Friday, January 25, 2013
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www.themontserratreporter.com
Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. -Joshua 1:9 (NIV)
Geothermal Exploration begin soon Vol. XXVIII No. 03
Week Ending Friday, January 25, 2013
Price $2.00
for proof of the resource by June
by Bennette Roach` Geothermal is on the lips of many and now the news is that “excitement and great anticipation is building on Montserrat as the island gets ready to explore its geothermal potential, scheduled to begin in earnest in February.” With the UK Government in December, 2011 promising to make available to the people of Montserrat fulfi lled by an agreement to provide 8.5 million pounds for Geothermal Exploration in Montserrat, this became reality early in 2012. Very soon after, a government appointed Energy Committee was basically disbanded or left out in the cold, with PWD Director Ron Beardsley, Energy Committee chairman, and Kato Kimbugwe DFID’s on island representative carrying on the process. This is according to members of the Committee for the Redevelopment of Montserrat (CRM) who were represented on the Committee, claiming they were denied access to
documents and the process to further the exploration development. The road here has been punctured with some confusion in the process, which is seeing charges of missteps and even unfairness, especially involving the tender and procurement of some of the services for fulfilling the project. There are questions surrounding the fact reported in October last year
More
Headlines...
that “IDC (Iceland Drilling Company Ltd.) was the only company to submit a bid to drill for geothermal on island.” The company was granted a conditional letter of award on September 27, 2012. Since then the contract works were completed in early October with the official signing taking place on October 16, 2012.”
cont’d. on page 12
Premier still not answering...pg 3
Feedbacks...pg 4 Man from Baker Hill...pg 5
Jerry Jarvis concert...pg 7 Kids Korner...pg 8 House raffle a huge loss...pg 10
24 HOUR ATM SERVICE Bank of Montserrat Your Bank. Your Future.
www.bankofmontserrat.ms (664) 491-3843
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Friday, January 25, 2013
Evangelist Jerry Jarvis Gospel Concert and Awards - grand as usual The anointing was flowing right from the start, when the Evangelist Jerry Jarvis opened up with prayer. As the organisers put it, you had to have been there, as it was described, “truly an hallelujah and Amen moment,” taking place at the Arts and Education Centre in Brades. The packed house sang and clapped all night.
Guest performer singing Evangelist Bridget Blucher was amazing. Feedback on the concert claims that Jerry Jarvis should be commended for bringing this top notch kind of gospel singing to the people of Montserrat. “... Bradescentre was literally on ''fire'', very rarely you hear that kind of explosive gospel singing on island,”
Molly Sheill responds
they said.” Some locals also had a chance at bringing their talents forward...locals, like Thandie Williams, Flora Martin, young J.Clockshill Owen, There was a special performance from Joseph Daley from the UK. The awards ceremonywas considered to have had the sparkle of any numberone awards show anywhere in the world. The awardees were of the big heart peoples who stop to look after elderly people. They areMr. Kenneth Scotland,Mrs. Madge Donoghue,and Miss Molly Shiell. The presenters were just as good. Presenters like His Excellency The Governor Adrian Davis,Bishop Dr.Melroy Meade,Mrs.Victor James, representing her husband Hon. Victor James. The Miss Mary Fenton Award went to police officer,Mr. Kevin Barnes,who rendered a song as well. He is a singer in his own right. His singing ability comes as no surprised as his families are known to be singers. With the passion for gospel music and singing he accepted the Lord at the tender age of nine (9) years
ISLAND OF MONTSERRAT A.D.2013 [PROBATE DIVISION] LEGAL NOTICE In the Estate of MARGARET ELIZABETH SKERRITT, 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 MARGARET ELIZABETH SKERRITT deceased, formerly of St. John’s, Montserrat and late of 15 Celandine Drive, London, E8 who died on the 7th day of May 2012 be granted to Marcelle E. M. Watts of Chambers, Old Towne, the lawful Attorney of PAUL JOSEPH SKERRITT, the son and personal representative of the deceased and one of the persons entitled 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 25th day of January 2013 Marcelle E.M. Watts Attorney at law for the Applicant
and has been singing for the Lord ever since. Just like Bridget,the crowd loved him... It was just a night to remember! Kenneth Scotland who was due to be awarded in the Queen’s New Year ’s Honours List with the British Empire Medal was honoured at the show for
Aunt Madge receives her award from Bishop Melroy
cont’d. on page 7
Friday, January 25, 2013
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Premier continues to refuse information on the Tobacco factory products Confident that questions in the Legislative Assembly this week, regarding the requirement for an Environmental Impact Assessment were answered in the negative with the contrary statement that none was required, Premier Meade refused to provide information as to where tobacco when manufactured would be shipped from Montserrat. The Government is boundunder Article 12 of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control to which Montserrat is party signed on by Her Majesty’s Government. They are to provide under that treaty, “public awareness of and access to information regarding
the adverse health, economic, and environmental consequences of tobacco production and consumption.” Our information is, that the questions were aimed at ensuring that Montserrat was not participating in an already enormous illicit cigarette trade. At the first 2013 sitting of the Legislative Assembly on January 22, leader of the opposition Donaldson Romeo put the question to the Premier, “Would you kindly explain what kind of cigarettes are to be exported by Montobacco?” The Premier before answering said the question he received included, “…and to where?” His response: “The cigarettes are made of
tobacco and not marijuana or some other illegal ingredients. Where and to whom they sell is not government’s concern, provided that the international trade regulations are complied with.” The WHO treaty refered to above also says: “Each Party shall, in accordance with its national law, adopt and implement effective legislative, executive, administrative or other measures requiring manufacturers and importers of tobacco products to disclose to governmental authorities information about the contents and emissions of tobacco products. Each Party shall further adopt and implement
effectivemeasures for public disclosure of information about the toxic constituents of the tobacco products and the emissions that they may produce.” In response to an earlier unconnected question, the Premier boasted, about the economic value
of the factory to Montserrat,while suggesting that the “factory” is not clean,as it provides jobs to a number of people. For this Montabacco receives from Montserrat, tax concessions on import and export of their products, incentives, as well as government
P re m i e r R T Meade
providing the factory building for their manufacture. Unconfirmed information suggests that the product/s are to be shipped to Indonesia. This encouraged some research and the following is part of what we discovered.
Child smoking in Indonesia
According to an official spokesman of a special commission set up to protect children's rights (KPAI) and evolve regulations to prevent children getting addicted to smoking, "The future of 80 million Indonesian children is at stake as the cigarette producers were intentionally aiming children as their future market through massive TV advertisements and sponsorships on activities in which teenagers involved the
cont’d. on page 10
Job Vacancy Corporate Services Manager Are you excited about the opportunity to work for the Foreign Office in Montserrat? Are you interested in supporting the UK Government in its work assisting Montserrat’s development? Are you interested in applying your corporate service experience to ensure that the Governor’s Office is well run, and provides a professional and efficient image? The Governor’s Office is seeking a Corporate Service Manager to start in April 2013. The successful candidate will lead the overall management and be responsible for ensuring the smooth running of the Governor’s Office. Duties include management of the Governors Office’s day-to-day financial arrangements, procurement, HR assistance and management of Government House. The successful applicant will be expected to use corporate service experience to meet tight deadlines, work under pressure, and to think creatively and imaginatively on a range of challenges. Skills and experience required: Corporate services experience, in particular accounting and financial management experience An ability to work effectively in a small team as well as own initiative with minimal supervision Excellent interpersonal and communication skills Strong customer focus and an ability to work with contacts and colleagues at all levels Effective prioritisation Experience of staff management and development Proven computer skills (including Outlook, MS Excel and Word)
No help to decrease the price of petrol, diesel and cooking gas In an environment of serious difficult economic times and the continuing hardship faced by Montserratian residents, with a sky rocketing cost of living, the Hon. Donaldson Romeo asked Premier Reuben Meade at the first sitting of the Legislative Assembly on January 22, “Isthere anything the government of Montserrat can do to decrease the cost of diesel, petrol and cooking gas?”
The government as part of their drive to increase revenue, while increasing the tariff last year on several imports to Montserrat, had also increased the tariff on petrol, driving the cost to nearly $19.00 at the gasoline pumps and of course the fuel surcharge on the electricity bill. The response was different from the Premier’s previous response at anpress briefing last year when it was sug-
gested to him that lowering the tariff would ease the burden on vehicle owners at the pump. At the time he said there was nothing he would or could do to satisfy the suggestion. Responding to the LAM The Premier’s answer was,“Yes. But there are consequences which can impact negatively on government budget and the services it is required to provide.”
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE PROBATE DIVISION IN THE ESTATE OF MIGNON BETHELEY MOSES 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 MIGNON BETHELEY MOSES who died on the 12th day of July, 2012 be granted to COLLEEN MOSES her sister and personal representative of the deceased 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.
Applications for employment with the Governor’s Office should be sent by e-mail. When applying, please provide a short covering letter, a completed job application form and attach your current CV.
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.
The closing date for applications is midnight Friday 1 March.
Dated this 22nd day of January, 2013
Full details of the vacancy can be found at the following URL address:http:// ukinmontserrat.fco.gov.uk/en/about-us/working-for-us/current-vacancies/
BRANDT & ASSOCIATES Attorneys-at-Law
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Friday, January 25, 2013
Letters/Opinion
EDITORIAL Who is accountable for the losses and unnecessary government expenses
Among the issues that those who bother to concern themselves about the economics of Montserrat is the question of what is the accountability or who is accountable for losses or unnecessary expenses incurred that must come from government funds, which we should be reminded belongs to all the people of Montserrat. That last is said because very often on the other hand one hears the comment that some public servants behave as though the funds are their personal possessions with a hateful attitude to pay out to honest to goodness accounts. There was a time and it is possible that this still exists where moneys are made available for projects which seem not to get off the ground or take forever to complete, monies in some instances having to be returned to its source. Then there are the situations where government continually faces claims against it for all kinds of wrong doings by public servants that end up in court, with little chance of coming out on the good side, or simply forced to settle. On the other hand there are projects that seem to just get out of hands where they overspend or just run out of funds, for one reason or the other. The A1 road project deserves some answers. We reported very early that people were suggesting it appeared that the works were not following any plan, especially with the works at Cassava Ghaut. Since December 2011 DFID announced Montserrat would receive 1.5 million pounds (approximately EC$6.07 million) to finance an extensional scope of work on the A1 road rehabilitation project. Remembering that that project began at about $15 million and the last count we were told was up to $24 million. Today they are having confusion over tendering for laying ducts, while the never ending works still continue at Cassava Ghaut. Why were these ducts not laid during all of last year when there was the long delay and wait for the road surfacing material? Did they not have to get additional monies to complete this project? Questions will be asked. It is shocking to learn that after constructing a house at the cost of $160,000.00 Government only collected $85,125 with $1572.00 of it uncertain on a raffle, which began in September, 2011. They had hoped to conclude the raffle in three months by January 2012, but the draw was extended to the end of Festival 50. What was the reason for this? One reason, a major one we can give for this failure is the deliberate act of not involving The Montserrat Reporter in the promotion and advertising of the raffle to the world. Less than one percent of what they say it cost could have brought them a great profit on this dismal performance running this in the local paper and online. (see in this issue: Festival 50 House Raffle a huge loss to Government). They continue to deny the existence of The Montserrat Reporter but it is Montserrat that is being dumped back into the very dark ages with the spiteful, irresponsible and incompetent attitudes.
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
Re: Develop Murphy’s evrod says: January 17, 2013 at 3:25 pm (Edit) its sad that even social cleaning of an area is not only a big country thing but occurs in little monstrat …he has been there years..iremeber talk of him been forced out well over a dacade ago but he is still there…. he is an amiable no nonsense man from my recollection and a part of that are and hopefully any development will be sympathetic to his need Reply • Dana Manno says: January 18, 2013 at 1:08 pm (Edit) Recent comments on this matter by Mr. Marvier Griffith are very informative and even handed. As for some of the other comments I have read, I think of the words of my late grandmother, “Eh, eh, look on envy and grudge.” I hear from a select few, “Why does he have that?”, “He doesn’t deserve that.” and “I should have that.”. Resenting possible possession by Murphy’s heirs goes to a new
low. As far as I know, Murphy’s daughter has also acquired much of Murphy’s holistic knowledge. If I’m not mistaken, daughter is even a doctor. Developing this spot as an holistic center of some sort would be a positive for all. If we don’t help and encourage other Montserratians, who should we be helping and/or encouraging? I do not want to be too pejorative. I do understand there are those, who for whatever reason, speak of money, punishment and “not rewarding” what they consider “bad behavior”. I only ask that they remember, “Man does not live by bread alone.”. That was the also the response given by Bishop Desmond Tutu when he was questioned about the financial expenditure of South Africa for the World Cup games. “Familiarity breeds contempt”, so for those that have lived around Murphy and have seen him in both god and bad times, he may not seem like such a “big deal”. Culture is sometimes a subtle thing and is often not recognized until it is lost. Culture is the very Soul of a Nation. We are not in a “very bad way” for acknowledging culture. Perhaps those without vision are “in a bad way” for not seeing what is right before their eyes. Dana Manno, Chaplain, MPSNY
Feedback
‘Only a holistic plan and approach will work E-mail :siandthediggi@msn.com Comment: Seems to me that Capt. John has nailed the whole thing, the Carrs Bay / Little Bay development is not meant for Montserrations, locals will, in the main be excluded.
Our Scripture Verse Today By My Side
Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. -Joshua 1:9 (NIV) “MOM, come here! Mom!” The frantic cries of a four-year-old wake me in the darkness. Bleary-eyed, I hurry to our son’s room. He’s had a bad dream, and now he can’t sleep. Speaking softly, I try to ease his fears. Then I lie on the floor beside his bed until he is resting peacefully once more. I can empathize with my son. I know about not sleeping. My mind races with worries of the day, struggles with my faith, concerns about my family, anxiety about what might happen. These concerns rob me of peace and rest. Only through
God’s word have I begun to release my anxieties. Like my son, I seek words of reassurance, and I want to know that my loving parent — my heavenly Father — is by my side. Psalm 23 and Joshua 1:9 remind me that God is with me, leading me, even in the darkest hour. When my soul cries out in the darkness, God’s words comfort me and help me to let go of my fears. I can wake in the morning refreshed. Jody Suiter (Kansas, USA) Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your holy word and for your promise to be with us always. Hear our cries, and grant us peace and needed rest. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Friday, January 25, 2013
Want Ad
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...Man from Baker Hill
If you have problems with your income tax return, I can help you This article should be rightly placed in the ‘Ad’ section of the newspaper, but that will not be wise; because it is much more than mere advertising of services. It includes a little bit of me as I sit and ponder. I ponder… and I wonder what makes a people into a nation. I wonder if, when and how Montserrat will begin the journey to maturity as a nation. Yes I sit and ponder and I wonder. Sometimes all night long I ponder and wonder. I wonder about Montserrat and how I can help my people. Well, I mean…after all, I live here. So it must be about helping me too. And I have concluded, after nights of pondering and wondering, that the journey to maturity as a nation begins with the teaching and understanding of a certain duty to our nation called Montserrat. For my part, I believe that the journey towards national maturity is all about taxation. Yes, taxation from the cradle to the grave. And I suggest therefore that we must seek to understand taxation. We must teach taxation; and always practice fairness in the application of our system of tax laws, especially tax collection. Before I get carried away, I remind you that this article is basically a want ad… offering my services to those ordinary persons who have income tax problems and who want help with their income tax returns. Again, if you have problems, I will find a way to help. And just in case you want to know why; it is because I am just a helpful man. I have capacity. I have ability. And I have experience at all levels of income taxation that pertains to Montserrat. Now please read on. I joined the Inland Revenue department as an experienced clerical officer in 1971. I received training from Mrs.
Sylvia Dyer and Major General M. E.L. Husseiny of the department, after which the Comptroller Mr. Carey Thompson assigned to me the task of bringing the income tax file of every civil servant up to date; which I did. The assignment was necessary because it was just a few years earlier, in 1968 to be exact, that Montserrat adopted the PAYE system of income taxation and the Comptroller wanted to set in motion a standard of timely assessments for the Inland Revenue department and the taxpayer. I rejoined the Inland Revenue department in 1974, and was appointed an Inspector of Taxes. At that time my assignment was to work with every department of government and every private sector company (especially the contractors) to train and assist them with the PAYE system. And I did. During the early 1990’s I was appointed a commissioner of income taxes and later became chairman of the commissioners. Since 1975 I have offered my services selectively to persons who required help with their income tax returns. Additionally, over the years I wrote several articles in the Montserrat Reporter about taxation and tax reform. And as recent as 2007 I participated with Inland Revenue officials at ZJB radio in a panel discussion on taxation. You can see that I have been involved with taxation for more than 40 years, always helping and educating my fellow Montserrations. And I know that many workers in the Inland Revenue department carried out their duties with distinction, educating and helping Montserratians. But where did it go wrong? How was it possible for Montserratians to owe so much tax arrears? Did the politicians encourage non-compliance? What really happened? Is it too late for Montserratians to understand that taxation is the very essence of nationhood? Could Montserrat ever mature as a nation unless we
tackle the issues of taxation, tax collection and further tax forgiveness with serious intention? Will Montserratians ever understand that we must have a desire to continuously educate ourselves on all matters of taxation? My desire is still to help. And as shown above, I have the wherewithal to do so. However, my heart goes out especially to the contractors who must have compliance certificates in order to qualify for government contracts. That should have been all for now; in fact the foregoing was all I intended to write on the matter. But this morning on BBC radio, David Cameron pronounced that the whole world must begin to tackle the issues of taxation, especially tax avoidance. His comments resonated. And again I began to ponder… and wonder. I shall now direct the remainder of this article to Governor Davis, the UK government’s representative on Montserrat. Governor Davis, what is your story? Was Montserrat among those countries on the tax avoidance list? Is Montserrat tax system on your agenda? And by the way, did we achieve anything meaningful with the tax forgiveness program? Seriously, Governor Davis, what is the UK government’s tax agenda for Montserrat? This much I will tell you Governor, ordinary Montserratians such as the petty contractors are weary and wary of the double standards surrounding tax collection. The truth is… their situation stinks; and in many cases only unconditional tax forgiveness can help them. Governor Davis, most Montserratians want unconditional forgiveness of income tax arrears for everybody; after which they want to start with a new system of tax laws. We want to go back to the very beginning. We want to really understand the tax laws and reasons for them. We need to
cont’d. on page 10
Montserrat’s Soldiers, deployed, Selsi Limited takes stand with Governare Montserratians afraid...? ment on the Procurement procedures by Shirley Osborne
Am I the only person who was startled to see “soldiers” in uniform, apparently on official assignment at the Festival 50 events in Montserrat this past December? I’m not the only one, am I? Or are we, me and all the people I asked, just the only ones who did not hear the announcement that the Royal Montserrat Defence Force soldiers would be conducting crowd control at these functions? Were they? Did I miss something, or has sending out the army become normal practice in Montserrat? And, if so, when did that occur? And, more to the point, why? Is there anything of significance in this occurrence? One person I talked to
simply had me informed that, “Shirley, you have to realise that things are different now. Things have changed. It’s the white people who are in charge now, and they run the Defence Force.” That statement was even more startling than the actual uniforms being out and about. After all, the Defence Force members are Montserratians, which makes me feel reasonably confident that force, intimidation and abuse will not likely accompany the power. Thedeployment and the statement were frightening to me for other reasons. I was very much taken aback by the sight of men in camouflage, with “equipment” in their hands, because I had never seenthis before in Montserrat, and because I know that soldiers do not
just routinely get sent out, assigned to manage crowds at peaceful functions and celebrations. Soldiers only come out during times of war or extreme crisis. So, which was the case in December? Montserratians came home in troops, so the British deployed their forces? Soldiers only come out when someone is frightened for somebody’s safety and/ or the breakdown of order. Who was frightened by the thought of two thousand more Montserratians on island than is now the normal, everyday case? Then, of course, my friend, when he said that thing about the white people being in charge, he stated itas simply a matter of fact, that’s
cont’d. on page 9
Rupert Isles of Selsi Limited has written to the Ministry of Communications and Works complaining and expressing his frustration at the methods and manner in the way the procurement and tendering process are conducted. “I am writing to you to express my frustration at having received yet another tender from your ministry that does not include a date and time of opening. Montserrat is the only country I have done business where tenders for projects and supplies which are paid for with public funds, are not opened and read publicly. If this practice is not stopped immediately, my next letter will be addressed to the Foreign Office and copied to the House of Commons, the House of
Lords, the British Press and The European Union with much more detail.” Mr. Isles told TMRhe has consulted Attorney David Brandt to intervene on what he considers ‘unjust’. “It is an injustice… they give three people the bid package for the pipeline coming from Rams to the high school and didn’t give the others of us any,” he said. He complained further that because of the intervention the PWD carried out the works, conducting other works which was given to one only one person. “…he was the only person who attended the bid conference and the only person who bid, because the rest of us did not know about it.Nobody else knew - I called everybody and ask them and they
said,“no nobody tell us,” adding that he looks in the newspaper for tenders and he sees none. Isles also spoke of the tender regarding the dredging in Plymouth. He said when he heard and enquired he was told that it was on the internethich he said: “they called and said that it was on the internet and I tell them that is not enough time.” He added that he had heard somebody’s name before it was even out advertising, “Somebody from St. Kitts…” a connection to someone who he said knows about and gets most of the jobs in Montserrat. Isles is adamant that something needs to be done and he is prepared to go all the way to the courts and Foreign Office with his complaint.
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Friday, January 25, 2013
Sir George Martin supports Sujue Davis’ MRC fund raising drive by B. Roach
Sir George and Lady Judy Martin in a most generous gesture decided to support Mrs. Sujue Davis, His Excellency the Governor’s wife in a fund raising drive to acquire automated external defibrillators (AEDs)for the Montserrat Red Cross branch. Mrs. Davis hosted a variety show, a silent and live auction which was held on Saturday, November 26, 2012 at the Governor’s residence in Woodlands, toward the fund raising cause raising over $27,000.00. On Saturday, January 12, 2013, Sir George & Lady Judy Martin at a reception hosted by Mrs.
Davis, presented a book he donated to the cause of the initiative on behalf of the Red Cross. The book on "the History of Abbey Road Studios", is an illustrated book depicting artists from Von Karajan to Paul McC a r t n e y. I t weighs 3.5 kilogrammes and it needs a strong coffee table to bear its weight. Its retail price is £250.
Above: Sir George Martin
Mrs. Davis said initially she was going to auction the book to raise further funds for the MRC Patron Community Projects, but, “…but there was a consensus that the book should remain in Montserrat for collective use.” At the reception the Governor in an introduction of the Martins running over their history and long connection with Montserrat and the famous Air Studios, explained that contributors, numbering 40, announcing some names, each pledged $200.00 to keep the book in Montserrat.
“This was far more than the list price and probably far more than we would have achieved at an auction,” Mrs. Davis had noted. Governor Davis added that initially the book will be kept at Government House, but contributors will be allowed to borrow it upon reservation. Sir George signed the book in recognition of the contributors. Following remarks by the Governor at the reception, Sir George gave brief remarks as he explained the origin of the book and the history behind it.
Guests and contributors inspect the bok left: Lady Judy Martin
Friday, January 25, 2013
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Jerry Jarvis concert a success cont’d. from page 2 his services to the elderly through his work with the Golden Years Foundation and Meals on Wheels. Governor Adrian Davis while offering congratulations to congratulations to the host of the show, noted that it was,, “refreshing to see that Christ is still part of Christmas in our beautiful island.” He postured, “I full endorse this award because Mr. Scotland shows a volunteer spirit that should act as a role model to us all. He shows a caring and loving spirit for all the elderly on the island and one that we can all emulate.” Richard Aspin read the citation for Scotland which said, “In 1999 he took over as chairman of the golden Years Foundation, a position he holds to this day. He is a member of the Montserrat Diabetes ,
and in 2001 he took over the reins of the Meals on Wheels programme and is still there today. He helps to raise over One million dollars per year to keep the golden Years going and in excess of $100,000 per year for Meals on Wheels, which provides for over 40 persons who would otherwise go hungry to bed each night,” ending: “He is an inspiration and a role model to us all.” Another awardee, Nurse Madge Mary Donoghue, described as one going beyond the call of duty in every capacity as a Psychiatric Nurse from once received an Award from the Seventh Day Adventist Women’s Ministry, for dedicated service in Psychiatric Nursing. She was attacked in the line of duty just six months before her retirement, but she remains an encouragement
Kenneth Scotland receives his award from Governor Davis
others. She is involved the First Aiders, and to date she ensures that Christmas Dinners are provided for the needy on Montserrat. Nurse Donoghue devotes her life to the fulfilment of her retirement dream... caring for babies and young children, running a popular day-care centre, Aunt Madge Child Care. Aunt Madge as she is affectionately known also serves on the Housing and Land Allocation Committee. She believes,‘one is never too old to learn.’ Jerry would like to thank all who assisted.... Radio Montserrat, Tropical Mansions, The Montserrat Reporter, the ferry service, Bishop Melroy Meade, Sylvester Allen, Lislie Evangelist Jerry Jarvis Sweeney, Richard Aspin, entertains crowd at annual B r a d e s P e n t e c o s t a l concert and dinner for C h u r c h , S p a d i c o Ta x i Service, Helen Gerald Festival 50, 2012. Restaurant.....
Kevin Barnes
Packed Arts and Culture hall
Kevin Barnes receives his award f ro m h o s t R e v. Jarvis
Bridget Blucher
Thandie Williams Joseph Daley
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Friday, January 25, 2013
Kids time - In your own korner Hello everyone – It is kid’s time with Auntie Lyka “In Your Own Korner”. This the term for school sports. Put a side sometime to practise for your school sports. Find out about your road race and start practising your route. Remember “Victory is in having done your best. If you’ve done your best, you’ve won.” Read a book as you go along. Look in the mirror and what do you see? You see you and I see me. We are all different, yet we each have two eyes, one nose, two arms and five fingers on each hand and two legs. When Missy looks in the mirror she doesn’t notice her eyes, or nose, hands, or arms, all she sees is her red curly hair. No one else she knows has hair this color, or this curly. Her friends have black or brown hair, but not one red curly hair on anyone. The kids at school tease Missy and call her Miss Curly Red Top. Sometimes they pull at her locks and giggle when her hair springs back into a tight red curl. Missy cries and wonders why she is so different from everyone else. What do I have to be Miss Curly Red Top? Missy sat on her bed and wiped the tears from her eyes. All she could see in the image looking back at her from her mirror across her room, was that red curly hair. She fell back on her bed as teardrops fell upon her pillow. Missy sobbed and closed her teary eyes and pretended she was in a new world.... a world of make believe. Missy thought and thought. What if all the girls had red curly hair, then no one would tease her. Missy started imaging how it would be if everyone had hair just like hers and all the girls were the same as Missy in every way. No one would tease her then and no one would pull on her hair. Then there would be no more crying or feeling so different. Missy smiled to herself. She pictured in her mind walking to school and sitting at her desk. All the girls looked just like her
Miss Curly Red Top by Jan Bester
now. No more girls with long black, or brown hair, only tight red curly hair girls sitting at their desks. The teacher was really surprised when she walked into the classroom. “What do we have here“? All the girls looked like Missy. Which one of the girls was the real Missy? No one teased or pulled at Missy’s hair now, because all the girls looked just like her. At recess the children ran outside to play, but Missy’s favorite swing had Missy look-alikes, waiting in line for their turn on her swing and when she went to her favorite place where she laid on the cool grass and looked up to the sky to watch the clouds pass by, there were many more Missy look-alikes already there. As Missy hugged her pillow tight, she pictured in her mind she was shopping with her mother and father and now everywhere, all the girls looked like Missy and they all liked everything Missy liked and even wanted the same flavor ice cream and the exact same toys Missy wanted. Missy closed her eyes tighter, pretending she was at the toy store in town, but she found Missy look-alikes were coming out of the store with the exact toy Missy wanted. By
Ten Little Fingers
Pre-School Corner
Hello to you my preschool friends. This week we will look at COLOURING ALPHBET PICTURES. I hope you enjoy Letter T
the time Missy reached the shelf where the pretty dolls with the dark hair had been, there was not one doll left Missy had wanted. The only doll left on the shelf had red curly hair like her own, but Missy didn’t like this dolls at all. Missy couldn’t find a pretty dark haired doll anywhere in the store. She looked back to her mother and father, but there were so many Missy look-alikes in the store, her parents didn’t know which Missy was their daughter. All the girls looked exactly like Missy. Her mother and father were very confused. Which Missy was their little girl? Missy sat straight up in her bed. I don’t want to be like everyone else, or want everyone to be like me anymore. No one would know who I was if everyone looked exactly like me and if everyone liked the same things, that wouldn’t be much fun. Missy looked back to the mirror across her room. She stood up slowly and found a pretty girl with a big smile on her face looking back at her from the mirror. No more tears. I am different because I am me and there is only one me. I am Miss Curly Red Top! The next day was a big day for Missy. It was Missy’s birthday so her parents took Missy to get a big bowl of her favorite ice cream and then they went to the toy store. Her mother said she could buy a special toy for her birthday. Missy raced down the aisle and picked out the pretty doll with the red curly hair. The doll looked a lot like Missy, but this beautiful doll was just what Missy wanted. Missy was happy knowing she was very special and when the other children called her Miss Curly Red Top, she always smiled, knowing she was the one and only Miss Curly Red Top.
Here I Am!
I have ten little fingers.
(Point to the different body parts.)
(Hold up hands.)
Here are my ears,
And they all belong to me.
Here is my nose,
I can make them do things.
Here are my fingers,
Will you do them now with me?
Here are my toes.
I can shut them up tight.
Here are my eyes,
(Make fists.)
Both open wide.
I can open them wide.
Here is my mouth
(Open hands.)
With white teeth inside.
I can clap them together.
Here is my tongue
(Clap hands.)
That helps me speak.
I can make them hide.
Here is my chin,
(Hide hands behind back.)
Here are my cheeks.
I can put them up high.
Here are my hands
(Raise hands high.)
That help me play.
I can put them down low.
Here are my feet
(Lower hands to floor)
For walking today!
Maze
I can fold them together. (Fold hands together.) And put them just so. (Put hands in lap.)
Riddles
Translate the answers using this code. A=1, B=2, C=3........
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 25, 2013
Montserrat’s soldiers cont’d. from page 5 just how it is, he was saying. Even worse, his tone didn’t have even the slightest whiff of, resignation, let’s say. You know, the attitude you front with when you don’t like something but you don’t feel you have any power to change it? Well, his was not that. His was not even acceptance. It was quite simply, unquestioning.
Unquestioning. Because that’s what you do when the white people are in charge. You don’t even question how come they are in charge. How they come to be so in charge of Montserrat again!After all these years. So, but, how come? In this case, of course, when my friend says “the white people”, he merely means the British. It’s not a skin colour matter. It’s not
personal. There is no individual or individuals being specifically referred to. It’s a politics and governance issue. A Montserratian politics issue – skins not white. A British governance issue – skins just happen to be white. And, of course, if it is that the British are so fully in charge of Montserrat that their decisions are absolute, then I am bothered by that,
in the same way that I would be if somebody were to start acting like they owned and controlled me because they gave me a meal of two when I was in crisis. And for those of you who are easily owned, and think this is perfectly reasonable, No! You don’t give up your dignity and self-determination when somebody helps you out! You say thank you, and, as you work to get yourself back on your feet, you are mindful and grateful, and you negotiate reasonable
Summary Report of Proceedings of the Legislative Assembly held on 22nd January 2013. 1.
The following papers were laid on the table;(a) Financial Secretary (i) S R & O No. 68 of 2012
Universities and Colleges (Licensing and Accreditation) (Application for Licence) Regulations 2012; Customs Duties and Consumption (Amendment) (No. 2) Order 2012; Anti-money Laundering and Terrorist Financing (Amendment) Regulations 2012.
(ii) S R & O No. 74 of 2012 (iii) S R & O No. 75 of 2012 (b) Attorney General (i) S R & O No. 69 of 2012
Proclamation Declaring Monday, December 31st 2012 as Public Holiday; Electoral Commission Act 2012 (Commencement) Order 2012; Immigration (Amendment) Act 2012 (Commencement) Order 2012; Status of Children Act 2012 (Commencement) Order 2012; Eastern Caribbean Magistrates Agreement Act 2012 (Commencement) Order 2012.
(ii) S R & O No. 70 of 2012 (iii) S R & O No. 71 of 2012 (iv) S R & O No. 72 of 2012 (v) S R & O No. 73 of 2012 2.
The First Reading of the following Bills took place: i.
Micro and Small Business Act 2013 First Reading
22nd January 2013
The Bill seeks to provide for establishment of a regulatory framework to facilitate the growth of the small business sector in Montserrat. ii.
National Honors and Awards Bill 2013 First Reading 22nd January 2013
The Bill seeks to provide for the granting of national honours and awards, including national youth awards. iii. Proceeds of Crime (Amendment) Bill 2013 First Reading
22nd January 2013
The Bill seeks to amend the Proceeds of Crime Act (No. 1 of 2010) by amending: the definition of “AML/CFT obligation” and terrorism, section 117(2) and (3) of the Act, section 122(1), section 123, section 124, section 125, section 126 and section 127. 3.
The following have been inserted: a definition of terrorism, subsection (3A) and section 123 A. 1,
The Second and Third Readings of the following Bill took place: Physical Planning (Amendment) Bill 2013 First Reading Second Reading Third Reading
18th December 2012 22nd January 2013 22nd January 2013
The Bill was passed with minor amendments as follows: Delete “No.2” from the Short Title and change the year “2012” to 2013. 2.
The ‘Universities and Colleges (Licensing and Accreditation) (Amendment) Bill 2012’ was withdrawn. First Reading
18th December 2012
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 udith 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 9
terms. You pay back when you are able, you help them out when you can. (Montserratian men died as soldiers in the World Wars!e.g.) What I am most troubled about, and indeed, find absolutely terrifying in the deepest reaches of my soul, is that attitude thatwe, Montserratians, just accept that we no longer have a say, and moreover, feel that there is no point in objecting, resisting, seeking to change that twisted reality. I am terrified because, when people start having soldiers out and about in times of peace, where there is no disaster or emergency that the soldiers have to help with, the aim can only be to show who has the power; the intent, to intimidate. It can only be the indications of an assertion of greater power and control, or perhaps the forerunners of other, greater, more powerful forces. Which are all well and
good, even perhaps welcome, in times of war and violent social disruption, but never acceptable in times of peace. Unless those in power are, indeed, waging war against “the people”. Or just want to be sure that “the people” are kept in their place. I am terrified because, if the people who made the decision to deploy the army of Montserrat did not feel it incumbent upon them to explain clearly and completely, to the people of Montserrat, and indeed seek the agreement of the people of Montserrat for something like this, then we have an even greater problem. Apart from the fact that there was nothing happening in Festival 50 that could have warranted sending out the army, unless somebody was afraid. Should we, Montserratians, have been afraid? Should we now be?
DFID Budget Mission first visit - 2013 GIU – The Department for International Development (DFID) officials began their first mission visit to review Montserrat’s national b u d g e t o n T h u r s d a y, January 24. The meetings are scheduled to take place from January 24 to 30 at the Cabinet Secretariat and will look at the projections for expenditure and revenue for the government in the coming financial year which begins April 2013. The team will first meet with His Excellency the Governor Adrian Davis and the Honourable Premier Reuben T. Meade. Later that day, they will look at the planned 2013/14 budget estimates including domestic revenue projections and policy objectives. It is also expected that the teams will review the variations in revenue and spending for the 2012/2013 against the budget estimated and the impact of external developments. Other areas to be discussed throughout the mission are the retention
and recruitment issues and a review of the Technical Assistance posts and capacity development funding for 2013/14. There is to be a video conference meeting with the DFID Head Office to look at reforms as laid out in the May 2012 Memorandum of Understanding as well as a session with the members of the Opposition. The DFID mission team comprises: Karen McGeough (Montserrat Programme Manager), Douglas Winslow (Senior Economic Advisor), Mary Thompson (Social Development Adviser), and Kato Kimbugwe (Private Sector Advisor and incountry representative). The Montserrat teamis represented by: John Skerritt (Financial S e c r e t a r y ) , M r. A l r i c Taylor, Deputy Governor, Lindorna Brade (Deputy Financial Secretary), Mrs. Daphne Cassell, (Chief Human Resource Officer), Mrs. Angela Greenaway, (Cabinet Secretary), Joseph Irish (Director of Economic Management), and Colin Fergus (Budget Director).
Page 10
Friday, January 25, 2013
Festival 50 House Raffle a huge loss to Government Premier the Hon. R T Meade revealed in the Legislative Assembly meeting on January 22, 2013 that the revenue intake for the house raffle which was launched in September, 2011 was
“$83,453.00 plus $1,572.00 for a total of $85,136.00,” explaining that the $1,572 were stale dated checks. We note that the Premier’s should total $85,125. It was revealed earlier that
the cost of the house was almost twice what was collected. In answer to the question, “What was the total sum of money spent to construct the house that was given as the prize for the Festival
Court releases Nevis government from geothermal contract
Caribbean News Now
Nevis (NIA) -- The Nevis Island government is now free to pursue the development of geothermal energy by its own means. Premier of Nevis Joseph Parry made the announcement on Friday, two days after a High Court ruling gave the administration the green light to do so. Parry said that the court ruled that West Indies Power, a company that had been contracted by the administration to explore and develop geothermal energy on the island could no longer fulfil its part of the agreement. “Two days ago the court ruled that West Indies Power
was in no position to meet its obligations. West Indies Power is a company that helped to develop geothermal energy on Nevis to a stage where it is proven that there is energy available for commercial use. “It means that because of that ruling the government is in a position to end its arrangement with West Indies Power and to develop geothermal power itself and this is what the government is placing itself in a position to do,” he said. Parry expressed satisfaction with the court’s ruling on the matter and said that the administration had already attracted
other parties interested in the development of renewable energy on the island. “I am very pleased with the court’s ruling and I want to tell the people of Nevis that the Import Export Bank and other parties are interested in working with us. So we are now free to move forward with the development of geothermal power,” he said. West Indies Power was granted a licence to explore in 2007 and later on April 29, 2009, a geothermal contract was signed simultaneously with a power purchase agreement with the Nevis Electricity Company, the sole supplier of energy on Nevis.
Wanted ad ...cont’d. from page 5
start from the very beginning – to learn how to fend for ourselves and to really learn the art of nation building. And let me add this, in 2013 and beyond, Montserrat requires more than tax compliance certificates; Montserrat must educate its citizens on every aspect of our system of tax laws so that every voice will sing and
shout about taxation. Every bartender must sing a song of taxation and every preacher must shout a sermon on taxation. Every classroom must resonate with stories and compositions on the history and purpose of taxation. G o v e r n o r, m a y b e Montserrat should be left alone … for awhile, with no income support from
your UK Government. Then maybe… just maybe, we might begin the journey to maturity as a nation. In the mean time Governor, while you ponder, I offer this ‘want ad’ to ordinary Montserratians. It is my contribution to the new beginning. ‘WANT AD’…if you have problems with your tax return, I will help you.
ISLAND OF MONTSERRAT A.D.2013 [PROBATE DIVISION] LEGAL NOTICE
50 House Raffle?” the Minister of Agriculture, Housing, Land and the Environment, Joseph (Easton) Taylor-Farrell responded. “The total sum of money spent to construct the house that was given as the prize for the Festival 50 House Raffle was EC$160,000.00.” The 2-bedroom furnished house located in Lookout Estate, near Marguerita Bay, was put up for raffle initially to be completed and drawn at the end of the 2011 Festival on January 2, 2012. That deadline was pushed to Festival 50, December, 2012, because
the sale was poor. Tickets were offered at EC$60 for one and EC$100 for two (approximately US$22.50 and US$37.50), available for sale from outlets/ persons. The tickets were also available for sale in the UK and cost £15.00 for one and £25.00 for two. The Montserrat Reporter, like in other circumstances and situations such as promoting Festival, offered that they should publish the information with the newspaper, which would offer a much better coverage, especially online as its readership covered
the entire world, and not just the Diaspora, like the government’s website and its social media thrust. People would have been able to pay online. Based on the money raised it would suggest that it took only 850 people purchased tickets, if every purchaser bought two tickets, or 1,418 persons at $60 each, but it is natural that the number of persons who bought would lie in between those two figures. More than 1,418 people visit The Montserrat Reporter’s website (www.themontserratreportr.com) each day.
No response on Tobacco cont’d. from page 3 most."[5] More than 30% of Indonesian children reportedly smoke a cigarette before the age of 10.[6] In 2010, a two year old boy from Sumatra, Ardi Rizal, made global headlines for having a 40-a-day cigarette habit.[6] In 2003, cigarette advertising and promotion in Indonesia was valued at $250 million.[7] It is thus one of the most distinctive tobacco manufacturing hubs in the world. Smoking Kretekis said to be "an ingrained part of Indonesian culture". An all pervading scent of kretek smoke is distinctly discerned in Indonesia.[8] Major tobacco companies dominating the market in Indonesia include GudangGaram, Sampoerna (Philip Morris International), Djarum, Bentoel (British American Tobacco) and Nojorono Tobacco International.[4] The WHO has ranked Indonesia third in the world for total number of smokers While cigarette smoking is declining throughout the world, in Indonesia the industry is thriving.
Manufacturers of Marlborough brand of cigarettes established a Kretekbrand manufacturing factory in Indonesia in 2008. For over 50 years, Djarum has been another big brand international manufacturer of Kretek here. It has a research and development unit to improve on the quality of their cigarettes. Malaysia and USAare said to be two of their important markets.[8]
Harmful effects and regulations
Tobacco smoking in Indonesia is said to claim 200,000 lives every year. Even though the country has required "no smoking" signs in health care units, educational institutions and in public transportation system, there is no ban on smoking in government and private offices, restaurants and bars. Tax exemptions in the country provide an incentive to the manufacturers to advertise the sale of cigarettes as compared to other countries in the region, in spite of the World Bank suggesting higher tax rates. As a result, tobacco manufacturers almost
run cigarette advertisements for free. The advertisements, although warning of the ill effects of smoking, do not show any pictures, nor are the warning texts printed at strategic places on the cigarette packets. All these factors, plus its low cost, have contributed to the extensive proliferation of cigarette smoking in the country among people of all ages. So much so, that even a two-year-old child picked up the habit of smoking two packs of cigarettes a day in his fishing village, where every one smokes. It was reported that the child's father initiated his son into this habit at the age of 18 months. However, press reports indicate that the child has been placed in rehabilitation by keeping him in a different environment under the care of a psychologist, and as a result the child has given up smoking.[13] The government of Indonesia is now contemplating introducing regulations that would ban the advertising of cigarettes, smoking in public places and selling cigarettes to children.
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE
In the Estate of CHRISTIANA FRANCIS, deceased
PROBATE DIVISION
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.
In the Estate of ELEANOR KIRNON, 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. 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
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 ELEANOR KIRNON who died on the 18th day of March, 1933 be granted to KATHLEEN KIRNON, the Administrator of 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 23rd day of January, 2013 BRANDT & ASSOCIATES Attorneys-at-Law
Friday, January 25, 2013
Page g 11
C C M W i n s N e v i s New Nevis premier Elections
promises inclusion and cooperation
Basseterre, St. Kitts – The Concerned Citizens Movement, CCM, led by veteran politician Vance Amory, has defeated the incumbent Nevis Reformation Party, NRP, of outgoing Premier, Mr. Joseph Parry. Amory’s CCM won three of the five seats up for grabs in the elections held on Tuesday 22nd January, 2013. It was a rather decisive victory for the CCM which had been in opposition since 2006. The successful candidates for the CCM were Vance Amory who defeated Patricia Hanley; Alexis Jeffers, who defeated Patrice Nisbett and; Mark Brantley who defeated Hensley Daniel. The two winning candidates for the NRP were former Premier Joseph Parry and Robelto Hector. This was the second
island poll in two years, following the 11th July, 2011 controversial election that led to court action over massive voter disenfranchisement that had negatively impacted the CCM. The courts eventually declared one of the seats vacant after ruling that based on the serious levels of electoral irregularities, there was sufficient evidence to declare the poll in the constituency of St. John's, null and void. Instead of calling the required byelection in the lone con-
stituency, the ruling party of Mr. Parry decided to take their chances in an islandwide poll instead. He lost the gamble, paving the way for the return of a CCM Island Administration. (More details will be provided in a subsequent report)
LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE PROBATE DIVISION In the Estate of RICHARD HENRY KIERNAN 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 RICHARD HENRY KIERNAN who died on the 21st day of October, 1985 be granted to KATHLEEN KIRNON & SARAH ROSALIND KIRNON, the Administratrices of 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 Applicants should notify the Registrar of the High Court not later than 14 days from the date of this Notice. Dated this 23rd day of January, 2013 BRANDT & ASSOCIATES Attorneys-at-Law
Nevis (NIA) -- Premier of Nevis Vance Amory said his administration would be one of inclusion and cooperation in the interest of Nevis. Amory was at the time responding to questions from the media, moments after he received his Instruments of Appointment and had taken his oaths of allegiance and secrecy on Wednesday, in a brief ceremony at the high court in Charlestown. “I think we ought to be a party and an administration of inclusion and we also need to be cooperative and collaborative wherever it is necessary for the good of the country,” he said. Notwithstanding, Amory said his administration would also reach out to the federal government on matters of common ground. “We will always reach out. If there are issues on which we can have common ground, I think it is important that we discuss
those issues across the waters with the federal government. We have had our issues with them. I think they were justified and I think we have articulated our position very carefully and clearly and decisively. “We also will discuss with the prime minister and the Labour government and the members across the waters, how St Kitts and Nevis can work collaboratively, cooperatively to make the federation a better place for all of us to live. So we will be reaching out,” he said. Meantime, the new premier noted that, once one was elected to serve in government, they became the people’s representative and should conduct themselves as such. “When one becomes a people’s representative even if one does have a difference of opinion, it does not mean that one cannot offer constructive criticism if you want to call it that or make suggestions for the
way things should be… I think we are the people’s representative and all of us in the Assembly however we are labelled in terms of our party or independence whatever it is, we are the people’s representatives and whatever we propose in that House must be for the benefit of the people. “If it is not for the benefit of the people then we have failed. We cannot put the party above the people’s business. The party has its views; the party has its policies but those policies must be for the benefit of the people and so I have done all my life in politics. It doesn’t really matter where I am; my thing is to represent the people and to make sure that they know they are getting good representation from myself,” he said. A m o r y, a l o n g w i t h members of his new Cabinet, are scheduled to be sworn in at an inauguration and thanksgiving service on Saturday.
REGISTERED LAND ACT SECTION 34 LOST LAND CERTIFICATES It is notified for general information thatLand Certificates in respect of the following personshave been reported lost:NAME
REG. SECTION/REFERENCE DATE ISSUED
Thomas Gerald
Salem 11/05/100
June 17, 1981
Steadman Cassell et al
Beachettes 12/04/046
June 27, 1990
Dorothy Greenway et al
St. Peter’s 13/22/045
October 31, 1995
Anderson L. White et al
Beachettes 12/01/184
June 15, 2010
Eustace C. Osborne et al Beachettes 12/03/158
March 9, 1989
Charles Evons Allen
St. Peter’s 13/12/127
Sept. 29, 1993
Mary I. Cabey et al
Beachettes 12/04/248
February 10, 1997
Unless any objections are received within fourteen (14) days from the date of publication of this notice,replacement certificates will be issued. Dated this 22nd day of January, 2013. Sgd. Jamiel Greenaway (Miss) Registrar of Lands
Page 12
Friday, January 25, 2013
www.themontserratreporter.com
Geothermal explorations begin cont’d. from page 5 The questions surround the advertising of the tender for the drilling which was done according to the stipulations included in the terms of the 8.5 million poundsAgreement. How did the Premier’s statement in December 2011 impact this? is now the question heard frequently. The Premier then complained, ‘unfairly’, that not enough was being ‘reported’ about “the agreement in principal for the geothermal exploration”.“…here are some steps we want you to take before we finally agree the funds. Dominica should be having a rig coming into Dominica, and what we’re trying to do is to time the preparations so that at the back end of the Dominica drill operations that we can get that drill rig into Montserrat…”he said. Following the signing of the contract in October last year with IDC, the only bidder at a sum of US$6.3 million, one that some officials in Montserrat say was more than the US$4.08 million for a production well to a depth of 5,000 feet. Included in that proposal was a cost for carrying out directional drilling if required.
This was suggested by another company even before the funds agreement early last year. The confusion and the worry expressed by those who had put the whole geothermal in train, is that if the drilling facility does not facilitate directional drilling and is only vertical, the cost to correct would outdo the project funds, and be a complete waste and serious setback. It is reported that the tender specification documents have been held secret by Ministry of Coms and Works and provided only to persons with proven interest in geothermal exploration. Concerns rose that the tender documentdid not include directional drilling which IDC was not required to do in Dominica, but became necessary for Montserrat because this was included in the EGS report that informed the drilling exploration tender. EGS of California had reported there was an 80% likelihood of geothermal energy on Montserrat. Beardsley last week explaining The IDC is now all set to begin the exploration and are set to deliver their equipment at Port Plymouth next week to carry out the
Drilling rig platform nearing completion - drains and all
work to prove the energy resource which Montserrat is hoping will prove a reality. Preparations to facilitate the off-loading of the drilling equipment at Port Plymouth came in for some criticism by contractors who complained that giving only ten days to tender for dredging in Plymouth was designed for only one contractor to tender and get the job, which endedup being almost the case. The director Beardsley,in a reported
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 the premier talkin bout “tell the man Romeo of De Bear’s 2012 calypso that me nar get none, but local businesses are at least making money from the resource which not only creates jobs but bolsters the earnings of our own private sector. Jus wonderin wey the private sector are mek de money. Jus wonderin if him know he favorite business construction dat he look after so well a de only one makin money, and dem no pay dem workers so dem really benefit. Jus wonderin how de premier can say, We are blessed every day of our lives we are truly blessed. Jus wonderin if de premier really nar get which oder ministas a get. Jus wonderin if a de PS dem mek de rumors so strong bout investigations Jus wonderin why there was an outstanding garbage bill, why they didn’t pay bill and wasn’t money budgeted to pay that bill. Jus wonderin why the Commissions that were boasted about in 2010 not yet in place. Jus wonderin how de Edita no talk more bout dat.
Jus wonderin if a he mek dey don’t install any of de commission. Jus wonderin bout the Integrity bill and when it will begin to take effect. Jus wonderin wha bout it that dem Legislators and cabinet people don’t like. Jus wonderin if de governa ha fu face Integrity also, if no why not. Jus wonderin if a only civil servants pay income tax dat a dem one goin get back pay dis year. Jus wonderin wha de Governor Newsletter is all about. Jus wonderin if dem can’t jus tek two page in de newspaper and let dem put it on line wid dem website. Jus wonderin if dem budget people goin really check on de moneys and if a no dem cause de hard taxes and tariff pon de tired and abused residents on Montserrat. Jus wonderin if when dem so pick and chose who dem give business or keep business from if dem know dat dem hurt innocent people. Jus wonderin who a thro water in a who face becarse of de new find in Lookout. Jus wonderin who min drunken who betta.
interview with ZJB news dismisses the reports as misinformation and said everything is on government website and everything done, in accordance with government procurement rules.” He said further,“we received two tenders for the project…one was allot more expensive than we were expecting, the other one was round about the right price.” The drilling and testing phases are expectedexpected to begin in earnest in mid February and take three to four
months.IDC is expected to drill two wells down to a depth of 5000 feet in zone C, between Weekes village and Garibaldi Hill. All of the areas, including the drilling platforms and the water tanks as well as other holding areas have been constructed. The developments of alternate energy and this renewable resource have been discussed and planned for several years and is proven would go a long way towards reducing the high cost of electricity Montserrat. It is expected to pro-
vide cheaper electricity for Montserrat and in the meantime generate a wide variety of jobs. source for Montserrat. S i n c e D e c e m b e r, 2011 Premier Meade had informed that, “the initial investment would be for a two to fourmegawatt facility, dependant on what is available,…” adding, “we’re hoping that we can then move that forward into a 50 megawatt facility which we hope that the private sector will move it for them to deal with export potential.”
Four bodies found as search and recovery efforts continue in Guyana for five more boat crash victims Caribbean News Now GEORGETOWN, Guyana (GINA) -- As rescue teams in Guyana continue their search for the persons reported missing following a twoboat collision at Crab Falls in the Mazaruni
River on Tuesday, four bodies have been recovered, leaving five still missing. The Guyana Police Force has reported that the bodies were identified as Jermaine Calistro, 27; Ulric Grimes, 39; Christopher Narine,
29; and Zahir Baksh, 34. The search is continuing with the involvement of the joint services, the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), miners and public spirited persons, among others.