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Chief Islander Ian Lavarello's 2011 Visit to South Africa and Europe Ian travelled from Tristan aboard SA Agulhas in early October, followed by a training course in Johannesburg, South Africa. We publish below reports and pictures of Ian's UK trip which concluded with attendance
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Report on the UK Overseas Territories Consultative Council's Conference Ian explained to Mr Bellingham complexities and apparent inconsistencies between what the Chinese authorities would accept without tariffs and what they would not – and the beneficial effect on Tristan's economy if these difficulties could be overcome. The Minister undertook to try to “unblock” the situation. He went through in detail Ian's points that a new harbour to replace the existing structure would be better for the island and for the British taxpayer; he discussed in detail concerns about the condition of the Camogli Hospital and progress on education improvements, tourism development and conservation. Later at a reception organised by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, Ian was able to elaborate on these issues with MPs and members of the House of Lords. It was clear there is great interest among them in Tristan and continuing concern over the effects of the wreck of the bulk carrier Oliva on wildlife and the economy. One of the points Mr Bellingham was able to make when he opened the Conference was that there was now proof that the Government saw the Overseas Territories as assets to be proud of – and not liabilities. He was able to list progress such as the signing of the agreement to build the airport on St Helena; to invest in the rebuilding of the Turks & Caicos Islands' government structures; in ensuring the wishes of the Falkland Islanders to remain British were not compromised and that the dispute between the Ministry of Defence and the Ascension Government over payments had been resolved. Mr Bellingham said he was impressed by the way other government departments were happy to co-operate and engage with Overseas Territories; Ian was able to list the challenges facing Tristan and was in turn praised for setting up the training co-operation with the Isle of Man. Ian was also able to speak on the wish of Tristan people to see more visits from Royal Navy vessels to discourage poaching and his support for secondment of departmental workers around the South Atlantic to create opportunities. He warned this needed someone to take charge and there were budget implications. He suggested the airport on St Helena could benefit all the South Atlantic if a new shipping service linking St Helena to Tristan was developed for upmarket tourists and islanders, as well as freight and essential supplies. He welcomed the opportunity for Tristan workers to be employed on the construction of the airport. The first day's session was concluded by t he Foreign Secretary, Rt. Hon. William Hague MP, when Ian was able to tell him: “It's an honour and a privilege to be able to thank you for all the FCO has done to help the island - its finances and in every other way”. For this, he was warmly thanked by the Foreign Secretary and by Mr Bellingham. |
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A further eight Departments attended the second day, with UK Government Ministers and senior officials participating from the Departments of Education; Communities and Local Government; Culture, Media and Sport; Home Office; Business, Innovation and Skills; Work and Pensions; Environment, Food and Rural Affairs; and Energy, and Climate Change. They discussed ways to assist the Territories, in line with the new Government-wide approach to supporting their development. Afterwards the Minister said: “This Government has a clear vision for our Overseas Territories to be vibrant and flourishing communities, proudly retaining aspects of their British identity and generating wider opportunities for their people. We have made good progress in the last year in developing our approach to the Overseas Territories. We are investing heavily in the Territories that need the most assistance, including building an airport on St Helena as well as significant development work in Montserrat and on-going work to restore the principles of good governance and sound financial management to the Turks and Caicos Islands.” Priorities for Tristan listed by Ian, ahead of his meeting with Mr Bellingham:
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Chief Islander's Ian flew to Munich in Germany Photos and report |
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Ian at a traditional |
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Above: Ian in Munich city centre Right: Ian at the German |
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Chief Islander Ian Lavarello observing Jeffrey Rogers and Dereck Rogers working to rehabilitate Rockhopper Penguins in March 2011 |
Chief Islander Ian Lavarello looks out from Nightingale towards Inaccessible Island in 2011 |
Photograph of Chief Islander
Ian Lavarello on MV Edinburgh off Gough Island on 28th April 2010 whilst working as a Fisheries Observer |