As Broadcast over FIBS on 08 November 2001
It hardly seems four years since the last general election, yet here we are on the eve of another. I would like to offer myself to you, people of the Camp, as one of your representatives on Legislative Council for the next four years.
Some of the things which happened during the last term of Council were good for the Islands, others, not so good. However, I do not intend to dwell on past achievements nor past failures. I prefer to look to the future and ask what the future has to hold for these Islands and, in particular, the Camp.
I would like to run through some of the issues I feel are important if the long-term survival of the Camp is to be achieved.
Transport and communication are two key areas. The road building system so far has been mainly successful. The gangs on East and West must be congratulated on a job well done. I do feel, however, that even more could have been accomplished with less bureaucracy and red tape, which unfortunately seems to be more noticeable than in the past.
If the Abattoir is to work and the agricultural community is to benefit from it, then a complete road link throughout the Islands is vital. Along with this, a ferry link between East and West and a shipping system which ensures the out-lying islands do not miss out. The recent success of a charter boat calling at Fox Bay without a problem suggests that this trend should continue, initially for the pick-up of wool.
I feel the Camp will struggle to produce new sustainable businesses unless communications improves.. Reliable access to the internet and reliable service for telephone, FAX and e-mail is important. Even using ones imagination to the full, the term, “reliable,” in relation to our current system concerning these services, is being economical with the truth. If we are to believe we can achieve some form or repopulation in the Camp, then this particular issue of communication has to change. Either services improve or the rentals and tariffs should be consistent with the services provided.
The move to designate Camp tracks could well be a complete and utter disaster for those who make a living outside of Stanley. I have yet to be convinced this is the only solution to the insurance and liability problem. If it is, then legislation of an absolute minimal road tax must be put in place. Upgrading of road services and the completion of cattle grids, signs for cattle grids and other aspects of safety have to be fulfilled. Special licences must be brought in. Until these points are taken onboard we cannot consider designating Camp tracks.
As far as agricultural development goes, I believe that we should continue to support the pasture improvement scheme. While there may be one or two problems with this at the moment, overall it has been successful. What problems there have been are not impossible to solve.
The Labour scheme has also been mostly successful. With a little fine-tuning, this, too can become more rewarding.
It may well be that during the interim years, while different forms of businesses are developing it will be necessary to give support for those who choose to populate the Camp. With tourism in mind, this would, of course, include hotels, lodges and self-catering centres.
Many elderly people living in Camp are reluctant to move to Stanley simply because they are of a certain age, yet they feel obliged to do so, either for medical reasons or the houses they are living in are no longer easy to maintain. I would like to see more help from Government, financially and otherwise, to assist those who wish to stay in Camp as long as they can.
Fishing, Oil, and Mineral Resources are three areas at present for probable future economic benefit crucial to the Islands’ development. They also happen to be three types of industry of which I have a very limited knowledge. Learning how such industries operate and what is best for our Islands through these industries is something I am willing to take on. I should stress, what is best for our Islands, not what is best for individuals.
There is absolutely no way that sovereignty of these Islands should ever be an item for discussion at any time. The present Argentine Government refused to recognise our right to self-determination and continue to claim our land as our own. Until these false claims are dropped I see no reason why we should make any move towards or accept any offer of trade or any kind of direct link to that country.
I believe we must maintain our representation overseas through FIGO and our own Councillors. To appear indifferent to other countries’ opinions, and to fail to push our own cause is a recipe for disaster.
Those of us who remain in Camp are here because we want to be. The financial and social advantages of living in Stanley far out weigh those of living in Camp. The way of life in Camp is unique and many people probably struggle to understand why we persevere. If a single constituency were to exist, there would be a very real possibility that eight individuals who have never lived our lifestyle are representing this unique way of life on Council. And, this is the greatest concern I have regarding the issue of a single constituency.
If elected, I cannot guarantee to achieve all or any of these aims. I would be one voice of eight. I will only guarantee that I will do the very best I can to support and improve the way of life that you and I wish to continue living.
Thank-you for listening.
(100X Transcription Service)
