Uk Overseas Territories the Newsletter of Ukota · September 2018

Home , Fabian Picardo, Gibraltar pound, Lancaster House, Lisa Honan, RFA Mounts Bay (L3008)

UK OVERSEAS TERRITORIES THE NEWSLETTER OF UKOTA · SEPTEMBER 2018

Brexit looms large over London meetings

OT delegation leaders with Minister Lord Ahmad of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Minister Robin Walker of the Department for Exiting the EU © Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Overseas Territory leaders met in London during June for the pre Joint Ministerial Conference (JMC) and talks with UK Ministers, and Brexit was high on the agenda.

At the JMC (European Negotiations) meeting which was held at Lancaster House, the OTs highlighted major issues around the UK’s exit from the European Union, from the smooth operation of borders to the preferential treatment of fish and meat exports. Development and environment funding, a level EU playing field for Caribbean OTs’ financial services and the need for new laws - all were raised during the meeting.

The Territories seek assurance from Her UKOTA members meeting at the pre Joint Ministerial Council © Adam Howe Photography Majesty’s Government that measures will be put in place to protect their interests. Delegates Environmental topics such as extreme weather all discussed and it was agreed that it would be were reassured to hear Lord Ahmad of events, OT representation at the COP 24 beneficial to hold a workshop on these issues Wimbledon, the Minister with responsibility for climate-change conference to be held in Poland at the substantive JMC, which will be held in the OTs at the Foreign and Commonwealth in December, and the Blue Belt agenda, were London at the beginning of December. Office, state “You’re part of us, part of Global Britain. You’re family.” At the pre JMC, which was held the previous EU Overseas Countries and day at Church House in Westminster and Chaired by Hon. Teslyn Barkman MLA from Territories Association meeting the Falkland Islands, leaders discussed a range of issues affecting the Overseas Territories. Representatives from the UK Overseas of operational and strategic constraints Following the catastrophic events of last year, Territories attended a meeting in Brussels of the for the Association. In preparation for the hurricane preparedness was central; the leaders Overseas Countries and Territories Association Ministerial Conference, to be held in early from the British Virgin Islands and the Turks and (OCTA) in July. The purpose of the meeting 2019, the Executive Committee decided to Caicos Islands informed the meeting on the was to discuss how the UK OTs might be able commission a legal consultant to advise on progress towards recovery in their territories to remain connected to OCTA after Brexit. the various options available for continued and the measures that they are taking to Most of OCTA’s current members are the partnership with the British OTs. prepare for this year’s hurricane season. British OTs and their exit will prompt an array

2 Environmental issues Identity discussed at No.10 explored by OT students

The third UKOTA Student Conference has been confirmed for 3 November and will be held in the Flett Theatre at the Natural History Museum. The conference will focus on the theme of ‘Identity’ with the aim of showcasing the similarities and uniqueness of each of the Territories. A Film Festival will also be held, Overseas Territories students who are studying in the UK will produce 60 second videos highlighting three distinct aspects of their Territory’s identity. A mix of speakers will also provide insight on the subject of identity to inspire the students.

The conference aims to strengthen the relationships between the Overseas Territories by providing opportunities for their future UK Overseas Territory Representatives at No. 10 leaders to make lasting friendships. No.10 Downing Street was the setting in to deliver new marine protection to over May for an important discussion with Sir John four million square kilometres of OT ocean: Randall, the Prime Minister’s Special Adviser Representatives stressed that it must be locally for the Environment. UK OT Representatives controlled and based on sound science. The briefed Sir John on key issues affecting the meeting also explored post-Brexit funding for Territories, which house over 90% of the UK’s environment projects, and the threat to small biodiversity. The Blue Belt programme aims islands from climate change.

Foreign Affairs Select Committee inquiry

The Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Select z Representation of the OTs in the UK Committee has announced that it is and in the Commonwealth and other conducting a major inquiry into the future international fora; Eric Bush JP © GIGO of the UK’s Overseas Territories, especially z in the light of Brexit. Assets and liabilities (including but not limited to ecological richness and the effects UKOTA Chair The inquiry will look at how the Foreign Office of extreme weather, and natural resources manages its responsibility to ensure the security such as minerals and fish). Cayman Islands Representative, Eric Bush JP, and stability of the UK’s 14 Overseas Territories. was elected UKOTA Chair in February. The The Chairman of the Committee, Tom Premier of the Cayman Islands, Hon. Alden In particular, the Committee will take Tugendhat MP, in welcoming the inquiry said McLaughlin Jr., MBE JP MLA, is President of the evidence on: “The Overseas Territories have a special place UKOTA Political Council. in our Constitution, they are self-governing but z The governance of the OTs, including their part of the United Kingdom. As our place in Two main objectives of the year for the Chair adherence to human rights frameworks; the world changes, we need to think about the are to write a new Joint Position Paper that effect on them and whether the structure of seeks to enhance the relationship between the z The benefits to the UK and the OTs our relationships still works. The Committee will UK and its Overseas Territories, and to renew of the relationship between them; look at these distant parts of our community the Constitution of UKOTA. z The financing of the OTs; and look at how we work to support all our communities.”

3 BERMUDA

Hamilton © Bermuda Government Office

The FinTech Advantage

The Government of Bermuda is moving It is important to strike a balance, encouraging In order to provide banking services to prudently, and quickly, to make the island the innovation, protecting investors and managing Bermuda-based FinTech companies, the Banks leading FinTech regulated jurisdiction the inherent risks of a new industry. The Act and Deposit Companies Act was updated for digital assets. and the regulations address those concerns. this summer to create of a new class of banks. Innovative companies who are operating in How does an island of 21 square miles support Creating an environment for the FinTech the FinTech industry have found the greatest FinTech entrepreneurs in an age of economic industry to operate in Bermuda provides a challenges to be banking. Therefore Bermuda innovation, while protecting the interests of potential economic pillar, brings in new business, set out to find a solution. consumers and investors? The way forward has helps boost GDP and creates meaningful been to focus on creating and implementing jobs with opportunities for training and In addition to addressing the needs of this regulation for the industry, where none existed, retooling workers. developing industry, the Government is as the island has declared itself open for actively working to introduce a national E-ID Legitimate companies want stable jurisdictions business for the FinTech industry. System, upgrade Land Title Registration using that have a global standard of regulation. Within blockchain technology and develop a Bermuda Legislation has been introduced to regulate eight months of the Government’s creation FinTech Innovation Hub creating a think tank Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) and apply of a Blockchain Technology Task Force, 19 environment where innovation and creative appropriate protections for digital asset business. FinTech-related companies were incorporated solutions can germinate and thrive. in Bermuda, with an additional 24 in the process The way forward is to develop the structure of incorporation. The Bermuda Business Development Agency to support a well-regulated environment. This (BDA), provides a single point of contact helping includes rules for those raising funds through The financial services regulator, the Bermuda businesses to quickly and easier establish their ICOs and strong guidelines for the operation Monetary Authority (BMA), has been closely presence in Bermuda, connecting them with of digital asset businesses, protecting investors involved in ensuring the appropriate supervisory corporate service providers and a legal support and clients. environment is being established. The BMA team for the company registration is considered a ‘thought leader’ in the global ICO Regulations outline the requirements development of regulation. for ICOs and compliance guidance for those conducting ICOs.

4 British Virgin Islands

Change of UK Historic Gold for Gold Coast Representative Commonwealth Games

Benito Wheatley On 15 June the Territory welcomed home its completed his athletes who participated in the Gold Coast tenure as the BVI 2018 Commonwealth Games. There was a Government’s UK and parade to highlight the accomplishments of the EU Representative on athletes who made the Territory proud, including 15 June, after serving Kyron McMaster who secured the BVI’s first at the mission for Commonwealth Games Gold Medal in the seven years. During Team BVI at Gold Coast Commonwealth Games Men’s 400m hurdle event. his time in office he Benito Wheatley was instrumental in steering the Territory’s representation through critical matters including Brexit, the release of the Panama Papers and most recently, in Hurricane Irma relief efforts. Re-Elected Elise Donovan has been appointed as the as Vice Chair interim Representative and will serve in that of ECLAC capacity until a new Representative is The BVI has been re-elected as Vice Chair of Elvia Smith-Maduro with CDCC officials appointed in 2019. the Economic Commission for Latin America Ms. Donovan and the Caribbean’s Caribbean Development remarked “We are honoured to be re-elected previously served Cooperation Committee (CDCC), which serves Vice Chair of CDCC and look forward to Elise Donovan as the BVI’s as a permanent subsidiary body of the United supporting St. Lucia as Chair. We will also Representative in Hong Kong, where the Nations for the Caribbean. continue to advocate on behalf of other BVI has important trade links in the financial Associate Members, particularly those services industry. Most recently Ms. Donovan The election took place at the 27th Session recovering from hurricanes Irma and Maria. was instrumental in spearheading a two-week of the CDCC in St. Lucia during April. Deputy We will of course support CDCC efforts to trade mission led by BVI’s Premier to Hong Kong Secretary in the Premier’s Office, Mrs. Elvia find solutions to the external pressures facing and four other Asian cities in June. Smith-Maduro, representing the Territory the Caribbean’s finance centres.”

Territory Prepares for the 2018 Hurricane Season

After the many valuable lessons learned in the implemented through various ministries and focus is the readiness of telecommunications catastrophic 2017 Hurricane season, the territory coordinated by the Department of Disaster and emergency communications systems. A BVI has engaged in a series of hurricane preparedness Management. delegation recently attended a Communications exercises focusing on collaboration and and Emergencies workshop in Barbados, coordination across Government organisations A logistics support system has been established sponsored by the United Nations Children Fund. and departments, non-Government organisations to allow for efficient distribution of aid and and communities. assistance before, during and after disasters and a two-day workshop has been carried out to Premier Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando train persons to lead on the coordination of the Smith OBE, Ministers of Government and His humanitarian supply chain. Further to this, a series Excellency Governor Gus Jaspert are working of Community Emergency Response Training closely together on disaster preparedness. The workshops were held throughout the Territory Cabinet of the Virgin Islands recently approved covering areas such as basic search and rescue, just under $4 million to assist in the prioritisation damage assessment, first aid, shelter management Delegation to the Communications and Emergencies of the Disaster Readiness Program being and psychological support. Another area of Workshop, in Barbados

5 Cayman Islands

60th Anniversary of the Coat of Arms

Cayman Coat of Arms 60th Anniversary Reception ©Paul Griffiths Photography

This year Cayman celebrates the 60th Over 500 people including the Foreign Secretary, FCO and Durbar Court. A wall of photography anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II granting the Parliamentarians and senior officials from the UK showed guests all aspects of life, culture, history Islands its own Royal Coat of Arms on 14 May and other Overseas Territories attended. There and people from the Cayman Islands. In addition, 1958. In 2019 the Cayman Islands will celebrate was a large representation from the Cayman photographs of key milestones from each the Diamond Jubilee 60th anniversary of being Islands, Friends of Cayman, Cayman students and decade starting at 1958 to 2018 were on granted its first Constitution. businesses from the UK and internationally. display in a dedicated exhibition room to commemorate developments since the Coat Both Diamond Anniversary events are milestones A short film telling the story behind the Coat of Arms was granted. in the Cayman Islands’ relationship and continued of Arms was produced by CIGO UK and it will close ties to Britain. be used in future as material for educational and Swanky Kitchen Band then delivered a live information campaigns. Cayman inspired food The Cayman Islands Government Office in the performance. They delighted the audience and beverages were served to bring a real taste UK (CIGO UK) held a major celebratory event and got guests dancing with their own style of Cayman to the reception. on 14 May in the Durbar Court of the Foreign of indigenous Caymanian music which traces and Commonwealth Office. Cayman culture was on display throughout the its roots back to the British Isles.

The CIGO UK Brand Refresh with www.cigouk.ky

CIGO UK has undergone the first phase of a brand refresh with an ongoing effort to modernise the branding of its communications. The launch of the CIGO UK website www.cigouk.ky is a significant milestone in CIGO UK communications. Focusing on news and Caymanian culture and heritage in the UK, the site shares the work of CIGO UK throughout Europe and in Cayman. Key features of the new website include: an online gallery of videos showcasing the work of CIGO UK; the publication of news; a live twitter feed from Cayman Islands Representative in the UK Eric Bush, and a new Facebook page @cigouk.

56 Commonwealth Games 2018

The Cayman Islands has been competing in the Commonwealth Games since 1978, and a team of 21 athletes were proudly sent to the 2018 Commonwealth Games held in Australia in April. This was the 11th year of participation in the categories of athletics, boxing, cycling, gymnastics, shooting, squash and swimming. Whilst no Cayman Islands medals were won at the Games, it was indeed a celebration amongst Commonwealth countries and fellow Overseas Territories.

Team Cayman

Cayman Connection UK Celebrates Finding Walters 5th Anniversary and Bawdens

The Cayman Islands Government Office in the UK launched two campaigns this year to find relatives of ‘Walter’ and ‘Bawden’ two of the first settlers in the Cayman Islands more than 360 years ago, in 1658. The two first settlers of our previously uninhabited tropical paradise are believed to be a man called ‘Walter’ and a man called Youth, parents and other Caymanians, The event also featured developments from ‘Bawden’ – both said to have been members participated in a happy, fascinating and the search for relatives of the first settlers, of Cromwell’s forces in the West Indies. Their enlightening event to celebrate the fifth including attendance by a family visiting from names subsequently morphed into ‘Watler’ and anniversary of Cayman Connection UK the US who are directly related to the first ‘Bodden’, which to this day are prevalent family in Cayman in July. settler, Walter, and a fascinating talk from Olivaire names on the Islands. Watler about DNA research into blood lines Aspiring students in the UK networked and The search for relatives of Cayman’s first settlers of the first settlers. learnt about how to prepare for and then is part of a campaign to raise the awareness, navigate the UK scene when they take up knowledge and understanding of the 360-year residence there for further education. relationship that exists between the Cayman Islands, Cornwall and Wales specifically, and Britain as a whole.

7 Falkland Islands

Brexit implications Islands Government) and the Hon. As part of the Government’s Brexit Teslyn Barkman MLA, portfolio engagement strategy, an economic impact holder for Fisheries. assessment has been undertaken looking at The delegation met with MEPs various scenarios resulting from the UK leaving Richard Ashworth, John Flack, the EU with a poor deal or no deal. Specifically, Verónica Lope Fontagne, Ashley this assessment looks at the impact of WTO Fox, Clara Eugenia Aguilera Most Favoured Nation (MFN) tariffs being Garcia, Ian Hudghton, Seán imposed on the Islands’ meat and fish Falkland Islands seafood exports that enter Kelly, Rupert Matthews, Baroness exports to the EU. the EU via Spain, before being distributed Mobarik CBE and Ruza Tomasic. within Europe and globally. The tariffs for current fish exports range from Image: ©Loligo Seafood. Brexit and trade will be a major focus on the 6 – 18% and for meat 12.8%, plus an amount Islands’ stand at the UK Party Conferences this of around €155 per 100kg, depending on the September and October. cut. This equates to an average meat tariff of or quota barriers would have a detrimental 42%. Such a scenario is estimated to result in impact on the economy and taxation revenues, The EU has also historically recognised immediate losses of up to £9 million for the damaging the Government’s ability to deliver and supported the strategic importance Islands’ fishing industry and would make all essential public services and to invest in critical of the wildlife and environments of the meat exports to the EU unviable. infrastructure for the future growth of the Islands. Overseas Territories through an instrument called Biodiversity & Ecosystem Services in Falkland Islands seafood exports that enter the This compelling research highlights the fact that Territories of Europe Overseas (BEST). This EU via Spain, before being distributed within the fishing industry is responsible, on average, aims to support the remarkable wildlife in the Europe and globally. for 41% of Falklands’ GDP and in 2016, for two- Territories of EU Member States. We therefore thirds of corporation tax receipts. It also makes To highlight the concerns, a series of meetings look to the UK to match the current BEST EU clear the importance of agriculture to local took place in Brussels at the end of April with funding to UK Overseas Territories of at least employment – combined with wool production UK, Irish, Croatian and Spanish MEPs, who £1 million per year. Any shortfall will be sorely and exports, the agricultural sector is the second have specialist fishing interests. The delegation felt by some of the most vulnerable largest employer. was formed of representatives of the Falkland ecosystems in the world. Given that one-third of meat and 94% of all Islands Fishing Companies Association (FIFCA), fish is exported to the EU, any post Brexit tariff Richard Hyslop (Senior Policy Adviser, Falkland

Business is Extensive infrastructure booming programme announced

The biannual Business Climate Survey, The Government has set out an ambitious Already contracted is One Creative conducted by the Falkland Islands Development programme to deliver significant capital and Environments Ltd. from Worcester, UK, Corporation, shows a significant increase in infrastructure projects over the next five who are extending and modernising the King business numbers and confidence in the Islands years. The plans include a new power station, Edward VII Memorial Hospital and designing since 2016. The survey completed by around half development of a new port, improvements to and project-managing a new vulnerable persons the businesses reveals that 22 new companies the Mount Pleasant Airport passenger terminal, unit in Stanley. have been established in the past two years. a new vulnerable persons unit and expansion Growth is primarily in the tourism, construction, of the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital. The retail, fishing and the business services sectors. Government will also continue to expand the This almost equals the 24 start-ups in the ongoing roads and house-building schemes. In preceding five years. The growth in confidence addition to offering local job opportunities, the is also borne out in financial returns with a 9% ambitious development programme will require increase in companies turning over more than overseas construction labour. This programme is £100,000 per annum. separate to any future hydrocarbon development, but will assist such schemes if they go ahead. The planned design of the vulnerable persons unit in Stanley. © ONE Creative Environments Ltd.

8 Gibraltar

The Force is Strong with new Skywalk

Mark Hamill, the actor who plays Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars film series, opened the Skywalk at the top of the Rock of Gibraltar in March. Standing 340 metres directly above sea level, the Skywalk is higher than the tallest point of London’s The Shard.

The Skywalk offers breath-taking 360º views spanning three countries and two continents and is set to become Gibraltar’s Mark Hamill and the Chief Minister on the Skywalk premier tourist attraction, with links to other sites within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve including the thrilling Windsor Suspension Bridge and the famous Apes’ Den, via a series of walking trails. Gibunco

Built on the foundations of an existing Gibraltar WWII base structure, the Skywalk is designed to withstand wind speeds of over 150km/hour International and can carry the weight of 340 people standing on it at the same time – although visitor numbers Literary will be limited to 50 at any one time. The floor and balustrade panels are made up of four layers Festival 2018 Deputy Chief Minister Dr Joseph Garcia addresses the 2017 Festival of laminated glass (with a total thickness of around 4.2cm). Laid out side-by-side, the 42 glass In November, the fifth International Literary and journalism, to history, travel, food and 2 panels would cover more than 750m , roughly Festival, sponsored by shipping and property the world with guest speakers such as the equivalent of four tennis courts. The walkway company Gibunco, will be hosted on the Rock, Nicholas Parsons, Dr Bettany Hughes, Jonny is 2.5m wide and projects a maximum of 6.7m where world-class writers and speakers come Ball and Lord Peter Hennessy, to name a few. from the main structural support point. 70m of together for four days of public events, staged Gilbert Licudi QC, Minister for Tourism said, rock anchors and 30,000kg of steel secure the in the famous Regency Garrison Library and “The Festival is now established as a benchmark Skywalk to the Rock. other historic buildings within the walled for others in the English speaking world and the and ancient City of Gibraltar. Government is committed in its support Flanked by Boogie Storm, the dance group of this magnificent event.” famous for their tight routines, performed in The four day event will feature talks and iconic Stormtrooper outfits, Mr Hamill officially events covering everything from literature declared the Skywalk open. Ceremonially cutting the red ribbon with a ‘lightsabre’, Mr Hamill announced: “the Force is strong with the Skywalk”. The Chief Minister, the Hon Fabian Picardo QC, joined Mr Hamill at Swimming Success for the official opening. Mr Picardo commented: “I am delighted to welcome Mark Hamill to Local Open Water Swimmer Gibraltar for a very special inauguration of the Local open water swimmer, Nathan Payas, a double swim round the Rock passing through Skywalk. At the top of the Rock of Gibraltar the has been congratulated on becoming the first ‘jellyfish alley’ twice! In July, Nathan won the 20 Skywalk will serve as a stunning attraction for Gibraltarian swimmer to complete Open Water Bridges Race around Manhattan Island, covering years to come, and it is only fitting that Mr Hamill, Swimming’s Triple Crown – he has now swum a course of 46 km in a time of 7 hours and best known as ‘Luke Skywalker’ himself, should the Catalina Channel in California, the English 21 minutes. This was a particularly creditable take the first steps.” Channel and the Twenty Bridges Challenge performance as, during his training weeks, he around Manhattan. Nathan has also swam to suffered an injury to his ribs which limited his Africa and back across the Strait of Gibraltar preparations in the run-up to the race. when, as part of his training he completed

9 Montserrat

Lord Ahmad Joint visit by Armed Forces explores ideas Minister and RFA Mounts Bay for Island’s The Right Honourable The Minister said he was “delighted to have this Mark Lancaster MP, and opportunity both to visit Montserrat, and see development Royal Fleet Auxiliary first-hand the support that the UK is providing The Minister of State for the Overseas (RFA) Mounts Bay both through the presence of RFA Mounts Bay. His Territories at the Foreign and Commonwealth visited the Island at the Excellency the Governor also welcomed the Office (FCO), Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, end of July, as part of Minister’s visit and RFA Mounts Bay.” Captain visited Montserrat on 31 May and 1 June as the UK Government’s Peter Selby, the ship’s Commanding Officer, part of a week-long visit to the region. preparedness for the said “RFA Mounts Bay is no stranger to forthcoming hurricane Mark Lancaster MP Montserrat following a successful visit in August Lord Ahmad, who was hosted by His Excellency season. the Governor Andrew Pearce during the two 2017” He added “for me, and many of the ship’s day visit, met the Premier, Government ministers The Armed Forces Minister arrived early on company this is our first visit and I am looking and senior officials. The Minister also met local 26 July for one day. In addition to meeting the forward to seeing and hearing about all the work business leaders to explore ideas for developing Hon. Premier Donaldson Romeo and Cabinet that has been done to prepare for the season, and diversifying Montserrat’s private sector members, the Minister met with key safety while also enjoying some of Montserrat’s famous economy when he was joined by a business and security agencies and was able to see the hospitality, which our predecessors have talked delegation from the UK. The Minister was also capabilities that RFA Mounts Bay can provide. so much about.” keen to hear about the Island’s preparedness for the forthcoming hurricane season and discussed what further assistance may be needed. The Minister attended the formal commissioning and dedication of the MV Heliconia Star, the long- awaited new Royal Montserrat Police Service vessel purchased by the FCO. Chevening Scholarship Crew RFA Mounts Bay with children at summer school © HM Governor’s Office, Montserrat Three young Montserratians have been awarded the prestigious Chevening Scholarship for Link with Antigua to promote Eco-tours the academic year 2018/ 2019. The On 31 July the Governments of Montserrat Day Pompeii’ on Montserrat, along with a list Governor’s Office and Antigua and Barbuda signed a memorandum of other excursions in Antigua. announced that Ms of understanding (MOU) to include passenger Mrs. Daphne Cassell said, “The signing of the Jamiel Melissa Greenaway, currently working in the eco-excursions to Montserrat, as part of the MOU will be instrumental in advancing the Attorney General’s office will be studying for an list of activities offered to cruise line clients who LLM in Banking and Finance Law at Queen Mary visit Antigua. Premier’s vision and the efforts of the Tourism University London. The two other awardees are Division for an established tourism partnership Ms Tanisha Christopher of ZJB Radio, who will be The MOU was signed in Antigua and Barbuda with Antigua and Barbuda, and is expected to studying for a MA in Global Communication and by the Permanent Secretary in the Office of result in an increase in the number of day tour Development at Loughborough University, and the Premier (Montserrat), Daphne Cassell and passengers to the Island.” Ms Deidre Allen based at Environmental Health the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Mr. Walter Christopher noted that there has who will be completing a MSc in International Tourism and Investment (Antigua and Barbuda) been a strong relationship between Montserrat Development – Environment Climate Change Walter Christopher, on behalf of their respective and Development at the University of Manchester. Governments. and Antigua and Barbuda over the years. He said, His Excellency the Governor, in offering warm “We will continue to facilitate our cooperative congratulations said “This Island has been sending The MOU took effect from 1 August for a period relationship through this tourism partnership. scholars to the UK to study since the 80s and of two years. Under the agreement, cruise lines Historically we have had a good relationship this is the first time we have received three that regularly visit Antigua will promote the with Montserrat and we will continue to do Chevening Scholarships in one year.” ‘Eco-excursion tour to the Caribbean Modern what it takes to nurture it.”

10 Pitcairn

Recycling project

On remote islands, as anywhere else, the accumulation and disposal of waste products can become a problem, but thanks to an EU Pacific Regional funded project, recycling issues on Pitcairn are now being addressed.

Funding provided under the European Development Fund (EDF) 10 Regional Programme INTEGRE is a collaborative arrangement with Pitcairn and their EU Pacific friends, French Polynesia, New Caledonia and Wallis and Fortuna, with Pitcairn’s involvement focussing on recycling of waste products and prevention of soil erosion. Recycling plant under construction To combat soil erosion on the eastern side of the islands, as a result of predominantly easterly opportunities to recycle items such as glass, innovative recycling opportunities, turning winds, the project supplied matting, netting and plastics, clothing and machine parts. Households bottles into jewellery, ornaments and souvenirs. four temporary workers from Tahiti to assist with will be provided with colour coded bins in order the installation. A botanical garden has also been to sort their waste and non recyclable waste is The community are now looking at ways to funded under the project to showcase Pitcairn’s now compacted rather than burnt. One of the innovatively reduce waste. Michelle Christian, many endemic plants. chippers provided under the INTEGRE project Divisional Manager of Pitcairn’s Environmental, will enable collected plastics to be shredded and Conservation and Natural Resources Division, To assist with recycling, the project has provided used in areas such as road surfacing. stated that “Recycling is increasing awareness a waste management centre, a number of of protecting our environment and involving chippers and machines to break down waste The project also provided a glass blowing facility the community in the project.” into reusable components, and to provide and an expert to teach the community to create

Plastic invasion

Tackling plastics as we know can be a major problem, one of the groups uninhabited outer islands, Henderson Island, has, given the tides, currents and prevailing winds, accumulated an estimated 19 tons of plastic on the east beach and a major clean up is now planned on this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The clean up crew will be largely volunteers and Pitcairn Islanders, on a chartered vessel, and is planned to take place in 2019. The project is being funded by the Pew Trust with support from the FCO and other NGOs.

One of the chippers provided under the The accumulated plastic INTEGRE project will enable collected plastics rubbish on the east beach and a pristine beach on to be taken to Pitcairn, shredded and re used. Henderson island Henderson is home to five species of endemic birds and an important breeding ground for the green turtle, which is under threat.

11 St Helena

Committed to the ‘Green’ Agenda

GLOBAL AWARD FOR ENERGY The Island is working towards becoming 100% self-sufficient through renewable St Helena has won the ‘Greening the energy by April 2022. This will be achieved Islands’ award for Energy with their project through a mixed model of renewable ‘100% Renewable St Helena.’ The award energy production and storage, and was announced at the Greening the a targeted strategy to reduce demand Islands Conference held in Menorca through greener and more efficient in May this year. products and practices. The award comes after a bid submission by St Helena’s strategy for 100% renewable St Helena Government, Connect Saint Helena energy will make the Island a leader among Ltd and Enterprise St Helena recognising the UK Overseas Territories. Using a combination work to create a 100% renewable energy of solar, wind and storage, St Helena intends system on the Island. to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, with their St Helena was one of three winners and high import costs and volatile market prices. infrastructure and reduce imports. was unanimously supported by an expert The renewable energy project will achieve international jury of technicians and policy a reduction in the importation of diesel, and St Helena remains committed to the use of makers and voting by an online community aligns with the Island’s Sustainable Economic green technology and developing the Island of participants who joined the conference online. Development Plan 2018-2028 goals to improve sustainably.

New Recycling and Plastic Monitoring Scheme

St Helena has secured funding and support from St Helena Government’s Director of the UK Government for a new scheme to reduce Environment & Natural Resources, and monitor plastic pollution on the Island. Derek Henry, said: The grant of £72,000 will be used to establish “This project provides a fantastic opportunity for St Helena to become involved in reducing the a monitoring and education programme which amount of plastic that enters our marine ecosystem. aims to reduce the amount of plastic entering the It will involve the whole community and will educate marine ecosystem, establish plastic recycling, and and set up the processes for monitoring and reduce the cost of waste disposal. reducing plastic waste to create a better marine The project - ‘Sustainably managing plastic environment around our Island.” waste on St Helena to minimise marine debris’ Beach Clean-Up at Shark’s Valley EMD Environmental Risk Manager, - will be delivered in partnership between Mike Durnford, added: the Marine Section of the Environmental “We’re committed to helping our customers Management Division’s (EMD) and Waste keep St Helena clean. This project, designed to Management Services (WMS), the Saint Helena raise awareness on the negative impact of marine National Trust, and SHAPE – St Helena’s debris and enable innovative recycling and reuse Active Participation in Enterprise – a non-profit of plastics on-Island, is a hugely exciting milestone organisation that provides a support environment in our sustainability journey and in line with Waste for vulnerable adults to develop their skills Management Services’ mission statement of for employment. ‘working in partnership with customers for a cleaner and greener St Helena’. Community engagement, The aims of the project are to: to responsibly dispose of plastic waste, is critical for the project to be successful.” z Establish a marine debris monitoring programme along St Helena’s coastline. St Helena National Trust Marine Manager, Beth Taylor, concluded: z Monitor the use of single use plastic on-Island “We are thrilled to be part of this wave of change and how much of this enters St Helena’s Collecting plastic debris at Sandy Bay Beach on St Helena. This collaborative project is ambitious, waters. innovative, and wide reaching in its scope and it z Educate and raise awareness of marine debris z Purchase dedicated bins for plastic recycling shows just how committed the Island is to tackling and its negative impact. for distribution around the Island. marine debris. I can’t wait to see the physical evolution of plastics, from marine debris to useful z Locally manufacture plastic recycling z Promote and incentivise innovative reuses and unique items, developed by the wonderfully equipment. of plastics on-Island. creative community at SHAPE.”

12 Tristan da Cunha

Two centuries of sharing Blue Belt: driven by sound science, locally owned

Rhyanna Swain, Janice Green and Jade Repetto are shown the precious document by the British Library’s William Frame. Stoloteuthis leucoptera, also known as the butterfly bobtail squid, caught in a midwater trawl over the Tristan seamounts © CEFAS Three students from the world’s remotest Good progress has been made towards the community have come face to face with declaration of new environmental protection the document that established their for Tristan’s vast ocean zone. Island’s special way of life.

Rhyanna Swain, Janice Green and Jade With support from the UK Government, Repetto are the first Tristanians in a Tristan da Cunha is on track to launch the generation to come to the UK for ‘A’-level regime by 2020. The aim is to combine world- study. A highlight of their first year at class ocean stewardship with the certified college has been a trip to the British Library sustainable fisheries that account for around in London, to mark the 200th anniversary 90% of the Island’s economy. A workshop in of the founding of the Atlantic island’s London during July brought together the Tristan civilian community. Three men elected to Government, environment campaigners and key remain on Tristan when a British military UK agencies. They studied the results of fresh garrison withdrew, and signed a remarkable scientific research into the marine ecology of the document committing to a mutually- Tristan da Cunha zone. This will provide baseline supportive lifestyle. William Glass led the data for the protected ocean area. It also brought trio, and each of the girls is his distant to light some unseen ‘creatures of the deep’ that became the stars of a summer exhibition descendant. He committed the Tristan The students being interviewed on the London Eye pioneers to share goods, livestock, costs and at the Natural History Museum. profits equally, and stated that none should ‘assume any superiority whatever, but all to be considered as equal in every respect’.

Two centuries later, William’s ideas still influence Harbour work pays tourist dividend life on Tristan. Precious grazing land is shared between households, fresh produce is gifted Work to deepen Tristan’s tiny Calshot to neighbours, and tasks such as major house Harbour has already paid dividends. The 32,000 repairs are a communal enterprise. tonne cruise ship Seabourn Sojourn has made a maiden visit to the Island, and became the The three young Tristanians were filmed by first to deliver passengers ashore using its own BBC TV on their visit to London. They won’t tenders. The Island’s population more than forget their encounter with the community’s doubled that day, and hundreds of visitors will founding document, and will do their bit to carry memories of a friendly welcome back continue the special ethos of their Island. to their homes around the world. www.tristandc.com © Colette Halter-Pernet

13 Turks and Caicos Islands

Rebuilding after hurricanes Irma and Maria

The Islands are on the path to rebuilding after the devasting effects of hurricanes Irma and Maria, that damaged every island in the chain in September 2017.

(L-R) Deputy Governor, Hon. Anya Williams; His Excellency the Governor, Dr. John Freeman; Capt. Peter Selby; In rebounding from these events, the Premier of the TCI, Hon. Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson Government has seized the opportunity to rebuild a stronger and more resilient TCI from an infrastructural and social perspective. RFA Mounts Bay Visits To meet this objective a National Recovery Task Force has been formed to strategically On 27 June RFA Mounts Bay visited Grand Mounts Bay’s Humanitarian Assistance and manage the recovery process. Turk, as part of the continuing UK hurricane Disaster Relief (HADR) troops carried out preparedness and assistance in the region. The a range of hurricane preparedness tasks on This Task Force, which is comprised of a cross- crew met with His Excellency the Governor the Islands, including work at the Customs Yard section of representatives from the public and Dr. John Freeman, Premier Hon. S. Cartwright- and testing of DDME radio equipment. private sectors, will coordinate inter-agency, local, Robinson, and Deputy Governor Hon. Anya regional and international actions and Williams, as well as the Director of the During their visit to the Island, the troops resourcing arrangements, to efficiently and Department of Disaster Management and were able to discuss with the local officials, TCI’s effectively manage all recovery aid in a prudent, Emergencies (DDME), Dr. Virginia Clerveaux readiness for this hurricane season and how the transparent and accountable manner. This body and had a site visit of the Jags McCartney UK may be able to support local efforts in the will approach the nation’s recovery in a manner International Airport in Grand Turk. event of another hurricane hitting the Islands. that is cohesive, holistic, cost-efficient and avoids waste and duplication of efforts over the next four years. International military share best practice

Participants of CRIOC and Turks and Caicos delegates.

Ahead of the hurricane season, the Royal Turks and the Netherlands, to coordinate hurricane and Caicos Islands Police Force, in partnership response and collaboration in the region. Rebuilding the hospital with DDME, hosted a meeting of the Caribbean Region Information Operations Council The discussions, spanning four days, examined (CRIOC). CRIOC is an unique organisation the strengths and limitations of the members that integrates military personnel from the and how they can better coordinate during United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Bahamas the upcoming hurricane season.

14 Unique biodiversity of the Overseas Territories

Ascension Island Turtle Bermuda Cedar Tree

Cayman Islands Blue Iguana

Pitcairn Islands Breadfruit Tree

Montserrat Volcano

Tristan da Cunha Albatross

Global Data Protection as you have expressed an interest in the z request to be added to our mailing list Regulations (GDPR) Overseas Territories. More details about this and our full privacy In May 2018 new Data Protection Regulations Please email us at: [email protected] policy can be found at www.ukota.org/ became legislation. if you would like to: privacypolicy The General Data Protection Regulation z find out what information we hold and Please visit our website www.ukota.org (GDPR) affects how we are able to where and how it is stored for more information on each of the communicate with our readers. z make amendments to the data we hold Overseas Territories. If you have received this newsletter in the post, z request to be removed from our mailing list we hold your postal information electronically z request for your data to be deleted Member Territories & Contacts

6 2 11 7 54 3

1 9 8

1 ASCENSION ISLAND 4 CAYMAN ISLANDS 6 GIBRALTAR 8 PITCAIRN ISLANDS 11 TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS Ascension Island Council Mr Eric Bush JP Mr. Dominique Searle MBE Leslie Jaques OBE Ms Tracy Knight Tel: +(00) 247 66836 UK Representative/Director United Kingdom Representative Portfolio Holder International Relations United Kingdom Representative Email: [email protected] Cayman Islands Government Office H.M. Government of Gibraltar, Pitcairn Islands Council, Turks and Caicos Islands 34 Dover St, St. James’s, 150 Strand, London WC2R 1JA Pitcairn Islands Office Government Office 2 BERMUDA London W1S 4NG Tel: +44 (0)20 7836 0777 P.O. Box 105 696 Auckland, 83 Baker Street, London W1U 6AG Ms Kimberley Durrant Tel: + 44 (0)20 7491 7772 Fax: +44 (0)20 7240 6612 New Zealand Tel: +44 207 034 7845 United Kingdom Representative Fax: +44 (0)20 7491 7944 Email: [email protected] Tel: +64 9 366 0186 Email: [email protected] Government of Bermuda London Office Email: [email protected] www.gibraltar.gov.uk Fax: +64 9 366 0187 www.gov.tc 6 Arlington Street, London SW1A 1RE www.cigouk.ky Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0)20 7518 9900 The Hon Fabian Picardo QC MP Sharlene Cartwright-Robinson MP 9 SAINT HELENA Fax: +44 (0)20 7518 9901 The Hon. Alden M McLaughlin, Chief Minister of Gibraltar Premier and Minister of Health, Mrs. Kedell Worboys MBE Email: [email protected] Jr. MBE, JP, MLA 6 Convent Place, Gibraltar Agriculture and Human Services United Kingdom Representative [email protected] Premier and Minister of Home Affairs, Tel: +350 200 70071 Office of the Premier Government of St Helena Health and Culture Fax: +350 200 76396 NJS Francis Building The Hon. David Burt JP, MP Alliance House, 12 Caxton Street, Government Administration Bldg, Email: [email protected] Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands Premier London SW1H 0QS Box 131, Grand Cayman KY1-9000 www.gibraltar.gov.gi Tel: +001(649) 338 5745 Cabinet Office, 105 Front Street Cayman Islands Tel: +44 (0)203 818 7610 7 Email: [email protected] Hamilton HM12 Bermuda Tel: (345) 949-7900 ext. 2454 MONTSERRAT Email: [email protected] Tel: +1 441 292 5501 Email: [email protected] Mrs. Janice Panton MBE Fax: +1 441 292 8397 United Kingdom Representative HE Lisa Honan, Governor www.gov.ky The Castle, Jamestown, St Helena Island Email: [email protected] Government of Montserrat UKOTA Secretary, Ms Kate Kandiah, Tel: +290 22555 www.gov.bm 5 FALKLAND ISLANDS 52 Grosvenor Gardens, c/o Cayman Islands Government Office, Fax: +290 22598 Mrs. Sukey Cameron MBE London SW1W 0AU 34 Dover Street, London W1S 4NG 3 BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS Email: [email protected] United Kingdom Representative Tel: +44 (0)20 7487 8233 Tel + 44 207 491 7772 Elise Donovan Falkland Islands Government Office Fax: +44 (0)20 7487 8235 www.sainthelena.gov.sh Interim Representative Email: [email protected] Falkland House, 14 Broadway, London Email: [email protected] 10 TRISTAN DA CUNHA BVI London Office, SW1H 0BH The Hon. Donaldson Romeo Mr Chris Carnegy British Virgin Islands Government Tel: +44 (0)20 7222 2542 The Premier, Government of Montserrat United Kingdom Representative 15 Upper Grosvenor Street, Fax: +44 (0)20 7222 2375 PO Box 292, Brades, Montserrat Government of Tristan da Cunha London W1K 7PJ Email: [email protected] Tel: +44 (0)20 7355 9570 Tel: +1 664 491 3463 29 Hulse Road, Salisbury SP1 3LU Fax: +44 (0)20 7355 9575 Mrs. Cherie Clifford Fax: +1 664 491 6780 Tel: +44 (0)7768 622245 Email: [email protected] Clerk of the Legislative Assembly Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.gov.ms Office of the Legislative Assembly Mr Ian Lavarello, Chief Islander Dr. the Hon. D. Orlando Smith OBE Gilbert House, Ross Road, Stanley, Premier 1 Hillside Road Falkland Islands FIQQ 1ZZ Edinburgh of the Seven Seas Administration Complex Tel: +500 27451 Fax: +500 27456 Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands Tristan da Cunha Email: [email protected] South Atlantic Ocean TDCU 1ZZ Tel: +1 284 494 3701 www.falklands.gov.fk Fax: +1 284 494 Tel: +44 (0)203 014 5043 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.bvi.gov.vg www.tristandc.com

We welcome your feedback on the UKOTA newsletter. If you would like to receive the newsletter by email or share feedback, please contact us on [email protected] Please visit our website at www.ukota.org