Victoria Chalmers

Bank of Montserrat Issues Alert on Growing Phishing Threat

News

Bank of Montserrat has issued an alert to its customers about a rapidly growing phishing threat known as “quishing.” It says cybercriminals are using QR codes to bypass traditional security measures. In a post on its facebook page the bank warns that attackers are embedding malicious QR codes in emails, documents, and even on printed materials like posters and delivery slips. When scanned, these codes can lead customers to fake login pages or malware sites designed to steal their credentials or compromise their devices. It says QR codes should be treated with the same caution as suspicious links or attachments. Before scanning any QR code, especially those received unexpectedly or in urgent messages, the Bank is urging its customers to check where it leads if possible, and do not enter any sensitive information on unfamiliar websites. If you see a QR code that seems out of place or suspicious, whether digital or physical, report it to the Banks IT team immediately.

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Montserrat Takes Part in Regional Training on Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing

News

Montserrat joined the region in strengthening its judicial capacity in the fight against financial crime. High Court Judge Birnie Stephenson represented the island at a high-level regional training on anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing. The five-day session, which began in St. Kitts on Monday July 28th, was organized by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) in collaboration with the Regional Security System (RSS). It brought together judges, magistrates, and financial crime experts from across the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), including participants from the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union and Tortola. The training focused on anti-money laundering (AML), countering the financing of terrorism (CFT), and countering proliferation financing (CPF), equipping judicial officers with the knowledge to address the region’s evolving financial crime risks. Key topics included international AML/CFT/CPF obligations, asset recovery and confiscation, financial investigations, and the growing impact of virtual assets on criminal activity. The initiative reflected a strategic effort by the ECCB and RSS to fortify the OECS’s judicial framework, ensuring member states remain resilient against threats to their financial integrity and sustainable economic development. The workshop ended on August 1, with participants expected to return to their jurisdictions better equipped to handle complex financial crime cases.

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

Diaspora, News

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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