Paulesa Ryner - ZJB Radio

Government of Montserrat Launches its Christmas Barrel Concession Programme

The Government of Montserrat has announced the launch of this year’s Christmas Barrel Concession Programme, which is aimed at easing the cost of living for families here. The initiative provides targeted social and economic support to households during the festive season, allowing each household to import up to two barrels or equivalent containers- not exceeding a total combined volume of 0.5 cubic metres- filled with food items, cleaning and sanitary supplies, one electric iron, and a reasonable quantity of clothing for personal use. This year, the government has amended the conditions of the programme to clarify that households may import goods equivalent in volume to two standard barrels. Officials say this adjustment ensures fairness and consistency in how the concession is accessed and applied. A fixed fee of fifty EC dollars per qualifying barrel or container will be charged, in addition to standard port fees. Persons taking advantage of the programme will also be required to complete a simple Customs Declaration form when clearing their goods. To qualify for the concession, all cargo must arrive at the Little Bay Port between October 30, 2025, and January 31, 2026. The Government says the initiative continues to reflect its commitment to supporting families, encouraging traditional practices, and ensuring that the Christmas season remains affordable and accessible to all.

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Housing Rehabilitation and New Build Construction Project Rolled Out to Assist Residents

Community, Government, News

Minister for Housing, Honourable John Osborne has announced that the government will be assisting several persons with critical repairs to their homes. In a speech in the Legislative Assembly, marking the United Alliance’s first year in office, Mr. Osborne stated that ten persons will benefit in the first instance from the Housing Rehabilitation and New Build Construction project. He stated that more assistance will be forthcoming in phase two. Minister Osborne said the Land Development Authority also undertook corrective maintenance to more than two dozen government social homes. Meantime, Mr. Osborne gave an update on phase one of the Drummonds Infrastructure and New Built Project.

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RMPS Says Probe Continues Into Galloway Hit-and-Run Incident

Community, Crime, News

The Royal Montserrat Police Service (RMPS) is reporting that there has not been any breakthrough in what has been described as a hit-and-run accident involving Nathan Galloway. Galloway was injured in a night-time incident earlier this year in which he sustained substantial in juries. Commissioner of police Mark Payne says the findings from items which were sent off island for forensic examination are inconclusive and as such they are unable to charge anyone with causing Galloway’s injuries. He however says the investigations are continuing

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United Alliance Administration Continues Focus on Sustainable Economic Development for Montserrat

Community, Government, News

The United Alliance (UA) Government is celebrating its first full year in office. The first year in government, following the October 24 victory at the polls, would likely have been dominated by work on significant development projects supported by the United Kingdom (UK) government. The United Alliance’s first year is also marked by their efforts to fulfill campaign promises, such as strengthening the economy and developing infrastructure, as part of the broader UK-Montserrat development partnership. Some of the Key developments in the UA’s first year include the New Governor, Her Excellency Harriet Cross taking up her appointment here in April 2025, succeeding Sarah Tucker; Continued UK support where the UK-Montserrat development partnership, a £40 million program aimed at supporting infrastructure and economic growth, continued during this period. Additional work on major projects, such as the new National Hospital, continuing under the new government; Focus on economic growth: The alliance’s first year is marked by a continued focus on implementing policies aimed at fostering economic growth and encouraging private sector development; and Strengthening partnerships: The United Alliance government has been focusing on strengthening partnerships with the UK and other international partners, particularly in the areas of infrastructure development and economic support. Appearing on the “What’s On Your Mind” radio programme on ZJB Thursday, Public Relations Officer, Jenzil Skerritt stated that the job is far from complete. He called for a united effort to move Montserrat forward into sustained growth and development.

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AI Seen as Key Tool for Advancing Montserrat’s Sustainable Future

Community, News

There is a potential for using Artificial Intelligence to leverage the sustainable development of Montserrat. The view of Daniel Edwards, Montserrat’s Chief Fisheries Officer. Edwards, who participated in a panel discussion on the future of AI in small island states, says every sector of the economy can benefit from harnessing the power of AI including fisheries and agriculture.

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Montserrat to Host German Sailing Regatta as Yachting Tourism Expands

Community, News

The Montserrat Tourism Authority has released an exciting and diverse schedule of cruise ship calls for the 2025/2026 season, positioning the island as a premier boutique Caribbean destination. Between November 2025 and March 2026, Montserrat will welcome a distinguished lineup of small luxury vessels, including the Emerald Azzurra, Seabourn Ovation, Explora II, Sea Cloud, and Crystal Serenity. These select arrivals underscores Montserrat’s growing appeal as an exclusive destination offering visitors authentic, uncrowded, and unforgettable island experiences. As a major boost for the yachting sector, the island will also celebrate the return of the Karibik Trophy Regatta. This renowned German sailing event, last visited in 2011 and will bring together a fleet of approximately 14 yachts and more than 80 participants from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The Karibik Trophy is a “fun regatta” that blends friendly competition with cultural exploration and camaraderie across several Caribbean islands. Montserrat’s inclusion in the 2025 route reaffirms the island’s growing reputation as a must-visit stop within the regional sailing community. Cruise and yachting visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of distinct Montserrat excursions — from exploring the historical Buried City of Plymouth and the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, to hiking lush nature trails, snorkeling in pristine waters, and immersing themselves in the island’s vibrant culture through local cuisine, music, and craft. Each visit contributes directly to the local economy, generating valuable opportunities for tour operators, artisans, transport providers, and small businesses across the island. Chief Executive Officer Rosetta West Gerald, expressed her optimism for the upcoming season, stating that the MTA is thrilled to welcome these esteemed cruise vessels and the returning Karibik Trophy Regatta for the 2025/2026 season. She says each call is an opportunity to share Montserrat’s unique beauty, spirit of resilience, and genuine Caribbean warmth with the world. Montserrat’s participation in events like Seatrade Cruise Global earlier this year has already created valuable connections with cruise industry partners, and we are confident these relationships will bring even greater benefits once the Port Development Project is completed. Once completed, the upgraded facilities are expected to significantly enhance cruise operations, visitor flow, and overall destination experience. With strong partnerships in place and growing international interest, Montserrat stands poised for a new era of sustainable tourism growth; one that celebrates the island’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm community spirit.

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Agriculture Minister Pushes for Better Trade Data and Marketing

Community, Government, News

Minister of Agriculture, Honourable John P. Osborne, is emphasizing the need for stronger inter-regional trade as the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) works to meet its updated food security target under the 25 by 25 plus 5 initiative. The programme, which originally aimed to reduce the region’s food import bill by 25 percent by 2025, has now been extended by five years, reflecting the challenges member states have faced in meeting the original deadline. Minister Osborne, who also serves as Chairman of the OECS Council of Ministers of Agriculture, said one of the key issues lies in how trade data is reported. He explained that while statistics often highlight imports from major partners like the United States, they fail to capture the extent of inter-regional trade within the Caribbean. The agriculture minister also pointed to marketing and information gaps as major barriers to regional trade. He noted that while Jamaica produces large quantities of chicken, regional buyers- including those in Montserrat, are often unaware of these opportunities. Minister Osborne said he plans to continue discussions with the OECS Director General and the CARICOM Secretariat, both of whom have expressed support for his efforts to enhance regional cooperation.

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Montserrat Set to Lead High-Level OECS Trade Discussions This Week

Community, Government, News, OECS

Montserrat will host the Seventh OECS Ordinary Council of Ministers of Trade this week. The Business Trade and Investment Unit, Office of the Premier, says the meeting will take place in Montserrat during the period 15–18 October, 2025. This high-level regional event will convene ministerial delegates and supporting personnel from across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). According to the Unit, the meeting is a critical regional forum, used to discuss key trade and economic matters impacting the subregion. The occasion also marks Montserrat’s assumption of the Chairmanship of the Council of Ministers for Trade. This is a significant milestone, reflecting the country’s commitment to regional engagement, and the island’s growing leadership role in regional trade policy development and economic integration. Over the two-day period, discussions will focus on enhancing intra-regional trade, promoting private sector competitiveness and supporting businesses across the OECS, strengthening trade facilitation mechanisms, and advancing collective strategies for sustainable growth across OECS Member States. Reuben T. Meade, Honourable Premier of Montserrat, says it is an honour and pleasure to host such a distinguished delegation of OECS Ministers, and that this gathering underscore Montserrat’s commitment to fostering regional cooperation and showcasing its unique contributions to the OECS economic framework. In addition to the formal sessions, Montserrat will host welcome receptions to encourage networking among delegates and a special showcase of Montserrat’s goods will highlight local crafts, agricultural products, and cultural offerings, promoting our businesses and tourism. The Government of Montserrat is proud to host this important engagement, which underscores its continued commitment to regional cooperation and inclusive economic development within the OECS framework.

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Montserrat Pushes for Greater Access to Regional Agriculture Funding

Community, News

The Minister for Agriculture here has reiterated Montserrat’s call for greater inclusion of British Overseas Territories in regional agricultural initiatives and funding programmes. Honourable John P. Osborne, was speaking on Tuesday’s What’s on Your Mind programme following his recent trip to Trinidad and Tobago. During his visit, Mr. Osborne attended meetings under the KOCARIP initiative — a partnership between the South Korean government and Caribbean nations aimed at advancing agricultural technology and climate resilience. He explains that the project focuses on introducing new farming technologies to the region and exchanging planting materials, as Caribbean crops have shown greater resilience to global warming. Minister Osborne however noted that Montserrat and other British Overseas Territories continue to face barriers in accessing funding from regional and international sources. He further suggested that one solution could be for the OECS to manage project funds directly and deliver the initiatives in Montserrat, ensuring the island still benefits from regional programmes. The Agriculture Minister reaffirmed his commitment as Chairman of the OECS Council of Ministers of Agriculture, to keep the issue on the agenda. He stated that Montserrat, as a full member of both OECS and CARICOM, should not be left out of developmental efforts.

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Parliamentary Secretary Warns Against Overuse of Acting Posts

Community, Government, News

Parliamentary Secretary, Honourable Crenston Buffonge, has raised concern about the use of acting appointments in the public service. Hon. Buffonge says acting appointments should not be used as a substitute for poor planning. He was speaking on a resolution entitled “Terms and conditions of employment including the remuneration and allowances of the Auditor General” that gained the approval of the entire Legislative Assembly.

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