Government

New Police Legislation Gives Commissioner Power to Address Misconduct and Protect Officers

New legislation giving the Commissioner of Police broader powers to address performance and misconduct in the service will take effect in the new year. Speaking with ZJB News, Commissioner of Police Mark Payne said police and fire officers are expected to carry out their duties with a high level of professionalism, and anyone who falls below the proper standard should face the same consequences as any member of the public. He said the new laws would allow action against officers who misbehave, while also protecting those who are just doing their jobs and facing unfair complaints. Commissioner Payne also confirmed there are currently four officers suspended while investigations continue into various matters. He said those cases are being handled through a structured process, overseen by senior officers, to ensure fairness and independence. Commissioner of Police Mark Payne

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The Government of Montserrat Moves Closer to Securing New Ferry Service

Another positive step in securing a ferry service for Montserrat. Premier the Hon. Reuben T. Meade has announced that the procurement board has given the go ahead for the office of the premier to engage a ferry operator. The announcement was made on the “What’s on Your Mind” Radio programme on Tuesday. The premier says the next steps would be to secure approval from the Montserrat Maritime Authority and the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Maritime Services (ADOMS) to facilitate the ferry’s operation. Premier the Hon. Reuben T. Meade.

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The Ministry of Health Raises the Ante in Tackling Diabetes as part of World Diabetes Day 2025

As Montserrat joined the observance of World Diabetes Day on Friday, November 14, the Ministry of Health embarked on an awareness campaign to highlight the health threat posed by diabetes. Established by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1991, the day is used to raise awareness about different types of diabetes, promote prevention, and support those living with the condition. Minister for Health, Dr. The Honourable Ingrid Buffonge, was part of a panel on radio Montserrat Friday morning discussing diabetes, well-being issues, and how these could be addressed. Dr., the Honourable Ingrid Buffonge Each year, the IDF chooses a new theme to focus on a specific aspect of diabetes. Recent themes include “Diabetes and the Workplace” and “Diabetes across life stages.” The day is marked by a wide range of global campaigns, lectures, screenings, and meetings. Activities often involve using the color blue, which is the official color for World Diabetes Day. People can get involved by sharing information, participating in events, and raising the profile of the cause.

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Public Works Department Commences Road Improvement Works at Jones Hill, St. Peter’s

The Public Works Department (PWD) under the Ministry of Buildings, Utilities, Infrastructure and Transportation has commenced road improvement works in the Jones Hill area, St. Peter’s. This initiative is part of the Government of Montserrat’s ongoing commitment to enhance road safety, improve accessibility, and upgrade key transportation routes across the island. The current phase involves resurfacing, drainage improvements, and general road rehabilitation to ensure safer and smoother travel for motorists and residents. Director of Public Works (Ag) Felix Persaud, noted that the Jones Hill project represents another step in the Ministry’s strategic effort to modernize Montserrat’s road network. “We are pleased to continue our road enhancement programme, ensuring communities like Jones Hill benefit from safer and more reliable infrastructure,” the Director said. Minister for the Ministry og Buildings, Utilities, Infrastructure, Labour and Transportation, Hon. Veronica Kay Dorsette – Hector, also expressed satisfaction with the progress being made. “The Government remains focused on maintaining and upgrading vital infrastructure to support economic activity and improve quality of life. These roadworks are part of our broader effort to strengthen connectivity across Montserrat. The Ministry has heard the cry of the people and this effort marks the beginning of improving the condition of the entire road network of Montserrat.” Motorists are advised to exercise caution while driving through the work area and to follow any guidance provided by road crews. The Ministry appreciates the public’s patience and cooperation as these necessary works are carried out to provide long-term benefits for all road users. Jenzil Skerritt

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Montserrat Government Improves Access to Key Heritage and Tourism Site

The Government of Montserrat has successfully completed the clearing and rehabilitation of the access road leading to St. George’s Hill, one of the island’s most historically significant and scenic locations. This initiative forms part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to enhance Montserrat’s tourism product and expand opportunities for local tour operators. The improved access will allow new bus tours and guided excursions to operate safely to and from St. George’s Hill, providing both residents and visitors with an unparalleled view of the island’s transformation and resilience. The works included clearing overgrown vegetation, stabilizing the roadway, and improving drainage along key sections. These upgrades were carried out by the Public Works Department with the support of local contractors, ensuring employment opportunities for community members while strengthening the island’s tourism infrastructure. Premier, the Honorable Reuben T. Meade, commenting on the initiative, noted that reopening the road to St. George’s Hill is about more than just improving access, it is about reconnecting people to a part of Montserrat’s history and creating new experiences that showcase Montserrat’s strength, beauty, and potential for growth. St. George’s Hill overlooks the buried capital of Plymouth and the Soufrière Hills volcano, and offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the Caribbean. The site stands as a symbol of Montserrat’s resilience and has long been a point of pride for citizens and visitors alike. The Government of Montserrat says it remains committed to developing sustainable tourism initiatives that highlight the island’s natural and cultural heritage, while providing new avenues for economic activity across communities.

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Parliamentary Secretary Highlights Need to Diversify Visitor Demographics

Parliamentary Secretary, Honourable Crenston Buffonge says Montserrat must widen its tourism source markets. Speaking in the Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, he stated that just over 13,000 visitors came to the island in 2024. However, Mr. Buffonge, who has responsibility for Tourism, noted that the majority of those visitors were members of the Montserrat diaspora. He remarked that while this is important, the island must broaden the demographic to reach the adventure traveler, and attract cultural enthusiasts who want the Montserrat experience.

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

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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MUL Manager Julian Daniel Highlights Ongoing Transmission and Distribution Challenges Behind Power Outages

The manager of Montserrat Utilities Limited (MUL), Julian Daniel, has been speaking about the challenges the agency has been facing this year pertaining to its electrical division. The island has been plagued with periodic power outages for the year, and especially in recent times. Speaking to ZJB News, Mr Daniel stated that for the better part of 2025, the challenge has not been with the generation of electricity. He draws particular attention to the issues that they have been facing on the transmission and distribution side of their operations. Manager of MUL, Julian Daniel

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MONTSERRAT GOVERNMENT UK OFFICE MOVES TO NEW LOCATION IN LONDON

The Government of Montserrat UK Office (MGUKO) is pleased to announce the official relocation of its London office to a new, modern space in Victoria. The move reflects MGUKO’s ongoing commitment to improving accessibility, strengthening services, and deepening engagement with the Montserratian community, business partners, and stakeholders across the UK and Europe. The new Office Address is: Montserrat Government UK Office 162 Buckingham Palace Road London, SW1W 9TR The new Contact Number is: Telephone: +44 (0)20 3031 8067 The relocation creates a more accessible and professional space for hosting business, community, cultural, and diplomatic engagements. Government of Montserrat Representative and Head of the UK Office, Kei-Retta Farrell, said: “Our new location represents not just a change of address but a renewed step forward in our ambition to strengthen Montserrat’s voice in the UK. The office is committed to being a bridge between Montserrat and the wider world—supporting our diaspora, advancing trade and investment opportunities, and showcasing the island’s unique heritage and potential on the global stage.” The Montserrat Government UK Office provides consular services, diaspora engagement, cultural promotion, trade and investment facilitation, and diplomatic representation for Montserrat in the UK and Europe.

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Montserrat Joins Caribbean overseas Territories in preparing for Joint Ministerial Council

The Caribbean Overseas Territories are gearing up for the Joint Ministerial Council with the Government of the United Kingdom in London, England. The leaders are expected to advance shared priorities, including constitutional advancement and good governance, financial services and beneficial ownership, and border security and regional cooperation. Other possible agenda items are climate change and resilience, economic resilience and trade opportunities, and access to healthcare and education in the United Kingdom. The JMC is the main forum for elected leaders from the territories to meet with UK ministers to shape policy and strengthen their partnership.  It is the highest level of political dialogue between the leaders of the Overseas Territories and UK ministers, and involves elected leaders and representatives from all 14 Overseas Territories. These include six from the Caribbean – Anguilla, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Montserrat and Turks & Caicos. At last year’s meeting the Leaders welcomed five principles that were set out to guide the UK’s relationship with the elected Governments of the Overseas Territories. They were devolution; listening to the Overseas Territories; partnership with the OT’s based on mutual respect and inclusion; good governance; and defending the Overseas Territories’ security, autonomy and rights, including the right of self-determination. 

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