Hon. Donaldson Romeo
Montserrat’s leader of the opposition the Hon. Donaldson Romeo on December 27, 2012 took the opportunity to hold what he referred to as “meaningful consultations”, with Montserratians who were on island for festival 50 celebrations. He said the primary aim of the meeting was to get their view on the Montserrat’s redevelopment process: “I have been asked repeatedly to do something to give Montserratians a chance to air their views…”
He asserted that the meeting was also sort to allow Montserratians in the Diaspora to suggest ways in which they can contribute to the island as he (Romeo) believes that Montserratians in the Diaspora have a critical role to play in the islands future. “I want you to get out of this meeting at least the understanding at least form the opposition point of view that you especially those who are visiting Montserrat will play a very important role in what happens in our future for Montserrat,” he said.
Romeo told the small gathering whom he especially thanked for showing as he did not expect a crowd because the meeting was planned at short notice. He said, that they in the Disaspora can supply a lobby, “such a lobby of course would be in support of the government of Montserrat when…government negotiates with our main aid donor Britain and whatever other agencies there are…”
The audience
One major level of concern expressed by the gathering was the high level of imports into the island with nothing being exported. They were concerned about the level of local investment opportunities, and how locals will be able to benefit from the ongoing Little Bay and Carrs Bay town and port development.
One person present believes that the access problem for Montserrat should be solved, not by giving subsidies but allowing competition. He said, “says competition and not subsidies would help alleviate the island’s transportation problems…You can use the money for other things enhancing the airport for instance, using the money to expand the sea port get better facilities also,” adding, the government needs to decide that it needs both air and sea access which I think is the access strategy…”
The meeting lasted over two hours with several presentations of comments, suggestions and expression of concerns by the visitors. One media brother called for there to be a strong and effective media in Montserrat. “We need the media, a vibrant watchdog in Montserrat to hold their (government) feet to the fire.”
The Legislative Assembly member closed the meeting by calling on persons present especially those who presented to make a difference and do something about the promises and statements made during the meeting.
