Community

Reparatory justice must go beyond financial compensation to address the lasting social and cultural effects of slavery and colonialism. That’s according to Former Principal Peter White,who was giving his contribution at a recent local townhall meeting on reparations. White said CARICOM had broadened its approach to reparatory justice beyond calculating how much money is owed for the historical exploitation of enslaved people. He stated that the effects of slavery cannot be fully measured in financial terms, noting that practices and attitudes imposed on Caribbean communities over generations continue to influence society today. White said reparatory justice must include identifying the lasting effects of these imposed practices and finding ways to counter them. He said addressing these practices is an important part of understanding the full impact of slavery and pursuing meaningful reparatory justice.

Minister of Health and Social Services, Dr the Honourable Ingrid Buffonge, has praised the Department of Social Services for its work in supporting older persons in Montserrat. Speaking at the Night of Excellence for Senior Citizens last Saturday, Dr Buffonge said caring for the elderly goes beyond meeting their basic needs, highlighting the importance of social engagement and opportunities to remain active. She noted that older persons have spent much of their lives contributing to the island’s economy, communities and families, and deserve to feel valued and celebrated. The Minister encouraged continued recognition and appreciation of senior citizens. The Night of Excellence featured a fashion show, entertainment and a ball as part of activities marking Older Persons Month.

The Department of Agriculture is encouraging farmers to participate in a range of competitions ahead of its upcoming Agri Expo in December. Director of Agricultural Services, Dr Selvyn Maloney, says the exhibition will showcase farmers’ achievements, encourage greater local production and recognise persons helping to reduce Montserrat’s food import bill. Competitions will cover livestock, including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, rabbits and ducks, as well as egg production and agricultural systems such as backyard gardens, broiler and layer production, and aquaculture. Dr Maloney says judging for the production systems will take place in the field, with prize-winning entries expected to be highlighted at the exhibition. Prizes of up to 500 EC dollars will be awarded in several production system categories. The expo will also feature horticulture, fruits, agro-processed products, local beverages, and school and community production systems.

The St Patrick’s Cooperative Credit Union here will join Credit Unions world wide is celebrating International Credit Union day. Celebrated annually on the third Thursday of October, the day is used to reflect on the credit union movement’s history, promote its achievements, recognize hard work and share member experiences. Speaking on the What’s On Your Mind Radio programme, Tuesday, Manager of the St Patrick’s Cooperative Credit Union, Paul Maxwell, outlined the Credit Union’s planned week of activity. A major highlight of the week is an awards ceremony and dinner. International Credit Union day will be held on October 15th held under the theme “Cooperative Finance: A Steady Signal in a Noisy World.”