The Montserrat Reporter- August 24 2012

Friday, August 24, 2012

Page g 1 Today’s Scripture

www.themontserratreporter.com

There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. - Galatians 3:28 (NRSV)

Sexual Assault Minor on Minor Vol. XXVII No. 20

Week Ending Friday, August 24, 2012

Price $2.00

Calls for Minister’s resignation and Premier to enforce it

Premier Reuben Meade

Minister Colin Riley

by Bennette Roach

By Monday, August 20, 2012, the internet lighted up with a suggestion of, and eventually a question of complicity by the Honourable Minister of Education, Health and Community Services and Sports, Colin Riley in a reported case of sexual assault.

The alleged assault on a two-year-old girl, reportedly occurred on Thursday, August 16, 2012 and was reported to the Royal Montserrat Police Services (RMPS) who processed a 12-year-old boy through the Magistrate’s Court that cleared him available to travel. This cleared the way for the child to travel with an Under-13 cricket team under the management and supervision of the Min-

ister of Sports, Colin Riley, who while on his vacation, assisted in the preparation of the team and undertook management of the team to participate in a WICB sponsored ‘grassroots’ Under-13 tournament in St. KittsNevis.

Early Saturday evening, Editor of The Montserrat Reporter received information on the alleged assault and concern by the victim’s family on the process that allowed the accused minor to travel out of the island.

Later that evening at the Ferry port where the Under-13 team prepared to depart for St. Kitts-Nevis, the minister confirmed his knowledge from the police of the alleged assault. The minister informed that he

The Under-13 cricket team

was invited to the court. He confirmed talking with the both families over the matter and said that he was under obligation to ensure that the minor appear in court on September 14, where the matter will be processed further.

The RMPS confirmed the report and that the matter is still being investigated;

cont’d. on page 9

More Headlines...

Medical Mission...pg 2

Caribbean Athletes - one sports academy...pg 3 Tiffanie Skerritt makes history...pg 7 Kids’ Korner...pg 8 Sylk disappointed...pg 10 DeBear wins crowns...pg 12

Eugene Skerritt Retires, Pushed?

by Bennette Roach Eugene Denzil Skerritt was celebrated for what was described as his, “sterling contribution for just about thirty five years of dedicated service to the Agriculture Sector and senior leadership and management in the public service…” at a ‘Retirement Dinner’ given in his honour on Saturday, August 4, 2012, hosted by the Office of the Deputy Governor at the Montserrat Cultural Centre.

The most senior and longest serving Permanent Sec-

cont’d. on back page

Page 2

Friday, August 24, 2012

Fergus-Rowe – second medical mission to Dr.Dr. Fergus-Rowe – second medical mission to M’rat

by Bennette Roach Just under a year ago Cardiologist Dr. Icilma FergusRowe, Montserratian by birth brought a medical team to Montserrat, which she said would be the beginning of other and similar missions.

She said then, this was out of a commitment, “towards improving the health and wellness and mortality and mobility of people of an African Diaspora, African-Americans, who live in the United States, the Caribbean and also Africans on the Continent.”

Dr. Fergus-Rowe, the Director of the Mount Sinai Heart Centre for Cardiovascular Disparities (MSHCCD), followed up this year as promised and as planned, visiting with a team of medical professionals from July 28 – August 5, 2012.

The team this year comprised: Icilma Fergus-Rowe, MD, FACC; Gilda Capulo-Hansen, MBA; Nancy Thomas, BS,

cont’d. on page 5

Above: Blood pressure and diabetes screening Left: Cardiologist Dr. Icilma Fergus-Rowe, team leader LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE PROBATE DIVISION In the Estate of SARAH ELIZABETH PIPER 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 SARAH ELIZABETH PIPER who died on the 12TH day of October, 2005 be granted to CLAUDETTE ROSE ANN BYNOE neé PIPER, the Executrix and Trustee 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 20th day of August, 2012

LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE PROBATE DIVISION In the Estate of PRISCILLA FENTON neé KIRNON, deceased

BRANDT & ASSOCIATES Attorneys-at-Law LEGAL NOTICE IN THE HIGH COURT OF JUSTICE PROBATE DIVISION In the Estate of CHARLES JOSEPH DYETT, 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 in the Estate of PRISCILLA FENTON neé KIRNON who died on the 22nd day of December, 1991 be granted to MECHOL TRIMINGHAM neé TUITT one of the persons entitled to share in the estate of the 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 in the Estate of CHARLES JOSEPH DYETT who died on the 31st day of August, 2011 be granted to JENNIFER STEPHANIE BLAKE, 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.

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.

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 10th day of August, 2012

Dated this 15th day of August, 2012

BRANDT & ASSOCIATES Attorneys-at-Law

BRANDT & ASSOCIATES Attorneys-at-Law

Friday, August 24, 2012

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A Single Caribbean Sports Academy to ensure future World Champions

Caribbean countries have been lucky to have unearthed persons with natural talent, but that talent alone will not sustain them Barbados, - On the basis in the future says Sir Ronald Sanders.

of the size of populations and medals won, the tiny Caribbean island of Grenada would be ranked in first place in the 2012 Olympic Games in London with another Caribbean island, Jamaica, in second place – though with a larger number of medals.

Officially, Jamaica is ranked at 18 and Grenada at 42.

At the time of writing at the end of Day 13 of the 16-days Olympic Games, the United States is officially ranked number one with China in second place. But the medal haul of the US and China is drawn from populations of 312 million and 1.3 billion respectively, while Grenada’s medal – a gold for Kirani James in the 400 metre race - comes from a population of a mere 110,000 and Jamaica’s outstanding 9 medals (3 golds, 3 silvers and 3 bronze) from a population of 2.8 million.

Using medals per head of population as a measurement, the US would be number 36 and China number 60. When Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is added to this analysis, Grenada and Jamaica perform even better. The United States and China are rated by the International Monetary Fund at first and second respectively as the two largest economies in the world, while Grenada and Jamaica are ranked at 172 and 113 of 182 nations.

As I write, there are 3 more days to go and more medals will be won by several countries, including the two leaders, the US and China, but also

by Jamaica.

In track and field, Caribbean athletes have shown that they are among the world’s best. This is cause for much pride by the people of these two English-Speaking Caribbean countries and their partner-countries in the Commonwealth Caribbean whose total population is just about 5 million people. The phenomenal Usain Bolt, who has spectacularly won two gold medals in the 100 and 200 metres events, and Yohan Blake, who took silver, behind him are as much heroes of their neighbouring English-speaking Caribbean countries as they are of their native Jamaica. So too are Warren Weir who gave Jamaica a clean sweep in the 200 metres by taking the

bronze, and Hansle Parchment who won bronze in the 110 metre hurdles.

The Jamaican women Shelley-Ann Fraser-Pryce (gold and silver in the 100 metres and 200 metres respectively) and Veronica Campbell Brown (bronze in the 100 metres) are also special heroines upholding the prowess of Caribbean womanhood and taking on the best of the United States.

It should be noted that, of the English-speaking Caribbean countries, Trinidad and Tobago also won a bronze medal through Gordon Lalonde who was third in the Men’s 400 metres event. Other Caribbean athletes, such as Antigua’s Daniel Bailey and Barbados’ Ryan Brathwaite, creditably made it to the finals and semi-finals.

But beyond the marvellous performances by these athletes is a reality that, apart from Jamaica, the development of sports persons in the Englishspeaking Caribbean countries is woefully poor. Neither governments nor the private sector in the region are contributing to the development of sports in the quantities that they should. Yet, everyone basks in the superb accomplishment of Caribbean athletes who triumph largely because of their natural talent and dedication.

Caribbean countries have been lucky to have unearthed persons with natural talent, but that talent alone will not sustain them in the future against competition from athletes from other countries whose governments and private sector are investing heavily in them precisely because they want glorious results at the Olympics and other international games. For any athlete, while a substantial part of his or her capacity resides in natural talent, they will fail if they are denied financial support, good coaching and tireless training.

This has been the basis for China’s success. Once identified, its sports persons are taken out of their homes and away from their families to spend years in rigorous training and coaching camps. This is the extreme position. No country has to go as far as separating sports persons from their homes and family for the inordinate length of time that China does, but all countries that want their sports people to do well because of the pride it brings to their people and the joy of seeing them win, have to invest in the facilities they need to become world champions.

Jamaica in the Englishspeaking Caribbean has invested more than any other country in the development

High rates of Hypertension and Diabetes on island are cause for concern says visiting Mount Sinai Hospital Medical Team

GIU– Montserrat has a rate of hypertension and diabetes that is alarming says visiting specialists from the Mount Sinai Hospital.

The Ministry of Health hosted a five-person team from the Mount Sinai Heart Centre for Cardiovascular Disparities (MSHCCD) during the first week of August as part of its Visiting Specialists Programme. The team comprised of cardiologists Dr. Icilma Fergus-Rowe, Dr. Janice Scobie, and Dr. John Sumner; along with Navigation Consultant Nancy Thomas and Gilda Caputo-Hanson, Director of Community Outreach for the American Society for Hypertension.

During the week, the team conducted health screenings daily at the Glendon Hospital and also at various venues on island, including the health centres, government headquarters, and a grocery store.

Last Wednesday, a health screening and educational evening was held at the Montserrat Cultural Centre. During this session more than 30 people had their blood pressure

(cont’d on page 5

Part Audience in the auditorium during the ‘Let’s talk Hypertension’

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Friday, August 24, 2012

Opinion

Disaster office encourages residents Is it good being irresponsible when prepare for impending storm system holding someone else accountable?

EDITORIAL

The past week began with some loud and extravagant calls for the resignation of Minister of Education, Health Community Services and Sports particularly via the internet and MNIAlive website. It must be believed that some of the voices via the comment section of the website must have been from Montserrat, but on island it was not too evident. The matter being an alleged report of sexual assault between a 12-year-old boy and a reported two-year-old girl.

The issue of comment here arose out of the report on the website which, while in our judgement was certainly not one of the Editor’s better commentary, especially it admitted to not having spoken to the main player or players, whose supposed actions were considered questionable. The end of our observation on that is, because of the nature of the matter, reporting, questions and comments should have been cautious.

Was the report or complaint one of concern, we say very serious concern especially when before end of the ensuing week there was another report involving another alleged assault this time involving two slightly older boys and an older girl of four.

It would appear that MNIAlive heard from the victim’s parent in the matter, just like we had. However what ensued from the beginning, the name calling, allusions and calls for resignation and firing of the minister were most unwarranted. The matter could have served to highlight and call for a further serious conversation to address what is becoming more a concern as it becomes a focus in the region including little Montserrat. As the Minister had calmly asserted, having been brought into the picture and having conversed with all parties, he saw more reason to keeping the boy under his guarded watch and took the boy to St. Kitts-Nevis with the cricket team. Everyone is entitled to and could have a different opinion on his judgment.

The crime as seen from the report was that Minister Riley allowed the accused twelve-year-old boy to travel the next day with an under13 team to St. Kitts-Nevis (see lead story in today’s issue). We have to conclude that if the facts and the circumstances were known as we knew them, the matter would have been reported differently.

What concerns us is, to make Minister Riley, a monster of dishonor, given the feeling that the matter was considered a ‘horific assault’, to suggest and then questioned as to whether he was complicit in his actions done pretty much in concert with the ‘court’, requires much more thought than what brought the fury, the political hatred and partisan behavior that seems to be so easily awakened among our people.

We offer that there are other issues, the same plus others, different from the initial incident that brought this about, that require serious comment, or just comment, so that those who are responsible for any action, good or bad, know that there are those out there, who are not just political stooges and yes-men, hanging their mouths.

Most of the comments were vicious and empty, and do not be surprised if legal redress is sought. When the visiting friend of the victims family in the matter under scrutiny sought to clear up factual matters, they turned on her. When the Premier refused comment, they turned on him. Everyone has a right to an opinion and to express that opinion, but we should all remember that freedom and right must be tempered that you do not trample on someone else’s freedom.

Let it be that when minds get clear and know that while all kinds of things can go wrong even when they should not, it is good to call up those responsible and hold them accountable, but it is also our duty to be responsible. It is the way we will get children who begin to learn about their rights, and as the people of Montserrat learn more about their rights, truly understand that they come with responsibilities and knowledge about other people’s rights.

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

GIU – The Disaster Management Co- per hour, with higher gusts, and rainfall of ordination Agency (DMCA) is monitoring about 5 to 8 inches can be anticipated, the closely the developments of a storm system DMCA head said. expected to bring tropical storm winds close “The DMCA is following developments to Montserrat later Wednesday. closely and have met to discuss finalization According to DMCA Director Billy Dar- of plans for response at the agency level. roux, the Antigua Meteorological Services Other departments have also been advised and the John A. Osborne Airport have alerted of the development and are encouraged to his agency that a tropical storm warning is in review and fine tune their plans to support effect for Montserrat and the other islands in response activities, noted Darroux. the region.

The National Disaster Preparedness and The Government of Antigua has issued Response Advisory Committee have also a tropical storm warning for St. Kitts, Nevis, been updated and will meet on Wednesday Antigua & Barbuda, Montserrat and Anguilla. August 22, to discuss further planning.

A tropical storm watch has been issued for the Residents are reminded to review British Virgin Islands. family and personal hurricane plans, and A tropical storm warning means that to complete their hurricane season preparatropical storm conditions are expected some- tions. Although this particular system is not where in the warning area within 36 hours. expected to reach hurricane strength by the Residents should rush preparations to weather time it starts affecting Montserrat during the the approaching cyclone. late morning or early afternoon tomorrow It is anticipated that Montserrat will be Wednesday, residents should pay attention affected by wind speeds of about 35 miles to the following tips.

1.

Listen for official warnings and advice on ZJB Radio Montserrat on 88.3FM or on channel 5 on their cable system.

2.

Fill water containers with water as water supplies may be disrupted.

3.

Turn off the electricity at the main switch when told to do so and only switch back on, when advised it is safe to do so.

4.

Clear yards of loose objects, such as garbage cans that can become missiles during high winds.

5.

Clear drains and other areas where water runs to prevent flooding of properties.

6.

Store all valuable equipment such as tools, office equipment and appliances in a safe room.

7.

Wrap all documents and important papers in plastic and store them above ground level.

8.

Make sure that all your windows and doors are securely fastened.

9/ Make sure your cooking gas bottles are secured. Close off the stop valves.

10. Secure your boat well in advance of the time forecasted for impact, if you own one.

11/ Fasten windows and use masking tape where necessary to tape glass windows.

12/ Take down awnings and secure the rest of your home.

13. Remove all pictures, painting, clocks and other hanging objects from the wall.

14. If time permits, take down your satellite dish and TV antenna, as well as any radio antennas and solar panels.

15. Assemble supplies and recheck your list if you are riding out the storm at home.

16. When you have completed all your precautions, offer assistance to neighbours especially the elderly and those with young children.

17. The DMCA wishes to emphasise that persons with medical or other vulnerabilities should be supported in good time by families and friends, and medication, mobility aids and other necessities must be arranged to assist them.

Our Scripture Verse Today Always There There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28 (NRSV) My family and I went to church one Sunday for worship and Communion.

Among the visitors was a man who appeared to be Asian. We did not understand his language, and he did not understand ours. Verbal communication seemed impossible.

When the pastor presented visitors to the congregation, the man stood and greeted us with a friendly wave of his hand, smiling effusively. When the call to the Lord’s Table was given, I concluded that while unable to understand all the

words of the pastor, the visitor knew the universal language of the Communion liturgy.

As I meditated during Communion, I remembered the Bible’s words, “Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers” (Heb. 13:1-2). I walked up to stand beside the man and gave him a warm embrace as we wept and took Communion together. With a gesture indicating his gratitude, he smiled at me. Our oneness in Christ overcame our differences and filled us with joy.

Prayer: Loving God, help us practice hospitality and to show by our actions that we all are one in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Friday, August 24, 2012

SIR HOWARD TO RELEASE CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL BOOK, NEW BOOK OF POEMS

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Move Over Olive Oil… Here Comes Avocado Oil

Olveston.

The event will be jointly If you are like a lot of hosted by the Montserrat other people, you have beNational Trust (MNT) and come more careful about the University of West Indies the type of oil you cook Open Campus. with. Olive oil is a healthful The 145 page edition of choice because it provides a the Festival at 50 book inmild anti-inflammatory bencludes a foreword by the Hon. efit and reduces “bad” lowPremier Reuben T Meade. density lipoprotein (LDL) The other book ‘Obama and cholesterol. But there are other Poems” which will be other healthful options, inreleased at the same time cluding avocado oil, which with brief readings, both are is pressed from the fleshy published in Jamaica by Arpulp of the avocado. If you rowack publishers. find that the flavor of olive Other information reoil overpowers or doesn’t complement the taste of Sir Howard listens to a point from the media during Cul- veal that there will also be the release of a reprint of an other ingredients in a dish, tural Policy Consultations - will release more books autobiography called ‘Road try avocado oil, which has a Sir Howard Fergus is Wednesday, August 29, 2012 from Long Ground.’ more subtle fl avor than olive oil, smooth with a hint of pepper. to release two books regard- at the Montserrat National NutriƟonal benefits: Avocado oil contains the same amount of oleic acid, a healthful ed as Landmark Books on Trust building in Salem/ monounsaturated fat, as olive oil—about 9.5 grams per tablespoon—and just slightly more calories. It is cold-pressed without the use of solvents, and its acid content is comparable to that of extra-virgin olive oil. Like olive oil, avocado oil contains beta-sitosterol, a plant sterol (known to be healthful for the prostate) and small amounts of vitamin E and antioxidant carotenoids. (cont’d from page 2) Ways to use: You can use avocado oil in homemade salad dressings or when sautéing very physically active, peo- of blood pressure checks.

CCRP, CCRC, CIP; Janice ple don’t really smoke on In an indoor session in the fish or chicken. One advantage: Avocado oil has a higher smoke point than olive oil. This Scobie, MD.; and Dr. John the island, and there is not auditorium, several persons means that you can cook with it at higher temperatures (as high as 500°F). Olive oil reaches a lot of fast food places…” were the beneficiaries of 30 the smoking point at about 400°F. Somner. blood pressure cuffs. Also Flavors: In addition to pure avocado oil, it can be infused with rosemary or basil. An The N Y Mount Sinai she said.

Dr. Fergus-Rowe point- in the auditorium, the team 8.5-ounce bottle (plain or infused) sells for about $11 to $13. Olive oil sells for between Heart Centre director noted during her work in Montser- ed out the main focus of took turn speaking in the $8 and $20 for the same-sized bottle. Avocado oil can be purchased online and at many rat, which was conducted the visit: “…that’s one of specialty fields with video grocery stores.

Source: Mark A. Stengler, NMD, is a naturopathic medical doctor and leading authority under the theme, “Montser- the things I really want to aids on hypertension, diaberat Heart 2012”, that last year concentrate on, how we can tes, coronary heart disease, on the practice of alternative and integrated medicine. on her first visit “I was struck intervene to improve on followed by questions and to provide service for and last year with the preva- outcomes for hypertension answers, and a success story what we have done is to by a resident Montserratian. develop a system where you lence of blood pressure and and diabetes.”

The team held follow- A leaflet handout explained have persons who would diabetes on island…I did not expect it because generally up, blood pressure and other Cardio Metabolic risk fac- come to Montserrat and when you compare people of screenings and held clinics at tors, explained the work of share their expertise. We’re color in the United states and the hospital, bars rum shops, the MSHCCD, and noted the getting closer to developing (cont’d from page 3) the Caribbean they tend to be and other clinics around the “cardiovascular disease is what we call calendar of healthier in the Caribbean island, hampered somewhat the leading cause of death in events. That’s the way we’re and weight checked with many others sitting through the but I’m seeing that there’s a at the Government Head- the western and the develop- trying to go rather than con- informative two-hour programme to discuss 2011 findings tinuing in the havoc mode in from the last specialists’ trip. higher prevalence of blood quarters location because of ing world.”

Permanent Secretary which we have been doing, Native Montserratian Dr. Icilma Fergus-Rowe said of unfavourable weather. A fair pressure and diabetes.”

She reasoned: “”…the was held at the Montserrat Elijah Silcott introduced the but we are getting better at the 200 screened last year, 46.5% had High Blood Pressure (HBP) and 28% Diabetes. This, she noted was quite fresh fruits, vegetables you Cultural Centre where the program noting his thanks it,” he said happily.

The team leader instro- significant when compared with the numbers from similar know people are generally public availed themselves and government’s appreciation to the Moun duced the members of her screenings in New York which in 2010 & 2011 found 28.1% Sinai team. He team. who in turn gave re- with HBP and 15% with Diabetes.; New Orleans in 2008 explained how views on the various issues (cont’d from page 3) the medical mis- dealing with hypertension sion was part of and diabetes in particular/ a government Following a question initiative. and answer period, Dr. “This team Rowe introduced a young is here as part woman who told her success of the Ministry story and how she was able of Health vis- to reduce her weight, makiting specialist ing her looking good and program. We feeling well. Eating right recognize there and regular exercise were are a number of her secrets. medical areas Left: Dr. Janice Scobie that we are able and Gilda Capulo-Hansen,.

medical mission

Hypertension and Diabetes

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Friday, August 24, 2012

Cutbacks to ESCAPE Summer program budget yields disappointing reviews Budget cutbacks to the Government ESCAPE summer school program has produce a less than favourable summer school program according to Coordinator of the event Ms. Althea Allen.

Cut by more than half the amount which is usually allocated, the program is just one of the many areas that have felt the pinch of

the cutbacks in the National budget allocated for education this year.

I n 2 0 11 t h e s u m o f EC$125,343.86 was allocated for the summer program; this year the budget was reduced 60% to EC$50,000.

Ms. Althea Allen told The Montserrat Reporter last week, that based on her experience in managing

the event, the quality and quantity of courses ran this year was a bit disappointing to those of previous years.

“It could have been better; I think the budget cutbacks caused a reduction in the number of registration for the program,” she said, as she explained, “This year with the cutbacks we were not able to offer all of the programs that we usually

offer.”

According to Ms. Allen, this year they were also not able to offer most of the art programs usually offered such as drawing and designs. She said children in the seven-year-old bracket usually take these courses and this may have resulted in the reduction in participation from children

within this age range.

This year a total of 130 youngsters attended the summer school; a reduction from last year’s 170.

Courses offered in the program included: football, netball, cricket, steel pan, key board, guitar, tie dye, food preserves, needle craft, masquerade, costume making, drama and dance.

The Government Summer School program, was renamed ESCAPE (Education, Sports, Creative Arts, Production and Exhibition) which was under the direct administration of the defunct MYACS, has been moved to the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, in the Ministry of Education.

Friday, August 24, 2012

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Tiffannie Skerritt makes history MSS releases CXC results Montserrat Secondary School (MSS) Student, Miss Tiffannie Skerritt made history in the Emerald Isle at the 2012 May/June CSEC Examination. The young woman is the first to make all grade one passes for the island in 10 subject areas. The highest grade recorded prior, was nine passes in nine subject areas.

Meanwhile Miss Michela Greer attained 7 grade one, two grade two and one grade three, passes in the ten subjects she sat.

Two students received passes in nine subject areas, they include Joseph Cassell who obtained 6 Grade 1s, 3 Grade 2s and Amarni Greaves gained 2 Grade 1, 4 Grade 2 and 3 Grade 3 passes. While five students passed eight subjects, they are: Carlon Braithwaite, Tazia Briscoe, Ayana Cassell and Trichelle Spencer. Four students passed 7 subjects, 9 students passed 6 subjects and eight students passed and 5 subjects.

According to A MSS Press Release, 54 students wrote a total of three hundred and sixty two (360) subject entries in the 2012 CSEC Examinations at General and Technical Proficiency Levels. Based on the provisional results Grades I – III passes were obtained in two hundred and sixty eight (268) of them yielding a pass rate of 74.4%, down from the 80% obtained in 2011.

Of the 24 subject proficiencies taken at the CXC, 100% passes were recorded in sixteen of the subjects; these include: Biology, Caribbean History, Chemistry, EDPM, Electricity/Electronics, Food and Nutrition, Principles of Business, Principles of Accounts, Technical Drawing, Agriculture, Building[Woods], Building Construction, English B, Physics and Integrated Science.

Pass rates ranging from 80 to 97% were recorded in three subject proficiencies, these include: Geography, Information Technology and Social Studies. Spanish recorded a 70% pass rate, while Office Administration re-

corded a 67% pass rate. While a 50% pass rate was recorded for English A. Math recorded a 37.7% pass rate.

According to a statement accompanying the release, “The school wishes to highlight the performance of students in Physics and Agriculture. Students who were originally prepared for Cambridge exams in both areas, had to change to CXC CSEC during the final year as a result of a policy decision by the Cambridge Examination Board. There was 100% pass rate in Agriculture up from the 67% obtained at Cambridge. Physics recorded a 100% pass rate up from the 33% in 2011. This performance in Physics is the best recorded for over 12 years.

The school records it appreciation to the officials at the Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Greaves, Mr. Joseph and the teachers for their sterling contribution towards the success of our student in these areas.

“A key indicator in the Education Development Plan (EDP), is the percentage of students obtaining 5 CSEC passes including English and Math. 22.5% of the year five cohort obtained 5+ CSEC passes inclusive of Math and English.

The target for this year was 26%. The school fell short of its target by 3.5%,” the release stated.

The school extends congratulations to the students who were successful, the teachers for their hard work and dedication and the parents for their support. For those who were not as successful as they would have liked, the school encourages them to pursue further studies.

CARIBBEAN DEVELOPMENT BANK JOB OPPORTUNITIES The Caribbean Development Bank is seeking to recruit experienced professionals to fill the following positions at its headquarters located in Barbados: PROJECTS DEPARTMENT Project Manager, Community Disaster Risk Reduction Fund (CDRRF) Knowledge Management/Public Education Specialist, CDRRF Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist, CDRRF

Tittqnie Skerritt seen here with her 2011 Student of the Year award. which she was winning for the second time.

She is the first MSS student to achieve 10 Grade 1 at Caribbean Council Examinations (CXC).

Congratulations!!

Candidates must be nationals of one of CDB’s Member Countries. The Bank’s member countries are the Commonwealth Caribbean countries together with Canada, Colombia, Germany, Haiti, Italy, Mexico, the People’s Republic of China, the United Kingdom and Venezuela.

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

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

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Friday, August 24, 2012

Kids time - In your own korner Hello everyone – It is kid’s time with Auntie Lyka “In Your Korner”. We are our hurricane season. i know lots of preparations were made for Storm Isaac. we did not get much of the storm. but it was a good practise run for if we were to have a real hurricane. In all that you do remember to read a book as you go along.

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, August 24, 2012

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Sexual Assault A Single Caribbean Sports Academy on Minors by Minors cont’d from page 1 that the matter is one that will involve the Ministry of Community Services, and that such matters involving minors get treated in careful, specific and particular way.

There was furor following a questionable report that was eventually replaced on the internet, against Minister Riley for allowing the accused boy to travel to St. Kitts with the cricket team.

The report changed its tenor, “…a question to consider is whether Riley may in fact have dishonoured his office by appearing to be complicit in the sexual abuse of a minor?”

Comments resulting from the report called on the Minister to resign, also

calling on Premier Meade to take strong actions with accusations of one kind and another.

Premier Meade after refusing to respond to a request for comment on the obviously misinformed comments on the internet, issued the following statement in which he noted that such matters have guidelines as to how they are processed.

“Montserrat has adopted child safety protocols as outlined in the booklet ‘Safeguarding Children and Young People in Montserrat’ produced by the Ministry for Health and Social Services, which are being followed,” the Premier said, confirming, “The matter is being handled in the prescribed manner by the appropriate agencies.”

The Montserrat Cricket Asssociation reportedly reacting to the matter unfamiliar to them had directed that the youngster should not take the field to represent Montserrat in the tournament.

More reports of alleged sexual assaults between minors The RMPS follow up late in the week with report of investigations surrounding the alleged sexual assault of a five-year-old girl by two boys ages 13 and 14. The RMPS say it is working with the department of Social Services on the allegations incident and reports have been passed to the office of the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) for further advice on the matter.

cont’d from page 3 of its athletics and sprinting, and it is reaping the benefit.

In the case of Kirani James of Grenada, it should be recalled that he is a student at the University of Alabama in the US, where he has benefitted from the skills of a remarkable coach, Harvey Glance, and facilities that are far superior to anything in the region.

Even as the London 2012 Olympic events were in full swing, with the host country achieving a record collection of medals, leading sports persons warned the British government not

to cut spending for sport.

They cautioned that any cuts would have dire consequences for the performance of British sports persons in the 2016 Olympic Games in Brazil. It is significant that since London was awarded the Olympic Games seven years ago, the national lottery contributed US$390 million to support elite athletes. Little wonder that with a population of 59 million people – a third of the size of the US population and a fraction of China’s numbers, Britain is third in the medal winners.

REGISTERED LAND ACT (Section 135) Claims to ownership of lands have been received from the following persons in the Schedule below:Any objection to these claims must be lodged in writing to the Land Registry, Brades, Montserrat within six (6) weeks of the first publication of this notice. Plans relating to the claims listed below may be inspected at the Land Registry Department during normal working hours.

CARIBBEAN COMMUNITY (CARICOM) SECRETARIAT REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST The Caribbean Community Secretariat has received funding from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) towards the cost of supporting the CARICOM TRADE AND COMPETITIVENESS PROJECT, and is seeking to contract Consulting Firms/Agencies to conduct the following consultancies:

SCHEDULE Elizabeth Weekes, Priscilla Suzanne Weekes & Charmaine Weekes Claim # 1091

Block 14/06 Parcel 039. Land in Geralds.

Bounded as follows:- On the NorthEast by Parcel 14/07/039 (George Kirnon et al); On the South-East by Parcels 14/07/039 (George Kirnon et al) , 14/06/075 (Eudora Osborne et al) and 14/06/076 (Louisa Osborne); On the West by Parcel 14/06/001 (Catherine Ryan) separated by an access road; and On the North-West by Parcel 14/06/002 (Unclaimed/Crown) separated by an access road.

John Morson Claim #1171

Block 14/04 Parcel 237. Land in Davy Hill.

Bounded as follows:- On the NorthEast by Parcel 14/04/022 (Mary Walwyn et al); On the South-East

by Parcel 14/04/238 (Unclaimed/ Crown); On the South-West by Parcel 14/04/082 (Joel Osborne et al); and on the North-West by Parcel 14/04/146 (Yerland Dyer) and a small part of Parcel 14/04/102 (Abraham Daley)

Heirs of John Joseph Weekes (Eleah Weekes et al) Claim #1172

Block 14/06 Parcel 064. Land in Geralds.

Bounded as follows:- On the North by Parcels 14/06/050 (Mary Bramble et al) and 14/06/006 (Margaret Weekes et al); On the East by the main road to Drummonds and on the South and SouthWest by Parcel 14/06/065 (Charles Piper)

1. Diagnostic and Analytical Review of Administrative Systems for the CARICOM Single Market Regimes;

2. Diagnostic and Analytical Review of Legal Systems for the CARICOM Single Market Regimes

3. Identification of a Strategy to Institutionalize Information Flow for the CARICOM Single Market

4. Implementation of National Work Plans for Member States to award the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ).

ConsulƟng Firms/Agencies are invited to indicate their interest in providing these services. Interested Firms /Agencies must provide informaƟon indicaƟng that they are qualified to perform the services.

Eligible ConsulƟng Firms/ Agencies will be shortlisted and invited to submit proposals in accordance with the CARICOM Secretariat’s “Guidelines and Procedures”.

The Terms of Reference, Short-lisƟng Criteria and Guidelines and Procedures Manual may be viewed on the CARICOM website www.caricom.org/jsp/secretariat/procurement. jsp . Further informaƟon may also be obtained from the following address: Programme Manager, AdministraƟve Services CARICOM Secretariat Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown Guyana Email: procurement@caricom.org Tel. 592-222-0001-75, ext.2326, Fax: 592-222-0080 Expressions of Interest must be submiƩed to the address below by 16:30 hrs, Friday 30 August, 2012: The Programme Manager, AdministraƟve Services Caribbean Community Secretariat Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown Guyana Email: procurement@caricom.org Fax: 592-222-0080

The people of the English-speaking Caribbean have every reason to be proud of their athletes and of the impact they are making on the world, but this pride will not be sustained unless governments and the private sectors invest in the facilities these gifted athletes need.

To ensure future champions, how about a single sports academy manned by outstanding coaches, located in Jamaica and funded by all the governments and private sectors of the Caribbean Community, for the region’s elite athletes?

Dated this 20th day of August, 2012.

J. Christopher Gerrald Registrar of Lands (Ag)

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Friday, August 24, 2012

www.themontserratreporter.com

Danger, “in vitro” fertilized Sylk blames organisers for not placing children may be born with at the Leeward Island Competition malformations

by Clemente Ferrer

According to a recent study, infants conceived with the techniques used in fertility clinics are four times more likely to have certain birth defects and malformations than children that are naturally conceived.

Among the malformations that were detected are heart problems, cleft lips, cleft palates and abnormalities in the esophagus or rectum. These diseases appear once in every 700 births.

These dangers were increased by the use of assisted reproductive techniques such as fertilization “in vitro”, which requires doctors to work with embryos and sperm outside the human body.

“I think it is important to consider the fact that there is a risk of birth defects,” says Jennita Reefhuis, epidemiologist from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Disease and author of a study published in the online journal “Human Reproduction”. The

doctor also said that although her study linked fertility procedures to birth defects, it was not able to neither prove the connection nor explain it. If the connection is real, it is unclear whether the procedures increase the risk of these malformations, or whether infertility itself increases these risks.

Moreover, Dr. James A. Grifo, director of the fertility clinic at the Medical Center of the University of New York, explains that more research is needed to test these findings, since the study was only conducted on 281 women who had undergone the fertility treatment.

Nevertheless, Dr. Grifo explains that the results are troubling, but a larger study must be conducted with a small group of patients.

Furthermore, Dr. Alan R. Fleishman, vice president of the March of Dimes, believes that the study is important since it confirms the direction of their main concern: an increase in structural birth defects in children born with assisted reproduc-

tive technologies. Women who choose to undergo this fertility treatment should be informed of the risks of malformations in their children.

Fertilization “in vitro” could be defined as the taking of the male and female reproductive cells and unite them outside of the human body to then transfer the fertilized embryo into the uterus of the woman in order for it to be implanted and begin the pregnancy.

Besides the risks of malformations in children as mentioned above, fertilization “in vitro” goes against nature. One person said that God forgives always and men sometimes, but nature never does. (Translated by Gianna A. Sanchez Moretti).

Author and journalist Clemente Ferrer has led a distinguished career in Spain in the fields of publicity and press relations. He is currently President of the European Institute of Marketing. c l e m e n t e f e r re r 3 @ gmail.com

Hypertension and Diabetes (cont’d from page 5) had 22.5% HBP and 17.2 % with Diabetes; San Francisco in 2009 19.1 % HBP and 8% with Diabetes.

The need to be proactive in dealing with these alarming figures is crucial, team members reiterated throughout the session.

Residents are being encouraged to know their numbers. BMI or Body Mass Index which is height to weight; their Blood Pressure figures with 120/80 as normal; their blood sugar and cholesterol counts as well.

Other advice shared included lowering instances of stress which can make your blood pressure go up; reduce alcohol intake, increase physical activity, and get family support for known conditions.

The Ministry of Health is very pleased with the outcome of the week and considered the intervention from the Mount Sinai cardiologist team as timely.

“We are taking on board all of their findings which support this year’s drive to encourage our people to be more physically active,” says Elijah Silcott, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health. “It was very productive and provided value for money. We are very appreciative of local Montserratian specialist, Dr. Fergus-Rowe who was able to come back and give back.”

A mishap in the organizing of the Leeward Island competition may have severely impacted Montserrat’s reigning Calypso Monarch, Garnett “Sylk” Thompson’s chances of placing in the top three at the Leeward Calypso Monarch competition, according to Manager Paul Lewis.

Sylk, a first time at the competition performed the locally acclaimed songs, “Get your house in order” and “Living in a changing world,” however having experienced a major hiccup his second performance may have caused him a top spot in the competition.

Sylk’s Manager, Mr. Paul Lewis told that The Montserrat Reporter in an interview explained the incident. He said, “After the end of Sylk’s performance of “Living in a Changing World” we were informed that that the title of the song was misrepresented on the judges sheet, so in other words what he was singing was contrary to the theme the judges were looking at, which would have caused him to loose major points.”

According to the Manager, “The mishap was in no way our fault, it more or less a typo error; and when we had asked that the judge be

informed of the error we were informed that nothing could be done to remedy the situation or correct the error.”

The Manager stated that the crowd was very supportive of the Montserratian King, and expressed the view that Silk had the best voice in the competition and should have placed higher.

Eugene Skerritt Retires (cont’d from back page) However Skerritt, perhaps showing a little tinge of regret, still said he was happy for where he has come and for what he has achieved. In parting, he seemed to lament as he named a the ministries, set out some key ministries and department in which he had worked saying: “I have made the case for those things under the portfolio… and I’ve spoken to persons with conviction in regards to our little Montserrat and what we do. So should I be sad because I’ve reach retirement? No, I am very happy, I am happy because for one I believe that

because we believe that Someone has to be in control, that anything that happens to you along the line could only happen through His permissive will.”

The dinner event which began at 6.30 p.m. opened with a usual prayer followed by welcome and opening remarks by the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Sarita Frances. This was followed by the citation, remarks by several persons from the Ministry of Agriculture, Environment. Both Minister Easton Farrell-Taylor and Colin Riley pitched in along with toasts and best wishes from guests as well as presentations.

DeBear Calypso King of Antigua shares LICC title

(cont’d from back page)

De Bear has been running a calypso school here in Montserrat since January; he has several crowns to his name, he won the crown on Montserrat on two occasions in 1992 and 1993, he is also Antigua’s independence calypso king of 2002, Antigua calypso monarch 2007, leeward islands calypso monarch 2007 and repeat calypso monarch 2010 and 2011and 2012 in Antigua and Barbuda.

DeBear reduced to sharing LICC title In a release titled: Committee apologizes for error By Charles Jong | PR Consultant, he wrote: The Leeward Islands Calypso

Competition (LICC) Committee has revisited the results that were announced for the August 11th Leeward Islands Calypso Competition and has declared Konris Maynard of St. Kitts and Nevis as the rightful winner. De Bear of Antigua and Barbuda had previously been declared as the winner of the competition.

The major announcement was made in a release issued by the Committee on Thursday.

It said in its release, “The Committee without reservation acknowledges that an oversight was made when instructions were given to the Auditor as to how to determine the winner.” The method that it gave to the Audi-

tor to determine the winner was actually the method to be used in the event of a three-way tie. The release further stated, “We agree that a genuine oversight was made in applying the rules when the Auditors were instructed to break the tie by using the raw scores.”

The published scoresheets showed that Konris of St. Kitts and Nevis was ranked first by three out of the five judges.

The Committee said that it examined the results ten days ago and “discussed the overall situation and took into account all factors, and made the decision to declare King Konris and De Bear as joint winners of the 2012, LICC.”

Friday, August 24, 2012

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Friday, August 24, 2012

Eugene Skerritt Retires, Pushed?

Skerritt retires, to special dinner, but was he pushed? (cont’d from page 1) sentiments of current and former public servants with whom he worked, “…And so I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the outpouring, for the sharing, for your presence…”

One of his already long retired and former coworkers, had reminded, that he had said, “I would die for my farmers…!” That no doubt had prompted this: “I accept my title as gentle giant I hope to do much better than Samson…,” after which he declared, Änd so as you leave this evening, leave knowing that I am indeed truly happy to have been Camille Gerald, MC for the event Anthony Maloney Laura Scotland Noel Gray given the opportunity to be able to share with you this evening and to say thanks for all you have done.”

His final words no doubt addressed the many issues throughout his career having worked in every ministry. He asked, “…your forgiveness for those things that I might have done which may have caused you some problem and we can fix it within the next fifteen,” having earlier referred to the biblical reference to a man’s allotted life span of three score and ten (70 years).

That last reference was also mentioned as warm and best wishes were extended over and over, but as part of the citation delivered by Chief HR Officer, Mrs. Daphne Cassell, she added, Elijah Silcott Minister Colin Riley Minister Easton Taylor Helena Durand “I was also asked to extend best wishes from Mr. Franklyn Michael this period, he also performed the role of Director of Agriculture in an (34+) years of dedicated service to the agriculture sector and senior and Mr. Walter Christopher and their families, thank you.” leadership and management in the public service,” the new HR Officer She then toasted Eugene. “I also think it fitting that we should acting capacity.

After twenty years of public service experience, Mr Skerritt was closed. stand and really extend our warm wishes to Mr. Skerritt’s ‘thirtyIt was not clear when the news reached the public that Mr. Skerfive years, that’s about half a life time that he has dedicated to the appointed to the top management position of Permanent Secretary, Office of the Chief Minister in March 1997; later moved to the Min- ritt had either retired, or asked to retire. I asked His Excellency Governor Montserrat Public Service…” istry of Communications and Works, Ministry of Education, Health Davis as head of the Public who dodged the dodged as to whether The Record According to the HR Chief, Skerritt began his near 35-years (34+) and Community Services, with responsibility for Labour; Permanent Skerritt took early retirement or was ‘pushed’ from the service, with a public service career in Montserrat as a Trainee Agricultural Assistant Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Lands, Housing and the Environment record as enumerated and detailed above. The Governor only response after saying that Mr. Skerritt’s departure was on a private arrangeon September 12, 1977. Following that, he pursued a Diploma pro- in January 2004 He then headed the new portfolio grouping of Ministry of Youth ment, said: “We had an agreement with Mr. Skerritt, that agreement gramme in General Agriculture at the Jamaica School of Agriculture.

Having returned from training, Mr Skerritt immediately bought Affairs, Culture, Tourism and Sports (MYACTS) later re-designated, is private and personal...If you wish to get any further information you as the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Community Services and Sports should talk to Mr. Skerritt.” into the “yes we can do it” attitude, Skerritt in his response at the celebrated dinner had given the He began work with young people, especially in helping to change (MYACSS) Mrs. Cassell interjected: “This breadth of senior public service hint that since he was the PS of MYACCS, which was made redundant their perception of Agriculture. He was instrumental in reviving the and closed, the fact that he was the most experienced and senior PS, 4H movement, took on managerial responsibility for the Extension/ management experience is enviable and required much tenacity.”

He was President of the Civil Service Association, Scouts Master, notwithstanding, and with the new talk (silent and otherwise) of cutting Production Co-ordination Unit. the public service, he became the sacrificial lamb. The Government is Obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy at the Texas A&M Church Leader (sometimes called Deacon) For those years, “The Government of Montserrat recognizes the currently searching for a PS Education.

University from January 1987 to July 1989. (cont’d on page 10 Became Principal Agricultural Officer in January 1991. During sterling contribution of Mr Eugene Denzil Skerritt for thirty four plus

By Tomeika Jeffrey Montserrat-born Keithroy “De Bear” Morson, calypso king of Antigua, captured yet another crown, this time at the Leeward Islands Calypso Monarch competition held in Anguilla on Saturday, August 11. He shares the title with St. Kitts and Nevis, Konris “King Konris” Maynard who originally placed second behind DeBear, but the decision was overturned after the Leeward Islands Calypso Competition (LICC) Committee revisited the results and determined that there was ‘an error in the auditing of the scores.’

De Bear competed against six contenders from across the Leeward Islands and walked away the EC$10,000 cash prize for first place. Meanwhile King Konris who originally captured the prize for second place of EC$5,000, may receive additional prizes with the new decision. Fedalia “Singing Shea Shea” Richardson of Anguilla won EC $3,000 for the third spot.

The win had come just days after Bear swept the competi-

The 2012 Montserrat-born Calypso King of Antigua tion in Antigua to defend his title as the island’s Calypso Monarch for the fourth time. A calypso veteran for more than 20 years, De Bear now has a total of 10 crowns under his belt after wowing the judges with his performance of “Time to Take your Place” and “Back to Basics,” at the Leeward competition.

The Calypso Monarch, made his first foray into the Calypso arena as a junior Calypsonian while attending the Montserrat Secondary School. In 1992 after having honed his craft for several years, De Bear finally won his first Calypso crown on Montserrat. He went on to successfully defend his title the next year.

Following the volcanic eruptions and subsequent upheaval on his native island, De Bear emigrated to neighboring Antigua. Faced with Antigua’s five-year waiting rule, De Bear was unable to compete in the island’s calypso competition during that period. It was an agonizing wait for a die-hard Calypsonian, but it didn’t take long for him to make his presence felt once he was allowed to compete.

From his humble beginnings on Montserrat De Bear through hard work and perseverance has distinguished himself as a fierce and feared competitor, brilliant songwriter, dynamic performer and an astute social and political commentator. (cont’d on page 10

Above: DeBear wins 4th time in Antigua Below: Joint LICC winner King Konris, St/ Kitts