139,917)

Time Other

(913,908) (3,334) (3,936,437)

(781,003) (20,000) (4,034,558)

5,624,047

6,327,782

Service fees and commissions Foreign exchange gain - net Miscellaneous

1,047,552 608,957 189,065 1,845,574

1,014,623 673,919 252,620 1,941,162

Operating income

7,469,621

8,268,944

(2,304,848) (832,056) (516,599) (349,243) (895,944) (4,898,690) 2,570,931

(2,160,257) (965,335) (900,000) (317,271) (876,726) (5,165,589) 3,103,355

(4,549,540) 9,787,840 (497,219)

(15,583,540) 2,183,609 -

Net (loss)/income

4,741,081 7,312,012

(13,399,931) (10,296,576)

ATTRIBUTABLE TO SHAREHOLDERS

7,312,012

(10,296,576)

Interest income Cash and cash equivalents Investment securities Loans and advances to customers Interest expense

Net interest income Other income

Operating expenses Salaries and other benefits Occupancy and equipment-related expenses Provisions - CALMS Taxes, licenses and professional fees Other operating expenses

7 8 21 9

Net Operating income before impairment

Add/(Less): Impairment losses Recovery of allowance for impairment losses

Write off of accrued interest receivable on investment securities

15 15 15

The accompanying notes on pages 10 to 54 are an integral part of these financial statements.

Page 4

Friday, January 11, 2013

Letters/Opinion

EDITORIAL Restoring trust, respect and decency to governance Today we present just a few excerpts from Jamaica’s Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller’s address to her nation on what was introduced as giving a report card marking her first year in office. The idea of this is to present a country which receives very poor rating from the IMF etc. and one whose crime rate and other problems, economically and otherwise rank(ed) very high. WE will compare with our own state of affairs in Montserrat. We have for a long time spoken to these very issues that the Prime Minister chose to be the hall marks of her address, as currently and since 2009 and for reasons these days, there have been the comparison of Montserrat to the Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI)! CARICOM News presented it under the title, her own words: Restoring trust, respect and decency to governance in Jamaica by Portia SimpsonMiller. She begins: My fellow Jamaicans: A year ago my administration assumed office, propelled by the hopes and aspirations of a nation that wanted a new type of governance characterized by humility, honesty, inclusiveness, respect and trust. We came to office at a difficult time on the platform of people power, and I have never allowed that to escape my mind. Our record over the year has not been perfect, but it has been persistent. We have restored trust; brought back respect and decency to governance while making important progress in some key areas. Our mission of uplifting the Jamaican people and working toward economic independence was challenged during the past year by the slippage of the Jamaican dollar. The Net International Reserves also dipped, but not our reserve of courage, determination and resilience in the face of the international economic environment and domestic challenges. Yet, our confidence in the Jamaican people has never been stronger. Despite the challenges, last year we made concrete achievements. We successfully reduced the rate of murders, shootings, robberies and sexual offences. There was an 18% increase in the recovery of firearms and a 14% increase in the recovery of ammunition. In relation to unemployment, the JEEP programme surpassed our original Phase One target of 5,000 persons and employed over 17,000 persons by July of last year. Some six (6) billion dollars have been allocated to Phase Two of JEEP expected to employ over 40,000 persons. We have also partnered with the private sector to launch the Jamaica Employ Programme, aimed at creating more productive jobs for Jamaicans. I congratulate and thank those employers who have heeded the call to employ at least one additional staff member, as part of this initiative and those who have expanded their businesses and created additional employment. In terms of road rehabilitation we spent over 1.1 billion dollars repairing roads all over the country. We also spent over 1.1 billion dollars on special projects including river training, repairing bridges and cleaning gullies. In health, eight health centers were refurbished at a cost of 100 million dollars and four Centres of Excellence are being set-up. Our agreement with Cuba will see that country providing us with almost 500 additional health professionals. This includes doctors, nurses, medical technologists and nursing tutors. In tourism, the January to November figures reveal that Jamaica earned nearly 1.8 billion US dollars, a three per cent increase over the previous year. Tourist arrivals registered a 2.3% increase with 1.7 million stop-over visitors. My fellow Jamaicans: I have always been firm that while we attempt to balance the books, we must also balance people’s lives. The most vulnerable must not be left behind on the track of economic development. What we hear here is uplifting and we applaud it with longing, as we wait to hear if there are dissenting voices as to the veracity of the lady Prime Minister’s claims. We would have loved to run a comparison of our Premier’s statement as presented in the Legislative Assembly in December ,and will do so in due course

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

Feedback Only a holistic plan and approach will work A good article Mr. Editor, However, I think/know that this "NEW TOWN", is not being established for the local Montserratian.It's just a lot of Smoke & Mirrors, the plans for Little Bay/Carrs Bay Town, are just pictures of a pretty (Expensive) homes and businesses, which are entirely out of the financial league of the general Montserratian populace! There are presently No Plans for a Safe Harbour for Fishing Boats, to bring into Montserrat much needed protein.Bearing this in mind, no banks or insurance companies will lend money or cover your vessel, due to this important fact. The MDC has spent loads of money, cutting roads and filling in Piper's Pond, to make more land, available.Well I know that Piper's Pondwould have made a beautiful small marina/safe

harbour for Montserrat’s boats. And, I may stand corrected, but that drill rig that was drilling test bore holes around Piper's Pond, had to go down some 30 feet to find solid bottom, so anyone building there, not only would have to put in foundation piles, but also face being flooding out and with global warming and sea rise, face flooding from storms/hurricanes surges too! In Regards to the New Port. WELL!The Plans just keep on Changing. Design and Re-Design again and again, and the breakwater that is supposed to protect the New Port and the New Carr's Bay/ Little Bay Town and Yacht Marina (NO fishing boats allowed). Well, I can say that it will cost sooo much that it may NEVER HAPPEN. I will also say that the Development on top of Potato hill, a most ideal,beautiful area, ex-

pensive as it may be, may face a problem, as the people that would be able to purchase any of the plots there, may NOT do so until they see a New Port and a better Airport installed/built! My last observation for now, is to ask a question, If this is our NEW CAPITAL TOWN, why are the Small Business men/women being kept out? A small LOCAL business person was turned down two weeks ago. Inquiring Minds would like to know. WHY??? Capt. John. Simon Ward E-mail :siandthediggi@msn. com Seems to me that Capt. John has nailed the whole thing, the Carrs Bay / Little Bay development is not meant for Montserratians, locals will, in the main be excluded.

“Courthouse buildings burnt, arson suspected” euphrates_5@hotmail.com

of Montserrat and the legal system on island to clean up Comment: I think this stands as their act and stop the covernotice to the Government ups and fixing of cases behind

the scenes. You can fool some people some times but you can't fool all the people all the time.

baldy@hotmail.com

opportunity to invite the entire global and local community to otherwise communicate their observations, opinions, items of news, events and let us know the achievements and good things that take place wherever relevant particularly to Montserrat and our region.

“Jus wonderin”

Comment: Jus wonderin - welcome back. Where have you been??? Response: Jus wonderin: Jus wonderin column is compiled from contributions by readers and from de community. Please send by email

or letter, or by calling. Tel: 664496384; 664-4914715. We recognise like you do this column can be very popular, but since it is not generated by us, it is edited as necessary and as far as possible. It is the easiest way for anyone to have their say. Meanwhile we take the

Our Scripture Verse Today Clinging to Christ

A poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents. - Mark 12:42 (NIV) A cell. An atom. An idea. A word. A small donation. One talent. Five loaves and two fish. Dorcas’s needle. David’s five stones. A quick touch of the hem of Jesus’ garment. A smile. A kind word. God has the power to take something that you and I would call little and turn it into something that becomes so much more. God has a way of multiplying our small gift, our small talent, and our small efforts and turning them into things that accomplish a great deal. Our reading for today tells of the boy in a large crowd with a small lunch that fed thousands.

The boy offered what he could; Jesus prayed over it and then used it to feed a multitude. This boy’s simple lunch is something we’re still talking about today. What if we offered to God our small gifts, talents, and work, prayed about them, and asked God to use them? If we truly believe God’s power is at work in us and through us, our little could do much. In fact, if we just step back and look, we may see what God has already been doing. Looking at what God has done in our past can strengthen our resolve to make ourselves available in our future. Andy Baker (Tennessee, USA) Dear God of miracles, help us always to realize that little is much when you are involved. Amen.

Friday, January 11, 2013

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Develop Murphy

...by Shirley Osborne

“What if, instead of, Murphy’s got to go…help Murphy sheem-up a little bit, and actually help Montserrat?” I have worked for the Montserrat Tourist Board in two periods of my life and have travelled much in many parts of the world, for work and for play, in every kind of seat: first-class in aeroplanes, sleeper-class in trains, as barefoot sailor, even hitchiking on the autostrada, and I can tell you with no fear whatsoever of being proved wrong, that travellers of every sort, in every part of the world, have a special interest in the local, notat-all fancy, even sometimes a little bit grubby offerings of the countries they visit. In France, with its much vaunted haute-cuisine, and in Italy with its equal and different fabulous cucina, you will find that just about every adult resident has a favourite restaurant that is not the four-star eating place on the most fashionable street, with the snobby maitre’d, but is, rather, what Italians sometimes call a trattoria – a little, not-at-all fancy place in some hidden corner, where the food is totally local, very tasty, and the atmosphere anything but generic or pretentious. Many visitors to France and Italy look, especially, for places like these. Ditto, China.

area below is that promised to Murphy years ago

cont’d on page 12

Shot of Murphy’s (corner) and the surrounding areas

Grenada Prime Minister announces dissolution of Parliament Grenada (CMC) – Prime Minister Tillman Thomas Wednesday night announced that he had asked Governor General Sir Caryle Glean to dissolve Parliament paving the way

for a general election in Grenada within 90 days. In a brief radio and television address, Thomas did not name the date for the general election that was constitution-

Grenada Prime Minister, Tillman Thomas

ally due by October this year, but widely expected before that month. “I wish to advise that today I advised his Excellency the Governor General to dissolve the

Parliament of Grenada. This act He said he would be an- vote an opportunity to be regpaves the way for the setting of nouncing the election date istered. an election date within the next “shortly” in order to give all “All such persons who are 90 days”. nationals who are eligible to cont’d on page 11

UK requests Misick’s extradition from Brazil PROVIDENCIALS, Turks and Caicos Islands - Following an appeal for him to be sent home, the United Kingdom authorities have requested the extradition of former Turks and Caicos Premier Michael Misick who was arrested in Brazil last month on an international warrant. According to the TCI Attorney General’s Office in a statement, under an agreement with Brazil, the British authorities have 60 days from the date of arrest to formally request his extradition.

“Michael Misick is the subject of an extradition request made lawfully and properly, in accordance with the relevant Treaty in place between the UK and Brazil, as extended to the Turks and Caicos Islands,” the Attorney General said . “As such, he is currently being held in accordance with the terms of this Treaty, under a provisional warrant of arrest.” “It is intended that this request be submitted in Jan 2013,” the statement said. “Following this MrMisick will have the opportunity to consider

whether he wishes to contest his extradition.” Only recently, in hand written letter from his maximum security jail cell in Brazil where he is being held since his arrest on Friday December 7, 2012, the 46 year old Misick said his human rights were being violated. This was followed up by a letter from his sister Alith Misick Gardiner to the TCI Sun newspaper,

cont’d. on page 7

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Friday, January 11, 2013

Romeo discourses with Diaspora during festival 50 celebrations Hon Donaldson Romeo, Opposition Leader

Montserrat’s leader of the opposition the Hon. Donaldson Romeo on December 27, 2012 took the opportunity to hold what he referred to as “meaningful consultations”, with Montserratians who were on island for festival 50 celebrations. He said the primary aim of the meeting was to get their view on the Montserrat’s

redevelopment process: “I have been asked repeatedly to do something to give Montserratians a chance to air their views…” He asserted that the meeting was also sort to allow Montserratians in the Diaspora to suggest ways in which they can contribute to the island as he (Romeo) believes that Montserratians in the Diaspora have a critical role to play in the islands future. “I want you to get out of this meeting at least the understanding at least form the opposition point of view that you especially those who are visiting Montserrat will play a very important role in what happens in our

future for Montserrat,” he said. Romeo told the small gathering whom he especially thanked for showing as he did not expect a crowd because the meeting was planned at short notice. He said, that they in the Disasporacan supply a lobby, “such a lobby of course would be in support of the government of Montserrat when…government negotiates with our main aid donor Britain and whatever other agencies there are…” One major level of concern expressed by the gathering was the high level of imports into the island with nothing being exported. They were concerned about the level of local investment opportunities, and how locals will be able to benefit from the ongoing Little Bay and Carrs Bay town and port development. One person present believes that the access problem for Montserrat should be solved, not by giving subsidies but allowing competition. He said, “says competition and not subsidies would help allevitate the islands transportation problems…

Members of the Diaspora

VACANCY NOTICE You can use the money for other things enhancing the airport for instance, using the money to expand the sea port get better facilities also,” adding, the government needs to decide that it needs both air and sea access which I think is the access strategy…” The meeting lasted well over two hours with several presentations of comments, suggestions and expression of concerns by the visitors. One media brother called for there to be a strong and effective media in Montserrat. “We need the media, a vibrant watchdog in Montserrat to hold their (government) feet to the fire.” The Legislative Assembly member closed the meeting by calling on persons present especially those who presented to make a difference and do something about the promises and statements made during the meeting.

PAHO/WHO Office of Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries Country Program Specialist Saint Lucia The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO – Office of Barbados and Eastern Caribbean Countries invites applications for the position of Country Program Specialist, Saint Lucia. Basic requirements: -

Essential: a university degree in any of the health related sciences, public policy or international health development from a recognized institution. Desirable: a master’s degree in a health-related or social science discipline would be an asset

Experience: - Essential: 7 years of national experience in a senior management position with increasing responsibility for design, review, implementation and/or evaluation of health development and cooperation projects and familiarity with international cooperation mechanisms at the national level - Desirable: experience in multi-country project management and implementation would be an asset. Languages: very good knowledge of English. Knowledge of Spanish would be an asset. This is a locally recruited post and is only available for citizens of CARICOM. A written test or oral presentation and interview may be held for this position. Full details of the vacancy can be accessed from the following website(s) at http://new.paho.org/ecc/ or www.who.int/employment/vacancies/ en/. All applicants must apply on line in order to be considered for the position. However, candidates will be contacted only if they are under serious consideration. Deadline for the receipt of applications is January 14, 2013

Friday, January 11, 2013

Page g 7

2010 Constitution Commission funds allocated, shoved aside to pay outstanding garbage bill There were no questions or discussion surrounding the fact that the Minister of Finance, the Hon Premier Reuben Meade had sought to take monies budgeted to get the Commissions created under the new 2010 Constitution installed and functioning, to pay garbage collection bills.

The Hon Lowell Lewis only expressed surprise, “…I didn’t realize that so much money had been allocated to it, some $2,736,000 (two million, seven hundred and thirty six thousand dollars) towards an exercise which is almost over, at the end of which we have a piece of paper

our Constitution, which requires us to get permission from a British civil servant to implement promises we make to the people who elect us.” No questions asked, as the Premier presented the last Supplementary Appropriation Bill confirming that Government had

owed, according to sources almost $500,000 to the garbage collection services company Diamond Ltd. “ The bill “…provides for expenditure to meet the obligations on the garbage collection contract…I am absolutely certain that everyone will support allocating funds for the garbage collection because as some people say when the parts of the body have an argument certain parts decide to shut off then everybody realize how important it is and garbage collection is one such…” he said.

The Premier added that “the funds for the garbage contract have been reallocated from the Legislature,” and explained,“these funds were originally allocated to fund the commission secretariat but plans have not progress in this area s expected.” Concerns and questions now abound from the public that the Commissions have not been installed and nonfunctioning; how could government fall behind on being placed in such a prison clearly their payment for a service as imshows that FCO and SIPT will stoop to any level to humiliate the former that he indicated to a SIPT police ofPremier.” ficer Anthony Noble, that he wanted A TCI Sun report noted that to return home to the Turks and Misick, an attorney-at-law, has been Caicos Islands to face justice, but living outside of the country for about this request was denied. two years and on the basis of alleged He has since issued a handpolitical persecution in the Turks and written letter from his maximum Caicos Islands, he sought political security cell, asking for local, regional asylum in Brazil where he has been and international assistance in securliving since October 2011 and had ing his release from Brazilian jail so legal permission to reside and work that he will be allowed to return to until April 2013. the Turks and Caicos Islands to be His request for political asylum questioned by the SIPT. was denied in November 2012 and The Turks and Caicos Islands he was in the process of appealing (TCI) attorney general’s chambers the decision when he was arrested has denied that the former premier, by Brazilian police in association Michael Misick, has been unlawfully with British lawmen who work for arrested or that he is being treated the SIPT. any worse than any other British On the day of his arrest he said prisoner held in custody in Brazil.

Extraditing Misick cont’d. from page 5 who said her brother was “crying out for help” as he was arrested unlawfully. Her letter stated that “Mike is being made to suffer in one of the worst prisons in the world even though he was never charged with any crime. He left the island without being questioned by Special Investigation and Prosecution. The Attorney General and SIPT representation to the Brazilians that he escaped lawful custody in order not to avoid being prosecuted is a blatant misrepresentation of the facts. He has no right being detained in a maximum security prison. To be placed in a maximum security prison is wrong he was never convicted of any crime in Brazil or the Turks and Caicos Islands. His

Former Premier of Turks & Caicos, Michael Misick ISLAND OF MONTSERRAT A.D.2013 [PROBATE DIVISION] LEGAL NOTICE

In the Estate of CHRISTIANA FRANCIS, deceased NOTICE is hereby given that after the expiration of 14 days from the date of this notice, an application will be filed at the Registry, High Court of Justice for a Grant of Letters of Administration of the Estate of CHRISTIANA FRANCIS deceased, late of Davy Hill, Montserrat who died on the 26th day of December 2012 be issued to HENRY DUBERRY of Woodlands, Montserrat, the son of the said deceased and one of the persons entitled to a share in the Estate. 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 of Letters of Administration to the said 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 publication of this notice. Dated the 11th day of January 2013 Marcelle E.M. Watts Attorney at law for the Applicant

portant as garbage collection? The entire Supplementary bill as approved in the December 18, 2013 Legislative Assembly sought, “to sanction the amount of nine million, one hundred and seventy four thousand, seven hundred and forty dollars required by departments to cover the development expenditure for a number of infrastructure projects.” See: Supplementary bill pics The islands’ legal official also stated that the former leader was being offered consular assistance by both the UK and the Brazilian government. In a statement released on Wednesday the TCI authorities said that the request for his extradition would be submitted this month and if it is not contested Misick will be ‘speedily’ returned to TCI to face questioning. Misick has already declared publicly that he wants to return to his native country and that he will not contest the order. Misickwas arrested in Rio last month and has since been held in a high security prison in Brazil in what are believed to be particularly uncomfortable conditions.

TERRITORY OF MONTSERRAT HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE A.D. 2013 LEGAL NOTICE In the Estate JAMES CHRISTOPHER WILLIAM FAGAN aka JAMES A. FAGHAN, 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 for a Grant of Probate to the estate of JAMES CHRISTOPHER WILLIAM FAGAN aka JAMES A. FAGHAN who died on the 25th. August 2010 be granted to MARY ELIZABETH FAGAN Executrix of the deceased. ALL persons claiming to be beneficially interested therein are requested forthwith to send particulars thereof to the undersigned. FURTHER any person objecting to the issuance of Letters of Administration to the Applicant should notify the Registrar of the High Court, Brades Montserrat not later than fourteen (14) days from the date of this notice. Dated this 02 day of January, 2013 Hogarth Sergeant Solicitor for the Applicant

Page 8

Friday, January 11, 2013

Kids time - In your own korner Hello everyone – It is kid’s time with Auntie Lyka “In Your Own Korner”. A new year has started. I know alot of you have made your resolutions. May this new year bring many opportunities your way. May your resolutions for the days ahead stay firm turning all your dreams into reality and all your efforts into great achievements. Aspire to reach the top. When a woman carries water on her head, you see her neck bend outward behind her like a crossbow. Ten liters of water weighs twenty-two pounds, a fifth of a woman’s body weight, and I’ve seen women carry at least twenty liters in aluminum pots large enough to hold a television set. To get the water from the cement floor surrounding the outdoor hand pump to the top of your head, you need help from the other women. You and another woman grab the pot’s edges and lift it straight up between you. When you get it to the head height, you duck underneath the pot and place it on the wad of rolled-up cloth you always wear there when fetching water. This is the cushion between your skull and the metal pot full of water. Then your friend lets go. You spend a few seconds finding your balance. Then with one hand steadying the load, turn around and start your way home. It might be a twentyminute walk through mud huts and donkey manure. All of this is done without words. It is an action repeated so many times during the day that even though I have never carried water on my head, I know exactly how it is done.

Dot to to and Colour Join the dots to form a butterfly and colour the picture

Water

Rachel Schneller (Mali 1996–98)

Do not worry that no one will be at the pump to help you. The pump is the only source of clean drinking water for the village of three thousand people. Your family, your husband and children rely on the water on your head; maybe ten people will drink the water you carry. Pump water, everyone knows, is clean. Drinking well water will make you sick. Every month, people here die from diarrhea

and dehydration. The pump is also where you hear gossip from the women who live on the other side of the village. Your trip to the pump may be your only excuse for going outside of your family’s Muslim home alone. 1. If 7 is equal to 13 then what is 16 equal to?

When a woman finds her balance under forty pounds of water, I see her eyes roll to the corners in concentration. Her head makes the small movements of the hands of someone driving a car: constant correction. The biggest challenge is to turn all the way around from the pump to go home again. It is a small portion of the ocean, and it swirls and lurches on her head with long movements. It looks painful and complicated and horrible for the posture and unhealthy for the vertebrae, but I wish I could do it. I have lived in this West African village for two years, but cannot even balance something solid, like a maango, on my head, let alone a pot filled with liquid. When I lug my ten liter plastic jug of water to my house by hand, it is only a hundred meters, but the container is heavy and unwieldy. Changing the jug from one hand to the other helps, but it is a change necessary every twenty meters. Handles do not balance. On your head, the water is symmetrical like the star on top of a Christmas tree. Because my life has never depended on it, I have never learned to balance.

Number Teaser

2.Which is correct: Seven and five is thirteen or Seven and five are thirteen? Answers 1 31, because I multiplied it by 2 and subtracted one. 2. Neither statement is correct because 7+5=12.

Pre-School Corner

Hello to you my preschool friends. This week we will look at COLOURING ALPHBET PICTURES. I hope you enjoy Letter S

Number Fun

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

Friday, January 11, 2013

Page g 9

BANK OF MONTSERRAT LIMITED Brades, Montserrat.

As at September 30 2012 ABANDON PROPERTY – OVER 15 YEARS. The following customers are hereby advised that the balance on their account will be transferred to the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank, if no claim is made within thirty (30) days of the date of this notice. All claims should be made to “Bank of Montserrat Ltd, Brades, Montserrat”. ACCOUNT # 7019882 7055498 7024665 7064845 7044461 7064640 7005806 7061943 7005733 7001223 7009550 7042132 7018401 7049455 7058489 7035527 7011849 7052073 7055510 7036019 7042418 7067437

TYPE

ACCOUNT NAME

SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS

FRANCES WEEKES ROSEMOND A CABEY MILIVIO A ALCANTARA JOHN HENRY SWEENEY SUSAN BRADE JASMIN A LEWIS ETHLYN V ALLEN DEVROAH U WILLIAMS JAMES GREAVES JOHNS DEVELOPER DAVID FARRELL BERNADINE ALEXIS CARLTON GALLOWAY DEON C RYAN PETER H RYAN GRACE CHURCH JOSEPH E DORSETTE MARTIN ROBERTS PETUNELLA I WILLIAMS TIGER T BASKETBALL ANN FERGUS RAINER LINPERT

7032803 7062362 7051840 7006691 7015313 7057598 7063393 7003145 7062087 7040555 7002700 7061315 7034873 7064365 7061994 7040547 7063474 7007507 7044569 7056893

SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS

IVOR R WILLIAMS FRANKLYN B RUSSELL ST JOHN'S MAJORETTES ETHLYN LEE ALFRED MURRAINE CALVARY Y ACHIEVERS AUDREY FIONIA ALLEN JAMES SWEENEY GLENDORA RILEY EVERLYN OSWALD ALPHUS DUBERRY CORK R ESTHER LYNCH LEO A. DALEY ANDREA J HOLNESS MARIA A DALEY AMELDA L WINSPEARE THOMAS LEE JOHN DYER ROSELYN WATSON

7018754 7044801 7049960 7016506 7057628 7023820 7026285 7060688 7061617

SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS

7049862 7062567 7050445

SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS

JAMES H CABEY NERVA ROBERTS KEITHROY A ALLEN WILLIAM LINDSEY CHARLES D GERALD DALTON SKERRIT WALTER HARRIS CABLE & WIRELESS LTD CHURCH OF CHRIST YOUTH G ST.PATRICKS YOUTH FRED L RILEY ROSLYN F OGARRO

ADDRESS

CITY

COUNTRY CODE

ZIP CODE

ST JOHNS

MONTSERRAT UPPER DAGENHAM MONTSERRAT 119 CAMPBELL AVENUE, TORONTO, ONTARIO CANADA M6P 3VI CANADA TRIALS MONTSERRAT CORK HILL MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT TRIALS MONTSERRAT MOLYNEAUX MONTSERRAT CORK HILL MONTSERRAT C/O ST. CLAIR WADE ST. JOHN'S MONTSERRAT GAGES MONTSERRAT KINSALE MONTSERRAT HARRIS FRITHS VILLAGE CORK HILL CHURCH AMERSHAM CLAPTON, LONDON E5 OJE STREATHAMS HARRIS DAVY HILL

MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT UNITED KINGDOM MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT GUYANA

GERALDS BROOKLYN N.Y ST JOHN'S BOSTON VILLAGE

MONTSERRAT USA MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT

WAPPINGS LONDON N18 1HR KINSALE NF OJU ENGLAND RICHMOND HILL WOODLANDS CORK HILL VILLAGE ST.THOMAS MONTSERRAT MOLYNEAUX FRITHS VILLAGE KINSALE WATER LANE FOX'S BAY H E RT F O R D S H I R E , E N G LAND

MONTSERRAT UNITED KINGDOM MONTSERRAT

PLYMOUTH ST. PETERS

MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT

1761 WEEKES AVENUE P.O. BOX 219, HOUSTON ST C/O JASMINE EUSEL

CORK HILL PARSONS BRONX, NY SWEENEYS ST JOHNS

MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT USA MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT

32B FLOYD ST.

ST. PATRICKS NEW YORK, 11422 DORCHESTER

MONTSERRAT U. S. A. USA

128 GLYN ROAD

OCHSENFURTH STREET 23, 97340 MARKTBREIT 1165 EAST 49 STREET C/O VERDENE DALEY

BOLTON RD, EDMINGTON DALMENY AVENUE LONDON N

P O BOX 9384 BRADES

ELDERFIELD LETCHWORTH

DAGENHAM

MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT USVI MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT

11234

801

10457

Page 10

Friday, January 11, 2013

Outsourcing causes undue hardship to parents The Government of Montserrat may be proud that it has begun its outsourcing programs, but there are some unhappy ‘victims’. Some reports say the process to the outsourcing of the school bus service, school food program, and the cleaning services implementation was not a smooth one, particularly with many parents voicing concerns about the functionality of the transportation program. Some concerns were raised about the competency of the school bus drivers and the safety of the vehicles used to provide the service. One parent who believes that her situation is identical to many others, provided information and in expressing their hurt and concern, writes as follows: “I would like to know what the Government is really trying to do. Are they working towards keeping poor people’s children out of the educational system? It would seem so to me. From this year, 2013, I don’t see how I can afford to send my children to school.

“I have one child in Primary School and one in Preschool and at this same time last year my total expense of sending them to school was $69.00 per semester. Now the same semester costs have jumped to $900.00 per semester. The undue financial pressure is just the beginning of the stress. It seems that the excessive stress and financial pressure on single working mothers caused by the new outsourcing was not a consideration to those making the decisions! “As of January the outsourced school bus is not taking preschool children anymore. As a working mother I have relied on my older child carrying the preschooler to school and bringing him home on the bus. Add to that the added expense of the outsourced school lunch program which used to cost $30.00 per term and is now $20.00 a week and you have a total monthly school expense of $280.00 which is $840.00 per term. High society wealthy Montserratians are only paying $550.00 per term

in sending their children to St. Augustine, what an outrage! Mr. Meade’s government is doing all they can to raise the 50% of Montserrat’s budget by making poor people pay it all, the rich need to shoulder the burden, not us! Ag.Permanent Secretary, formerly Director of Education Glen Francis , in a ZJB report did not speak to the new costs, but, says about the new bus service, “…we will provide the oversight and we have a mechanism for terminating the contract or to make demands on the contract to improve service…we have a mechanism that ensures that children are safe, the busses are safe and the service quality.” Our investigation shows however, that the Primary school bus fee remains at $1.25 (Secondary at $5.00) and the preschooler now can ride on the bus at $1.25 per week, making the outlay to this parent to be $42.50 per week from $5.75. Substantial increases will occur in September this year.

Breakdown of fees New Rate Per Week

Old Rate Per Week

New Rate Per Semester (12 weeks)

Old Rate Per Semester

Difference

School Bus Fees

1.25

School Lunch Fees

2.5

240

210

Preschool Fees

240

216

Public Bus Fees ( to carry and pick up Prechooler)

360

5.75

900

831

Leading causes of death BANK OF MONTSERRAT LIMITED

ABANDON PROPERTY – OVER 15 YEARS........cont’d from page 9 ACCOUNT # 7046561 7003536 7067380 7063946

TYPE SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS

7048912 7049048 7047690 7054610 7059116 7053363

SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS

7063741

SAVINGS

7052367 7051298 7027249 7064772 7047940 7066538

SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS SAVINGS

7060882

SAVINGS

TYPE CHECKING CHECKING CHECKING CHECKING CHECKING CHECKING CHECKING CHECKING

ACCOUNT NAME YVONNE RICE LENNOX FARRELL ARNAL ALLEN ETHLYN S BLAKE

(67%), Colombia and Venezuela ( 66%), Ecuador (65%), Peru (60%), Bolivia and Guatemala (57%). In view of these data, it can be concluded that the best prevention against these

ADDRESS 3334 WICKHAM AVE.

diseases is a healthy lifestyle, including physical exercise, a balanced diet and family socializing, instead of watching television. Author and journalist Clemente Ferrer has led a distin-

CITY BRONX N.Y.

25C TIBBERTON SQUARE LONDON NI 8SF 1 8 5 H I N D L E H O U S E A R C O L A R DALSTON STREET PROJECT BANKS CUDJOE HEAD CLUB SALEM C/O DALE CUMBERBATCH SALEM LOUISE CODRINGTON BETHEL ABRAHAM BRADSHAW RYNERS VILLAGE MARY V LINDSEY NY NY 10025 HELEN G ROBERTS 37 BROOKE RD. LONDON N16 7RA STOKE-NEWINGTON JOSEPH B HONNING- P.O. Box 400, AUC, Amersham PLYMOUTH FORD MICHELLE A FENTON ISLES BAY HILL STEVE T BARZEY BORINQUEN TOWERS #1 APT 705 CABARRA HEIGHT MERVIN LINDSEY SALEM JACQUELINE A RYAN MARINE DRIVE PLYMOUTH JAMES MORSON PEEBLES STREET EMMANUEL SEVENTH HARRIS HILL DAY ADV ANN RYAN 80 DRESDEN RD. ARCHWAY LONDON N19 3BQ

ACCOUNT NAME DESMOND SKEETE MONTSERRAT COUNCIL ANTHONY RULLI MONTSERRAT TRADE UNION C ROARICH TRADING CO. LIM ST JOHN'S CRICKET CLUB ST PATRICKS ACTION KLUB ROGER WADE

ADDRESS P. O. BOX 219 35 ATLANTIC AVE, ROCKPORT HARMONY HOUSE P.O. BOX 306 ST. PATRICKS P. O. BOX 226

CITY PLYMOUTH ST JOHN'S MASSECHUTTEUS DAGENHAM PLYMOUTH DAVY HILL PLYMOUTH

guished career in Spain in the fields of advertising and public relations. He is currently President of the European Institute of Marketing. clementeferrer3@gmail. com

COUNTRY CODE USA

ZIP CODE 10469

UNITED KINGDOM UNITED KINGDOM E8 2DZ MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT USA UNITED KINGDOM MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT PUERTO RICO MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT

00920

UNITED KINGDOM COUNTRY CODE MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT USA MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT MONTSERRAT

ZIP CODE

01966

Friday, January 11, 2013

Summary Report of Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly held on 18th December 2012. 1.

The following papers were laid on the table;(a) Financial Secretary i.

Montserrat Financial Services Commission Financial Statements for the year ended 31st December 2011;

ii. S R & O No. 63 of 2012

Public Finance (Management and Accountability) (Forms) (Surcharge) Regulations 2012;

iii. S R & O No. 64 of 2012

Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (Toddlers and Tweens Boutique Plus) (Exemption) Order 2012;

iv. S R & O No. 65 of 2012

Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (Hullabaloo Land) (Exemption) (No.2) Order 2012;

Customs Duties and Consumption Tax (Paulette Ward) (Exemption) Order 2012.

S R & O No. 66 of 2012

(b) Attorney General i.

S R & O No. 60 of 2012

Road Traffic (Amendment) Regulations 2012;

ii. S R & O No. 61 of 2012

Traffic Signs (Kind and Description) (Amendment) Regulations 2012;

iii. S R & O No. 62 of 2012

Trade Marks (Forms) (Amendment) Rules 2012;

iv. S R & O No. 67 of 2012

Emergency Powers (Unsafe Areas) (Amendment) Order 2012.

The first, second and third readings of the following Bill took place: ‘Supplementary Appropriation (No. 2) Bill 2012’ First Reading Second Reading Third Reading

18th December 2012 18th December 2012 18th December 2012

The Bill sought to sanction certain payments from the Consolidated and Development Funds in excess of the sums provided by law for the services of the Government of Montserrat for the period ending on the thirtyfirst day of March, 2013. The Bill was passed with minor amendments, to include the following: Vote 30 - correct typographical error in the word ‘territories’ Further details can be obtained from the Legislature Department. 3.

The First Reading of the following Bills took place: (i) ‘Physical Planning (Amendment) Bill 2012’ First Reading

18th December 2012

The Bill seeks to amend the Physical Planning Act (Cap. 8.03) as follows: (1) Clause 2 amends section 2 of the Act by inserting two new definitions, namely, a definition of “beach sand” and “floor of the sea”. (2) Section 15 is amended by excluding the mining of beach sand from the definition of development. (ii) ‘Universities and Colleges (Licensing and Accreditation) (Amendment) Bill 2012’ First Reading

18th December 2012

The Bill seeks to amend Sections 14, 16, 19, 20 and 23 of the Universities and Colleges (Licensing and Accreditation) Act (Cap. 16.02). Clause 2 operates as the interpretation section of the Bill. 4.

The Third Reading of the following Bill took place: ‘Labour Code 2012’ First Reading Second Reading Third Reading

31st October 2012 27th November 2012 18th December 2012

The Bill was passed with no amendment. A Report on a Review of the Standing Orders of the Legislative Assembly was accepted from a Select Committee of the Assembly. 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 Judith C Baker Clerk of the Legislative Assembly

Legal Department Valley View Brades Montserrat

Public Library BBC Complex Brades Montserrat

Government of Montserrat Website

Page g 11

St. Kitts-Nevis eyes first ever solar farm St Kitts (CUOPM) -The common goal of the governments of St Kitts and Nevis and Taiwan is to reduce the carbon emission and also capitalize on the best gift from God -- the sun. Speaking at a ceremony to mark the installation and operationalisation of solar lights on the main road from Sandy Point to St Paul’s, near the Robert L. Bradshaw Memorial Park, Taiwan’s resident ambassador Miguel Tsao said renewable energy is a must and also a trend-setter around the world that was gaining momentum in the Federation as a result of the collaboration between Taiwan and the government of St Kitts and Nevis to promote renewable energy. Looking ahead, the Taiwan diplomat said there are other important initiatives including the establishment of the first ever solar farm and the second phase of the Agro-Tourism Demonstration Farm early 2013. “During the past year, we have successfully placed solar panels on the roof of

Government Headquarters and set smart LED lights on the Kim Collins Highway and Frigate Bay Road. Both ventures are significant and important. Also these projects were initiated with our joint efforts to tap into the unlimited clean energy source,” said Tsao during the ceremony on the grounds of the Robert Bradshaw Memorial Park. He added that the introduction of solar lights “clearly demonstrates the strong determination and will of the government of St Kitts and Nevis and the seamless co-ordination of my embassy.” “I do believe with our concerted efforts we can reach our common goals in promoting renewable energy,” said Tsao. Tsao pointed out that during the past month no efforts were spared to speed up and accelerate the pace of the project and made an appeal for all citizens to do his or her part to harness renewable energy instead of relying on fossil fuel to build a green island into a reality.

Grenada Parliament dissolved cont’d. from page 5 yet to register are urged to do so now,” he said. Prime Minister Thomas said that said since July 2012, the Parliament “has been customarily prorogued” and that “along the same time there were a few resignations from government and many were pondering the government’s options given the prevailing circumstances and the election time frame our country is in.” He said in order to “responsibly and effectively hold a free and fair general election, the election machinery must be in place and ready to facilitate it and conduct such. “Given the need to ensure that all Grenadians 18 years and over who are registered to vote to exercise their hard earned franchise and against the background of a new voter registration system my government’s focus was on ensuring that the

new system was properly put in place”. He told Grenadians that if an election had been called before the new voter registration system had been put in place, the old system with its many problems would have had to be used. “As a result the isolated calls for an early election before the new system was put in place were in my view irresponsible, self serving and not in the best interest of all Grenadians.” Thomas said that every national must be given an opportunity to “participate in a free and fair process of choosing a government” adding “in my view much progress has been made with our electoral preparation”. He said many people had responded to the calls to ensure that they were registered to vote adding “this has contributed significantly to our state of readiness”.

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Friday, January 11, 2013

www.themontserratreporter.com

Develop Murphy’s cont’d. from page 5

India, the same. In the game of chess, development is “the process of bringing one’s pieces into play in the opening phase of a game.” If this Carr’s Bay/Little Bay development is the opening phase of Montserrat’s new game, perhaps Montserrat would stand a far better chance of success, sustainable success, any kind of success, if it brought ALL its pieces into play instead of chopping them off all willy-nilly and grandiose. Improvement is generally the motivation for development, but I remember, for example, when the vestry at St. Peter’s decided that they wanted to improve the rectory. I was very young at the time, but I remember being appalled from the moment I heard the plans. The people who wanted development and improvement, because the rectory was old and the roof leaked etc, decided in their infinite wisdom that what they really should do is tear down the old structure completely, send in the bulldozers to flatten the gardens and build a modern new rectory. And that is what they did and produced the not-at-all attractive house that now houses the parson. The rectory garden had terraces, stonewalls and hedges; there used to be palm trees, evergreen trees with pine cones, a lily-pond, and steps leading to interesting places. Now, development has left them with a decidedly non-descript building, overshadowed by a

downright ugly flat, parking-lot kind of thing surrounding it, that from the very beginning, and last I heard, gets swampy and muddy and quite impossible to navigate when it rains. All they needed to do to the old rectory probably was fix the roof, and maybe the plumbing, replace some floorboards and so on, like has been done at Government House and Waterworks and, right there in St, Peter’s, Providence Estate!! And preserve something for posterity. Some years ago, during my second stint at the Tourist Board, I happened to be in Salem one day and found that there were trucks and men and chainsaws and heavy equipment amassed and blocking the road right by the clinic. The assignment? Cut down the guinep tree that stood there. Why? From what I understand, because I asked, the leaves were damaging the roof of the clinic, and medical development required that the guinep tree be removed. Cut down. Chopped up and carted away to where it could do no more damage. So, these enlightened, progressive, development-minded men at PWD, decided that the intelligent thing to do was to cut down the guinep tree – this old, healthy, fruit-bearing guinep tree that Salem school children, for centuries, from my greatgrandmothers’ time, at least, had enjoyed, and that provided shade for women and men waiting for the bus after a hard day’s work in Old Towne and its environs.

So, what if, instead of bulldozing Murphy and everything he has worked for these 38 years, the government of Montserrat took the time to parse through what is actually offered at Carr’s Bay corner and figure out a way to create a win-win-win for everybody. What if, instead of, Murphy’s got to go, the people with the power instead, asked, how can we keep this little bit of Montserratiana, help Murphy sheem-up a little bit, and actually help Montserrat? What if, instead of looking just to see what can be done for the nameless, faceless “tourists” and “investors” that they insist will come, the MDC instead, first looked at what can be done for the Montserratian individuals and collective with names and faces we all know, who belong here, to whom the island belongs, and who really should be the accorded first consideration, always? Buildings and infrastructure are development only inasmuch as they serve “the people” well, people!! So, what if, the development of “THE PEOPLE” of Montserrat were made the most important driver instead of sticking with the “development of The Carr’s Bay/Little Bay Area?” And no! Weed is not the major issue at this place. First of all, if we’re going to talk about moodand mind-altering substances and their effects on human beings and their societies, and on Montserratian society in particularly, alcohol causes much more pain,

JUS WONDERIN

Jus wonderin column is compiled from contributions by readers and from de community. Please send by email or letter, or by calling. Tel: 496-3844, 491-4715 Jus wonderin why we spend so much time praising mediocrity and not strive for excellence. Jus wonderin if de new Davy Hill houses get physical planning permission lek everybody else required to do under de law. Jus wonderin if HMG not goin review de legal corruption organization dat carryin out de enrichment o de cronies, de privilege few. Jus wonderin all who DeBear a talk bout, who a get an nar talk, or who a get a tark say dem nar get, when dem a get, smartly, becarse dem know how and how fu tark.

Jus wonderin if we goin hear in de wash-up all de plans given to de big festival planners since two years ago that would have been a wow in a big way and really bring out de culture that they say it was to be. Jus wonderin when some high profile people and business goin pay for real PR advice and know how, when and what to diffuse to their advantage. Jus wonderin if all de wuk dem a do down there at Little Bay Carrs Bay if any bady a go get in a trouble fu de money dem a spend. Jus wonderin if wa me hearing bout MDC and Ac unit a really true.

heartache and crime than does weed, more lives are destroyed by alcohol than by marijuana, more injury and destruction, too, and the rum shops across the street are not at issue here. In any case, even if weed is one of the issues of major import, Murphy is still not the big problem in this regard. The Police is. The police are!(Whichever.) So, how come everybody knows that anybody can buy weed at Carr’s Bay, and who from, but the police don’t know any of this? Are the police altogether impotent or merely deaf and blind? The Health and Sanitation people can think of no other shops that need their urgent attention? I can tell them of a few, and I am not on Montserrat every day. The MDC can think of no more intelligent solution than razing everything to the ground?

To replace it all with generic, “modern” structures and businesses like there are gazillions everywhere? Even rundown shacks have their place and utility. Can the MDC not think of a way to maintain something peculiarly Montserratian instead of trying to turn Montserrat into the Jamaican north coast? Can the Small Business Association not think of a solution that could help Murphy keep, indeed upgrade his business? Can Montserratians not think a little beyond the immediate and imagine what the place would look like without a Montserratian flavour? The Cultural Officer cannot create a culture to replace this. The Premier and his MDC and his “International” advisors and Montserratian actors can not impose, implant, or insert a culture

onto or into Montserrat. That is not how culture works. But they can certainly destroy what little there is left of it. Witness the state of Montserrat today!! My suggestions, my humble Montserratian recommendations, Develop Murphy, smart people of the Montserrat Development Corporation. Develop Murphy, caring members of the Government of Montserrat. Develop Murphy and people like him, and watch Montserrat develop, in all its areas – Carr’s Bay, Little Bay and everywhere. Develop THE PEOPLE, then sit back, I say, sit back and watch real sustainable progress, improvement, advancement, movement forward – TRUE DEVELOPMENT - happen. Just watch.

Barbados braces for a potentially crippling strike by the BWU Barbados, - On Friday, Jan 11 The Barbados Workers Union (BWU) says it intends to call its full membership to support an islandwide strike in an effort to force tele-communications giant LIME to withdraw 97 letters of redundancy which were issued last week. However, the date and time of the nationwide strike is yet to be released by general

secretary Sir Roy Trotman. The decision to call a strike followed the breakdown of talks between the unions and LIME at the Labour Department under the chairmanship of Minister of Labour, Dr. Esther Byer-Suckoo over the recent laying off of 97 LIME employees from its retail stores and back office. Byer-Suckoo said she was disappointed that she was not able to achieve her objectives. She said even though it was the union’s right to call a strike, such action would not solve the problem and Sir Roy Trotman, BWU General Secretary s h e e x -

pected the parties to return to the negotiation table at some point. The minister said she was nevertheless hopeful of a resolution to the dispute, since “a lot was at stake” and a strike was not in the interest of either the BWU or LIME. Addressing more than 300 BWU members from across Barbados during a special membership meeting last night, BWU General Secretary Sir Roy Trotman accused LIME of deliberately going against protocol and process, and criticized the company’s managing director Alex McDonald of disrespecting Minister of Labour Dr Esther Byer-Suckoo during a meeting on Wednesday, which ended in a stalemate. “The day and the time of the action will be determined and announced when the general secretary determines that,” Trotman said when the meeting ended at 8:15 p.m.