News – ZJB Radio

Government of Montserrat Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries Conduct Site Visit to Belham Valley Bridge and Isles Bay Beach Road

by Jenzil Skerritt, Press Secretary Montserrat – The Government of Montserrat on January 8 2026, undertook a ministerial site visit to the recently excavated Belham Valley Bridge and the re-established Isles Bay Beach Road, marking another important step in the island’s ongoing programme of infrastructure rehabilitation and resilience building. The site visit was led by the Premier of Montserrat and Minister of Finance, Hon. Reuben T. Meade, and included the Minister of Buildings, Utilities, Infrastructure, Labour & Transport Hon. Veronica Dorsette Hector; Minister of Agriculture, Housing, Lands, the Environment, Youth and Sports, Hon. John Osborne; Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture, Housing, Lands, the Environment, Youth and Sports (MAHLEYAS), Hon. Dwayne Hixon; and Parliamentary Secretary in the Office of the Premier, Hon. Crenston C. Buffonge. The visit provided Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries with an opportunity to assess first-hand the progress and outcomes of works at both strategic locations. The Belham Valley Bridge, a critical crossing affected by years of volcanic activity and sedimentation, has been excavated, improving connectivity and access for residents, businesses, and emergency services. Similarly, the Isles Bay Beach Road restores access to an important coastal area, supporting community use, tourism activity, and future development opportunities. Premier Meade noted that the works form part of Government’s broader commitment to strengthening national infrastructure while improving safety, accessibility, and economic resilience. He emphasized that sustained investment in roads, bridges, and supporting infrastructure remains a priority for national development. Minister Dorsette Hector highlighted the technical and logistical efforts required to execute works in challenging environments, noting that careful planning and inter-agency coordination are key to delivering durable and climate-resilient infrastructure. The Government of Montserrat continues to advance strategic infrastructure projects aimed at improving quality of life, supporting economic growth, and enhancing resilience across the island. Further updates on ongoing and upcoming works will be shared with the public as projects progress.

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Montserrat’s only indigenous financial institution issues warning following reports of attempted scamming here

Crime, News

The Bank of Montserrat has issued a warning to customers after receiving reports attempt scamming on Montserrat. According to the bank, persons have been receiving fraudulent phone calls by individuals falsely claiming to represent the institution. It says the scam calls are originating from the telephone number +92 323 416921, with callers attempting to pressure customers into sharing sensitive banking information asking them to provide card numbers and other personal details, while being threatened that their bank accounts will be closed if they do not comply. The Bank of Montserrat in a release said these calls are not being made by the bank and is reminding customers that it will never request card numbers, PINs, or any confidential banking information over the phone. Customers who receive such calls are being urged not to provide any information and to report the incident immediately to the Royal Montserrat Police Service. The bank is advising the public to remain vigilant and to be cautious of unsolicited calls or messages requesting personal or financial details, noting that scammers often use fear and urgency to trick victims into disclosing sensitive information.

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Carnival 63’ Kicks Off with Vibrant Celebration of Culture and Tradition

News

Carnival 63’ is moving ahead at full pace. The 2025 Carnival season officially began on Saturday with a Cultural Extravaganza celebrating Montserratian culture, heritage, music, and creativity, followed by a formal Opening Ceremony. Carnival City, was buzzing with activity as residents and visitors immersed themselves in key elements of the island’s culture. This include traditional foods such as dukna, goat water, and cassava bread, alongside cultural characters including John Bull and Miss Goosie. Masquerade groups, iron band performances, steel pan music, dance, poetry and local entrepreneurs were also featured during the opening activities. A special video presentation titled “Carnival: A Look Back (1972–1973)” was also shown, tracing the roots and evolution of Carnival and reminding people of the strong legacy that continues to shape the island’s celebrations. During the official opening ceremony, Interim Marketing Coordinator at the Montserrat Arts Council, Jayesh Sadhwani, highlighted the collaborative effort required to stage Carnival and stressed the importance of adapting in order to preserves tradition. Sadhwani said Carnival is about embracing change while remaining rooted in tradition, so the island’s culture can continue to grow and thrive. Before officially declaring carnival open, Parliamentary Secretary with Responsibility for Culture Honourable Crenston Buffonge reflected on the deeper meaning behind this year’s carnival celebrations. He said carnival is a living process that mirrors life itself, requiring flexibility, unity, and purpose. Carnival 63’ runs through January 1st 2026 under the theme Mas, Rhythms and Family.

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Minister of BUILT Calls for Continued Excellence at Montserrat Utilities Limited

Community, News

The Minister for Buildings, Utilities, Infrastructure, Labour, Transport, has underscored the critical role of the Montserrat Utilities Limited- MUL in the island’s long-term development. Honourable Veronica Dorsette-Hector was speaking at the organization’s recent biennial dinner and award ceremony, where six employees were recognized for their dedication and service to the MUL. The minister called on staff, especially new team members, to remain committed to delivering safe, affordable and reliable energy and water services as part of a wider vision for a green, connected and thriving Montserrat.

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Urge for Stronger Public Education and Patient Engagement on Diabetes and Hypertension

News

A cardiovascular surgeon is urging stronger public education and patient engagement to improve outcomes for people living with diabetes and hypertension on Montserrat. Dr Hilary Browne, said based on recent clinical observations, many patients could benefit from better control of both conditions. She said improved management would lead to better overall health outcomes, particularly if patients are more actively involved in their care. Dr Hilary Browne visited the island earlier this week for two days as part of efforts by the Government of Montserrat to improve Cardiovascular health here.

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Discipline and Integrity Urged as Montserrat Community College Honours 2025 Graduates

News

Nine graduates crossed the stage at the Montserrat Community College (MCC) graduation ceremony Wednesday evening. The ceremony was held under the theme, “Empowered Today, Transforming Tomorrow.” In her remarks, Principal of the MCC, Mrs. Geraldine Cabey, noted how time spent at the MCC has transformed the graduates, urging them to have discipline, focus, and integrity as they seek success. Meanwhile, special guest and alumnus, Vanice Tuitt, spoke on the need for growth, reminding the graduates that everyone’s journey is not the same. Jordan Edgecombe was named valedictorian of the class of 2025. In his remarks, he encouraged his peers to continue chasing their dreams, noting how difficulties experienced has helped to shape their paths.

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Director of the Montserrat Volcano Observatory Awarded Order of the British Empire

News

Director of the Montserrat Volcano Observatory Dr. Graham Ryan has been awarded one of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious award. Dr. Ryan, was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to volcanology and geothermal physics, particularly his work in and for Montserrat. The investiture ceremony was held at Windsor Castle on 9 December 2025. In a media release on Tuesday, the MVO said the award marks a significant and well-deserved honour for a scientist whose leadership, expertise, and long-standing commitment have strengthened volcanic monitoring, advanced geothermal research, and enhanced hazard understanding on the island. The MVO extended best wishes to the Dr. Ryan and expressed appreciation for his dedicated service and leadership.

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Economic Boost Hoped for as Work Commences on Drummonds Apartments Block

News

The Government of Montserrat is hoping for an economic boost as work commenced on the construction of four new one-bedroom apartments in Drummonds. Public Relations Officer Jenzil Skerritt says this is an investment that is already generating positive spill-offs across the economy in December. He says as work begins on this project, local contractors, tradesmen, and service providers are being engaged, injecting fresh income into households and businesses at a crucial time of year. Skerritt says the construction activity is not only creating direct jobs; it is also stimulating demand for building materials, transportation, equipment rentals, food services, and other support industries. He notes that every dollar spent on the project circulates through the economy, strengthening small businesses and expanding opportunities for people on the island. Beyond the immediate benefits, the PRO highlights that this development forms part of the Government’s broader commitment to improving housing availability, supporting community revitalization, and laying the foundation for long-term economic growth. He says these new apartments at Drummonds represent more than construction; they represent confidence, momentum, and a clear demonstration that Montserrat is moving forward.

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WINAIR Operates Additional Flights to Montserrat for the Holiday Season

News

To increase access and connectivity, regional airline, WINAIR, is operating additional flights to and from Montserrat. This was confirmed by Premier of Montserrat, the Honourable Reuben T. Meade through a Facebook post on Tuesday. On Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, Winair flies from St. Maarten to Montserrat at 7:00 am, Montserrat to Antigua at 8:25 am, Antigua to Montserrat at 9:20 am, and Montserrat to St. Maarten at 10:45 am. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, Winair flies from St. Maarten to Montserrat at 8:30 am, and from Montserrat to St. Maarten at 9:55 am. Additionally Winair will have one additional flight per day on the 17th, 18th, 24th and 31st of December, from Montserrat to Antigua at 8:25 am and Antigua to Montserrat at 9:20 am. Winair will not be conducting afternoon flights due to the unavailability of aircraft. Winair flights are US$133 one way inclusive of taxes. To contact Winair, persons can call 1-721-545-4237 or 1-664-2533 or email reservations@fly-winair.com. To contact FlyMontserrat, persons can call 1-664-491-3434, visit FlyMontserrat.com, or email info@flymontserrat.com. To contact SVG Air, persons can call 1-268-727-2712 or 1-664-392-3877 or 1-664-491-3877, visit bmsvgairways.com, or email bmsvgairways@gmail.com. The increased flights come at a crucial time as visitors surge for the holiday season. Meantime, the Premier Meade noted there is no further update on the procurement of a ferry service for the island. It previously announced that a ferry would beginning operating between Montserrat and Antigua on December 5, however, Premier said the logistical nightmare of getting vessels out of Venezuela continues to plague the process.

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Fly Montserrat Passengers Urged to Notify the Airline of Late International Flight Arrivals

News

Managing Director of FlyMontserrat, Captain Nigel Harris, is urging travelers to contact the airline if their international flights are running late. He says until such is done, FlyMontserrat would equate their absence as a no-show. A number of travelers have had to overnight in Antigua because of late arrival, especially from the United States and England. Captain Harris says that once they receive that critical notice, the airline can then make the necessary adjustments to accommodate them.

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