The European Union/Overseas Countries and Territories Forum.
This years EU/OCT forum will be held in French Polynesia in the South Pacific commencing 6 December 2004.
Councillors Eric George MBE and Cyril Gunnell, accompanied by Trainee Development Economist Janet Lawrence and St Helena UK Representative Kedell Worboys, will represent St Helena at this forum.
The Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) consist of a group of 20 Islands and Territories, which span from the Arctic to the Pacific Ocean and are linked to four Member States, which are Denmark, France, The Netherlands and United Kingdom. The Islands and Territories have been associated with the European Commission since 1957. The purpose of this association is to promote the economic and social development of the countries and territories and to strengthen their economic connections with the European Union as a whole.
The OCT Forum is an annual event, the purpose of which is to give OCTs a chance to discuss as a group, environmental and economical issues and for Heads of OCT Governments to exchange views on issues of concern with senior members of the European Commission.
Further updates on this event will be given as information becomes available.
Public Relations/Information Office
Office of the Chief Secretary
1st September 2004
Jamestown’s Water Mains.
In September 2001 the Department For International Development (DFID) approved funds for implementing improvements in the water sector. The project included a new/replacement pipeline refurbishment programme for the Jamestown water system.
Work commenced in March 2002 with excavation of trenches and the laying of pipe work from Chubb’s spring to lower Jamestown. The galvanised and cast iron pipe work which was heavily corroded has been replaced with PVC piping. Included in this project was the installation of new fire hydrants, sluice valves, service connections and the restoration of the road edges.
When all water mains had been replaced they were tested, disinfected and flushed. The water quality has improved considerably in Jamestown since commissioning of the new water mains. Bacteriological testing has shown that the water now being supplied is acceptable, as it is within the World Health Organisation (WHO) Standards.
A project such as this shows that we are working towards achieving the Islands Strategic Objectives as number four on the list is to; Develop a Healthy Community in a safe environment.
Public Relations/Information Office
Office of the Chief Secretary
1st September 2004
