Members of Cabinet met on Thursday August 4, 2022 and discussed a number of matters of national importance as follows:
UNITED NATIONS (UN) MULTI-COUNTRY SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT COOPORATION FRAMEWORK
Cabinet noted that during the upcoming week, a meeting with the United Nations (UN) team would take place to provide assistance with setting the framework for the SDGs that would fit into the Sustainable Development Plan (SDP).
FINANCIAL AID MISSION (FAM)
Cabinet noted that the date of the next Financial Aid Mission (FAM) was scheduled for 5 December 2022 for a duration of three (3) days.
VISIT OF HMS PROTECTOR
Cabinet noted that the HMS Protector would arrive in Montserrat for two weeks from 5 to 20 August 2022 and the Joint Forces Head Quarters team – (JFHQ) would arrive next week.
PRESENTATION: JOINT NATURE CONSERVATION COMMITTEE (JNCC) ON OVERSEAS TERRITORY (OT) BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY
Cabinet expressed appreciation to the four (4) member team of the JNCC to sensitize Cabinet on their work, in an effort to gain support for the programme. The team comprised:
- Ms Amanda Gregory – JNCC Project Manager;
- Dr Jane Hawkridge – JNCC Programme Manager;
- Ms Shelley Cant – JNCC International Biodiversity Officer; and
- Ms Sarah Valenti – JNCC International Biodiversity Officer.
Cabinet noted that the programme was designed to cover a three (3) year period to provide support in the development of the Biodiversity Strategy, that had linkages to the DARWIN Conservation Project.
Cabinet noted the concept being proposed and the aims of the workshop, which was planned for 17 and 18 August 2022, on island.
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
Cabinet noted the request for a status update on the award of scholarships considering that some students were expected to commence classes at the end of August and were growing anxious. The Governor would follow up on the matter.
RECOGNITION FOR PAST MEMBERS OF THE RMDF
Cabinet noted that an update was requested on the status of recognition for persons who had provided service as Members of the Royal Montserrat Defence Force (RMDF) and in other Service areas. It was noted that papers for Cabinet to consider should be submitted, by the relevant departments, as follows:
- Award for service during the volcanic crisis – Office of the Deputy Governor; and
- Service Award – National Honours and Awards (new category) –Office of the Premier
VISIT OF UK HEALTH AMBASSADOR
Cabinet noted that the UK Health Ambassador, Professor Ian Cummings, would arrive on island on Sunday, 7 August 2022 and would meet with the Governor and Premier during his visit.
UK HEALTH QUOTA
Cabinet noted with appreciation, that following a period of lobbying by the Overseas Territories (OT), confirmation was recently received that the number of health places had been increased from four (4) to ten (10).
ABSENCE
Cabinet noted that the Attorney General would proceed on vacation leave during 10 August to 2 September 2022. Ms. Jamiel Greenaway would cover the position during the period of absence.