News - ZJB Radio

Montserrat Marks 30 Years Since 1995 Eruption of Soufriere Hills Volcano

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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Dalton Lee to Step Down as Chairman of Bank of Montserrat Limited

News

Dalton Lee has announced his resignation as Chairman and Director of the Bank of Montserrat Limited, effective at the close of the Annual General Meeting scheduled for July 10, 2025. Lee joined the Board of Directors in 2015 and was appointed Chairman in 2018. Over the last decade, he has helped steer the institution through a period of sustained financial growth and operational transformation. During his chairmanship, the Bank delivered its best financial performance in over 15 years, closing 2023 with net profits before tax of EC$6.8 million, a $2.2 million or 53.4% increase from the previous year. Other key achievements under his leadership include: As Chairman, Lee also oversaw critical advancements in the Bank’s digital, customer service, and corporate governance infrastructure. During his tenure, the Bank: “One the highlights of my tenure, was to play an active role when the Bank executed one of the original strategic visions of the founders,” Lee added. “The acquisition of the banking operations of the Royal Bank of Canada in Montserrat in April of 2021 was the realisation of one of their goals. This acquisition has contributed significantly to the Bank’s profitability and has set the Bank on a path for long-term, consistent growth.” Lee’s departure comes at a time of continued evolution at both the board and management levels, with several directors resigning to hold political office and the hiring of senior managers, including a General Manager, HR Manager, IT Manager and Manager of Credit and Advances. He expressed full confidence that these developments, combined with the strong foundation already in place, position the Bank for continued growth and success. “Leaving the bank in a better position than I found it has always been my goal. It’s now time for someone else to take the bank to the next level.” said Lee. “It has been my greatest honour to serve the people of Montserrat.”

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Commissioner Payne Addresses Firearm Concerns During King’s Birthday Parade

News

Commissioner of police Mark Payne says he still feels it necessary to allay the fears and concerns of residents who spoke out about people carrying firearms around the time of the parade to commemorate His Majesty the King’s 77th birthday. People reported seeing visiting officers moving around with these firearms and questioned why they were allowed to carry firearms. But, in an effort to put the matter to rest, Commissioner Payne explained the situation following the Royal Montserrat Police Service (RMPS’) investigation and provided some assurance that there was no ill-intent.

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Vendor Registration Open for Produced in Montserrat Expo (PRIME) 2025

News

Registration is now open for the fifth edition of the Produced in Montserrat Expo – PRIME 2025. The announcement was made by the Government of Montserrat’s Trade and Quality Infrastructure Division, with the support of the Montserrat Arts Council, and the Montserrat Tourism Authority. Interested vendors are invited to complete the online registration form available at prime.gov.ms. The registration fee from May 26th to June 16th 2025 is $50 EC dollars. The fee for late registration, from June 17th to July 11th, 2025 is $100 EC dollars. All payments must be made at the Montserrat Arts Council. PRIME highlights Montserrat’s vibrant entrepreneurial community, providing a dynamic platform for vendors to promote their products, connect with customers, and unlock new opportunities for growth and visibility. This milestone event will be held under the theme “Connect, Expand, Thrive – PRIME Turns 5 in 2025.” PRIME 2025 is scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27, 2025, at the Montserrat Cultural Centre. To celebrate five years of growth and innovation, PRIME aims to go beyond local exposure this year, by connecting Montserrat-made products and services with regional and international partners and buyers. Vendors will benefit from enhanced promotional opportunities, tailored business support, and a vibrant event atmosphere. As part of this milestone celebration, PRIME 2025 will also feature a Youth Entrepreneur Product Innovation Competition. This competition is designed to engage Montserrat’s youth and young persons in entrepreneurship and product development. It aims to encourage and empower the next generation by highlighting the creativity, innovation, and talent of young entrepreneurs as they develop and present locally inspired, innovative product concepts for the expo. For further information, persons can contact the Trade and Quality Infrastructure Division at 664-491-2066 or email trade@gov.ms.

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Montserrat Represented at the 2025 ECCB Consultative Meeting with Financial Secretaries of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union

News

Montserrat took part in the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) Consultative Meeting with Financial Secretaries of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union for 2025. Financial secretary, Kenya Lee attended the event, which was held under the theme, “Unlocking Financing for Climate Resilience.” The meeting took place on May 28th at the ECCB Headquarters in St. Kitts. This Consultative Meeting is a biannual forum that brings together the Financial Secretaries from across the ECCU to discuss topical policy issues impacting the region and to engage in capacity building. Featured presentations included: “a regional debt swap” by Sebastian Espinosa from White Oak Advisory; “fuel pricing reform” by Emine Hanedar from the International Monetary Fund; “climate issues” by Chamberlain Emmanuel from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission; and “legislative updates” by Vilette Benjamin from the ECCB. Governor of the ECCB, Timothy Antoine chaired the meeting. Seven of the eight ECCU Financial Secretaries, together with ECCB management and staff were in attendance.

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