THE FRAMEWORK: A MECHANISM FOR BETTER GOVERNMENT ON ANGUILLA

His Excellency Governor Harrison summery: 

"... moral responsibilities are linked to fiscal responsibility"

The underline principle behind the British’s insistence that the Framework for Fiscal Responsibility be applied as a mechanism within government is a good thing for the people of Anguilla. It demands the transparency that is so much talked about, and insists on proper application of discretion in the execution of business in the interest of the people. It gives the people the right to know! Reasons given for the standoff by Mr. Hughes are not coherent with the implied theory of good governance, which should be a justifiable motivation for the Chief Minister to willingly comply and sign the document. There is much talk of the intricacies and complexity of coming to “a decision” to sign or not to! What is very telling is that a document very similar in nature has been signed by the other remaining Territories of Great Britain in the region. Why Anguilla finds this document so offensive and detrimental to the future of the Island is not a convincing argument the Chief Minister is bringing to the people and therefore fails to generate enough enthusiasm to respond to the British with a resounding “NO!” Time is now running out! And Mr. Hughes is locked into a decision of principle which is to compromise on his adamant position of not signing!

The Chief Minister is an experienced politician and knows the British cynicism of his brand of government, so the question must be asked why Mr. Hughes confined himself to an option-less position? This document upholds the credibility, and guarantees continuity of responsibility in government. In a case such as the airport project the framework ensures that unforeseeable circumstances are substantially mitigated, and accountability is assured. It becomes the responsibility of any incoming government, not to wash their hands, but provide a documented account of the project even though not executed under their watch, but as government they become responsible to the people to provide the information as to what actually transpired, whether through inquiries or a documented account of the financial responsibility. Mr. Hughes apparently feels that the framework leaves him in less control, but in the mind of the British the onus is put directly on government to execute in good order, and be good stewards of the people’s business. Bear in mind that the official term of a government in Anguilla is five years, and not a life time! So what this Government finds offensive might not be a factor in two years. There is really nothing acute about the document more than what it says. It literally locks the government in a business attitude for the responsibility of the country, and anyone seeking office should pay attention, there is no more free ride in the government of Anguilla. Government must act, and execute responsibly, and answer to the people, with the British watching every move. 

The Hon. Edison Baird: "I am standing alone...this time"

Finally some level of oversight will bring our government into real subjection in how they handle the business of the people. Under the FFR, government must give a clear outline how they intend to spend the people’s money, why the project is necessary, and prove that the company doing the project is capable in that field; and then, report clearly with absolute accounting of how the money was spent! And if the guidelines are followed, there would be no need for lengthy and cumbersome investigations into matters of government, it must be brought out in a report that is required as part of the framework, which the British would have oversight. The British remains adamant, and apparently will not concede to any of the logic of the Chief Minister. Whether or not there had been an agreement in principle since 2011 is indicative to the content of the letter to Mr. Hughes of March 6th 2013 when it was expected that by June 2012 the framework would have been implemented. It appears that the British Minister thought that in principle he had a common agreement with Mr. Hughes which he wanted to take to the final stage; it now appears that Mr. Hughes has back peddled on finalizing the agreement.

Chief Minister's "Influential Peddlers" discuss options 

Clearly, Mr. Hughes’s decision not to sign is political and come to bear with pressure from within his political
circles, some who believe that signing this document diminishes our independence, which they believe we already have. The recent consultative session has not brought out any distinct course, what it revealed was that the people are expecting their government to embrace the full responsibility of governing the country, and decisions such as these are precisely why capable people must be elected. Such responsibility should be thrashed out in the executive corridors of government with the appropriate constitutional legal advice and that of the technocrats of government, but hiding under the shadow of technicality appears to be default position by the elected government. The so called technocrats should not carry the political responsibility of this decision; it must be left to the discretion and executive responsibility of those elected by the people. Our government should not be throwing around careless remarks and insinuations of defeat because on the responsibility it should embrace. The onus of effective governance lies fully with the elected government of the people, as such the Framework for Fiscal Responsibility guarantees the people of Anguilla better government.

By: Elliott  J. Harrigan

ANOTHER FIFA SCANDAL

Lto R: His Excellency Governor Harrison - president of the
 AFA Mr Raymond Guishard - Sepp Blatter, FIFA’s president
 - Jack A. Warner  Vice president of FIFA and President of
CONCACAF -  Edison Baird, Minister of Sport - and Chief Minister
 Hubert Hughes at the symbolic ribbon cutting
( Wednesday 29 September 2010)

A MINUSCULE British territory in the Caribbean of just 15,000 people, Anguilla is among the smallest of the 209 members of FIFA, football’s governing body. Its national team is ranked 206th in the world, above only Bhutan, San Marino and the Turks & Caicos Islands; its record since its first match in 1997 is played 28, won two. But that is not for want of nurturing by “the FIFA family”, as Sepp Blatter, FIFA’s president, calls his discredited organisation. 

On top of the annual $250,000 for investment in football that FIFA gives Anguilla, like every other member, in 2003 the local federation received grants of $650,000 to build a training centre in The Valley, the island’s capital. In 2010 Mr Blatter went to Anguilla to inaugurate this. According to FIFA, the centre was to comprise a pitch with a security fence, artificial lighting and a grandstand with offices and changing rooms. Visitors today find a small grandstand with rusty, broken-down fencing, chickens pecking at the weed-strewn, bumpy pitch and offices that are empty and apparently unused, with computer terminals still wrapped in plastic. There is no sign of the dormitories, gym, cafeteria and classrooms supposed to have been built with an extra $500,000 granted in February 2011. 

Raymond Guishard, head of the Anguilla Football Association, failed to respond to questions from The Economist about how the money was spent. A FIFA spokesman said that “construction works have been delayed due to the limited labour force on the island” and insisted that “we constantly monitor” the activities of its member federations.

Yet this monitoring seems particularly cursory in the Caribbean. Guyana’s football association, run by Colin Klass for 22 years, was given $800,000 in grants for a training centre between 2002 and 2006, but has yet to start any building work. The football federation in Montserrat, an even smaller British Caribbean territory than Anguilla, with just 5,800 people, got $788,139 from FIFA in the early 2000s for what it said would be a “complex” with floodlights and fences, but what Google Earth suggests is just a forest clearing.

FIFA's President, Sepp Blatter

Vincent Cassell, who runs Montserrat’s football association, attended a meeting in Trinidad & Tobago in 2011 with Mr Guishard and Mr Klass at which Mohamed bin Hammam, Qatar’s former football supremo, is alleged by FIFA to have offered $40,000 to each of them if they would vote for him to replace Mr Blatter in that year’s FIFA presidential election. These and other allegations resulted in FIFA banning Mr bin Hammam from football for life last year. Six Caribbean officials received much shorter bans; in the case of Messrs Guishard, Klass and Cassell, these ranged up to 26 months, with fines of up to 5,000 Swiss francs ($5,450).

Mr Guishard and Mr Cassell are now back in charge of their local associations. FIFA continues to send comparatively large amounts of money to the Caribbean associations, not all of which seems to be invested in football development. In 2010 and 2011 in Anguilla and Guyana, a combined total of more than $1m was booked as unspecified “bonuses”. Once again, it seems that FIFA has scored an own goal.

By: The Economist 

FRAMEWORK FOR FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY... FOR ANGUILLA.

The following is the text of the draft Framework for Fiscal Responsibility proposed for Anguilla by the British Government. It is understood that the Anguilla Government has made a number of counter-proposals.  

1. The Government of Anguilla is committed to delivering a prosperous and stable future for the people of Anguilla firmly based on the implementation of sound economic and financial principles.

2. This framework for fiscal responsibility (“the Framework”) sets out the key principles by which the Government of Anguilla will deliver this commitment.

3. The Government of Anguilla will continue to be open and transparent in its management of the public finances consistent with the highest standards of governance and democracy. The principles of the Framework will therefore be encapsulated in a new public financial management law in Anguilla which will also specify the detailed requirements necessary to deliver the principles in practice. Subject to the agreement of the House of Assembly, this new law will enter into force by [1 June 2012].

4. The Government of Anguilla and the United Kingdom Government reaffirm their commitment to work in partnership and to respect the rights and responsibilities specified in the Framework and the new public financial management law.

POLICY PRINCIPLES

5. The Government of Anguilla is committed to the following principles:

a. Effective medium-term planning, to ensure that the full impact of fiscal decisions is understood;

b. Putting value for money considerations at the heart of the decision making process;

c. Effective management of risk; and

d. Delivering improved accountability in all public sector operations.

IMPROVING MEDIUM TERM PLANNING

Medium term fiscal plan

6. The Government of Anguilla will assess the impact of all proposals and decisions on expenditure, revenues, and borrowing in the context of a medium term fiscal plan (MTFP) covering a period of at least three fiscal years.

7. The MTFP will include, as a minimum, the information defined in paragraph 15 of Annex A.

Transparency

8. The MTFP will be updated and published annually. The budget that is presented for the forth coming fiscal year will be consistent with the MTFP.

Measurement

9. The collection of accurate internal and external economic, business and social data is fundamental to effective medium term fiscal planning.

10. The Government of Anguilla will assess any gaps in information that is required and take steps to improve inputs to the MTFP, including by:

a. improving the quality of statistical data gathered to measure accurately economic variables including economic growth, inflation, and employment; and

b. ensuring that the Government of Anguilla receives information about in-year developments in expenditure, performance against objectives and developing risks (whether or not quantifiable) from government departments and other bodies in receipt of public funds.

DELIVERING VALUE FOR MONEY

11. The Government of Anguilla recognises that achieving value for money is central to the appropriate use of public funds. Central government and other public sector bodies will therefore ensure that effective processes are in place to provide confidence and ensure suitability, effectiveness, prudence, quality, good value and avoidance of error and other waste. The Government of Anguilla will remain focused on developing expertise and improving processes to ensure that value for money is consistently delivered.

Projects

12. There are four key stages that will be undertaken by the Government of Anguilla in the planning, development and execution of a project:

a. appraisal and business case;

b. tendering and procurement;

c. contract management; and

d. evaluation.

Appraisal and business case 

13. The Government of Anguilla will ensure that all projects, whether funded from recurrent surpluses, conventional borrowing or novel financing transactions, are suitably appraised before the procurement stage to ensure value for money and that a robust cost-benefit analysis has been carried out.

14. For projects with a lifetime value above EC$15m or for those where the use of PPPs or any other form of novel financing is being considered, the Government of Anguilla will commission independent accounting, legal, financial, economic, environmental, and other technical advice as appropriate to ensure robust investment appraisals are produced.

15. For all projects, the business case which results from the appraisal process should: demonstrate the economic need for the project; include a fully argued and costed risk and impact assessment; and specify the benefits the project is designed to deliver to ensure that an informed decision can be made on whether or not to proceed to the procurement stage.

16. All proposed capital projects with an expected lifetime value of EC$15 million or more will be incorporated in the published MTFP, and appraisals will be published for public consultation prior to procurement.

Procurement

17. Procurement processes will be open, transparent and competitive. The Government of Anguilla will adhere to agreed statutory tender processes. For projects with a lifetime value above EC$15m and where any other form of novel financing is used, the Government of Anguilla will commission independent accounting, legal, financial, economic, environmental, and other technical advice to ensure value for money.

Contract management

18. The Government of Anguilla will retain sufficient expert advice, whether internal or external, to ensure that it is an “intelligent customer” of services or other arrangements agreed with private sector suppliers.

Delivery

19. The Government of Anguilla will put together sufficiently competent teams to manage all projects and ensure receipt of high quality services and products as agreed at the procurement stage.

Evaluation

20. For projects with an expected lifetime value of more than EC$15 million, the Government of Anguilla will undertake an evaluation of project performance within 6 months of project completion. This evaluation will be made publicly available within 9 months of project completion.

Processes

21. The Government of Anguilla will establish and maintain robust processes to:

a. measure the performance of government departments and other bodies in receipt of public funds;

b. allocate expense budgets, profile expenses and monitor actual results against profile budget in a timely manner;

c. determine revenue targets, profile receipts and monitor actual results against budget on a timely basis;

d. track and quantify developing risks to determine the value of actual and contingent liabilities to assess calls on current expenditure budgets and, in exceptional cases, the reserve;

e. report total public sector debt, profile debt repayments and determine debt service costs;

f. forecast cash needs on a monthly basis; and

g. undertake timely internal and external audits and act on the findings.

PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS AND NOVEL FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS

22. The option to enter into Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) and any other form of novel financing within the limits set out in the Framework will not be exercised by either the Government of Anguilla or its Statutory Authorities, Government Companies or other organisations within the public sector until:

a. the Government of Anguilla has been in compliance with the Framework for two consecutive fiscal years; and

b. the Government of Anguilla and the United Kingdom Government agree that the capacity to contract and manage such arrangements is in place.

23. All mention of PPP and other novel financing transactions in this framework will be subject to these conditions.

24. The processes for ensuring that projects deliver value for money will also be applied for projects involving PPPs or any other form of novel financing, and will follow any additional processes required for projects with a lifetime value above EC$15m where these are different to the standard process.

25. In addition, for projects where the use of PPPs or any other form of novel financing is being considered, the Government of Anguilla will commission independent accounting, legal, financial, economic, environmental, and other technical advice as appropriate to ensure robust investment appraisals are produced.

26. PPPs or any other form of novel financing will only be considered where:

a. there is a sound appraisal underpinning the proposed project before financing means have been determined;

b. a financial appraisal demonstrates improved value for money against a conventionally financed alternative;

c. the long term affordability case has been assessed by the Government of Anguilla in the context of the MTFP; and

d. the correct accounting treatment in the public accounts has been utilised and agreed upon by an independent qualified accountant.

27. PPPs or any other form of novel financing will not be considered by the Government of Anguilla for:

a. projects with a lifetime value of less than EC$80m and therefore too small to justify the transaction costs; or

b. projects where the fast pace of change in the sector makes it difficult to define effectively the outputs it requires in a long term contract (such as Information Communication Technology projects).

MANAGING RISKS

Contingent and actual liabilities

28. The Government of Anguilla is committed to managing risks and ensuring that contingent and actual liabilities which accrue are consistent with sustainable public finances.

29. The Government of Anguilla will make contingent and actual liabilities, including (but not limited to) pensions and healthcare schemes, subject to actuarial assessments at least every three years. Actuarial assessments will be published within three months of receipt. The Government will publish its proposals to address the results of the assessments no later than the budget following the receipt of the actuarial assessment.

30. The Government of Anguilla will set out in the MTFP their strategy for managing contingent and actual liabilities and report on progress in delivering the strategy.

Capital expenditure

31. A capital investment fund will be established to fund capital expenditure which would not yield sufficient revenues to fund debt service costs. Contributions will be made to the fund from revenues received by the Government of Anguilla in accordance with the rates specified in the MTFP.

32. The total cost of all projects which propose to make use of the capital investment fund must not exceed the amount available in the capital investment fund; the House of Assembly must give its approval before the capital investment fund is accessed.

Debt

33. Where capital expenditure will yield sufficient revenues to fund debt service costs and the Government of Anguilla proposes to use debt finance to fund the expenditure, preference will be given to borrowing from concessional lenders which should ensure that the lender’s expertise is brought to projects.

34. To ensure that the level of debt is affordable and consistent with the delivery of macroeconomic and fiscal sustainability and financial stability in the short, medium and long term, the Government of Anguilla will:

a. comply with the borrowing limits defined in Annex A by no later than the dates specified in Annex D;

b. comply with the transitional ratios established in Annex D by the timeframes specified;

c. remain in compliance with the borrowing limits subsequent to the dates specified in Annex D or such earlier date by which compliance is achieved; and

d. put in place arrangements to repay loan principal.

35. The repayment of principal will be achieved either through:

a. agreeing a fully amortized structure with the lending institution; or

b. establishing a dedicated sinking fund with a binding contribution schedule capable of offsetting the outstanding principal repayment on maturity of the debt.

ACCOUNTABILITY

36. The Government of Anguilla is committed to delivering improved accountability mechanisms through the transparency delivered by the Framework and subsequently a new public financial management law and by ensuring that public accounts are:

a. prepared on a timely basis in line with International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS); and

b. subject to an annual external audit the results of which will be subject to the Public Accounts Committee’s scrutiny and publications.

PARTNERSHIP WITH THE UK

37. In support of the commitments to deliver fiscal responsibility made by the Government of Anguilla, the United Kingdom Government will:

a. undertake an annual assessment of the economy of Anguilla, including the state of the public finances;

b. provide technical assistance by monitoring compliance with the Framework;

c. provide support in identifying sources of expertise at the request of the Government of Anguilla;

d. consider requests for technical support made by the Government of Anguilla where any such requests are accompanied by a business case and specific terms of reference.

Exchange of information

38. The Government of Anguilla will submit the information specified in Annex C to the person(s) from time to time specified by the United Kingdom Government.

39. The Government of Anguilla will supply the United Kingdom Government with such other information it may request, including further information on:

a. any aspect of the MTFP, including specific capital investment projects and proposed borrowing; and

b. the draft budget.

40. All information will be submitted by the Government of Anguilla within the timescales specified in Annex C unless, in exceptional circumstances, different timescales are agreed in advance in writing by the Government of Anguilla and the United Kingdom Government.

Consideration of representations

41. The Government of Anguilla will consider fully any representations made by the Secretary of State on the information provided.

42. The Government of Anguilla will not proceed with any project on which the Secretary of State has made representations until fifteen working days after a full written response has been received by the Secretary of State to those representations.

Approvals Process

43. Where the Government of Anguilla is not in compliance with the Framework, the Government of Anguilla will present, for the approval of the Secretary of State, a plan that is consistent with the MTFP to remedy the breach. The maximum period which may be permitted to rectify a breach is three fiscal years from the point at which the breach occurred or, in exceptional circumstances, such other period that may be agreed in writing between the Government of Anguilla and the Secretary of State.

44. In the event of any non-compliance by the Government of Anguilla in respect of the Framework and until the breach has been rectified the Government of Anguilla will obtain, on an annual basis, written approval from the Secretary of State before:

a. the MTFP is finalised;

b. any public borrowing or any refinancing of public borrowing is undertaken;

c. proceeding with any project with a lifetime value of more than EC$15 million;

d. using public assets as collateral as part of any arrangement with a party external to Government of Anguilla;

e. the hypothecation of any revenue stream; or

f. the divestment of public assets.

45. For the avoidance of doubt, any failure to comply with the borrowing limits or forecast failure to comply within the lifetime of the MTFP will be deemed a failure to comply with the Framework.

46. In exceptional cases, the Government of Anguilla may request the Secretary of State’s approval to make in-year changes to the approach set out in the MTFP. In such cases, the Government of Anguilla will supply the Secretary of State with:

a. a written request to make the changes, to be received no later than two months before such changes are considered to be required by the Government of Anguilla unless a shorter period is agreed in writing by the Government of Anguilla and the United Kingdom Government;

b. a compelling evidence based business case to support the request for approval; and

c. a revised MTFP, which sets out the measures the Government of Anguilla intends to take to return to the course set previously. If approval is granted, the Government of Anguilla will publish the revised MTFP.

"Baxter here Chief... ahhh... ammm... what it really meant

to say is that you either make yourself accountable or you

will be made accountable by your circumstances Chief."

Signed: ………………………………………………… Date: …………………

Chief Minister, Anguilla

Signed: ………………………………………………… Date: …………………

Governor, Anguilla

Signed: ………………………………………………… Date: …………………

Minister for Overseas Territories, Foreign and Commonwealth Office

ANGUILLA – A MADHOUSE OF LOOPHOLE CRIMINALS AND SMART-ASSES.

Anguilla… when did it come to this? Where do we begin to look for answers about our deep-rooted psychological problems? It never been this way, though this way for quite some time I’m often told - Rape, Molestation and/or Statutory Rape, Incest, Burglaries, Theft, Violence, Murders… mostly unsolved. Gangs on revenge with a shoot to kill policy, and a clueless Police force led by a highly United Kingdom trained intelligent officer as governor, targeting soft crimes like possession of self consume Marijuana - senselessly criminalizing our decent citizens… we are a madhouse. 

So…. Where do we begin to look for answers? In our failed Revolution? Our Church? Our leaders? Our Judicial system? Vigilante Justice? Who are our mentors? 

Think about it. Only mad people commit these senseless crimes. And only mad leadership would want to censor such menace about our beloved society, get up the next day and go about their daily lives and pretend as if nothing happened. Only mad people can endure such economic-terrorism by their government as hundreds lose possessions, and not to do anything about it, because they (government) think the mad people who live on Anguilla don’t deserve to live.

Only on Anguilla, a place of antiquated or nonexistence laws like on DUI, as mad careless motorist mows down innocent bystanders. Only mad people break every single law in existence, and when you call them out, they tell you ‘guh kiss yu madda scunt’. 

Only mad people condone such secrets on crime and no one gets up and says, ‘this is madness!’ Only mad people support independence to modern day slavery. It must be madness to be in support of Anguilla’s independence today and not link it to incompetence. We must be mad if we elected incompetence and expected to be rewarded with success. Only a mad people judge right and wrong based on mad political affiliation. 

A religious nation enveloping most clergy per capita, a clergy that preaches more than they practice, covering up major sexual and psychosocial transgressions, silent on crime and political corruption… must be madness. Lawsuits and threats of lawsuits intended to silence discussion… are pure madness. A justice system producing only criminals, none rehabilitated, and where money is a sure way to avoid conviction… must be madness. A people believing that it can rape both financially and sexually unfettered and mute actualities… must be madness. 

Supporting our politicians who are pretentious, molesters, rapist, liars, thieves, and even tax cheats… must be madness. Violent, ignorant, and savage, in the way we treat each other and our environment - our disposal of garbage, chemicals and other waste products are alarming yet we delude ourselves into believing that everything is “nice mon,”… we must be mad. An electric company that puts hundreds of homes into the Dark Age every month because its rates are unaffordable… must be madness. 

A nation of Leaders who are not held accountable for their actions, misconduct, and the consequences of their leadership failures is undemocratic… and pure madness! 

Despite all of this madness, hope lies in our youths, but sadly they direct their vehemence in the wrong directions... which must be centered on eradicating madness and its perpetrators. We must feel proud about our athletes, and those who are excelling academically or musically. It’s hard not to feel good about our young entrepreneurs. It’s hard not to feel optimistic about the self-starters, the all-nighters, the heavy-lifters, the hard-working nurses and doctors, and our civil servants that took pay cuts to keep everybody employed. On Anguilla such dedication and patriotism requires a level of optimism, that only a mad smart-ass can possess. 

Anguilla a nation of mad smart-asses that can accomplish a lot if it recognise the facts, accept the truth about itself and elect leaders with vision - not Hubertism!

FUNDAMENTALS!!!

Elliot Harrigan is an Anguillian Free-Lance Writer / Political 

Observer & Analyses and an Entrepreneur 

No questions should be asked, no ifs no buts, it is fundamental; Government must respect its people! Even in worst cases of disdain or malice, Government must be the very last to show intolerance. Government is not an invisible structure, but actual people, and is able to carefully analyze and interpret the language of the citizenry, but must show unlimited respect for all. In actual governance, opposing tendencies are played out at the expense of average people, as such a way is always found to diminish the foot print of excellence to validate the extremity of power in the name of government. Society is the bedrock of civilization and not to be governed! Government manages the business of the people, to ensure order and sustainability, which is to guarantee continuity of the structure and to maintain an orderly system through which people can function and co exist by peaceful and just means. With very good intentions bad practices are perpetuated and utilized to divide and conquer because our political system provides for clear disagreement in any course of action in the name of the people.

Events of the past week gave us all clear insight into the misappropriation of intent, the attempt to dishonor and disgrace the teaching profession from the annals of power displayed from the very “House” of the people was dishonorable and showed great disrespect for basic society, even though clearly aimed at the teaching profession. Teaching and learning are fundamental; it carves a pathway into the future, and is deep-seated. The fundamentals of every society are those rights and privileges that are applied to our well-being base on the inherent values of its people and no government should stand in the way of this. Everything beneath "Country" becomes systematic and is subject to modification. The actions of the teachers were symptomatic, but this condition was caused; any government seeking to fundamentally depreciate the values system of its people must be looked at keenly as autocratic and threatening, threatening the social-well-being of the masses, their rights and privileges. “Fundamentally” the rights of the people are preserved and must be guaranteed, by no means is government allowed to change or transform society to any concept they might imagine, and if so should be held in contempt of the people.

The tax structure recently introduced and implemented on our grass root, simple society is an infringement and does tamper with those basic fundamentals. This is the cause of current action and may eventually escalate into other areas. Change to such dimension goes beyond the scope of our intent and it is appropriate for the governed to react. Such change is not far-fetched but deserves, and requires the undisputed approval of the majority of the people, otherwise does not have to be tolerated. Such action by government can trigger eruption in society and cause all kinds of disorder and civil disobedience. We have always known an indirect approach to taxation on the island, we are now asked to concede to both a direct and indirect tax burden, this is beyond the imaginary scope. Thanks to government (the system) for containing disorder, thanks to the teachers for their tolerance and good will, not allowing intolerance to reign down on the movement, instead exhibiting that same character they teach, whereby disorder was averted. It must be noted that Anguilla, being a state in submission, the British are well within their rights to suggest or proposed any changes they wish to see, it is our Government’s responsibility to follow process and chose the appropriate means of applying this change without fundamentally changing society. If this can’t be done without infringement on the norms we know, then it is appropriate for a government to forgo this demand and resign in protest. But if you take the responsibility to ascend to this order you must be held fully responsible.

There is much talk of how we got here, who is responsible and which government should take blame. No government of the past can be judged by its intent. It might have been the intent of an AUF administration to implement measures, or perhaps these measures; there is no AUF administration now, and as such cannot be held responsibility for actions not taken. In fact, the AUF government of the past should come in for high praise, not taking a decision in the absence of a well designed and thought-out process, refraining from imposing heavy taxation on the people of Anguilla. What AUF did in their good judgment was to apply a change of policy to counter the required change in the financial structure of government and its intake capacity. The difference between AUF and AUM in the matter is that “action was taken.” And that action interfered with those fundamentals we know as a small society.

There are many opinions as to what is the real objective of the British in its oversight of Anguilla, there are silly ideas like Anguilla has oil and the British are jealous and want to own us. It appears that the British feels that Anguillians are a privileged people. WE own our own land, live in our own homes, not taxed burdened, live very comfortably; and the rich and famous loves the island. Here are significant reasons why our risks should not rest with them. Anguilla was always a privileged society, because we were never dependent on extremities such as commercial excesses or a massive taxation structure, we always lived in modesty. In recent times we have evolved to more economic demands but, still far from countries that thrive only on these excesses. The fundamentals of our well being were always mostly self sufficiency. As a society of little means, by little means we survived!

By: Eliott J. Harrigan 

ANGUILLA: A SOCIETY AT RISK

Anguilla is no longer the small homogenous society populated by the grand children of slaves who suffered centuries of famine, drought and political neglect on a barren rock in the Caribbean Sea. Anguilla very claim to island status probably depends directly on its people and its exceptional white sand beaches. Anguilla is no longer the backward impoverished island not in terms of its GDP per capita or its crime rate. Anguilla has changed rapidly over the last four decades and such rapid social, political or economic change often lead to crisis and Anguilla as turned out to be no exception.

Today we have people who can remember cooking meals on three rocks with firewood, drank water from holes in the ground, grocery shopping consisted of buying three basic items, rice, flour, sugar. These people live in households with children who have never seen a phone that actually dialed the number. Yet many of the old customs remain, we still keep dark secrets of friends and family, causing us to ignore social issues that should be openly discussed with the intent to eradicate the behaviour. The only people who routinely gets their dirty laundry aired in public are the politicians but even then the issues are not addressed, those who oppose believe, those who support deny.

The Church as an institution of moral standing is as guilty as the secular society in covering up major social transgressions. Preachers/Pastors/Ministers/Priests whatever they are called are in several cases guilty of abuses, hides abuse or show no interest in investigating claims of abuse even when the claims are commonly held in the society. 

In the end we have a vicious cycle of rumour and back yard chatter and recently lawsuits and threats of lawsuits intended to silence discussion. We have selective passing of laws and policies against political abuse or corruption out of fear of possible entrapment of self, friends or family. Anguillians cannot claim to live by the morals of a Christian society or the laws of a modern society if they continue to allow such behaviour.

We may ask what are some of these social ills:

• Preachers involved in domestic violence against their spouse.
• Ministers of religion that live a moral life in total opposition to what they preach.
• Pastors who use their position to enrich themselves.
• Priests who molest children and go unchallenged.
• Accused and known child molesters becoming teachers, politicians, guidance counselors, social workers and various other positions.
• Politicians, Police officers and their children who facilitate the illegal sale of weapons.
• Drug crimes of a selected few never brought to trial while the prison over flow with the children of the politically unconnected.
• Potential criminals that are fore warned about possible police raids.
• Politicians, Permanent Secretaries and prominent Businessmen fathering and neglecting children around the island, sometimes by adolescent girls.
• Public and private sector managers who control employees and delegate authority through sexual favours.
• Insider trading by officials that develop unhealthy relationships and trade favours with investors and businessmen.
• People who assets exceed their known income.
• An administering power that turn a blind eye to issues of possible corruption.
• Foreign Administrators who develop unhealthy relationships with selected politicians and investors.
• Politically connected people sitting on various boards to provide political cover for otherwise illegal acts.
• High paying positions on boards granted as political reward.
• Politicians who openly work for both the Government and the private investor.
• Project funds wasted on political patronage.
• Politicians and senior civil servants with undeclared interests in companies they regulate.
• Ministers selectively overriding policy on planning, lands, labour, immigration etc.
• Contracts and public tenders designed for special friends or family.
• Politically connected contractors allowed remove merchandise.
• Investors guided to use particular contractors or trucking companies.
• Buildings rented for office space by the Govt. because of political or banking connections.

To be continued in your mind ………………………………..

By: Statchel Warner 

MEDIATION REWARDS ESTRANGED WIFE WITH ISLAND PARADISE - ANGUILLA, A DEN OF CHAUVINIST - WILL SHE SURVIVE?

Well, that's one way of avoiding your ex: Civil servant lands plum Caribbean job 4,000 miles from estranged husband... who happens to be PM's aide

• Christina Scott will take over as British Governor on island of Anguilla
• Posting includes a Governor's Residence and a salary nudging six figures
• In her current job, she is in contact with estranged husband Chris Martin
• Sources say personal circumstances were not relevant to her appointment

Christina Scott will take over as British Governor
in Anguilla this summer. 

When it was announced that Whitehall mandarin Christina Scott will take over as British Governor in the tiny paradise isle of Anguilla this summer, eyebrows were raised in the Foreign Office.

The plum Caribbean posting – which includes the picture-postcard Governor’s Residence ‘Old Ta’ and a salary ‘nudging six figures’ – was expected to go to someone with a background in foreign affairs.

Yet all Ms Scott’s experience over the past 12 years has been at the Treasury, Transport Department and Cabinet Office.

Paradise found: Miss Scott made her delight clear when her appointment in Anguilla was announced in October

However, one consequence of her surprise move is that she will no longer risk bumping into her estranged husband Chris Martin in Downing Street. He is Principal Private Secretary to David Cameron, the second most powerful official in No  10, and deputy to Cabinet Secretary Sir Jeremy Heywood.

The current Governor of Anguilla is lifelong envoy William Harrison.And of the ten British Overseas Territories with Governors – including Montserrat, Bermuda and the Cayman Islands – seven appointments went to career diplomats, one to a senior official at the Department for International Development and one to a former naval officer.

By contrast, Ms Scott, 38, runs the Civil Contingencies Secretariat, which is in charge of responding to UK crises such as natural disasters or terrorism. She has never worked at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO), which customarily protects such appointments with jealousy.

Christina Scott runs the Civil Contingencies 

Secretariat which is in charge of responding 

to UK crises

Ms Scott fell in love with Mr Martin, 39, when they worked for the last Labour administration. They married in 2005 but friends were dismayed to learn over a year ago that the couple had separated. Their paths crossed again at work when Treasury official Mr Martin was promoted to his current No  10 post. It meant working alongside Ms Scott, who is based in the Cabinet Office, which is connected to No  10 by an internal passage.

The high-powered and sensitive nature of Ms Scott’s work as the civil servant in charge of COBRA – the Cabinet committee that deals with national emergencies – means she comes into close contact with Mr Cameron and his senior aides such as Mr Martin. Last night, both Downing Street and the FCO denied any impropriety in the appointment process or that it had been influenced by a desire to keep the couple apart, saying her personal circumstances were not relevant. They added that it was ‘not unusual’ to be appointed to a Governorship without a background at the FCO.

Ms Scott made her delight clear when her little-noticed appointment was announced in October, saying: ‘It is a great honour to be appointed as Governor. I very much look forward to working with the people of Anguilla and their elected representatives as they build a vibrant, successful and resilient future.’

Prime mover: Chris Martin, David Cameron's Principal
Private Secretary is Miss Scott's estranged husband

Mr Martin advised Mr Cameron before his appearance at the Leveson Inquiry into media ethics and accompanied him when he gave evidence. He was also involved in the investigation into claims that ex-Chief Whip Andrew Mitchell swore at a policeman at Downing Street’s gates.

Ms Scott, who will be known by the grand title of ‘Her Excellency The Governor’, can expect less stress and improved working conditions, 4,000 miles away in Anguilla.

Old Ta, near the capital, The Valley, is an idyllic location and has hosted the Queen on official visits. At weekends Ms Scott will be able to relax on its palm-fringed beaches. Anguilla’s large measure of internal self-government means the Governor’s role, which includes dealing with policing and the remote prospect of invasion, is mainly ceremonial. Anguilla has a population of just 13,500, the same as a small English town, and is 16 miles long by three miles across at its widest point.

According to legend, Anguilla was first sighted and named by Christopher Columbus and colonised by English settlers in the 1600s. It is a tax haven and, until last year, had no income tax. Not surprisingly, it is now an upmarket tourist destination.

Last night, an FCO spokesman said: ‘It is standard practice for the FCO to advertise all senior positions across Whitehall. It opens up the field of competition and helps us attract the most talented candidates. Christina Scott was appointed to this role from a strong field of candidates after a successful interview in which she was assessed to be the best person for the job. The competition was open and fair. 

‘Christina has relevant experience drawn from a range of roles from across Whitehall, as well as extensive domestic policy experience, which will make her an asset to the FCO and the Government of Anguilla.’

An FCO source added: ‘The job of a Governor is like no other in the FCO... it is not about the diplomatic influencing of another country’s government, it is more about being a part of that executive. It means understanding how public policy is delivered, and how to work through the machinations of politics.’

A Downing Street spokesman said: ‘She was a strong candidate.’

By SIMON WALTERS and GLEN OWEN
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2257692/Well-thats-way-avoiding-ex-Civil-servant-lands-plum-Caribbean-job-4-000-miles-estranged-husband--happens-PMs-aide.html#ixzz2IXlpBckD
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“…..AND BRIGHT HOPE FOR TOMORROW!”

Hon. Victor Banks - former Minister of Finance, 

Economic Development, Commerce and Tourism .

We've closed out 2012 and swiftly entering into 2013. But the New Year is like tomorrow — it is another day. In fact, we will merely be continuing with all the things that we were doing yesterday. There will be no discernable changes in the world around us today as compared to yesterday. And most likely we will be facing the same challenges. So Tuesday, January 1, 2013, is really a punctuation mark in our lives. Figuratively speaking, it may be a “comma”, “semi-colon” or a “full-stop” in the course of our development as a nation. However, the New Year gives us an excellent opportunity to reflect on the past, revise our strategies if necessary, and re-position ourselves to manage the many issues that will confront us as we progress through the times ahead. And if we use this opportunity effectively we can bring about a positive turnaround in our situation and our fortunes.

As the Leader of the Anguilla United Front, my party has asked me to deliver a message of encouragement to our fellow citizens by applying these very effective tools, namely, “reflection, revision and re-positioning. In my reflection I must focus my attention on some of the negative issues in 2012 — but only so as to describe the nature of the task ahead of us, that is, to create a favourable environment for change. The prevalence of gun violence, murder and other serious crimes featured highly in this catalogue of negatives — but equally the general increase in the level of incivility, or more plainly speaking, “rudeness”, even in high places, also had a causal effect on the quality of our social environment over the past twelve months.

Several young Anguillian men, in particular, lost their lives to senseless acts of violence — while others are facing the possibility of permanent disabilities. Our prison is overcrowded with young men who have been charged or convicted of serious crimes, including murder. And the prognosis for their total rehabilitation seems doubtful at best. The situation is worsened by the proliferation of drugs and the abundance of guns in the hands of angry youth who seem to have little regard for our security and judicial systems. There was indeed a lot to be desired in 2012 as far as the social sector is concerned.

On the positive side of the social sector, we have had a number of encouraging achievements from our young people. The Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School showed a marked improvement in the examination results with two extraordinary young men, Jose Vanterpool and Cordane Richardson, leading the pack with 15 Grade One CSEC passes each.

In Sports and Athletics two young Anguillians have made us exceptionally proud, namely, Miss Shara Proctor and Mr. Zharnel Hughes. Miss Proctor is our second Olympian in twenty-eight yearsand the first female. Our pride in Mr. Hughes is for his regional and international performance as a young sprinter. Miss Nzingha Banks was rewarded through her prowess in Tennis with a full academic scholarship for tertiary training at a University in the United States. Miss Proctor has also been the recipient of scholarships based on her talent in Women’s Long Jump, and Mr. Zharnel Hughes is off to the International Amateur Athletics Federation’s Regional High Performance Centre in Jamaica for a period of study and training.

In Music and the Performing Arts I can also speak of the achievements in recent times of Roxanne “Roxxy” Webster, Jaine Rogers; Amalia Alberto Watty; Nyne; Shara Hodge; Fedalia “Shea Shea” Richardson; Omari Banks; R & R Productions; Crispin Brooks of Blu Symphony Entertainment; as well as all the Musical Bands to name a few — because even though a seemingly more difficult road — some real successes were realized.

In the wider economy, we struggled with the effects of the global financial situation on our community. Widespread unemployment; bank foreclosures on homes, property and transportation; failed businesses and general bankruptcies were the order of the day in 2012. Foreign direct investment was at an all time low and both local and expatriate investors were particularly cautious about making new investments in the private sector. In the public sector, major capital investment projects were practically non-existent.

The Government of Anguilla continued to struggle to increase revenue to meet recurrent expenditure and implemented new and increased tax measures to do so. In the meantime, negative growth in the overall economy persisted in 2012 placing more pressure on an already dwindling tax base. And to further exacerbate the problem the cost of fuel and electricity continued to rise.

On the positive side, in 2012 a number of investors must be commended for their achievements for without their contribution the situation would have been even worse. In the expatriate sector, we commend Mr. Lee Rizutto and his Cuisinart Group of Companies for the acquisition and development of the Temenos Golf Course and Resort; Charles and Linda Hickox for their tenacious efforts at Cap Juluca; and Ce Bleu Resort of the Crocus Bay Development Consortium that opened its doors just over a week ago.

In the local sector, I would like to commend Mr. Kirk Hughes for the brilliant expansion of his La Vue Resort, as well as Mr. Applewaite “Rayme” Lake for introducing a “state of the art” Automotive Services and Maintenance facility and an Oxygen manufacturing plant. And I would like to make special mention of Mr. Kyle Hodge as one of our youngest entrepreneurs for his new Ice Cream production, services and sales business; as well as Mr. Ian “Sugar George” Edwards, of Sunset Homes, who recently received five prestigious International awards for Architecture and Property Development thereby“positioning the island (Anguilla) as an attractive investment destination, offering first class services in Architecture, Construction and Property Development.”

Politically, over the last year, the Government seems to have been fighting imaginary enemies as well as among themselves — but I have no intention to get into the sordid details of those battles since it is my task to look to the future. However, as an aspect of my reflection here today, I must question whether the Government will continue into the New Year in the same vein as in the last twelve months? Will we continue to hear the blame game being played out? Will they still not take responsibility for their actions? Will they continue to destroy the investment climate with loose talk from the Leader of Government business? Will we continue to be told that Independence is the panacea for all the challenges we face? Can we survive another year of this style, attitude and approach? And the key question: “Are you my people satisfied with the performance of the Government over the past year?”

In light of the foregoing reflections of 2012, what kind of revision needs to take place to make 2013 a more positive year? Based on the state of our economy, and the apparent frustration of the present Government as expressed in the Chief Minister Christmas Message, it is fair to say that the message in his message is that he is totally helpless to achieve anything positive for Anguilla because of all the conspirators and purveyors of evil deeds he perceives to be round about him. It is a message that is standing in the way of progress because the Government seems to be preoccupied with fighting, and that willnot bring any solution to our immediate problems. In essence, the very parties against whom it seems to be waging battles are the very ones whose support it needs to assist us in these challenging times. It is a strategy that needs to be revised because the way forward requires cooperation and negotiation — not confrontation and rebellion; it demands that we build alliances and goodwill with the private sector — not conflict and destabilization; and it means that we must present our positions on issues with rational arguments and calm reasoning — not abusive language and boisterousness. As I said last week, the logic of this Government’s approach could be challenging for even the smallest child to understand.

There is a historical basis to revise the present strategy because while over the years we have heard many of the Chief Minister’s supporters making the claim that “we need Hubert to deal with the British” — the record and history have proven, irrefutably, that Mr. Hughes has never, I repeat never, gotten anything positive out of the British with his approach — except of course his own political demise. On the other hand the record of our AUF Government, in terms of its relationship with the British, has been one of mutual respect and partnership in the governance process and it led to many positive and constructive outcomes. Furthermore, the Chief Minister’s abuse of developers in the public media has historically slowed down and/or stalled the progress of developments at critical junctures when our economy needed to build more cooperative relationships.

The record speaks for itself. Before this economic downturn our Government was able to deliver EC$ 70 million in road construction; 9 million in school construction; 13 million in seaport development; 50 million in training; 20 million in land acquisition for the future; 70 million in airport expansion and relocation; and 65 million in reserves, just to name a few areas. That is a total of almost EC$300 million in direct public sector development. But, in addition, we were able to attract almost a billion US dollars in foreign direct investment. All this was not achieved by accident. It was by a studied approach designed to make our island the best that it could be with the resources with which God has blessed us. It was achieved on the solid foundation of the values of industry, ingenuity, civility and pride that has brought us respect as a people at home and abroad over the years. The Government’s strategy must be revised to incorporate the approach, style and attitude that brought about the successful relationships with the British Government; local and foreign developers; the public service and the private sector so as to make a difference in the next twelve months of 2013.

So how does the Government reposition itself in 2013 to meet the challenges ahead? Firstly, it is high time that the Government relinquishes its campaign mode. The election ended three years ago so political responses are no longer helpful when dealing with technical issues. For example, taxpayers are no longer concerned about what tax measures the Opposition contemplated when it was in Office — that does not ease their burden. Their concern, Chief Minister, is whether the taxes you are now implementing/imposing are fair or necessary. You are now in charge of formulating the budget — not the Opposition.

Secondly, the Government needs to demonstrate that it has the ability to get things done. For example, the Chief Minister must not believe that he can build confidence in his leadership by blaming other groups and individuals for his inability to do the job for which he was elected. He campaigned on the platform that he was the best man for the job and that his party could deliver on its promises. A part of that job is to deal with the ordinary elements of the democratic process that may include an active Opposition as well as any other long standing economic and/or political arrangements in the system. In short, the Government must put an end to the blame game and establish itself as a Government that can and does deliver, and must adopt a more tolerant approach to criticism.

Thirdly, the Government needs to shelve the Independence issue for a period. It is a fantasy issue in the manner in which it is being presented, because it is based on the false premise that going into Independence will be a panacea for all our ills. The Government should therefore focus on creating the conditions for self-reliance that could include an educational process that promotes a proper understanding of the concept of political independence.

Fourthly, the Government should negotiate and agree suitable amendments with the British Government and sign the Framework for Fiscal Responsibility (FFR) Agreement. Our “olive branch” to assist the Government in this enterprise, even in the face of the CM’s demeaning refusal, still stands. It is an agreement that has the clear objective of establishing and institutionalizing a system of transparency and accountability. It is intended to be best practice for a modern democracy that is seeking to strengthen good governance and develop objective decision-making procedures. Getting consensus on the few remaining issues that have not yet been agreed is, in my view, a relatively easy undertaking — but if resolved can place Anguilla in a more favourable light with regional and international agencies from whom it may seek assistance. It could also improve our investment climate.

Fifthly, the Government must show that it is unified. This can be achieved by dealing with its internal differences away from the public media. To go into 2013 with internal wrangling, of the kind exhibited over the last twelve months, will continue to poison the political environment and hurt the investment climate that Anguilla has developed over the years. It can also cause delay in critical pieces of legislation required to advance Anguilla’s development and standards of living.

Sixthly, the Government should live up to its promise of openness and transparency; comply with the rules and procedures established to ensure good governance; and stop acting as if the rules apply to everyone else except the members, advisors and supporters of the AUM/APP Government. There is general feeling among that group that freedom of expression is a right reserved only for them. This attitude will inevitably lead to tensions among other Anguillians as financial and economic challenges increase.

And finally, but not exhaustively, the Government needs to remember that Anguilla is for all Anguillians. In this regard, it must ensure that every Anguillian has equal access to employment and business opportunities regardless of family connections and party affiliations.

So if we are to change our situation for the better, in 2013, it is my view that the Government of Anguilla must re-position itself to deal with the issues that confront us in an effective manner as we suggest. We the members of the Anguilla United Front, as the Loyal Opposition, also have a role to play in the democratic process and ought to be held equally responsible as the Government if we fail meet our responsibility to hold them to account. In this regard we remain united — both to serve and to lead. It is a responsibility from which we will not retreat even in the face of fierce criticism. As we enter into this New Year, may we all remain obedient to his Great Faithfulness and, even in these challenges times, accept the assurance of strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. May God Bless us all, and May God Bless Anguilla!

By: Victor F. Banks:

Mr. Victor Banks is a former Finance, Economics, Commerce and Tourism Minister on Anguilla. He is presently the leader of the Opposition Anguilla United Front Party, writer and author of a weekly political article for The Anguillian News Paper, lyricist, and a self-employed entrepreneur.