Victoria Chalmers – ZJB Radio

Head of Montserrat Government UK Office Encourages Diaspora Involvement in Island’s Future

The Head of the Montserrat Government UK Office believes that the diaspora should be part of the island’s future. Kei-Retta Farrell made these remarks at a commemoration service at the Shiloh Pentecostal Church in London. She discussed the influence that faith and the church has had on the Montserrat community. Farrell also recapped the events that Montserrat’s diaspora has taken part in over the last month to mark the anniversary of the Soufriere Hills Volcanic Eruptions 30 years ago.

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St. Patrick’s Cooperative Credit Union Appoints Paul Maxwell as General Manager

News

The Board of Directors of St. Patrick’s Cooperative Credit Union Limited (SPCCU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul B. Maxwell, GEMBA, BSc. (Hons), as its new General Manager, effective July 15, 2025. His appointment marks a transformative moment for SPCCU and for the credit union movement in Montserrat, as the institution positions itself for sustainable growth, increased employee engagement, technological modernization and enhanced service delivery to its members. “I am honored to join SPCCU at such a pivotal time,” said Mr. Maxwell. “Montserrat’s only credit union plays a vital role in the financial well-being of its people. I look forward to working with the board, staff, and members to build on its strong foundation and expand its impact through innovation, prudent governance, and a member-first approach.” Chair of the Board of Directors, Ms. Lovetta Silcott, expressed confidence in Maxwell’s leadership: “Paul Maxwell brings deep knowledge of Credit Unions, strategic thinking, and regional experience that will be instrumental in enhancing and advancing SPCCU’s mission and strategic goals. His track record speaks for itself, and we are excited about the future of the SPCCU, under his capable stewardship.” Mr. Maxwell brings to the role over 25 years of experience in the financial services sector across the Caribbean, including executive leadership roles in banking, credit unions, and digital payments. His impressive tenure as President & CEO of CAPITA Financial Services Inc. — with operations in both Barbados and St. Lucia — saw the institution double its asset base and expand its footprint in the payments and credit union space through strategic innovations like the UNICARD network and Mastercard card issuance partnerships. With this new leadership, SPCCU is poised to strengthen its role as a financial partner of choice for individuals, families, and businesses in Montserrat — affirming its commitment to cooperative values and national development. For more information about SPCCU, visit https://spccu.ms.

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Montserrat Marks 30 Years Since 1995 Eruption of Soufriere Hills Volcano

News

Today marks 30 years since the Soufrière Hills Volcano roared to life on Montserrat. The eruption on July 18th, 1995 began a period of uncertainty, transforming the island forever. The social, economic and developmental impacts were severe, as the population dwindled from 10,600, pre-volcano to 3,338 in 1997. The anniversary is marked by the Soufriere Hills Volcano 30th Anniversary Conference, centred on the theme “Turning Magma Into Momentum.” The conference that ended today at the Cultural Centre, brought together scientists, researchers, and enthusiasts from around the world to reflect on three decades of volcanic activity, research, and recovery. Other highlights include a Thanksgiving Service in London on June 29, the Montserrat Festival UK on Saturday in North London, and the Caribbean Fusion Gospel Fest in Florida on September 6. These diaspora-led events will feature cultural performances, family activities, and traditional Caribbean cuisine.

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Franklyn Michael Shares Recommendations for Volcanic Islands in the Caribbean

News

Director of the Emergency Operations Centre, at the time of the Soufriere hills Volcanic Eruption in 1995, Franklyn Michael, highlighted that effective responses in large scale disasters can require political approaches which are fundamentally values-based, equitable and humane. In his position, he was in charge of the execution of decisions made at the top level. The former Senior Public servant, who was speaking at the SHV 30 International Conference, also made several recommendations for helping to mitigate the fall outs of any such disaster eventuality.

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Dr. the Hon. Keith Rowley Discusses Decision-Making during 1995 Volcanic Crisis

News

Former Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister, Dr. the Honourable Keith Rowley, who was a scientist helping to monitor the volcano in the early stages, doubled down on the decision making with the available resources at the time. Speaking at the SHV 30 international Conference in Montserrat, he accorded very high marks to the governor and chief minister at the time for their interpretation of the science provided and how they were able to incorporate management measures to keep the population safe. He feels lessons learned in Montserrat should be taught region-wide and beyond.

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Former Governor Commends Communication and Management of Authorities during Volcanic Crisis

News

Former governor of Montserrat, Frank Savage, hailed the communication and management pedigree of the authorities during the volcanic crisis on island. Speaking at the beginning of the SHV30 International Conference, he addressed the relationship between the scientists who were monitoring the volcano and the authorities, during the early days of the crisis, as well as getting critical information across to the community. Upon reflection, Mr. Savage said that in a vary short space of time they started to tick most of the boxes on the management plane.

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Premier of Montserrat urges a Focus on Rebuilding the Island rather than the Ravages of the Volcano

Government, News

Montserrat’s leader of government business, Premier, the Honourable Reuben T. Meade has stated that the Soufriere Hills Volcano should not hinder the rebuilding of the island, especially the northern part. Speaking during the opening of the SHV30 International Conference at the Montserrat Cultural Centre, premier Meade outlined some of the key pillars on which the rebuilding efforts should focus on. He emphasized that the focus should be on the positives and not the devastation caused by the eruptions. Premier Meade also spoke of focus on micro-enterprise development.

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Government of Montserrat to Slash Freight Tariffs by 50% to Ease Cost of Living

Government, News

The Government of Montserrat has announced a 50% reduction in freight tariffs across the board in a move to reduce the cost of living for residents. Premier, and minister for finance and economic management, the Honourable Reuben T Meade confirmed the reduction on the latest “What’s on Your Mind” radio Programme. Premier Meade said the island’s cost of living is largely shaped by international factors, and as such, he urged residents to reconsider their consumption habits and utilize more local products. In reiterating his government’s commitment to social support, Premier Meade said they are working responsibly to help vulnerable residents without compromising long-term sustainability.

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Dalton Lee to Step Down as Chairman of Bank of Montserrat Limited

News

Dalton Lee has announced his resignation as Chairman and Director of the Bank of Montserrat Limited, effective at the close of the Annual General Meeting scheduled for July 10, 2025. Lee joined the Board of Directors in 2015 and was appointed Chairman in 2018. Over the last decade, he has helped steer the institution through a period of sustained financial growth and operational transformation. During his chairmanship, the Bank delivered its best financial performance in over 15 years, closing 2023 with net profits before tax of EC$6.8 million, a $2.2 million or 53.4% increase from the previous year. Other key achievements under his leadership include: As Chairman, Lee also oversaw critical advancements in the Bank’s digital, customer service, and corporate governance infrastructure. During his tenure, the Bank: “One the highlights of my tenure, was to play an active role when the Bank executed one of the original strategic visions of the founders,” Lee added. “The acquisition of the banking operations of the Royal Bank of Canada in Montserrat in April of 2021 was the realisation of one of their goals. This acquisition has contributed significantly to the Bank’s profitability and has set the Bank on a path for long-term, consistent growth.” Lee’s departure comes at a time of continued evolution at both the board and management levels, with several directors resigning to hold political office and the hiring of senior managers, including a General Manager, HR Manager, IT Manager and Manager of Credit and Advances. He expressed full confidence that these developments, combined with the strong foundation already in place, position the Bank for continued growth and success. “Leaving the bank in a better position than I found it has always been my goal. It’s now time for someone else to take the bank to the next level.” said Lee. “It has been my greatest honour to serve the people of Montserrat.”

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