Sean Burns starts his second term as Administrator
Sean Burns takes charge as Tristan Administrator for a Second Term |
Photo from Sean's daughter Kelly, shows a meeting of the Tristan Island Council Administrator and President of the Island Council, Sean Burns, is at the head of the table, Seated around the table, left to right, are Island Councillors: |
Sean Burns served his first term as Administrator from 2010 to 2013, and returns after a posting to St Helena, where he was Acting Governor for several months. Sean and his wife Marina are welcome returnees to Tristan da Cunha, and Sean's knowledge of the island will be particularly useful as he oversees the present building of the new Camogli Healthcare Centre and more habour refurbishment work commencing early in 2017. Sean was formally sworn in as Administrator on 1st December 2016 in the presence of Acting Administrator Ann Biddle, the day after arriving on MV Baltic Trader on 30th November. |
Reflections on JMC Week
From Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Carnegy
Delegates representing UK Overseas Territories gather with OT Minister Baroness Anelay in the foyer of Lancaster House. Ian Lavarello is far right on the front row. |
(Chris Carnegy's Report goes alongside the photo report on newsgovOTJMC2016) The 2016 Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council brought delegates from across the globe – and this year it saw Chief Islander Ian Lavarello make the long trek. Tristan’s isolation frames JMC week in three ways. It’s a big part of our agenda: internet connectivity and physical access were two key topics. It grabs the attention: everyone sits-up when you describe the challenges of life in the remotest community on earth. And it lends a special status to the Chief Islander; countless conversations begin with “how long did it take you to get here?” At the start of the week, Ian was congratulated on becoming the first person to win three successive terms as Chief Islander. Our main host was Overseas Territories minister Baroness Anelay, who impressed OT leaders with her positive attitude and her deft handling of the discussions. For Tristan, three topics linked many of the meetings: infrastructure, marine protection, and the effects of Brexit. Ian made a formal intervention on infrastructure. He explained how a useable internet connection is more important in such a remote setting than almost anywhere else. It was gratifying to watch the Foreign Office and International Development ministers nodding emphatically as he spoke. We hope that satellite costs will drop sharply with increased competition in future; our plea is for a few years of extra bandwidth to help us make it through until then, and we’re optimistic of success. Ian conveyed the thanks of the whole community for the new hospital, which arrived in kit form at Tristan during JMC week. And he acknowledged the recent harbour repairs, whilst also reminding the UK that more work already needs doing. On the ‘blue belt’ agenda, Ian’s message was consistent: Tristan is proud of its record on marine sustainability, and is ambitious in designing new protections for its vast economic zone - but the work will be driven from the island, not imposed from outside. The UK has accepted that principle, and has offered full financial support for the work that lies ahead, including for monitoring and enforcement to combat illegal fishing. During the week we learned that a forum will be created early in 2017 for joint ‘Brexit’ talks between UK and OT politicians, and that Tristan da Cunha will be invited to take part. Mark Garnier MP, minister with the new International Trade department, heard Ian’s second formal intervention. Tristan has a long-held ambition to gain access to China for sales of gourmet lobster, but at present is effectively blocked by punishing tariffs. Ian appealed to the minister to allow OTs inclusion in any future post-Brexit trade agreements that could help us level the playing field. At the end of the conference, it was the Chief Islander of Tristan da Cunha who led a heartfelt round of applause for Baroness Anelay. We may be small, but this week put Tristan well and truly on the map. |
Chris Carnegy's Report goes alongside the photo report on newsgovOTJMC2016 |
Chief Islander Ian Lavarello's Tour to Europe 2016
This pages starts with Ian's arrival in London and continues in order of events
Chief Islander arrives in London
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Former Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Bates and his wife Julie hosted a visit to Lincolnshire on 7th-9th November and Chris has sent these photos of a packed programme. |
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The Elder Tree is to become the first pub in the UK to sell "Island Brew", the unique beer brewed on the Isle of Man by Bushy's Ale of Man, using ingredients from Tristan da Cunha. Island Brew will go on sale in the Elder Tree on Friday2 nd December 2016 and Richard anticipates it will all sell very quickly. " There's a lot of interest in Tristan in the area and the pub is well supported by the people of Horsington," he says. "This will be a unique opportunity to sample this ale. I understand it's only brewed occasionally, when the berries can be sent the 6,000 miles from Tristan to the Isle of Man, so I don't know whether it will be possible to obtain more in the future. We'll have to see how it goes" |
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Ian at the Lincolnshire Aviation Centre at East Kirkby | Ian at Tattershall Castle |
Above: Ian visiting the "Dambusters" 617 Squadron Memorials in Woodhall Spa Right: Ian alongside a Dalek in the foyer of the unique Kinema in the Woods at Woodhall Spa.> |
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Ian on BBC Radio Lincolnshire with presenter Melvyn Prior, who'd just been presented with a Tristan woolly penguin. Ian and Chris took part in a lengthy broadcast in the programme "Melvyn in the Morning" Ian was able to explain a lot about the island - its history, economy, electoral system, transport links and infrastructure. | |
Ian on the platform at Lincoln Central Station about to board the train to Manchester Airport which will be the first leg of his journey to Gdansk in Poland. | |
Ian at Lincoln Castle |
Ian visited Poland on 11th and 12th November 2016 to visit the new Ovenstone's Fishing Vessel Geo-Searcher which was being re-fitted in a Gdansk Shipyard See Geo-Searcher for more. |
Chief Islander visits Association ChairmanFormer Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Bates took Chief Islander Ian Lavarello to Staffordshire on 22nd November 2016 to meet Tristan Association President and Chairman Michael Swales at his Alton home. |
Chief Islander with Chris Carnegy in the West of EnglandOn Monday November 28th Chris and Ian met cruise industry expert Sue Blanchard in Bristol. Sue worked in the travel industry for many years, recently promoting the Welsh port of Milford Haven to cruise lines. Now retired, she's taken-up the cause of Tristan da Cunha and supplies contacts and information to help the island's Head of Tourism Dawn Repetto to encourage more cruise ship calls. Dawn gave Ian a Tristan flag to present to Sue as a mark of gratitude. |
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Above: Ian with Sue Blanchard in Bristol Right: Visit to historic Haunch of Venison Inn, Salisbury. The ancient pub is famous for a mummified severed hand that was found in an alcove. Legend has it that the hand was cut off in a gambling dispute. |
High Flying Chief IslanderDuring an air themed day around Salisbury on Tuesday 29th November, Ian and Chris flew from Old Sarum airfield down to the Isle of Wight. Ian took the controls over the New Forest, and got a aerial view of the Needles, ships in the Solent, and Lymington yacht haven. |
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Left: At the Museum of Army Flying, Middle Wallop |
Chief Islander visits new fishing vessel Geo-Searcher in Poland
Report and photos from Chris Carnegy of a visit to the MV Geo Searcher as she was refitted as a fishing vessel in a yard in Poland in November 2016 | |
Geo-Searcher | Foredeck, with Gdansk crane in background |
On November 10th and 11th, Chief Islander Ian Lavarello and Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Carnegy visited Geo Searcher as she underwent the last of the conversion work being carried out in Gdansk, Poland. A few days later the ship was due to depart for Cape Town where more work will be completed before she starts service for Tristan in March. Ovenstone chose the vessel for its build quality, sea keeping and the facilities for passengers, including all-en suite bathrooms and a dedicated hospital cabin. The cargo hold can take pallets and many other items, and will have its own fork-lift truck, while two twenty-foot containers can be carried on deck. Any cargo not carried on the Geo Searcher will be conveyed on alternate vessels. The lobster processing facility has had major investment, with modern conveyer systems and innovative designs aimed at maximising both efficiency and quality. Ian declared himself very impressed with the vessel, noting the spaciousness and comfort of the cabins and the level access to the 'air taxi' deck. He will see Geo Searcher again when she arrives in Cape Town. |
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Hi-tech fishing station in the starboard bridge extension | Ian on the bridge |
Typical cabin | |
One of the passengers' day rooms | Crew mess |
Ian and Chris trying out the new crane! | Foredeck, with Ovenstone's Managing Director Andrew James alongside Ian Lavarello |
The overhead conveyer for lobster traps | Crane view |
More views from the crane | |
We look forward to adding photos of Geo-Searcher in Cape Town, and during the first voyage to Tristan. |
UK Representative meets designer of Tristan flag
Report and photo from Chris Carnegy | |
Photo shows Graham Bartram with Chris Carnegy in Westminster Hall on 23rd November 2016, and above we show the Tristan flag incorporating the crest designed by Graham. | |
At a gathering of the OT all-party Parliamentary Group held in Westminster Hall on Wednesday 23rd November, Tristan Government's UK Representative Chris Carnegy met the man who designed the Tristan flag. Graham Bartram of the Flag institute fondly recalled how James Glass, then Chief Islander, helped him to make the lobsters anatomically correct. |
Chief Islander visits Association Chairman |
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Ian Lavarello met Michael Swales in his home in Alton, Staffordshire. 22-Nov-2016 |
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2016 Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council
Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council and associated meetings attended by Tristan Chief Islander in London, 31st October - 3rd November 2016 Photos and reports from Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Carnegy |
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Chief Islander arrives in London for important UK Overseas Territories EventsChief Islander Ian Lavarello arrived by train at London's Euston Station on Sunday 30th October from Manchester, where he has been staying with relatives. He will have a busy few days of meetings in London. The Overseas Territories' Joint Ministerial Council is the main event, together with the UKOTA Political Council and a specific meeting about Tristan topics with the new minister for the Overseas Territories, Baroness Joyce Anelay. |
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Left: Ian after arriving at Euston Station. | |
Monday 31st October |
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UK Overseas Territories Political Council in session at the Park Plaza Hotel on London's South Bank. Chris Carnegy and Ian Lavarello can be seen far right on the main table. |
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UK Overseas Territories Political Council members at the end of their meeting. Tristan Chief Islander Ian Lavarello is third from the left on the back row. | Ian Lavarello flanked by St Helena councillors Derek Thomas (right) and Lawson Henry (left) during the Gibraltar reception held at The Gherkin in the City of London. |
Tuesday 1st November |
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Left: Ian en route to meetings with ministers for climate change, health and pensions, standing beneath the Tristan flag flying proudly in Parliament Square. | |
Above: Ian in session with the UK Foreign Affairs Committee chaired by Crispin Blunt MP | |
3 photos of Chief Islander in in Parliament | |
Above: Ian with FCO Overseas Territories Director Above right: Ian meets Andrew Rosindell MP Right: Ian with other South Atlantic delegates - |
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Left: Ian arriving in Lancaster House | |
Delegates representing UK Overseas Territories gather with OT Minister Baroness Anelay in the foyer of Lancaster House. Ian Lavarello is far right on the front row. | |
Wednesday 2nd November |
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In Lancaster House: Above: With DFID OT Minister Lord Bates Right: With OT Minister Baroness Anelay |
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Above Right: Ian during JMC plenary session at Lancaster House Above Left: Signing the inter-OT Memorandum on child safeguarding with MLA Roger Edwards of the Falkland Islands who proposed the initiative, which will encourage OTs to share information and best practice. |
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Evening Reception on Wednesday 2nd November |
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Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson meets Ian Lavarello and Chris Carnegy | |
Tristan Lobster served at JMC Reception Managing Director of Ovenstones Andrew James and Chief Islander Ian Lavarello with a waitress serving snacks of Tristan Rock Lobster | |
Chris Carnegy and Ian Lavarello with Martin and Debbie Brunnschweiler from Bushy's Ale of Man Brewery which produces the Tristan Island Brew served again at the annual reception | |
Thursday 3rd November: Private meetings with the key ministers were held. |
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Ian Lavarello above overlooking the Thames, and right with fellow islander Norman Glass |
Tristan team visit SAWS Cape Town Offices
Report and photo from Chris Carnegy |
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Chief Islander Ian Lavarello, Outgoing Administrator Alex Mitham and Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Carnegy visited the South African Weather Service (SAWS) offices in Cape Town on 7th October 2016 for discussions on the ongoing partnership with SAWS. Tristan da Cunha and Gough Island are vital meteorological stations to provide data crucial to accurate South African weather forecasts. | |
Photo shows, left to right: Nish Devanunthan, Southern Oceans and Antarctic Support Director with DEA, Ian Lavarello, Mnikeli Ndabami, General Manager, Operations with SAWS, Alex Mitham and Chris Carnegy. |
Alex Mitham signs off as Administrator
Alex and Hasene Mitham are leaving Tristan after three years when they travel back to Cape Town aboard SA Agulhas II. Commercial Officer Ann Biddle will again be serving as Acting Administrator, as she did during Alex's absence earlier in the year, until Sean Burns returns to the island for his second term as Administrator in November 2016. Ann took over from Alex on 28th September as Alex and Hasene prepared to leave. SA Agulhas II is scheduled to depart on Saturday 1st October, but is likely to load passengers on Friday 30th September.
Community Reception on 17th September 2016 |
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The reception was held at Prince Philip Hall, with presentations by Administrator, Alex Mitham, and Chief Islander, Ian Lavarello. 17-Sep-2016 |
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Brock Carmichael win Tristan Design Competition |
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Brock Carmichael Architects have won the RIBA competition to design a more sustainable future for the Tristan community. 13-Sep-2016 |
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Neil Swain's UK Trip 2016
Tristan islander Neil Swain arrived in England on 3rd April - see below for photos and reports of his trip principally focused on study at Harper Adams University in Shropshire. |
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Neil departs UK for Cape Town Neil Swain departed England from London's Heathrow Airport on Saturday 20th August bound for Cape Town and the sea journey home aboard SA Agulhas II in early September. The photo right, |
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Reunion after 40 years One of Neil's last visitors during his time at |
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Gavin added 'Some of the happiest days of my life were spent on Tristan and while I left Tristan 40 years ago Tristan never leaves me! 'Our meeting was just absolutely wonderful.It was like we had never been apart in all those years.We chatted of old times and,of course,about farming on Tristan and it is good to know that Neil has had an interesting time at Harper Adams.He has found some useful ideas to try back on Tristan.It will not be long before there will be strawberries growing in Tristan gardens! We rounded off our few hours together with lunch at an English Village pub.The memory of our meeting will always be cherished.' |
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Staff impressed as Neil Swain has travelled Report and photo from Chris Carnegy On a visit to London on 22nd June, Photo of Neil with a pack of Tristan Lobster |
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Visit of Tristan Administrator Alex Mitham on 25th May While he was at the university he also met Andy Jones, Director of Learning and Teaching and Ian Pryce, Short Course and Conference Coordinator who have been arranging Neil’s day to day work. The photo right shows, left to right, Andy Jones, Neil and Ian Pryce. It was and interesting and rewarding visit and Alex was shown around the very impressive campus. The capacity and capabilities of the university are extraordinary and Alex is sure it would be able to offer other Tristanians many opportunities. |
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Neil Swain meets HRH The Princess Royal Photos and Report and Photos from Harper Adams University Communications manager Jaclyn Green Neil Swain, presently studying at the university, met HRH The Princess Royal at Harper Adams University during her visit on 25th April 2016, at the official opening on the Dairy Crest Innovation Centre on the campus. The Princess, who is Chancellor of the university, chatted to Neil for a few minutes after touring the new building. |
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Photos of Neil Swain being greeted by and talking to HRH during the visit. |
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HRH's father, Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh, visited Tristan da Cunha in January 1957, two years before Neil was born. He was the last royal visitor to Tristan da Cunha, following on from the first 1867 visit of Prince Alfred, the first Duke of Edinburgh and second son on Queen Victoria, after whom the Tristan Settlement of Edinburgh is named. |
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Neil Swain's UK Trip - The first month Neil was picked up in Shropshire on Good Friday by Hazel (nee Swain) and her husband Barry Carter, who drove him to their home in Hampshire. They took Neil on various trips to Bristol, Poole and Southampton. |
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On Easter Saturday Hazel and Barry took Neil Above right: Hazel Swain, Hazel's cousins Paula Swain and Tracy Tough (nee Swain), Dee Adams, Neil Swain.
Dee and Mark are Tracy's children. Left: Neil in Poole |
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Neil in Southampton on 2nd April and in London the following day after the Annual Gathering party. |
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Hazel and Barry brought Neil Hazel's photo left shows the Pillow Dance |
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On Sunday 3rd April
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Tristan Website Planning Meeting in London on 21st June 2016
A historic meeting took place in London's Foreign and Commonwealth Office on 21st June 2016 when the Tristan Desk Officer Jonathon Brown hosted a meeting between the current Administrator Alex Mitham, Sean Burns, who has been Acting St Helena Governor, and who returns to Tristan as Administrator in November 2016, Tristan Website Webmaster Peter Millington and Newsletter & Website Editor Richard Grundy. The meeting made plans to launch a re-vamped site later this year and considered future site organisation. Peter demonstrated an on-line editing facility that could be used to update pages directly from the island for the first time. | |
Left - Peter demonstrating his new design to Sean, Jonathon and Alex; Above - Sean, Peter, Alex and Richard. |
Tristan Represented at Service to mark the Queen's 90th Birthday
St Paul's Cathedral in London was the setting for a National Service of Thanksgiving to mark the Queen's 90th birthday - and Tristan da Cunha was part of the occasion. The islands' UK Representative Chris Carnegy joined colleagues from other Overseas Territories at the event, which included a prayer for HRH the Duke of Edinburgh who celebrated his 95th birthday on the day of the service, almost six decades after his historic visit to Tristan. The Archbishop of Canterbury led the service, and Sir Richard Attenborough (like the Queen, 90 years old) gave a reading. Chris says 'Tristan is proud to be part of Her Majesty's realm, and it was a great privilege to be at the heart of this momentous occasion'. The island sent loyal birthday greetings to the Queen in April. |
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Chris and fellow Territory Representatives gather at the Foreign Office ahead of the service. |
Administrator visits Germany to thank the shipping company Hamburg Sud
Administrator Alex Mitham reports on his visit to Germany to thank the company Hamburg Sud | |
On the 3rd June 2016 I went to meet Hamburg Sud and present a plaque on behalf of the community – thanking them for all their support over the past few years. Hamburg Sud are the only shipping company who have assisted the island in times of need, and the community owe them a great debt of gratitude. |
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The inscription on the plaque reads: In recognition of your support to the community of Tristan da Cunha. For the remotest inhabited island in the world, it is immensely reassuring that you are willing to assist in times of need. We will always reciprocate, and offer any assistance your vessels may require. The officers and crew of Hamburg Sud have been taken to Tristan da Cunha's heart, winning respect, trust and friendship. We wish you a successful and prosperous future. Thank you. |
Administrator Alex Mitham reports on his visit to Jersey
On the 1st June 2016 I travelled over to Jersey to meet the Jersey Government and discuss future training initiatives. As readers of the website and Newsletter will know, the Island established a fruitful relationship with the Isle of Man Government several years ago, and are keen to build a similar relationship with Jersey. Paul and Geraldine Repetto,( together with their two daughters) will be going on training (working at the States Infrastructure Department and Greffe) from October 2016 and I hope we can offer the same opportunity to more Tristanians in the future. |
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I presented a TDC plaque to David Walwyn, Director of External Relations who has kindly agreed to oversee future training schemes. (see photo below left). Mark Egan, the Greffier (see photo below right), kindly showed me around the Assembly and will be looking after Geraldine's training. (The Greffier is the clerk to the States Assembly and is the closet parallel to TDC's Island Council support) | |
Possible National Geographic 'Pristine Seas' Tristan visit.Tristan's UK Representative Chris Carnegy met National Geographic 'Pristine Seas' expedition leader Paul Rose on 25th May 2016. The occasion was a reception in Westminster organised by the Great British Oceans campaign, with Richard Benyon MP. Tristan da Cunha's government, together with the RSPB, is hopeful that a Pristine Seas expedition can come to the Tristan island group in the near future. |
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Photo shows Chris and Paul at the Westminster reception on 25th May. |
Administrators travel to UK
Tristan Administrator Alex Mitham and his wife Hasene arrived at Durban aboard the container ship Gerhard Schulte on 16th May after a six day passage from Tristan. They then flew to the UK arriving by air at London Heathrow airport on 20th May 2016. Alex will attend meetings in London and elsewhere before returning to Tristan for the final part of his three year contract which ends when he departs aboard SA Agulhas II in early October.
Sean Burns will return to Tristan for his second term as Administrator in November. Sean departed St Helena (where he was Acting Governor until Her Excellency Lisa Phillips was sworn in as Governor on 25th April 2016) with his wife Marina aboard the RMS St Helena on Sunday 22nd May and will arrive in Tilbury a fortnight later on Sunday 5th June.
Tristan Island Council 2013-2016
Dr Anja Smit honoured by Island CouncilReport and photo from Cynthia GreenAt the Island Council Meeting held on 2nd June 2015, Dr Anja Smit was presented with a plaque from the Chief Islander on behalf of the Community thanking her for all the hard work and support she gave to the island during her time as Medical Officer. |
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Photo shows left to right: Chief Islander Ian Lavarello, Warren Glass, Iris Green, Lorraine Repetto, Joanne Green, Gerald Repetto, Beverley Swain, Dr Anja Smit, Chris Standing (behind), Neil Swain, Conrad Glass and behind Matthew Byrne. |
Tristan Island Council sitting on and behind a new bench presented by HE Governor Mark Capes to mark the 50th Anniversary of the island's re-settlement when he visited aboard RMS St Helena in November 2013 prior to their last 2013 meeting on 19th December. |
Photo by Chief Executive Officer Kobus Potgieter of the Island Council on the occasion of |
Meeting of the new 2013-2016 Island Council on 11th March 2013Photograph by Chief Executive Officer Kobus Potgieter |
Island Council Election 2013No election ballot necessary as only eight Island Councillors are nominated Ian Lavarello remains as Chief Islander - elected for second consecutive term Three further councillors appointed by Administrator Sean Burns on 4th March |
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Administrator Sean Burns announced on Tuesday 26th February that there will be no need for a ballot for the Island Council election in 2013 as only eight nominations were received for the eight vacant places. So the following Tristan Islanders have been elected to serve as Island Councillors from March 2013 – February 2016 : |
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The new elected Island Council is remarkable as only the Chief Islander Ian Lavarello served on the old 2010-2013 Council. A further three Island Councillors were appointed by the Administrator Sean Burns on 4th March, completing the 11 members of the Island Council to serve from 2013 - 2016:
In the separate election for Chief Islander, the existing Chief Islander Ian Lavarello was returned unopposed as no other nominations were received, so Ian will serve a second term of three years from 2013 – 2016. |
Island Council 2016-2019
Historic Occasion as Governor Designate Lisa Phillips meets with the Island Councilduring the last visit of the RMS St Helena to Tristan da CunhaReport from Administrator Alex Mitham and photos from Alex Cameron (Head of the Southern Oceans Department, in FCO’s Overseas Territories Directorate). |
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At the end of the Island Council meeting, Governor Designate Lisa Phillips very kindly presented the Chief Islander with an official letter from the Duke of Edinburgh. The Duke of Edinburgh has a long standing interest in Tristan da Cunha following his visit in 1957 (the Community Hall is named the Prince Philip Hall after the Duke) and the island were honoured in receiving the official correspondence from Buckingham Palace. The Community look forward to Ian Lavarello, Chief Islander conveying the Duke of Edinburgh’s message on Anniversary Day in August. Lisa Phillips also presented the Chief Islander with several photographs of the RMS St Helena and Official Crest. These gifts will be held in pride of place in the Council Chamber. See photos below.
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Governor Designate Lisa Phillips presenting a letter from HRH The Duke of Edinburgh to Chief Islander Ian Lavarello. Other Island Councillors pictured are, left to right, Terence Green, Paula Swain, James Glass, Iris Glass, Warren Glass, and Harold Green. To Ian's right is the President of the Island Council, Administrator Alex Mitham. |
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Photos show above: Island Councillors with the gifts presented by Lisa Phillips Right, Chief Islander Ian Lavarello with the official crest of the RMS St Helena to mark the vessel's last call at Tristan da Cunha. |
Inaugural Meeting of the 2016-2019 Tristan da Cunha Island Council |
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All three islanders who have served for three terms as Chief Islander are on the new council: Harold Green, James Glass, and the present Chief Islander Ian Lavarello, who becomes the first to serve for three consecutive terms. |
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New Island Council sworn in on 17th MarchReport from Administrator Alex Mitham
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The New Chief Islander and Island Council for 2016 - 2019 were sworn in at the Council Chambers at 17.00 on the 17th March 2016. Ann Biddle as the Presiding Officer and Geraldine Repetto as Council Clerk were also present. After the Swearing In Ceremony the Council and their partners were invited for celebratory drinks at the Residency. Being Chief Islander or being a Councillor takes a great deal of commitment and courage. The Council sometimes have to take difficult decisions to safeguard the future of the island, and these decisions are not always welcomed by everyone. So I would like to once again thank and congratulate the new Council and Chief Islander on being appointed, and I look forward to working with them for the next 6 months. |
Photos show Administrator Alex Mitham, and President of the Island Council, with Council Clerk Geraldine Repetto during the Island Council swearing-in ceremony. Above : Chief Islander Ian Lavarello is sworn in; Below right veteran Harold Green is sworn in (Harold was the first elected Chief Islander in 1970, and, like Ian, served for three terms - see Chief Islander's Page for more); Below left - Alex Mitham addresses the newly elected Council |
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Below: Councillors seated in the Council Chamber during the ceremony with, behind, President of the Council Alex Mitham, Council Clerk Geraldine Repetto and Election Presiding Officer Ann Biddle |
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Island Council ElectionReport from Administrator Alex Mitham and photos from Dawn Repetto |
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The Tristan Island Council 2013-2016 held its last meeting on 2nd February 2016 and was formally dissolved on 4th February. The elections for Chief Islander and Island Council were held on the 9th March, with the Polling Station opening its doors at 08.00. Over 83% of the electorate turned out to cast their vote, and I think that could be a record attendance. (The UK would be very envious of that success!). The doors closed at 19.00 (an hour later than usual due to it being a fishing day). Anne Biddle, Geraldine Repetto, Barry Davies and I counted the votes, and the results were announced to the Governor. I would like to thank the entire community for such a high turnout at the polls – it was wonderful to see so much interest in the election. The high attendance showed the islands continued support for not only their Island Council, but also ensuring the community has an active democratic process for ensuring it has a clear and authoritative voice on matters relating to their island. I would like to thank Ann Biddle as Presiding Officer and Geraldine Repetto, Council Clerk who oversaw the Polling Station all day. It was a long, but successful day. I would also like to congratulate the new Chief Islander and Island Council, and I look forward to working with them for the next six months. |
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Signs towards the Council Chamber polling station | |
Photos inside the Council Chamber Polling Station with Presiding Officer Ann Biddle overseeing voting arrangements. | |
Election Results:Ian Lavarello was elected Chief Islander to serve a third consecutive term. Emma Swain, Paula Swain, Ian Lavarello, James Patrick Glass, Warren Glass, Terence Green, Sarah Green and Lorraine Repetto were elected as Island Councillors. In addition Administrator Alex Mitham appointed Harold Green, Conrad Glass and Iris Green as Island Councillors. |
MV Gerhard Schulte provides passage for Alex and Hasene Mitham |
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The Gerhard Schulte called at Tristan da Cunha on the 6th May 2016 to pick up Administrator Alex Mitham and his wife Hasene. 6-May-2016 |
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Her Excellency Lisa Phillips was sworn in as Governor
Photos and reports from Sean Burns, who was Acting Governor until 25th April and will return to Tristan da Cunha for his second term as Administrator in September 2016
HE Lisa Phillips was sworn in as Governor of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha on 25th April 2016 | |
HE Lisa Phillips addressing the large crowd in Jamestown during the ceremony. Sean Burns is seated far right and UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Representative Alex Cameron, seated immediate right of the Governor. | |
Photos of Lisa Phillips' arrival at St Helena: Left: stepping ashore; Above: With Marina Burns on the Quay; Below: Greeting Acting-Governor Sean Burns and his wife Marina (left) with Alex Cameron alongside; Left: Arriving for the official swearing-in-ceremony. |
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Extracts from the official news release from the St Helena Government on 25th April:The RMS St Helena arrived in James’ Bay this morning, bringing with her the new Governor Designate for St Helena, Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha - Ms Lisa Phillips. Ms Phillips is the 68th Governor of St Helena and her Dependencies and the first ever female to take on the role. She was sworn in this afternoon, just after 2pm, Monday 25 April 2016. In her reply to the Sheriff and her address to the public, Governor Phillips gave a speech which began: Thank you so much for your warm welcome. And I would like to pay tribute to Sean Burns who has been so ably performing the Acting Governor role while I have been on my way. I am so pleased to be here. I found out I had been successful for this job last summer and have been itching to get here ever since. I have to say it is such an Honour to assume this responsibility and swear the Oath of Allegiance to Her Majesty the Queen as Her Governor of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. I also count myself very lucky indeed to have visited Tristan da Cunha on my way to St Helena. Such a remarkable place with remarkable people. I think Tristan will hold a special place in my heart from now on and I want to thank the community there for such a fantastic welcome and for the terrific staff of the RMS for getting me there, against all the odds. Even though I am based on St Helena, I am committed to performing my Governor role well in each Territory, including Tristan and Ascension. The Island Council on Tristan da Cunha and the Ascension Island Government have a difficult job, trying to build revenues in order to provide more and better public services. I want to support them to do that. Following Her Excellency’s remarks, an address was made by Mr Alex Cameron, Head of the Southern Oceans Department, in FCO’s Overseas Territories Directorate. Mr Cameron's speech included these extracts: Thank you for your warm welcome to St Helena. The Governor and I have been travelling for nearly two weeks now, mingling with the passengers and crew of the magnificent RMS. I will, like many here, mourn the departure of this outstanding vessel when she’s taken out of service later this year. She’s been the lifeline to the Island for many years. I’m sure most assembled here have at one time or another travelled on her. She is your family when onboard, an extension of the Island, and a symbol of the community. It is poignant to reflect that Lisa Phillips has become the 68th, and final, Governor to have arrived on St Helena by ship. But the past gives way to the future. Last week, an international jet landed on this Island for the first time. And so this Island is not just looking towards the future. It is living in the future. And we shouldn't forget that Lisa is Governor not just of St Helena, but of Tristan Da Cunha, and Ascension too. These are three of the most beautiful places on earth. They represent our rich history and our shared bonds. They’re inhabited by some of the most resilient people on earth, tied to the UK in a unique way. They harbour magnificent environments, being home to one third of the UK’s endemic species. Lisa has promised to be an active Governor across all her patch. She was visibly moved by her recent visit to Tristan and has told me how much she is looking forward to visiting Ascension. |
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Tristan's UK Representative Chris Carnegy joined the team from UNESCO at an event in London on 20th April 2016. It marked the launch of a study of the benefits of gaining UNESCO designation, and it came at an important moment for the Tristan archipelago. | |
Gough Island, part of our UNESCO world heritage site, is under threat from invasive plants and animals. House mice are attacking the albatross chicks, placing the species in critical danger. Jonathan Hall of the RSPB (pictured with Chris left) is developing a plan to restore Gough to its pristine state. Support from UNESCO, the UK government, and a range of other backers, will be vital to the success of the restoration campaign. |
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Ian Lavarello sworn in as Chief Islanderfor a third consecutive term on 17th March 2016.See the Island Council |
Nathan Swain's photo prominent at 2016 Commonwealth Day ServiceReport and photo from Chris Carnegy |
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When the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh and the Prime Minister gathered at Westminster Abbey on 14th March 2016, Tristan's young world-beater Nathan Swain was in focus yet again. The occasion was the annual Commonwealth Celebration, and the Order of Service included a picture of 11 year-old Nathan as the organisation's Essay Competition junior winner for 2015. |
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2013 St Helena Training for Paula Swain from Tristan's Treasury Department Report from Lorraine Repetto Paula was sent to St. Helena on training from April to August 2013. She was seconded to the internal audit department. During this time Paula completed the following: 1. Internal Audit Induction Program (used for all staff) - including definition of internal auditing, code of ethics and international standards, the internal audit office and its place in SHG, about SHG, concepts of corporate governance, risk management and internal controls (COSO framework), using Microsoft outlook, interviewing skills, gathering evidence, and completing working papers. 2. Planning stage of an Audit Training 3. Annual Governance Statement Briefing. 4. Institute of Business ethics - understanding Business Ethics (on-line training) 5. Civil Service Learning - including Financial skills (modules 1 to 11), information Management, Problem solving, performance management, counter fraud and corruption and health and safety awareness. Paula received a glowing report from St. Helena. We are in the process of discussing how we can implement what she has learnt and hope to have the new measures in place at the beginning of the new year. |
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Martin and Iris to attend 2013 Tristan Annual Gathering We are delighted to announce that Martin and Iris Green will be flying from the Isle of Man on Tuesday 2nd April to stay with Sam and Bridget Kent in Gloucestershire and then attend the Southampton Tristan Annual Gathering on Saturday 6th April. It is so good to have resident Tristan Islanders to join Tristan Islanders now living in the UK and other Tristan Association members at the 2013 event, which looks like being the best attended yet. Martin and Iris will also join us for the dinner dance and stay in the Holiday Inn until Sunday. Association Chairman and President Michael Swales will drive Martin and Iris to Birmingham Airport on Sunday for the flight back to the Isle of Man. The Isle of Man has suffered unseasonal snow storms in March and it is hoped temperatures pick up for the Annual Gathering. |
Martin involved in sheep rescue mission Martin is working with the farmers on this rescue mission facing conditions unknown on Tristan da Cunha’s Settlement Plain where frost and snow are unknown. Whilst higher mountain slopes get regular winter snow, sheep are always able to access sheltered gulleys and gulches with ample grass grazing on the mountain base. |
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Iris and Martin attend Cannes Film Festival Iris and Martin flew to France to attend the Cannes Film Festival on 26th May 2013. See the Tristan News Abroad Page for details of their amazing visit. |
Article in the August 2013 Newsletter Iris and Martin departed the Isle of Man on 12th June. They wrote a report on their visit which appears with new photos all published as a feature in the August 2013 Newsletter. To get your copy join the Tristan Association. |
Tristan Representative attends FCO Child Protection ConferenceReport from Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Carnegy |
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Tristan was represented in London at a conference of the social-services leaders from across the UK's overseas territories. The three-day meeting at Lancaster House, running 1st to 3rd March 2016, studied the best ways to safeguard the well being of children. Tristan is currently recruiting for its first dedicated social worker. UK Representative Chris Carnegy joined the gathering to learn from other OTs' experiences and report back to the island. The conference was opened by OT minister James Duddridge, who joined delegates as the sessions got underway. |
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Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Carnegy with Falklands Director of Health and Social Services Ian Bainbridge during the final day of the Lancaster House conference on 3rd March. |
UK Overseas Territories APPG and UKOTA Meetings in londonReport and photo from Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Carnegy |
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The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) met on 27th January 2016 in the historic setting of a room just off Westminster Hall. It was a chance to hear the views on the Overseas Territories of the new Labour Party foreign affairs team. Shadow minister Fabian Hamilton gave a warm endorsement of the Territories' role in the British family. Tristan's flag was on prominent display on the table, and the meeting heard updates on the harbour work and initiatives aiming to boost the island's sustainability, such as the plans to diversify agriculture and improve energy efficiency. |
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Photo shows the Tristan flag with left to right: Kimberley Durrant (Bermuda), Albert Poggio (Gibraltar), Andrew Rosindell MP (APPG Chair), Fabian Hamilton MP and Sukey Cameron (Falklands). |
Also on 27th January, the UK Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA) AGM took place in London when Chris Carnegy was re-elected as Treasurer and the new Chair will be Benito Wheatley from the British Virgin Islands. |
Sean Burns to return to serve second term as Administrator |
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Press Release on 25th January 2016 Sean, who is currently the Head of the Governor’s Office in St Helena, and presently serving as Acting Governor, will be accompanied by his wife Marina. This will be their second posting to Tristan having served as Administrator from 2010-2013. Photo shows Sean and Marina arriving at Tristan on 9th September 2010. |
Administrator Alex Mitham said: 'The whole community looks forward to welcoming Sean and Marina back to the island at the end of the year. Sean has gained valuable insight from working in St Helena, and will no doubt be able to put that knowledge to good use on Tristan. The island will be undergoing many changes over the next few years and its good that someone who already knows and understands the community can assist them on meeting their sustainability objectives.' Photo shows Sean with councillors on the occasion of his final Island Council meeting on 19th September 2013 |
First Lady Governor appointedLisa Phillips to join final RMS St Helena cruise to visit Tristan in April |
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The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office announced on 20th January 2016 that Lisa Phillips has been appointed Governor of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. |
For more information on Lisa's appointment |
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Lisa Phillips appointed as first lady Governor
Lisa to join RMS St Helena's final visit to Tristan before arriving at St Helena |
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The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office announced on 20th January 2016 that Lisa Phillips has been appointed Governor of St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha. The Tristan da Cunha community are delighted that Lisa will join the RMS St Helena on its final passage to Tristan da Cunha, departing Cape Town on 14th April, arriving at Tristan to lead the island's bicentenary celebrations on 20th April, and departing Tristan on 22nd April to then arrive on St Helena to formally take up her post of Governor on 26th April. |
Lisa is presently working for DFID (Department For International Development) as Head of the Kenya Office. She has a long and distinguished service with FCO, DFID and the ODA. Before 1984 she worked for the ODA, in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland, as Programme Manager, and in the Personnel Sections. Further ODA contracts between 1998 - 1996 took Lisa to Barbados, where she was Programme Manager, to India where she was Programme Manager for the Country Team, and to South East Asia, where she was Programme manager in Sri Lanka and Indonesia. Between 1996 and 2002 Lisa worked for DFID as Resources Manager, Aid Policy Department and EU & Regional Policy Manager, Eastern Europe & Central Asia Department. There followed a two year UNICEF appointment as Commonwealth Programme Manager, UN & Commonwealth Department between 2002-2004. Between 2004-2008 Lisa returned to work for DFID as Deputy Team Leader (Followed by Team Leader) - Fragile States, Policy Division, in the Fragile States Team and Migration Team Leader, Migration Team, Policy & Research Division. From 2006-2009 Lisa was Returns Reintegration Fund Manager, in the FCO Migration Directorate. Since 2011 Lisa has worked for DFID in a range of senior posts: Head of Cabinet, Policy & Research Directorate (2009-2011); Head of Department, Governance & Fragile States Department (2011-2012); Anti corruption lead in the Policy Division (2012); Head of Director’s Cabinet, Policy Division (2012-13); Head of the Kenya Office (2013 - 2016). |
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On her appointment as the 65th Governor of St Helena and the first ever woman appointed to the substantive role, Lisa said: "I am so excited to be taking up the role of Governor of St Helena, Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha and cannot wait to be on the islands and to get going. "With the opening of the Airport, 2016 will be a year of change for St Helena. I am looking forward to working in partnership with the Island and her people to get the most benefit out of that change, while preserving the very special place that is St Helena". |
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Reflecting on his four years on the Island, Governor Capes added: "Tamara and I will leave St Helena shortly after over four tremendously busy and satisfying years. Much has been achieved during those years on so many fronts and I am hugely grateful to Councillors and colleagues in St Helena Government for their support and for their commitment to moving the Island forward. "It has been both a pleasure and a privilege to work with such a talented and enthusiastic team. Even now it still amazes me how such a small community, with limited resources, has coped so well with the diverse and challenging demands placed on it in recent years as we have prepared to meet the changes ahead." "Knowing the Island and her people as well as I do now, I have no doubt, as I hand over to my successor, that St Helena is on course for a bright and prosperous future." |
Minding the Gap Governor Mark Capes will return to St Helena on 30th January 2016, following overseas business and leave, and will depart the Island on Friday 18 March 2016 to carry out official business in Paris and Corsica connected with the Napoleonic bicentenary celebrations. From 18th March, Head of the Governor’s Office, and former Tristan Administrator Sean Burns, will again become Acting Governor until Lisa Phillips arrives at St Helena on the RMS on Tuesday 26 April 2016. Sean Burns then returns to Tristan da Cunha to serve a second term as Administrator. |
Tristan UK Representative visits RNLI's Poole HQReport and photos from Chris Carnegy |
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On 19th January 2016, Tristan's UK Representative Chris Carnegy met the chief executive of the RNLI, Vice Admiral Paul Boissier (pictured, with Chris), together with the Institution's International Development Manager Steve Wills. Chris made contact to discuss Search and Rescue refresher training for Tristan, and to explore options for a range of other collaborations. The visit included a tour around the impressive training facilities at the RNLI's headquarters in Poole, Dorset. |
Chris Carnegy begins second year as Tristan's UK Representative |
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Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Carnegy attended an informal lunch meeting at which the recent Joint Ministerial Council was reviewed with other UK Overseas Territories Representatives on 7th January 2016 in London. The lunch was convened by Overseas Territories Minister James Duddridge who can be seen centre front. Chris can be seen back right as begins his second year working on behalf of the island community. Photo from UKOTA Secretary Edwina O'Mahony |