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Government of Montserrat Introduces Soft Loan Programme for Entrepreneurs

Community, Government, News, Uncategorized

The Government of Montserrat, through the Ministry of Finance and Economic Management, in partnership with the Bank of Montserrat (BoM), officially launched the Montserrat Business Progressive Fund (MBPF) on Thursday. The MBPF is a transformative EC$2 million soft loan programme designed to stimulate economic growth, enhance food security, and empower local entrepreneurs. This Fund provides accessible and affordable financing to registered farmers, fishers, agro-processors, and micro and small businesses. With an interest rate of just 2.5% simple interest per annum and repayment terms of up to eight years, the programme removes traditional barriers to capital access and enables productive investment in key economic sectors. More in this report from James White Jr.

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Ministry of Health and Social Services Commissions Independent Health Inspection

Government, Health, News

The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) will welcome its first independent health services inspection at the Glendon Hospital which will focus on an assessment framework similar to that used by UK Health Regulators’ during the period February 16-20, 2026. The Ministry of Health and Social Services (MoHSS) is committed to building a robust health system through which good quality, cost effective and evidence-based health services are provided. To achieve this, it is essential for periodic external inspections to be undertaken. The Glendon hospital has undergone previous assessments regarding provision of services in the past however none have focused on this type of assessment framework. The MoHSS therefore regards this inspection as a critical aspect of continued service improvement. UK Ambassador for Healthcare to the Overseas Territories, Professor Ian Cumming OBE will lead the Health Inspection team visit to Montserrat. As this is a first inspection, the entire health service will not be inspected. This is likely to require too broad a range of experts and a longer period of time than is available. It has therefore been decided that the Glendon Hospital will be the focus, looking specifically at areas where the most critical care is provided: emergency care (including ambulance and Casualty), ward-based care, theatres and the process for medical treatment overseas. In addition to the above-mentioned service areas of focus, the inspection team will also review the quality of care provided by our team of doctors across all service areas at the Glendon Hospital. The inspection team will apply the five guiding principles as adopted by the CQC to the agreed assessment framework—is the facility safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led. Feedback from members of the public also forms an important part of the health inspection. To facilitate this, the Inspection Team will make themselves available to speak to members of the public at a Public meeting at the Brades Arts and Education Centre on Wednesday 18th February, 2026 starting at 6:00p.m. This meeting will be held based on confirmation of interest from members of public. Therefore, persons interested in meeting with the Inspectors on this date are asked to contact the Ministry at 491-2880/491-4520 or email mehcsmail@gov.ms by 12pm on the 17th February 2026. Members of the Public who wish to submit feedback in relation to the services provided will be able to do so, by e-mail to the Inspection Co-ordinator, Professor Heidi Fuller on h.r.fuller@keele.ac.uk with a closing date of 20th February, 2026. Please note that the Inspectors are not able to look into specific individual episodes of care. If you have a specific concern or query about your care, this should be raised in the normal way; directly with the healthcare professionals treating you. To help provide some context as to the type of information that would be useful to the inspection team, the five key questions that will be addressed by the inspection are: The inspection team would be pleased to learn of your views, positive and negative of the above-mentioned services. By requesting this feedback in advance of the inspection it will aid the inspection team in gaining a sense of services, and identify any particular trends. During the inspection itself, inspectors will also opportunistically engage with service users. This will again be voluntary, and anyone not wishing to speak with the inspectors will be under no obligation to do so. On completion of the inspection, a report will be developed by the independent experts. This report will be made available to the public in order to ensure transparency of a government department and allow for the public to read a balanced assessment of our services. The report is expected to identify areas for improvement and will contribute to future service enhancements.

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Government of Montserrat Launches EC$2 Million Montserrat Business Progressive Fund-(MBPF) Soft Loan Initiative to Boost Agriculture, Fisheries, and Small Business Development

Finance, Government, News

The Government of Montserrat (GoM), through the Ministry of Finance and Economic Management, in partnership with the Bank of Montserrat (BoM), today officially launched the Montserrat Business Progressive Fund (MBPF) – a transformative EC$2 million soft loan programme designed to stimulate economic growth, enhance food security, and empower local entrepreneurs. The MBPF represents a significant investment in Montserrat’s economic future, providing accessible and affordable financing to registered farmers, fishers, agro-processors, and micro and small businesses. With an attractive interest rate of just 2.5% simple interest per annum and repayment terms of up to eight ( 8 ) years, the programme removes traditional barriers to capital access and enables productive investment in key economic sectors. Premier and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Reuben T. Meade, emphasized the programme’s strategic importance to Montserrat’s development: “The Montserrat Business Progressive Fund represents our government’s unwavering commitment to building a more resilient, self-sufficient, and prosperous economy. By providing accessible capital at affordable rates to our farmers, fishers, and entrepreneurs, we are investing in the people of Montserrat and creating lasting opportunities for economic growth. This initiative will help us reduce our reliance on food imports, strengthen our food security, and empower Montserratians to turn their business ideas into reality. Together, we are building One Montserrat – united in purpose and progress.” Programme Structure and Allocation The EC$2 million fund has been strategically allocated to maximize impact across critical sectors: • Agriculture and Fisheries Sector: EC$1,000,000 – targeting expansion of domestic production capacity, reduction of food imports (currently valued at approximately EC$18 million annually), and promotion of food sovereignty. • Agro-Processing and Micro and Small Businesses: EC$1,000,000 – enabling entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and stimulating employment across all economic sectors. Eligible applicants may access loans of up to EC$50,000 to invest in capital equipment, technology, machinery, and productive assets necessary for business expansion and enhanced competitiveness. The programme operates as a revolving fund, with loan repayments reinvested to ensure continued availability of financing for future beneficiaries. Eligibility Requirements To qualify for the MBPF, applicants must: • Be a Montserratian or permanent resident of Montserrat • Be a registered farmer, fisher, or micro/small business owner (including agro-processors) • Agree to commence paying social security contributions • Demonstrate financial responsibility and a credible repayment plan • Commit to using loan funds exclusively for productive, income-generating activities • Provide collateral in the form of acquired assets or personal assets free of encumbrances Notably, the programme is 100% debt financed, with no loan-to-value ratio, debt service ratio, or credit history review required for eligibility – removing traditional banking barriers and ensuring broad accessibility for Montserrat’s entrepreneurs. Programme Governance and Management The MBPF will be overseen by a dedicated Soft Loan Programme Committee comprising representatives from the Ministry of Finance, the Business, Trade and Investment Division, the Ministry of Agriculture, the private sector, and a Programme Manager. The Committee will be responsible for vetting applications, approving eligible beneficiaries, and monitoring programme outcomes. The Bank of Montserrat will serve as the disbursing agent, maintaining all programme funds, processing loan disbursements to approved beneficiaries, and managing the revolving fund mechanism. All applicants must maintain a valid account with the Bank of Montserrat. How to Apply Applications for the Montserrat Business Progressive Fund are now open. Interested applicants should complete the MBPF Application Form and submit it along with all required supporting documents to trade@gov.ms. For application forms, assistance with completing applications, or further information about the programme, please contact: Business Trade and Investment Unit Telephone: 491-2066 Email: trade@gov.ms The Montserrat Business Progressive Fund represents a milestone in the Government of Montserrat’s commitment to economic transformation and empowerment. By providing accessible capital to local farmers, fishers, and entrepreneurs, the programme will drive sustainable economic development and create lasting opportunities for all Montserratians.

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Government of Montserrat Exploring Incentives for Property Owners South of Belham

Community, Government, News

The government of Montserrat is exploring ways to assist property owners South of the Belham River Valley. Minister for Agriculture et al, Honourable John Patrick Osborne said that Government always has incentives for properties south of Belham. He however says the time has come for the government to renew these incentives for greater efficiency and effectiveness. Minister Osborne was speaking on the “whats on your mind” programme on Radio Montserrat

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Government of Montserrat Moves to Address Long-Term Population Loss

Community, Government, News

The Government of Montserrat is working on a policy to reverse the decline in the island’s population. Montserrat lost roughly 60 per cent of its population since 1995 when volcanic eruptions devastated the island. Most of the population migrated to the United Kingdom for what they hoped was a temporary settlement. However 30 years on, very few have returned, and the migration trend continues with mainly young adults seeking education and job opportunities elsewhere. The issue has come to the forefront with a proposal to increase the qualification time for residents. Appearing on the “What’s On Your Mind” radio programme on Thursday, Minister for Agriculture Hon. John Patrick Osborne hinted that this is part of a broader policy to grow the population.

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Government of Montserrat Advances New Measures to Strengthen Child Safeguarding

Community, Education, Government, News

The Government of Montserrat is advancing a series of measures aimed at strengthening child safeguarding and reducing vulnerabilities among students here. Minister for Health and Social Services, Dr. the Honourable Ingrid Buffonge made the important announcement during Meeting No. 14 of the 18th Parliament on Tuesday. She outlined initiatives focused on student welfare, safety and support, particularly within the education system. The education minister said a breakfast programme is set to be introduced at the Montserrat Secondary School- MSS, to address food insecurity among students. She explained that the programme will provide students with a healthy breakfast to support their well-being and learning. Dr Buffonge stressed that the government and the Ministry of Education are adopting a firm, zero-tolerance approach to child safeguarding. Addressing after-school safety concerns, Dr Buffonge noted that the government is currently seeking funding for structured after-school programmes to ensure students are kept safe and engaged during these hours. The minister further revealed that additional funding will be requested at the upcoming Budget Support Mission for another Safe Summer Programme.

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Government Addresses Housing Problem with Innovative Approach

Government, News

The Government of Montserrat is planning to make lands available for housing development to help to solve the island’s intractable housing problem. Portfolio Minister, Honourable John Patrick Osborne says sites have already been identified and studied for possible housing subdivisions. He says the aim of the United Alliance (UA) administration is to increase access to affordable housing for low and middle income residents, and to increase the social housing stock.

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MOU Signed to Expand Tertiary Education Opportunities for Montserratians

Community, Education, Government, News

A memorandum of understanding has been signed between the Government of Montserrat and Monroe University as part of efforts to strengthen the local workforce and support local students transitioning into tertiary education. The announcement was made by Minister of Education, Dr, the Honourable Ingrid Buffonge, during the 18th Parliament, Tuesday, where she outlined the agreement as a key component of the United Alliance administration’s strategy to build human capital and grow the economy on Montserrat. Dr Buffonge said the memorandum establishes a partnership with the New York–based Monroe University, which also operates a campus in St. Lucia, and includes scholarship opportunities for Montserratian students. She noted that a virtual meeting is scheduled for March to finalise plans ahead of the university’s first official visit to Montserrat. According to the minister, the partnership aligns with the ministry’s strategic objective of improving the transition from secondary to tertiary education, an area she described as critical for student success and workforce development. In addition to the Monroe University agreement, the minister said the government has sought support from the Montserrat UK Office to assist students preparing for post-secondary education, including connecting current MSS students with Montserratians who have successfully completed tertiary studies, either through in-person engagement or virtual mentorship. She added that the Montserrat UK Office has committed to providing mentorship support, and that assistance has also been requested from Chevening alumni to further strengthen guidance for students pursuing higher education.

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Government Details Next Phase of Construction for Montserrat’s New Port

Community, Government, News

Minister for Buildings, Utilities, Infrastructure, Labour, Transport and Energy (B.U.I.L.T.E), Honourable Veronica Dorsette Hector has provided an update on one of government’s most significant and complex infrastructure investments……… the new port development project. Speaking in Parliament Tuesday morning, Mrs Dorsette Hector spoke of unfortunate delays and the deliberate efforts being undertaken by government to ensure the completion of the project. She also explained some of the ongoing works as the new port project enters a critical phase of construction. Mrs Dorsette Hector further highlighted what she refers to as “the normal and necessary aspects of managing any infrastructure of this scale and complexity.”

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Montserrat Delegation Represents at the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC)

Government, News

Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, Honourable Marjorie Smith led a delegation to the 28th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) in New Delhi, India. The January 14th to 18th conference was also attended by Parliamentary Secretary, Honourable Dwayne Hixon – and Clerk of the Legislative Assembly Dr. Judith Baker. They joined the contingent of participants, from 53 national parliaments of sovereign states of the Commonwealth, as well as 14 semi-autonomous parliaments. In a news release the Legislative Assembly states that Montserrat was presented with an opportunity to engage in dialogue with officers from other diverse constitutional, legal, and parliamentary traditions as part of this high-level parliamentary forum of the Commonwealth of Nations. It says a true reflection of today’s environment with its evolving challenges to parliamentary functioning and democratic resilience, the discussions focused on current challenges facing legislatures and modern democratic practices. The bi-annual conference took a deep dive into several themes. They include AI in Parliament – Balancing Innovation, Oversight and Adaptation; Social Media and its Impact on Parliamentarians; Innovative Strategies to enhance Public Understanding of Parliament and Citizen Participation beyond voting; and Security, Health and Well-being of Members of Parliament and Parliamentary Staff. According to the news release, a key takeaway from the conference for the Montserrat contingent, reflected by the Honourable Speaker, was guided by the timeless Indian philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” – the world is one family. The 28th CSPOC provided a rich platform for Speakers and Presiding Officers to exchange varying experiences and perspectives on issues of vital contemporary importance to the functioning of Parliaments across the Commonwealth, in a congenial environment marked by openness and mutual respect.

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