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NE UKOTAWS OVERSEAS TERRITORIES ASSOCIATION September 2012

Territories at the heart of Jubilee celebrations

Territory leaders and representatives played a full and enjoyable part in the memorable celebrations which marked the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, concluded on Monday s Left to right: Andrew Rosindell MP, Chair of UKOT APPG, Kedell Worboys MBE, Chair of UKOTA 18th June 2012 by a reception in the and Rt. Hon John Bercow MP, Speaker of the House of Commons, Romford's Town Crier, Tony Appleton, Speaker’s House State Rooms within the introduced guests and speakers Palace of Westminster. This was hosted territories’ flags were flown on the adjacent and other guests in the Guildhall and lunch by Andrew Rosindell, MP for Romford, vessel, the Sapele. A thousand vessels took in the grounds of Lancaster House, where who chairs the All-Party Parliamentary part and the bitterly cold, wet weather they were guests of the Secretary of State Group on Overseas Territories, by which accompanied the day did not for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, permission of the Speaker of the House dampen anyone’s enthusiasm. Preceding the Rt Hon William Hague MP. of Commons, Rt Hon John Bercow MP. Royal Convoy, were 55 dinghies, which Territory leaders and representatives were They were joined by people representing sailed in diamond formation, one of which honoured to have been able to play a role in the Crown Dependencies of , the Isle carried Sea Cadets from . the events. Premier of Man, and the many The leaders and representatives were invited McKeeva Bush JP OBE said: “It was a Commonwealth countries where Her to a reception on the Monday in privilege to participate in the Jubilee Majesty is Head of State. Guests included Buckingham Palace, where they met Celebrations in London as the representative ministers, members of the House of members of the Royal Family, Cabinet of the people of The Cayman Islands. We Lords, MPs, High Commissioners and members and others prominent in public have long known the deep affection which representatives of NGOs and other bodies life, before being invited to watch the Her Majesty enjoys, but to witness it first which work with the Territories. The Chair concert, televised by the BBC, in front of hand and be part of the millions of UKOTA, the UK Representative for St. Buckingham Palace in which stars of the participating in the extraordinary Thames Helena, Kedell Worboys MBE, explained to entertainment world paid tribute to Her Pageant, the concert and magnificent guests the significance of UKOTA’s work in Majesty’s reign. fireworks, the moving service in St Paul’s ensuring the views of territories and their and the unforgettable grand finale in the populations are considered by decision Beacons were lit in the territories to coincide Mall, made us proud to be a part of Her makers, including British Government with Her Majesty igniting the Jubilee Majesty’s British family.” departments, ministers and organisations. Beacon’s flame outside Buckingham Palace. Guests from Overseas Territories working The story about the beacon built out of cut- and studying in the UK took advantage of down invasive species of plants to help New FCO Minister for the the chance to talk informally with those protect ’s biodiversity, led to Overseas Territories whose work and decisions affect their reports in news media around the world and UKOTA congratulates Mr. Mark Simmonds communities. an interview with Chief Islander Ian Lavarello on BBC Radio 4’s The World At One. MP on his appointment as Parliamentary Many territories’ elected leaders or their UK Under Secretary of State at the FCO representatives played a prominent role in On the following day, the leaders and whose portfolio includes responsibility the celebrations in London over the Jubilee representatives took part in the Service of for some of the UK Overseas Territories. weekend (Sunday 3rd June – Tuesday 5th Thanksgiving for Her Majesty’s reign in St Members look forward to meeting the June), taking part in the Thames Diamond Paul’s Cathedral, before attending a new Minister and working with him. Jubilee Pageant on board the Mercuria. The reception with members of the Royal Family ukotanews-issue15_ukotanews-issue15 14/09/2012 13:25 Page 2

ANGUILLA – At a Glance

Capital: The Valley British Long Jump record Size: 91 sq km Population: 12,871 holder, Anguillian Olympian (1999 estimate) Shara Proctor receives Award Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$), United States Dollar (US$) Shara Proctor, current British record 2009 in Greensboro, North Carolina, USA. holder for the Long Jump and a member Shara holds the national long jump Time Zone: Greenwich Mean of team GB visited Slough, where many records for Anguilla and Great Britain. Time -4 hours Anguillians live, on Friday 10th August, to celebrate her achievements at an Nearly 150 members of the local official reception held in her honour. community came to celebrate Shara’s achievements at the reception. Shara, an Anguillian by birth, has been competing since 2006 and in 2012 won At the reception Shara met the Mayor her first senior medal for Great Britain, a of Slough, Councillor Christine Small, bronze in the long jump in the IAAF World and was presented with the newly Indoor Athletics Championships, after established Transmarinis Award from Anguilla’s reputation in Europe. Shara jumping a British national indoor record of the Government of Anguilla’s UK said: "It was indeed a pleasure to meet 6.89 metres. Her longest jump outdoors is Representative, Dorothea Hodge. The the Anguilla Diaspora and the Mayor of 6.95 metres in the long jump, achieved in Transmarinis Award was established by Slough. I was truly honored and humbled June 2012 in Birmingham; and 13.74 Dorothea in 2012 to reward outstanding by the award” metres in the triple jump, achieved in May Anguillian achievement and to enhance

s Shara Proctor and the Mayor of Slough

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BERMUDA Bermuda – At a Glance

Capital: Hamilton Size: 53.3 sq km Population: 64,237 (2010 estimate) Currency: Bermudian Dollar (BMD) Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time -4 hours

I have had a lengthy discussion as to the possibilities and we will follow-through.

We recognize that greatness does not just happen overnight. There are building

s The Hon. Paula A. Cox, JP, MP and the Hon. Glenn A. Blakeney JP, MP along with the Bermuda Olympians of 2012 blocks that must be put in place. But my and officials from the Bermuda National Olympic Association message to our athletes this evening was clear: we support them... we thank Bermuda Proudly Represented them... and we are tremendously proud of their performances here in London. Thank at 2012 London Olympics you Team Bermuda." It is important to highlight that Bermuda was proudly represented at Sport, the Hon. Glenn A. Blakeney JP, MP; Bermudians participated in all aspects of the 2012 London Olympics with eight Permanent Secretary Mr. Wayne Carey the Olympics, to include various voluntary Olympians. Bermuda fared very well and and UK Representative Ms. Kimberley roles in the Olympic Park, official Olympic the results are as follows: Durrant. positions in the organization of some of the competitions and a Bermuda z Roy Burch - Men’s 50m Freestyle with Towards the close of the competitions the Regiment soldier worked alongside the a time of 22.47, a national record for Government of Bermuda London Office British Army to assist in security. In Bermuda organized a reception to honour the addition, in his role as Treasurer and Bermuda Olympians the evening of z Tyler Butterfield - Men’s Triathlon Chairman of the 2012 Olympian Events Thursday 9th August. The event was held placing 34th at a time of 1:50:32; for the World Olympians Association, Mr. at Aspers Sky Bar, with a spectacular view Tyler had the fastest cycling time in Patrick Singleton, a Winter Olympian from overlooking the Olympic Park. the meet Bermuda was responsible for the That evening Premier Cox congratulated organization of the Olympian Gala at St z Flora Duffy - Women’s Triathlon placing the athletes and said, "We came to James’ Palace in London on the evening of 45th with a time of 2:08:54 celebrate Team Bermuda 2012 who have Wednesday 25th July. The event was in z Arantxa King - Women’s Long Jump simply been outstanding here in London, the presence of HRH Albert II, Sovereign with a 13th place at a measurement and our discussions have us eagerly Prince of Monaco and HRH The Princess of 6.40 looking forward to the 2016 Rio Royal, who honoured Olympians who Olympics. competed in Games as far back as the z Tyrone Smith – Men’s Long Jump with 1948 London Olympics. a 12th place at a measurement of 7.70 "Seeing Bermuda’s athletes perform on the world stage has been a phenomenal It should be noted that the Foreign & z Jillian Terceira – Equestrian (Jumping) experience. This evening I shared with Commonwealth Office (FCO) graciously placing 47th them that they may hail from a small provided courtesies for visiting official z Jessie and Alexander Kirkland – Sailing Island, but they truly pack quite a punch." Country Representatives, to include (Men’s 49er) placing 19th Bermuda. Premier Cox continued, "This is my first The Premier, the Hon. Paula A. Cox, JP, Olympics as the Premier, however I am Bermuda looked forward to Ms Jessica MP, led an official delegation to the already thinking of ways to identify what Lewis competing in the 2012 London to support the Bermuda more I can do from the position as Premier Para-Olympic Games. Jessica competed in Olympians. The Premier was accompanied to give our athletes more support in the 100, 200 and 400 metres races. by the Minister of Youth, Families and preparation for Rio. Minister Blakeney and

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BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS British Virgin Islands – At a Glance New Financial Under the leadership of Premier and Capital: Road Town Minister of Finance, Dr. The Honourable (Tortola) Services Committee D. Orlando Smith, OBE, government in Size: 153 sq km Launched partnership with the private sector has established a Financial Services Business Population: 27,000 Development Committee (FSBDC). The Committee, which is comprised of public Currency: US Dollar (US$) and private sector representatives, was formed to help enhance the financial Time Zone: Greenwich Mean services industry though the development Time -4 hours of action plans for consideration by Cabinet. Working groups have already begun undertaking a review of the industry’s various sectors to prepare initial Tourism Minister recommendations. In a statement on the role of the FSBDC, Premier Smith said: Sets Out UK “This committee is an asset to advise Strategy government on how best we can enhance and promote the financial services

s Premier Dr Hon D Orlando Smith OBE industry’s offerings.”

Territory Scores High on Financial Literacy s (left to right): Joyce Kinniburgh, Director of BVI Holidays; Premier Dr. Hon. D. Orlando Smith, OBE; Joanne Survey Smethurst of Caribtours; First Lady Mrs. Lorna Smith; Mr. Russell Harrigan, Chairman of the BVI Tourist Board; Ms. Ginny Hawksley, BVI Tourist Board Manager for the UK; and Myrvina Jeria BVI Tourist Board Exhibition The BVI recorded the highest score in s Sprinter J’maal Alexander, Chairman Lord Sebastian Coe Coordinator for Europe. the area of financial behaviour among and Sprinter Tahesia Harrigan-Scott 14 countries included in a recently In a bid to strengthen the BVI presence in Olympic Committee the UK Tourism Market, Premier and published OECD financial literacy pilot Minister of Tourism Dr. The Honourable D. report, entitled, Measuring Financial Chairman Celebrates Orlando Smith, OBE held a trade Literacy. The study provides a BVI Team reception in London on 31 May where he comparative analysis of financial met with representatives of the UK travel literacy surveys completed in each Olympic Organising Committee Chairman industry. The Premier in remarks to the country that among other things, Lord Sebastian Coe paid a surprise visit to gathering outlined his Government’s plans tested financial attitude, financial the BVI Olympic Team at the London 2012 to “re-energise tourism in the BVI with a knowledge and financial behaviour. Games’ first official Welcoming Ceremony renewed focus on the UK as a primary The FSC is taking its own steps to in the Olympic Village. The BVI flag was market.” Among the initiatives boost the territory’s overall financial the first to be raised and the Chairman highlighted were improving long-term air literacy through its recently launched gave a warm greeting to the territory’s access to the Territory, growing the super Money Matters website. The site, two athletes, Mrs. Tahesia Harrigan-Scott yacht sector, further developing the www.MoneyMattersBVI.org, provides and Mr. J’maal Alexander. Both athletes destination’s wedding and honeymoon went on to compete in their respective business and strengthening the cruise free financial information and advice 100 meter heats, but were unsuccessful tourism sector. He also announced the designed to help individuals improve in advancing to the next round of appointment of Ms. Ginny Hawksley to their financial literacy. A pdf copy of competition. The BVI Olympic Committee, the post of BVI Tourist Board Manager in the OECD report is available at which has been in existence since 1984, the UK, whose responsibility will be to re- www.MoneyMattersBVI.org. has set an ambitious goal of qualifying 10 energise the BVI’s presence in the UK athletes for the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. market.

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CAYMAN ISLANDS Cayman Islands – At a Glance

Capital: George Town (Grand Cayman)

Size: 260 sq km

Population: 57,000

Currency: Cayman Islands Dollar (CI$)

Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time -5 hours

and educational opportunities are already arising for peopleto fill these jobs. The s (left to right) Minister , Cydonie Mothersille (front) Shaun Fraser, Brett Fraser and Ronald Forbes (rear). University College of the Cayman Islands is now working on offering a nursing Cayman Athletes “do Islands proud” degree course to encourage young Caymanians to pursue careers in this field. The Cayman Islands brought five As President Mclean pointed out, this athletes to the Olympic Games, Shaun was the first time that the Cayman Health City will cater to local patients by and Brett Fraser, Ronald Forbes, Cydonie Islands had so many individuals into offeringtertiary care and other services Mothersille and Kemar Hyman. The semi-finals. Cayman swimmers went to that are currently not available locally,as athletes were accompanied by Minister three semis and in fact, had two in one well as to patients from the United States, for Sports Mr. Mark Scotland as well as semi-final. Sprinter Kemar Hyman made the Caribbean and Latin America. the management and support staff of one semi-final in the 100m sprint but the Cayman Islands National Olympic had to withdraw due to medical Peer Review Committee-headed up by Mr. Donald conditions. Overall the athletes did the McLean, President and Mr. Carson Cayman Islands proud and all left for Group Onsite Visit Ebanks, Secretary General. home with their heads held high. The Cayman Islands will be assessed as part of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development’s Phase 2 of the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes Peer Review Programme. The review consists of an onsite visit to obtain evidence and evaluate Cayman’s overall effectiveness in exchanging requested information. It is scheduled to take place in the Cayman Islands from 5- 7 September. The assessment team will include two persons from the Global s From left, West Bay MLA Eugene Ebanks, Minister of Health Mark Scotland, Deputy Governor Franz Manderson, Dr. Devi Shetty, Premier McKeeva Bush, Deputy Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly and Minister of Education Rolston Anglin Forum Secretariat, and two from were among those who broke ground with “golden” shovels at the Shetty hospital site in East End Cayman’s peer jurisdictions of France and South Africa. Medical Tourism hospital took place on Monday, 27 August. The Cayman Islands was one of eight Launched Health City will offer affordable health countries – and among the first in the expertise and facilities to patients locally, world – to be assessed under the Global The Cayman Islands has embarked upon Forum’s Peer Review Programme in and boost Cayman’s economy in areas medical tourism with the groundbreaking September 2010. The results from the such as air transport, hotel occupancy, of “Health City Cayman Islands,” a report were positive, reflecting high levels food and beverage services, and hospital facilitated by a recent agreement of transparency within Cayman’s banking employment. with world-renowned cardiologist Dr Devi sector, and access to information through Shetty and Narayana Group. The The first phase of the project will require the competent authority – the Tax groundbreaking for the 2,000 bed as many as 600 employees, and training Information Authority.

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FALKLAND ISLANDS Falkland Islands – At a Glance

Capital: Stanley

Size: 12,173 sq km

Population: 2,563

Currency: Falkland Islands Pound

Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time -3 hours

Falkland Islanders should be allowed to choose for themselves how they are governed.

A referendum that gives Falkland Islanders the opportunity to consider what is best s MLA Mike Summers OBE outside the UN with young Islanders © FIG for them is the only just solution to the Falklands dispute. The question(s) to be The Falkland Islands Government has seven and eight generations. We are a put will be fair and open, and the whole announced that it will hold a people in our own right, who have the process open and transparent, with all referendum early in 2013 to give right to adopt the government of our own shades of opinion free to put their points Falkland Islanders the opportunity to choice. Our Constitution has developed of view. It is planned that there will be an have their voices heard on the question over the years to provide for internal self oversight panel of independent experts to of sovereignty of the Falkland Islands. government to the maximum extent ensure that both the organisation and the possible, and we are internally self conduct of the referendum will pass For many years now the Argentine governing in all aspects except foreign rigorous scrutiny. The referendum is likely Government has been calling for affairs and defence, which remain the to be conducted in March 2013. negotiations with the UK on the question responsibility of the British Government. of sovereignty of the Islands, whilst the Whilst the questions for the referendum Our most recent Constitution which was UK Government says that it does not have yet to be determined, it is clear that adopted in 2009 confirms our post- doubt its sovereignty of the Falkland they must give Falkland Islanders the colonial status as an Overseas Territory of Islands, and will not enter into any such opportunity to express clearly their views the United Kingdom. discussions unless and until the people of on how they wish to be governed. That is the Falkland Islands so wish. This is in the essence of self determination to which So why a referendum, accordance with the provisions of Chapter all countries should be able to subscribe to and what is in doubt? 1 of the UN Charter which gives all and support. The Falkland Islanders will “Falkland Islanders are not content that peoples the right to freely determine their then call upon all countries around the much of the international community sees own political arrangements. world to accept and respect our decision in the Falklands only a sovereignty dispute in accordance with UN doctrine and The people of the Falkland Islands have between the UK on the one hand and international law." lived peacefully in the Islands for nearly Argentina on the other. Falkland Islanders 180 years. There were no native insist that the international community Hon. M.V. Summers OBE inhabitants of the Islands, and the people should concentrate on the fundamental Member of the Legislative Assembly arrived from many parts of the world to human rights issue of self determination, Falkland Islands make new lives, much as happened in the and the rights and wishes of the Falkland rest of the New World, including Latin Islanders. The international community America. There are now Falklands families does not need to choose between the UK who have been resident here for nine or Argentina, but should support the generations, and many who can count six, fundamental human rights principle that

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GIBRALTAR Gibraltar – At a Glance The Earl And Countess Capital: Gibraltar of Wessex Visit Gibraltar Size: 6.5 sq km Population: 29,752 (2011)

Currency: Gibraltar Pound

Time Zone: Central European Time

s Presentation of a donation to the Trust Their Royal Highnesses, the Earl and The Evelina Countess of Wessex visited Gibraltar as part of Her Majesty The Queen’s Family Trust Diamond Jubilee celebrations. HM Government of Gibraltar has made a The Royal Couple were met by His donation to the Evelina Trust in support of Excellency the Governor and the Chief the work they do in providing free which was followed by The Queen’s Minister before driving to RAF Gibraltar to accommodation for families of children Garden Party at the Convent. inspect a Tri-Service Guard of Honour and being treated in the Evelina Children’s visit the Headquarters of the British Forces The Earl and Countess were able to Hospital at Guy and St Thomas’ in London. on the Rock. meet a cross-section of people from During their stay, the Royal Couple across the community, and presented assisted in laying the foundation stone for local youngsters with Duke of Edinburgh Gibraltar invites the Diamond Jubilee Monument on Line Awards. They later met with resident Wall Road where it overlooks the site of religious leaders. Leaders of all the new Jubilee Commonwealth Park. Before departing Gibraltar during this British Overseas On the second day of their visit, Their historic visit, the Earl and Countess were Territories Royal Highnesses drove to the Upper taken to the new airport terminal building Rock to stop at Queen’s Lookout where they inaugurated and named the Chief Minister Fabian Picardo MP is keen to ensure that Gibraltar is where they met several local people viewing terrace as the ‘Diamond Jubilee well represented in all UKOTA and involved with Her Majesty The Queen’s Terrace’ and the general aviation areas as British Overseas Territories activities. last visit in 1954 during her tour of the the ‘Wessex Lounge.’ He has instructed his United Kingdom Commonwealth. Finally, the Chief Minister, on behalf of the Representative, Albert Poggio, to At a visit to the naval base, Hawk and people of Gibraltar, made a presentation try and organise a meeting, either Tucano aircrafts from the RAF conducted to The Earl of Wessex of a replica of the in London or Gibraltar, of all a series of flypasts. Keys of Gibraltar. The presentation was Overseas Territory Leaders and their made in front of a photograph of Her Representatives to coincide with the Commemorating Her Majesty’s birthday, Majesty the Queen touching the real keys Joint Ministerial Council (JMC) visit. The Royal Couple attended The Queen’s of Gibraltar during the course of her visit This is now being actively pursued. Birthday Parade in Casemates Square, in 1954.

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MONTSERRAT Montserrat – At a Glance

Department of Environment Spearheads Seat of Semi-Intensive Livestock Farming Government: Brades Size: 102 sq km

Population: 4,922

Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$)

Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time -4 hours

Public Support Sought for Critically Endangered Mountain Chicken The Department of Environment and s Hill view of North Montserrat Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust have The Montserrat Departments of Environ- advantageous for keeping good quality embarked on raising awareness of the ment and Agriculture are working together livestock. He states that it gives the farmer critically endangered Mountain Chicken to make available a model farm which can the opportunity to inspect his livestock on a (Leptodactylus fallax) on Montserrat be used to demonstrate the advantages of daily basis, allowing him to quickly pick up through a project funded by the UK Darwin semi intensive livestock farming. The on any anomalies in herd health, Initiative. The Department of Environment departments are collaborating with local administer treatment in a timely manner, has thanked the public for their support of livestock farmer, Mr. Anderson Kirnon, to keep better records and devise an effective the Project to date and is seeking their construct the farm at Gerald’s Village in the breeding system. support with their research on the north of the Island by providing him with Mountain Chicken. The Director of Environment, Mr Gerard resources and access to expertise which The Mountain Chicken, a terrestrial frog Gray, affirmed that the system improves should enable him to increase the which exists only on Dominica and the management and control of livestock, productivity of his current livestock unit. Montserrat, is at risk due to loss of habitat, utilizes less land than traditional practices predation by invasive species and the The project is funded through a grant from and reduces the likelihood of animals recent attack by the chytrid fungus the UK Overseas Territories Environment roaming. It also decreases the negative (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis). Programme, under a project entitled: impact on the environment, particularly Conserving the Centre Hills in Montserrat biodiversity of national and global A brochure which has been published by through the effective control of feral importance and improves road safety, as the Mountain Chicken Project highlights livestock populations. The Project is the animals will no longer be on the streets. the scientific research that is taking place designed to: (i) build local capacity to on the Island and how this would effectively manage feral and loose livestock Looking forward to a successful outcome, contribute to the management of the frog populations, (ii) reduce these populations livestock owner, Mr Kirnon said that the on both Montserrat and Dominica. This is to a level where they do not significantly project will enable him to improve the way being circulated widely throughout the impact the biodiversity of the Centre Hills his animals are being kept, as well as Island including to schools and government and (iii) ensure that domesticated livestock improve the breed and convert precious institutions and members of the public are do not contribute to the feral animal land space normally used for rough grazing asked to report on any encounter with the population into fodder banks. Mr Kirnon expressed his frog. appreciation to the Departments of Mr. Kirnon is being assisted to construct a Environment and Agriculture for giving him pen that will be compartmentalised into six the opportunity to develop the model farm areas. There will be three small isolation or lambing areas, two medium sized weaning Once the model semi-intensive farm is in or communal areas and one large holding operation, demonstration sessions will be area. The holding capacity of the pen will organized for other farmers and interested be approximately 20 sheep. Adjacent to persons to visit and learn from Mr. Kirnon’s the pen is a fenced paddock which will experience. It is hoped that these provide fodder and exercise for the demonstrations would lead others to adopt animals. the technology, thereby resulting in increased production and improved quality According to Chief Veterinary Officer, Dr. of meat, while reducing the need for

Selvyn Maloney, this system is extremely culling feral and loose livestock. s Montserrat Mountain Chicken

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ST HELENA St Helena – At a Glance Full steam ahead on Capital: Jamestown St Helena’s Airport Size: 410 sq km Population: 4,289

Currency: St Helenian Pound (SHP)

Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time

enabled Basil Read to complete the 14km

s Airport Terminal landside view of external finish long Haul Route from Rupert’s Valley to the airport site on Prosperous Bay Plain. The access track is being used to transport the After years of semi isolation with access In July of this year, the NP Glory 4, a ship heavy construction equipment to the only by sea, - the RMS St Helena being chartered by Basil Read, arrived at St airport site, as the Island’s existing roads the Island’s lifeline - St Helena is preparing Helena packed with heavy plant and simply could not carry the weight of the for an airport that is set to catalyse materials needed for the airport project, plant. Construction works have now economic growth, draw inward enabling St Helena to move out of started in order to create the platform for investment and develop the Island’s mobilisation and into full construction the airport, with the number of Saints tourism sector. phase. This was the first call on her 22 day employed by Basil Read now standing at cycle between St Helena and Walvis Bay, Ten months on from the airport 182. Namibia, an historic event for the Island as announcement of 3rd November 2011 and it was the first time that a vessel this size Further to these exciting developments, it the signing of the £250 million Design, has berthed alongside and used a roll-on, was announced on 23rd July 2012 that a Build and Operate contract between St roll-off facility. number of important changes have been Helena Government and Basil Read Ltd, progress on the airport continues apace. The arrival of some of the heavy plant has continued on page 10

s Offloading of the heavy Plant

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ST HELENA

s The NP Glory 4 berthed alongside at Rupert’s Bay

continued from page 9 finalised to the airport runway design, with Island’s Executive Council, held in open its economy, improving the quality of life the potential to deliver significant benefits session, on 31st July 2012, Councillors for current and future generations and for St Helena. A variation order has been unanimously approved design of the helping to attract overseas Saints back to signed for additional runway works, external finishes of the airport terminal and the Island. including an extra 100m of concrete combined Buildings. Combining glass and Chief Executive for Economic runway and widening the areas at the ends natural stone, the design sits well with the Development, Julian Morris said: of the runway (where the aircraft turns surrounding area. around). In the initial contract of 3rd “This is tangible proof of the St Helena is now poised for the biggest November 2011, Basil Read were to opportunities that are now coming to St transformation in its history. The airport is construct an airport with a 1,550m long Helena after decades of not having any. paving the way for the development of landing runway, meaning the largest The challenge now is for all Saint people high end, low volume tourism and the aircraft that could use the airport would be and businesses to fully exploit the associated economic growth. During a the Boeing 737-700 and Airbus A319, both development possibilities.” world economic downturn, St Helena is in of which carry around 120 passengers. The the unique position of being able to grow additional runway works give the Island greater flexibility in the future to easily extend the runway to cater for larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 737-800 and Airbus 320, both of which can carry 160 passengers. Governor of St Helena, Mark Capes, said of the design variation: “This is an excellent development and demonstrates the long term vision that characterizes the airport project. This gives the Island much greater flexibility in the future, and I would like to thank all those who have worked hard to bring about this design variation.”

Furthermore at a special sitting of the s The 14km long Haul Route from Rupert’s Valley to the airport site

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TRISTAN DA CUNHA Tristan da Cunha – At a Glance

Capital: Edinburgh of Tristan da the Seven Seas Cunha trains Size: 98 sq km for the future Population: 262 Currency: Pound Sterling Being the world’s most remote inhabited island has certain advantages – it gives a Time Zone: Greenwich cachet to everything on and from the island s Tristan da Cunha Chief Islander Ian Lavarello (centre) presented the Speaker of Hon. Steve Rodan SHK Mean Time – the ultimate Unique Selling Point. with a plaque of Tristan’s coat of arms, UK Representative However, the reality of that physical Chris Bates (right) remoteness causes serious difficulties in Tristan da Cunha some areas, not least education and such as fishing, agriculture, public works Chief Islander Ian Lavarello with the training. Until fairly recently, education etc.) and those moving into new roles in , ceased at age 15 and since the closure of a areas such as the island’s police, its hospital Mrs scholarship system with an English boarding and medical services and in developing its MLC, . school, there has been no system for higher, tourist trade. vocational or academic study. In an age The physical distance from Tristan to increasingly reliant on modern technology anywhere else is a real problem: all Tristan and an ability to compete internationally islanders help to produce their family’s food where the developing world has developed, from their own poultry, beef cattle, sheep this has become a matter of serious concern and their vegetable plots at The Patches for the Tristan Government. (three miles from the Settlement at The Isle of Man is a self contained, locally The lack of any direct transport links to St. Edinburgh-of-the-Seven-Seas). Family governed community where fishing, Helena or the Falkland Islands is clearly an commitments caring for older, infirm or very agriculture, tourism and conservation of its additional handicap and there are only young family members are not easily re- heritage are central to its life. Its friendly, limited places for passengers on the eight or arranged and travel off the island usually supportive and “can do” approach and its nine annual sailings of the lobster fishing means an absence of three or more months, strong sense of identity are similar to the vessel MFV Edinburgh and the freighter MV on top of any period of study or training. So, qualities which make life possible and Baltic Trader to Cape Town: 1,750 miles it’s a major undertaking for any family when attractive on Tristan. (and at least six days’ sailing) distant. one of their number is selected to go abroad Otherwise, islanders must depend on for training – quite apart from the “culture Tristan is now identifying the most around 30 berths on the new SA Agulhas II, shock” of living thousands of miles from appropriate people to benefit from this the South African Antarctic Survey ship home in an unfamiliar city with few friends training, which will be supported by the taking over the annual voyage, which or contacts, high costs and some of the Tristan Government through funds made continues to , this autumn. dangers, too, of modern urban life. available by DfID. This will enable fisheries’ staff to widen their experience and gain For three years now, the UK Government, Tristan now hopes it has found a way to qualifications as Tristan gears up to export through DfID, has been investing in teacher overcome some of these negative factors. its gourmet-quality lobster to new markets; training, improving courses and working An offer from one of the Crown it will enable a new policeman to be trained with staff and pupils at the island’s school to Dependencies, the Isle of Man, to help with to take over when current officers retire and raise educational standards. With only 35 training Tristan islanders, should soon see with hopes in the offing of an upgrading of pupils of all ages, it’s difficult to arrange the first islanders going there in 2013. Tristan’s hospital – or construction of a new effective education for over-16s, so an Administrator Sean Burns and Tristan’s UK one – much-needed training can be given at agreement has been reached with an Representative, Chris Bates, spent time on the Nurse Training School at the Nobles international school in Cape Town for the Isle of Man planning details following Hospital, near Douglas (the Manx capital), to children who wish to transfer there to do so, the success of an initial “Good people working in nursing. Similarly, with thanks to the generosity of the Education Governance” training visit by Chief Islander, retirements expected of key personnel in Trust Fund established by the Tristan da Ian Lavarello, which saw him sitting in on Tristan’s agriculture department, it is hoped Cunha Association and a joint fund run by the Manx Legislative Assembly, Tynwald (the to train new appointees (and benefit all of the TdC Government and Ovenstone, the oldest Parliamentary body in the world) and Tristan through the transfer of skills). fishing concession holder. The first pupils learning how its Government process works Another priority is to let Tristan’s have yet to join this scheme, but high hopes from its officers, Manx Government enterprising tourism development staff are entertained for it and Tristan fully Ministers and their departments. work alongside those in the Isle of Man, expects the first students to be in Cape Part of the logic behind the link is that where an innovative approach to promoting Town early next year. Tristan islanders will feel more at home, the island’s Viking heritage has transformed Then there is the problem of effective more comfortable and thus more able to its image and opened new markets to vocational training for adults – both those concentrate on their studies in an island replace mass tourism trade lost to Spain and wishing to improve existing skills (in areas setting. Turkey.

11 ukotanews-issue15_ukotanews-issue15 14/09/2012 13:25 Page 12

UKOTA Contacts – The Overseas Territories

ANGUILLA The Rt. Hon. the Lord Blencathra , ASCENSION ISLANDS The Hon. Hubert Hughes, Chief Minister Director AND TRISTAN DA CUNHA Government of Anguilla, The Valley, Anguilla Cayman Islands Government Office HE Mark Capes Tel: +1 264 497 3518 Website www.gov.ai 6 Arlington Street, London SW1A 1RE Governor Tel: + 44 (0)20 7491 7772 Saint Helena, and Tristan da Cunha Ms. Dorothea Hodge Fax: +44 (0)20 7491 7944 The Castle, Jamestown, St Helena Island United Kingdom Representative Email: [email protected] Tel: +290 2555 Fax: +290 2598 Anguilla London Office Website: www.sainthelena.gov.sh C/o Aequitas Consulting FALKLAND ISLANDS Suite 406, 1 Northumberland Avenue Ms. Claudette Prior MBE Mrs. Kedell Worboys MBE Trafalgar Square WC2N 5BW Clerk of the Legislative Assembly United Kingdom Representative Tel: +44 (0)7971 886681 Office of the Legislative Assembly Government of St Helena Email: [email protected] Gilbert House, Ross Road, Stanley, Falkland Islands 16 Old Queen Street, Tel: +500 27451 Fax: +500 27456 BERMUDA London, SW1H 9HP Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0)20 3170 8705 or +44 (0)20 3170 8706 The Hon. Paula A. Cox, JP, MP. Website: www.falklands.gov.fk Premier and Minister of Finance Fax: +44 (0)20 3159 5151 Cabinet Office, 105 Front Street Mrs. Sukey Cameron MBE Email: [email protected] Hamilton HM12 Bermuda United Kingdom Representative Tel: +1 441 292 5501 Fax: +1 441 292 8397 Falkland Islands Government Office Mr. Chris Bates Website: www.gov.bm Falkland House, 14 Broadway, London SW1H 0BH United Kingdom Representative Tel: +44 (0)20 7222 2542 Fax: +44 (0)20 7222 2375 Government of Tristan Da Cunha Ms Kimberley Durrant Email: [email protected] 9 Sir Johns Road Selly Park Birmingham B29 7EP United Kingdom Representative Tel: +44 (0) 121 472 6739 Government of Bermuda London Office GIBRALTAR Fax: +44 (0) 121 472 6739 6 Arlington Street, London SW1A 1RE The Hon Fabian Picardo Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0)20 7518 9900 Fax: +44 (0)20 7518 9901 Chief Minister of Gibraltar Email: [email protected] 6 Convent Place, Gibraltar Website: [email protected] Tel: +350 200 70071 Fax: +350 200 76396 Website: www.gibraltar.gov.gi BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS The following is an Associate Member of UKOTA Dr. the Hon. D. Orlando Smith OBE Mr. Albert Poggio OBE and does not have a Representative in the UK: Premier United Kingdom Representative Administration Complex Government of Gibraltar, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands 150 Strand, London WC2R 1JA HE Gordon Wetherell Tel: +1 284 494 3701 Fax: +1 284 494 Tel: +44 (0)20 7836 0777 Fax: +44 (0)20 7240 6612 Governor Website: www.bvi.gov.vg Email: [email protected] Governor’s Office, Waterloo Website: www.gibraltar.gov.uk Mr. Kedrick Malone Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands United Kingdom Representative MONTSERRAT Tel: +1 649 946 2308 Fax: +1 649 946 2903 BVI Government Office The Hon. Reuben T. Meade Email: [email protected] 15 Upper Grosvenor Street, London W1K 7PJ Premier Website: turksandcaicosislands.gov.tc Tel: +44 (0)20 7355 9570 Fax: +44 (0)20 7 355 9575 PO Box 292, Brades, Montserrat Email: [email protected] Tel: +1 664 491 3463 Fax: +1 664 491 6780 Website: www.gov.ms CAYMAN ISLANDS The Hon W McKeeva Bush OBE JP Mrs. Janice Panton MBE Premier and Minister of Finance, Tourism and United Kingdom Representative Development, Government Administration Building, Government of Montserrat Grand Cayman KY1 9000, Cayman Islands 180-186 Kings Cross Road, London WC1X 9DE Tel: +1 345 244-2458 Fax +1 345 945-1746 Tel: +44 (0)20 7520 2622 Fax: +44 (0)20 7250 2624 Website: www.gov.ky Email: [email protected]

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