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News Updates, Press Releases and Speeches 2008 | |
| 19th December | Falkland Oil and Gas Survey Gets Underway Falkland Oil and Gas (FOGL) have begun their site survey programme in the license areas to the south and east of the Falkland Islands, expected to be completed in early 2009. MV Fugro Meridian, operated by Fugro Surveys, has begun to acquire digital site surveys in order to access drilling hazards in the top few hundred metres of sediment below the seabed. British Antarctic Survey vessel James Clark Ross has been contracted to deploy instruments to measure waves and currents. Their findings will be used in environmental assessment and the preparation of rig mooring and riser design. FOGL is now said to be attempting to secure a suitable drilling rig for operations in the area. |
| 19th December | Successful Review for Community School The progress review of the Falkland Islands Community School has concluded that overall the school has made satisfactory progress and that its capacity to improve further is judged as good. Successful progress has been made in the areas of safeguarding pupils; teaching and learning; leadership and management and good progress with considerable improvement has been made in the behaviour of students, with incidences of bullying not raised as an issue by students. In its evidence the report also acknowledges that there is an increasing proportion of teaching that is good and some outstanding teaching was noted. |
| 19th December | New Website for Environmental Planning Department The Falkland Islands Government Environmental Planning Department has launched a new website - www.epd.gov.fk. The site is designed with the intention of providing as much information as possible regarding planning, building and environmental matters. This department deals with approximately 150 applications for planning permission and/or building permit annually and through this process, it has become apparent that there is a need to provide as much information as possible electronically. Within the site, you will find pages relating to planning (permission, legislation, guidance); building (permit, advice, handy hints); and environment (licences for research, national strategies, funding opportunities. |
| 12th December | Constitution Proclamation Signed by the Governor The formal reading of the Proclamation setting the date for the new Constitution to come into effect took place at Government House on 8 December. His Excellency the Governor Alan Huckle signed the document in front of Councillors, a number of other officials and invited guests. The signing took place on Battle Day, commemorating the 94th anniversary of the Battle of the Falklands. |
| 11th December | Falkland Islands Government Green Papers Green Paper on Wealth Related Payments [ Download the PDF file... ] Green Paper on Options for the Funding of Higher and Further Education [ Download the PDF file... ] |
| 28th November | Falklands Minefields to be Cleared At the Ottawa Convention meetings on 26 November, British Ambassador of Multilateral Arms Control and Disarmament, John Duncan, announced that the UK has decided to proceed with the clearance of three minefields in the Falklands: Fox Bay 8 (West), Goose Green 11, and Stanley Area 3, M25. The work is expected to begin on the three sites in the second half of 2009, after preliminary work on logistics and environmental impact has been completed. |
| 28th November | Falklands Plan to Celebrate Darwin Bicentenary February 2009 marks two hundred years since the birth of Charles Darwin, universally recognised as one of the most influential scientists for his theory of evolution. His bi-centenary will be marked around the world at the many places he visited, including the Falkland Islands. Darwin visited the Falklands in 1833-4 on the voyage of the Beagle, and during this time made an extended journey on horseback from Port Louis, making many scientific observations en route. Phil Stone, of the British Geographical Society and a frequent visitor to the Falklands, will be delivering an illustrated talk entitled 'Darwin and the Falkland Islands' on 5 December, at 5.30pm in the Community School. The Stanley Museum is planning an exhibition on Darwin for early next year and a Darwin stamp issue is also on the calendar for February/March, to coincide with the bicentenary. |
| 28th November | Falklands Students Win Prestigious Prizes Congratulations go to two Falklands students who have recently become prize-winners. Sherilee Goss was the winner of the Commonwealth Essay Competition 2008 Falkland Islands local prize, with 6,700 entries from more than 1,350 schools around the Commonwealth. Samantha Brownlee, a psychology student at the University of Warwick, was awarded the Bill Hunter-Christie prize for the overseas student who has adjudged to have brought most credit to the Falklands during the year. |
| 24th November | Government Statement on Landmine Clearance In the light of the 9th Meeting of the States Parties to the Mine Ban Treaty, which is taking place in Geneva on 24-28 November, the Falkland Islands Government is very conscious of HMG's obligations under the Ottawa Convention, but has of itself put no pressure on HMG in respect of mine clearance. We are satisfied that all mined areas are safely fenced, and present no long term social or economic difficulties for the Falklands. We shall, however, seek to facilitate any de-mining operations that HMG decides to take forward but would wish the greatest possible care to be taken to mitigate any environmental damage that de-mining might cause. Environmental impact assessments would therefore have to be undertaken. |
| 21st November | Immigration Paper for Public Consultation A public consultation paper on the proposed Points System for the evaluation of applications for Permanent Residence Permits can be downloaded here. Printed copies may be obtained from Lynn Brownlee at the Secretariat and Cherie Clifford at Councillors Office, and some will be available in the Stanley Post Office. It is intended that the paper will be discussed at a public meeting in early December. |
| 21st November | Falklands are Leaders in Renewable Energy The supply and installation of a third flywheel and additional control equipment to augment the Sand Bay Wind Farm project has been approved. The most significant impact of this additional equipment will be the reduction of the number of running hours of the larger diesel sets, increasing their total life and therefore reducing ongoing maintenance costs. At a recent European Union seminar, the Falklands were named in the leading group of Overseas Territories and Countries in terms of the percentage of electricity produced from renewable resources. |
| 21st November | Sea Bed Explorers Make New Discoveries Around the Jason Islands Normally home only to the likes of snails, sea stars, and sea lions, the marine environments of the Jason Islands were recently visited by an international team of marine and avian biologists, photographers, and divers. The well known expedition vessel Golden Fleece, which is regularly used by the BBC Natural History Unit and Natural Geographical Society, served as a home, transport vehicle and dive platform for the Shallow Marine Surveys Group (SMSG) expedition. During the ten day cruise, the group took oceanographic measurements, collected and photographed previously undocumented species, measured the amount of substrate colonised by various organisms, and counted the amount of animals found around the different islands and in different habitat types. |
| 14th November | New Haven Ferry Terminal's Official Opening On Saturday 8 November, His Excellency the Governor, Mr Alan Huckle, formally opened the New Haven Ferry Terminal, in front of a crowd of over one hundred people who gathered from Stanley and Camp. "The ceremony is a tribute to those who had the political courage, belief and perseverance to keep the vision and ensure that the project was successfully completed," said Mr Huckle. The new ferry service offers a reliable link between East and West Falkland, which will encourage easier economic and social links between the Islands, and will also help generate new business and make land-based tourism much more attractive. |
| 14th November | Service of Commemoration for Remembrance Sunday There was a good attendance on 9 November for the annual Remembrance Sunday Ceremony at Stanley's Cross of Sacrifice. This year the parade was supported by the presence of SAMA veterans, as well as marching detachments from the RAF, HMS Iron Duke, 2nd Battalion the Yorkshire Regiment and the Falkland Islands Defence Force (FIDF). Music to march to was provided by the visiting Cosford Area, RAF Volunteer Band. |
| 13th November | Green Paper on the Budget This 'Green Paper' sets out the Government's views on the overall position of public finances over the next five years. It does this in order to stimulate debate and raise the level of understanding of everyone about the financial issues and choices that face the Islands. Over the next two years, some major choices need to be made about the levels of public service and the levels and sources of government revenue. A range of green papers looking at financial issues and choices will be provided in order to encourage everyone to have a say before decisions are made. [ Download the PDF file... ] |
| 12th November | Falklands Remains Potential Investment for Oil Companies Phyl Rendell, Director of Minerals and Agriculture, is positive that the Falklands remains a place of interest and potential investment for oil companies, despite the uncertainty about the global demand for oil. At the recent International American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) held in Cape Town, South Africa between 26th and 29 October, the Falklands stand attracted attention from a number of oil companies and meetings were held with Rockhopper Exploration and Borders & Southern Petroleum. |
| 7th November | FIG Statement on New Constitution The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) today welcomed the new Constitution for the Islands which provides enhanced local democracy and internal self-government and enshrines the right of self-determination. [ Press Release... ] |
| 6th November | A New Constitution for the Falkland Islands Foreign Office Minister, Gillian Merron, today welcomed the new Falkland Islands Constitution Order 2008. [ Press Release... ] |
| 6th November | Falklands Representatives Attend OTCC Councillor Mike Summers OBE, Governor Alan Huckle and UK Representative, Sukey Cameron MBE were present at this year's annual Overseas Territories Consultative Council (OTCC). Councillor Summers described the event, which was held in London on 28-29 October, as having been 'positive and constructive'. During bi-lateral talks with the new Minister for Overseas Territories, Gillian Merron MP, the Airbridge and the new Constitution were among the topics discussed. The OTCC provides a forum for the elected leaders of Britain's Overseas Territories to discuss current policies and issues with British Government Ministers. |
| 6th November | Falkland Islands Radio Goes Global The Falkland Islands Radio Service (FIRS) is due to begin streaming live this week through the Station's website www.firs.co.fk, with the first official programme, 'The Fusion' to be aired on Saturday 8 November. Host Stacy Bragger will be launching the new service with an exclusive interview with the Kaiser Chiefs. The online radio service will enable people around the world to keep up to date with events in the Falklands. |
| 6th November | Warwick Students Visit Falklands Nine GCSE students from Warwick School in the UK have travelled to the Falkland Islands on a history trip. During their week in the Islands, from 25 October to 1 November, the students were led by former Falkland Islands Community School history teacher, Dominic Giles. They visited the historic settlement of Darwin, named after Charles Darwin who visited the Falklands in 1833 and 1834, as well as discovering the more recent history of the 1982 battlefields. Trips to experience the wildlife of Pebble and Sea Lion Islands were also on their itinerary. |
| 6th November | Falklands Football Club Tours Chile The Stanley Infant and Junior School's Football Club has returned from a successful Chilean tour, where they not only defeated their rivals on the field, but also made friends with their opponents and experienced life in a different country. The players, ranging from Year 3 to Year 8, spent about two hours a day playing matches or training, whilst also enjoying a number of recreational and educational visits. A group of relatives and friends made the trip to Punta Arenas to support the boys. The football club is keen that this tour should not be a 'one-off' event and would like to capitalise on the links that they have now made with other clubs in Punta Arenas. |
| 24th October | Self-Determination of Falklands Reaffirmed by UN Vote The United Nations Fourth Committee has rejected the attempt to include a specific exclusion of territories affected by a sovereignty dispute (which includes the Falkland Islands) from the resolution that reaffirms the inalienable right of self-determination. The Committee voted to remove the phrase "where there is no dispute over sovereignty" from the resolution, backed by the UK although refused by Spain and Argentina. It was clear that if this phrase had remained unchanged it would have limited the key United Nations right to self-determination in the future. The enshrining of self-determination over territorial integrity supports the Falkland Islanders' wishes to determine their own future. |
| 24th October | New Senior Magistrate for Falklands The Falkland Islands Government has announced the appointment of Mr John Travaskis as Senior Magistrate of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, South Sandwich Islands and the British Antarctic Territory. His 27 years' experience in fields such as criminal defence, civil and family proceedings, military law and licensing law, amongst others, will prove invaluable during his two years in the Falklands. |
| 24th October | Rockhopper in Farm-Out Discussions A spokesman for the oil exploration company Rockhopper has confirmed that it is in discussion with a number of potential farm-out partners and is also continuing the search for a rig in conjunction with other operators in the Falkland Basin. Rockhopper Exploration holds licences in the North Falkland Basin, both alone and in partnership with Desire Petroleum, but has denied a recent report of a buy-in by exploration giant, BHP Billiton. |
| 24th October | Explore South Georgia from Home The South Georgia Geographic system (SGGIS), a new visualisation tool to be used for exploring the sub-Antarctic islands of South Georgia, has been unveiled. It will enable researchers and the public to see the islands' environmental landscape in a completely new way, and combines a detailed interactive map of South Georgia with a variety of information such as the topography, vegetation and glacier change, as well as historic sites, protected areas and distributions of the various animals. This tool will provide a new way to help manage and protect the abundant wildlife that lives on the islands, such as the wandering albatross. SGGIS is available to view at www.sggis.gov.gs |
| 20th October | Britain Stands Firm on Falklands Sovereignty at UN The closing session of the United Nations General Assembly's Fourth Committee saw the UK representative reiterating that the UK has no doubt about its sovereignty over the Falklands. This was in response to the Cuban delegate declaring support for what he called Argentina's "legitimate right" and his statement that the Falklands were "part of the national territory of the brotherly Latin American country". The representative from the United Kingdom said that his government's position was well known and had been reiterated in many recent statements. He added that there could be no negotiations on the issue until at such time as the people of the Islands so wished. |
| 20th October | New Haven Ferry Terminal Begins Operation The New Haven ferry terminal is now in operation, providing an all-weather berth and base for the ferry-service between East and West Falkland. The new terminal was completed only a year after construction began and a formal opening ceremony is due to take place on 8 November. Concordia Bay berthed at the recently completed terminal on 11 October and has since been operating from there. Customers of the service will see immediate benefits with more flexibility and no restriction on the length of vehicle carried. |
| 20th October | BHP Billiton Representatives Visit Stanley Representatives of global exploration giant BHP Billton were in Stanley last week laying the groundwork for a Southern Ocean drilling programme which they hope will begin in some 12 to 18 months time. Head of the Falklands exploration project, Deb Pfeiffer, and External Affairs manager for BHP, Julie Tushingham, were confident that the melt-down of worldwide financial institutions will not impede the programme. Since they entered into a licence farm-in agreement with Falkland Oil and Gas Ltd in October 2007 and acquired a 51% holding in the company, the presence of BHP Billiton has considerably increased interest in oil exploration in Falklands waters. |
| 20th October | Falkland Islanders Take Part in Commonwealth Youth Games The Falklands team of badminton players and shooters came up against tough competition in Pune, India, the venue for this year's Commonwealth Youth Games. Despite efforts from badminton player Aiden Smith in the first day and Julian Barton who followed against Jamaica, they received no wins. Shooters Bono Mckay and Murray Middleton fared slightly better, with Murray reaching the final of the 25m free pistol shoot. However, the games closed with no medals for the Falklands competitors, but with respectable performances and a great deal of experience gained. |
| 13th October | Falklands Islands Government Congratulated by PM The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) was congratulated by the Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, for its continued support of the Labour Party Conference. FIG exhibited at the Labour and Conservative conferences for the 21st consecutive year between 20 September and 1 October in Manchester and Birmingham respectively. At the Conservative conference the Falklands stand occupied a prime site and was used as a back drop for several news reports. The MoD flights to the Islands particularly attracted the attention of David Cameron, with Brize Norton being in his constituency. |
| 13th October | New Minister at the FCO Following the recent re-shuffle of Gordon Brown's cabinet, the post of Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, which brings with it responsibilities regarding the Falkland Islands and was previously held by Meg Munn MP, has now gone to Gillian Merron, MP for Lincoln. Miss Merron, who is 49 and has been a member of the British Parliament since 1997, visited the Falklands in 1998, when she was Parliamentary Private Secretary to Doug Henderson MP, the then Minister of State for Armed Forces. |
| 13th October | International Travel Representatives Experience Falklands Tourism Representatives of four leading remote destinations travel companies recently spent a week in the Falklands, hosted by the Falkland Islands Tourist Board (FITB). Chosen in consultation with local agencies, ITT and Falkland Islands Holidays, UK-based companies Cox & Kings, Journey Latin America and Steppes Travel, plus Italian company, Patagonia Travel, beat off stiff competition to be awarded a place on this familiarisation trip, one of several planned by FITB for the 2008/9 season. Selection was based on the number of visitors previously sent to the Falklands, as well as willingness to feature the Islands in future promotional materials. Flying in on the LAN route, agents visited eight key destinations as part of a whirlwind itinerary designed to provide them with a greater understanding of the land-based tourism offering and associated logistics. The aim of the visits is to increase land-based visitor numbers to the Islands and feedback for operators and destinations was generally highly complimentary, with each of the agents citing the day trip to West Point Island as "an unforgettable experience." |
| 13th October | Weekend Entertainment for 4x4 Drivers An East Falkland farm has become a source of weekend entertainment for drivers of 4x4s from Stanley and Mount Pleasant, who regularly meet to traverse the tracks that were once the highways and gateway to the North Camp. Owners Ailsa and Tony Heathman offer drivers a chance to experience off-road driving for only a small fee. Not only does it improve skills, but it also goes to show the sense of adventure and initiative the Falklands have to offer. |
| 6th October | UK Government Reasserts Falklands' Right to Self-Determination The United Nations UK delegation has replied to the remarks made by the Argentine President Cristina Kirchner at the UN's General Assembly. President Kirchner had restated her country's claim to sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, which she described as a "colonial enclave". The UK delegation responded by asserting that the British Government attaches great importance to the principle of self-determination, which underlies its position on the Falkland Islands. It also declared: "The Falkland Islands are not a colonial enclave. Britain's overseas territories are British for as long as they want to remain British. The people of the Falkland Islands have chosen to retain their link with Britain." |
| 6th October | FIGAS Shuttle Service Gets Underway A new shuttle service is now being operated by the Falkland Islands Government Air Service, serving the North and the South of both East and West Falkland on a daily basis when required. The first commercial charter flights and LAN connections under the new operating model were completed successfully, and the Round Robin promotion which allows passengers the opportunity to travel on the complete shuttle flight, offering a great view of the Islands, has been well received. |
| 26th September | FIG Appoints New Port Development Manager The Falkland Islands Government has announced the appointment of its new Major Projects Manager for the Port development. Ken Johnson, who was interviewed in London in July, is a Chartered Surveyor who has a substantial track record directing major development and regeneration projects involving public-private partnerships. These have included the development of the Royal William Yard in Plymouth and Bristol Harbourside development and a £600 million public-private partnership to regenerate 66 acres of Bristol's waterfront. Mr Johnson will be visiting the Islands in mid October prior to taking up his appointment in November. |
| 26th September | Falklands Lead the Way in Reducing Fuel Consumption The Falkland Islands are rapidly reducing their fossil fuel usage, as shown by the 20% reduction in fuel consumption at the Stanley power station over the last year. Environmental Planning Officer Helen Otley said it is quite probable that the Falklands are the only UK entity to demonstrate a significant drop in fossil fuel usage. The Falkland Islands Government signed up to the Kyoto Agreement under the UK's ratifications in March 2007. However despite Falkland Islanders' efforts to reduce their carbon footprint, worldwide CO2 emissions from burning fossil fuels and cement manufacturing continue to increase rapidly. |
| 26th September | Defence Force Shares Local Knowledge The Falkland Island Defence Force (FIDF) played a key role in Exercise Cape Bayonet, a five day test exercise for the Roulement Infantry Company (RIC). The exercise was designed to confirm collective training achievements in joint live firing and tactical training with maritime, air and FIDF elements. The exercise began with live firing exercises and continued with various elements designed to test interoperability, focusing on reconnaissance and offensive action to enhance battle winning capability. The RIC gained valuable local knowledge from the FIDC, while the FIDC benefitted from training with troops that had been involved in operational tours. |
| 23rd September | Draft Constitution to be Formally Submitted Legislative history was made on 12 September when elected members of the Legislative Council agreed that the draft Constitution should be formally submitted to her Majesty's Government after eight years of debate, consultation and careful consideration. Councillors debated the draft Constitution chapter by chapter with live radio coverage at a special meeting of the Legislative Council. The Constitution is a fundamentally important document which forms the basis of all subsidiary legislation and sets out the rights and freedoms of individuals. It forms the basis on which the community organises itself and its social laws and practices. It also describes the relationship between the Falkland Islands Government and the United Kingdom Government. A significant change to the Constitution is that references to self-determination have been included in Chapter One, with the agreement of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, rather than the preamble, reinforcing the right of Islanders to determine their own future. There is also an essential change in the way in which Government and Executive Council will interact, since on matters of governance in the Falklands the Governor must now consult the Executive Council and accept the advice of Executive Council except in certain specified circumstances. The final proposals for changes with a copy of the transcript of the LegCo debate will now be presented to the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Meg Munn, and the new Constitution is expected to be adopted from 1 January 2009. |
| 23rd September | Falkland Islands Government's 21st Year of Representation at Party Conferences The Falkland Islands Government celebrates its twenty first consecutive year of attendance at the Labour and Conservative Party Conferences this year. It is one of the longest standing exhibitors at the Conferences. Sukey Cameron MBE, the UK Representative, will be joined on the Falkland Islands stand by elected representative Councillor Ian Hansen, who holds the portfolio for Minerals and Agriculture on the governing Legislative Council. The Party Conferences provide an opportunity for the Falkland Islands Government's representatives to update Government ministers, Shadow Cabinet members, MPs and other delegates on recent developments. Among the issues that are expected to be discussed this year are plans for a new constitution for the Falkland Islands which will substantially advance internal self-government and enshrine the Islanders' rights of self-determination. They will also remind politicians about Argentina's continuing attempts to interfere in the Islands' fishing, minerals and tourism industries. Against this background the proposed new constitution and the right of Falkland Islanders to determine their own future take on a particular significance. |
| 23rd September | Falklands Attendance at TravelMart Latin America A representative from the Falkland Islands travel industry was one of 1,000 attendees TravelMart Latin America (TMLA) held in Quito, Ecuador, from 10-12 September. Sally Ellis of International Tours and Travel was enthusiastic about the event following high interest in the Falkland Islands from operators. Despite global economic difficulties, interest in the Falklands remains high as the Islands are a high-end market destination where the clientele are still able to afford off-the-beaten-track travel. |
| 23rd September | British Citizenship for Chilean Family in Falklands A young Chilean family received British citizenship at a ceremony conducted at the Government House, Stanley, on 15 September, following 8 years of residency in the Islands. Jessica Campos, her husband Roberto Ojeda and son Robertito, who were all born in Punta Veras, came to the Islands in 2000 in search of better job opportunities, good education and a safe environment. After three years on Sea Lion Island the family moved to Stanley, where Jessica works at the Falkland Islands Company Travel Department and Roberto works as an aircraft fitter and a retained fire fighter. |
| 23rd September | FICS Student Success Four students from the Community school who took a GCSE exam a year early have each been awarded A*, the highest possible grade. Headteacher Alistair Baldwin was said to be delighted by the results of Sofia Arkhipkina (Russian), Barbara Short and Laura Minto (Spanish) and Bill Schneider (Mathematics). This academic year a number of students are expected to be entered early for mathematics and English. |
| 23rd September | Young Apprenticeship Scheme A new Young Apprenticeship scheme has been launched this year at the Community School. The vocational option allows pupils in years 10 and 11 to enter into work experience schemes for two days a week in addition to learning trade skills and key skills. The scheme enables the students to gain an understanding of what each trade has to offer, before applying for a place with the company for the next two years. |
| 23rd September | New Coins and Stamps Show British Settlement of the Falklands New coins and stamps have been issued by the Falkland Islands Government to commemorate the beginning of 175 years of British settlement at Port Louis. The beautifully crafted and historically important new coin shows Captain Onslow, who was dispatched to re-enforce the British claim to the Falklands in 1833, and the British contingent raising the Union flag with their ship Clio in the background. The obverse of each coin bears an effigy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II by Ian Rank-Broadley FRBS FSNAD. The £2 souvenir sheet of stamps shows an image of the ceremony during which the British flag was raised, with Captain Onslow picked out in the actual stamp. The 27p shows one of the sailors raising the flag, whilst the 65p shows three Royal Marines. |
| 15th;September | Conservationist Returns to Falklands to Receive MBE Robin Woods, who was awarded an MBE in the annual Queen's Birthday Honours List for his services to the conservation of wildlife in the Falklands, opted to return to the Islands to receive his medal at a special reception at Government House on 10 September. Mr Woods, a trustee and former chair of Falklands Conservation, is a leading authority on the birds of the Falklands Islands and has written a number of guides to Falklands wildlife. His Excellency the Governor Alan Huckle said: "It shows Robin's commitment to the Falkland Islands and his love of the place and of the people, that he has chosen to be decorated here at Government House and it is a privilege for all of us that he has done so." |
| 15th September | Students Assist on FIDC's Aquaculture Project The Aquaculture Project's numbers have been boosted by university students who are both sharing and gaining experience in their field. The students, who often have relevant experience, assist by carrying out quality research. Their work also strengthens the bond between FIDC and their universities, giving FIDC invaluable access to aquaculture, fish and worm experts. This year FIDC has the benefit of one postgraduate and three undergraduates including Falklands students Tiphanie May and Krysteen Ormond, who study in Portsmouth and Nottingham respectively. The other students are Paul Howes from the University of Swansea, who enjoys the Falklands so much that he is hoping to return in November to work for Falkland Fish Farming Ltd, and Dan Morgan from the University of Portsmouth. |
| 8th September | MPs Experience Forces Life Two UK Members of Parliament recently spent a busy few days in the Falklands as part of the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme (AFPS). On her first visit was Baroness Diana Warwick, a Labour life peer, accompanied by Nigel Evans, the Conservative MP for Ribble Valley, who has visited the Islands several times before. The objective of the AFPS is to provide MPs with a real knowledge of the role and functions of the armed forces and gain a broad view of military life, enabling them to speak from a position of experience in debates, regardless of whether it is supportive or critical of government policy. During the visit, Baroness Warwick and Mr Evans undertook a programme of familiarisation visits, and they received briefings on the sea, land and air forces. |
| 8th September | FITB Hosts London Smoko The Falkland Islands Tourist Board (FITB) hosted a Falklands-themed 'Smoko' event on 2 September to introduce media and trade contacts to all that the fascinating Islands have to offer. Jake Downing, FITB General Manager, introduced the destination and the growing land-based and cruise tourism significance to guests, while Hattie Kilmartin, from Bluff Cove Lagoon Tours, provided an informative insight into her first-hand experience of running a tourist lodge at Port Howard and providing guided tours on the Islands. Guests sampled a taste of the Falklands: scones with diddle dee jam and a selection of home-baked cakes and biscuits. Tourism is the fastest growing industry in the Falklands and the sector has developed over recent years into a world class product, offering a variety of experiences to a wide ranging audience. The Falkland Islands is now in a position to promote itself competitively to the UK market, at a time when consumers are increasingly demanding exclusive, off-the-beaten-track experiences. |
| 8th September | FIDC Requires No Subsidy This Year The Falkland Islands Development Corporation (FIDC) is operating throughout the current financial year without a subsidy from the Falkland Islands Government. During the budget process for this financial year FIDC proposed that it did not require a subvention from government and that it had sufficient funds available to it without causing a negative impact on its ability to provide finance to loan applicants. |
| 8th September | DVD to Boost Sale of Falklands Wool A new DVD which charts the wool process from sheep to shop shelves has been released by the Falkland Islands Development Corporation (FIDC). The project was a joint initiative of The Wool Centre and Studio 52. Julie Halliday of Studio 52 produced the DVD, which illustrates the process of growing wool to product stage. Charlene Rowland of FIDC said the DVD highlighted the Falkland Islands' traditional, natural, clean, high quality wool and captured the Falklands' culture, landscapes and people. |
| 8th September | HMS Liverpool Bids Falklands Farewell HMS Liverpool was the centre of a 'Falklands flotilla' capability demonstration last week, shortly before she leaves the Falklands and returns to the Northern hemisphere. VIP guests from the UK, Baroness Warwick and Mr Nigel Evans MP of the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme, were on board to witness HMS Liverpool undertake exercises with HMS Clyde and RFA Black Rover as the three units put to sea on a glorious and sunny South Atlantic morning. Commanding Officer Commander Craig Wood commented on the warm reception he received in the Islands and the friendliness of the local community. HMS Liverpool is due to be relieved in the South Atlantic patrol task by HMS Iron Duke, a type 23 Frigate which has made many headlines of its own in recent months due to its famous junior officer Sub Lt William Wales. |
| 8th September | New EU and OCT Relationship The European Union Commission (EU) has launched a public consultation (Green Paper) on the future of the European Union and Overseas Countries and Territories' (OCT) relationship. The consultation runs from July 1 to October 17 and poses a number of questions relevant to the Falklands. Issues within the paper are important to the Falklands who are not a member of the EU, but are affiliated through the Overseas Countries and Territories group of the European Union. The relationship with the EU deals largely with trade issues and gives duty-free and quota-free access to the EU for exports such as wool, fish and meat. Whether the Falklands should become closer to the EU with a closer overall and political affiliation with the EU, stay as they are or move further away, are the main issues to be addressed. |
| 1st September | Airbridge to be Operated by Flyglobespan The new South Atlantic airbridge contract to operate flights between RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire and the Falkland Islands, via Ascension Island, has been awarded to Chapman Freeborn. The service will be operated by Flyglobespan using a Boeing 767 aircraft four times every fortnight, beginning on Wednesday 1 October. The flight will leave Brize Norton southbound on Wednesdays and Sundays, and will leave Mount Pleasant northbound on Fridays and Tuesdays. The service will provide a higher frequency of flights than the previous arrangement, which offered three flights per fortnight, as well as an enhanced aeromedical and freight capability. The aircraft is chartered to carry 184 passengers on each flight. |
| 1st September | Territorial Rights Claim Report is Premature A report by the BBC World Service that Britain is to formally present its case to the UN for extending its territorial rights around the Falklands is premature. There has been no decision yet on any submission to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea concerning the Falkland Islands. However Britain presented a claim to the United Nations in New York on 27 August laying territorial claim to a swath of seabed around Ascension Island. |
| 1st September | Oil Companies to Meet in May The next joint oil operators' meeting to be held in the Islands is scheduled for the first week of May 2009. All the licensees have agreed to be represented in the Islands for meetings with the government and other interest groups that week. Matters to be discussed include health and safety. |
| 1st September | Public Executive Council Papers Available to View The following Executive Council papers, considered at the meeting of Executive Council held on 28 August, are available for viewing at www.falklands.gov.fk/legco/exco-papers.php: Ship Sanitation Inspection and the International Health Regulations; Land lease: Andrez Short; Departure to adopted Stanley Town Plan; Budgetary Procedures 2009/10 onwards; FIDC Interim Budget; Wind Farm Phase Two – Contract Approval; Tax Appeal Tribunal. |
| 26th August | Falkland Islands Government Launches New Legislative Council Website The Falkland Islands Government has launched a new website - www.falklands.gov.fk/legco - which provides visitors with a comprehensive overview of the Legislative Council and the workings of the Government. The website contains information on the organisation of the Council and pages on each Councillor, the constituencies and the portfolios. Visitors to the site will also find information on the development of a new constitution and the proceedings of the Council, including public papers and transcripts of meetings. |
| 26th August | Falklands Students Celebrate Exam Success Six Falklands students have been making plans after receiving good A Level results. Four of the six students gained four or more examination passes at Grade C or above and the six students between them achieved a pass rate of 100% with 75% at grade C or better. The students plan to study at UK universities including Leeds, Huddersfield, Manchester Metropolitan, Plymouth and Bath. Meanwhile Year 11 students at the Falkland Islands Community School took a total of 288 examinations in 18 subjects earlier this year. Of the 35 students the overall pass rate was 94.79% with 43.4% at grade C or above. Ten of these students meet the criteria for Falkland Islands Government funding and will be heading to the UK to continue their studies. |
| 26th August | Veterans' House Named Liberty Lodge The new house which is being built to accommodate visiting British veterans of the Falklands War has been named Liberty Lodge by eight-year-old John Perrens. His suggested name was chosen from a large number submitted by children from the Infant and Junior School. The official opening of Liberty Lodge is hoped to be in January 2009. |
| 26th August | 1312 Flt Celebrates 25 Years in the Islands British Forces South Atlantic Islands Flight 1312 is celebrating its 25th anniversary this week. 1312 Flight is principally recognized for its role in the Falkland Islands, but it can trace its roots back to its original creation during World War II. Since August 1983, 1312's fleet of aircraft has maintained a constant presence over Falklands skies, with missions including training, compassionate and real time operations. The Flight's crest incorporates an Upland Goose to reflect the commitment to the people of the Falkland Islands, while its the motto, 'Uphold the Right', deliberately mirrors the Falkland Islands motto of 'Desire the Right', once again alluding to the strong ties that exist between 1312 Flight and the Falkland Islands. |
| 26th August | RAF 90th Anniversary Stamp Issue The Falkland Islands Post Office and Philatelic Bureau have released a sheetlet of four stamps and a First Day of Issue cover to commemorate the 90th Anniversary of the Royal Air Force. This set is issued in conjunction with the new definitive issue for the Falkland Islands depicting both civilian and military aircraft. |
| 26th August | New Agreement Brings Oil Drilling Closer The possibility of drilling for oil in the Falkland Islands has moved closer following the official signing of a farm-out agreement between Desire Petroleum Plc and UK company, Arcadia Petroleum Ltd. Under the terms of the agreement, Arcadia will drill and test the Ann prospect in Tranche C of the North Falklands Basin, paying 85 per cent of the cost. In return, it will earn a 35 per cent interest in a sub-area in the same tranche. The Falkland Islands Government approved the deal following a thorough environmental impact assessment and has also granted the two companies new acreage adjacent to Desire's existing acreage in Tranche I. With a new partner on board, Desire Petroleum Plc is now in a far stronger position to actively pursue all available rig opportunities. |
| 18th August | Falkland Islands Anticipates Biggest Ever Cruise Season A growth of 9% is anticipated for the Falklands' cruise ship industry in the coming season, according to the Falkland Islands Tourist Board (FITB). Capacity for next season has increased and FITB has estimated that visitor numbers will reach 67,760. By next season FITB aims to have a new shelter erected at the Jetty Centre in Stanley, making it more comfortable for cruise visitors while they wait for tours and tenders. The season this year starts on 20 October, with a visit from NG Endeavour, and ends on 7 April 2009. Once ashore, cruise visitors can take part in a variety of tours, including watching penguins and discovering the Islands' history. |
| 18th August | Pilgrimage Planned for November Plans for a pilgrimage of more than 40 veterans to the Falkland Islands in November are being put into place by Derek 'Smokey' Cole of the Falklands Veterans Foundation (FVF) and Malcolm Simpson from the South Atlantic Medal Association (SAMA82). While Malcolm is the driving force behind the organisation of the visit, Smokey has been working for years on the planning and construction of a house in Stanley for the use of veterans. The group will consist of people from almost all areas of the services and also family members of those who served in the war. They will arrive on 8 November and will take part in the Remembrance Sunday service the following day, as well as a service at San Carlos on 11 November. The veterans will also have a chance to visit the main battle sites. It is hoped that Islanders will open their homes to the veterans, showing the hospitality for which they are renowned. Malcolm Simpson commented: "We want, when we climb back on board that aircraft to go home, them to be going away as a satisfied veteran and more enlightened as to how the Islands have changed since 1982 and maybe wanting to come back to visit in future." |
| 1st August | Falklands Rifle Team Triumph The Falkland Islands Rifle Association Bisley team returned victorious from the National Rifle Association Imperial Meeting in the UK, after winning the Junior Kolapore Cup and the Nobel Cup. The team members were Ken Aldridge, Christian Berntsen, Derek Goodwin and Mark Dodd, who at 18 is thought to be the youngest shooter to represent the Falkland Islands at this prestigious event. |
| 1st August | FIDC Announces Appointment of New General Manager David Waugh has been appointed as the new General Manager of the Falkland Islands Development Corporation following interviews in London in July. He has an extensive international business career focusing on property and infrastructure development, business improvement and regeneration. Past posts include Executive Project Director of the Canary Wharf Development in London and most recently Chief Executive of the Liverpool Land Development Company. Mr Waugh is likely to start work in October. |
| 25th July | Falklands Student Comes Top in University Exams Falklands student Kimberly Finlayson, who has just completed the second year of her degree in Biomedical Science at Manchester Metropolitan University, has excelled in her field, achieving the highest grade for microbiology in her year. She will receive a prize and certificate for her efforts in September and will spend the next year on placement in the Manchester Royal Infirmary Bacteriology Laboratory, for which she has obtained sponsorship from the North West Health Trust. |
| 25th July | New Biodiversity Strategy to Protect Falklands Environment A month of community consultation has begun on the Falkland Islands' biodiversity strategy. The Falkland Islands Government's vision for the environment as set out in the Islands Plan 2008/12 states: "We will conserve and enhance the natural diversity, ecological processes and heritage of the Falkland Islands, in harmony with sustainable economic development." The Environmental Planning Department will produce a Biodiversity Strategy to ensure that these objectives are achieved and that all natural resources are managed for the long-term benefits of all. The new Biodiversity Strategy identifies the key environmental assets in the Falkland Islands and the species and habitats most at risk of extinction. The proposed action tasks are grouped under four themes: protecting the general environment; protecting priority species and habitats; protecting our genetic resources; and driving the Biodiversity Strategy. At the end of the period of community consultation, all the comments received will be used to draft a final version, which will be submitted to the Environmental Committee and for final adoption by Executive Council towards the end of 2008. Copies of the Biodiversity Strategy can be obtained from the Environmental Planning Department (tel: 28480, hotley.planning@taxation.gov.fk). |
| 15th July | Prince Charles Receives A Taste of the Falklands His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales was among the many people who visited the Royal Show at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, 3-6 July. Falkland Islands Government UK Representative, Sukey Cameron took the opportunity to present him with a copy of A Taste of the Falklands by Julie Halliday and Alex Olmedo. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Islands' first appearance at the Show, which attracted some 100,000 people over the four days. The Show provided an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn of the recent developments in Falklands agriculture, as well as future plans for organic certification and the implementation of new farming techniques. |
| 15th July | The Dictionary of Falklands Biography is Launched in London and Stanley A new book outlining the history of the Falkland Islands and South Georgia through the lives of people has been published by a former Governor of the Islands, Mr David Tatham. The Dictionary of Falklands Biography (including South Georgia) is the culmination of six years of writing and research by 170 contributors from 15 countries around the world. It tells the story of the Falkland Islands and the South Atlantic in a very readable and fascinating way by describing the lives of 470 people connected with the history of the region. [ To purchase the book visit www.d-falklands-b.org ] |
| 15th July | PM Brown urged to discuss Falklands issues with Kirchner The Foreign Affairs Select Committee has urged the Prime Minister to pin down the Argentine President about concerns relating to the Falklands when the visit by President Kirchner, which was cancelled earlier this year, is rearranged. The Committee recommended that the Prime Minister should call for an end to Argentina's ban on flights to the Falklands crossing its airspace and that he should highlight the logistical issues if a large number of Argentine families are allowed to fly in to visit the graves of their war dead. Also recommended was that the Prime Minister should press the Argentine President to agree to the establishment of a regional fisheries management organisation for the South West Atlantic and reiterate the Islands' right to develop a hydrocarbon industry. The Committee also called for the FCO to work with the Falkland Islands Government and the Ministry of Defence to ensure that the MoD Air bridge service to the Islands, allows the Islands to further develop its tourism industry. [ The report is available to read here: www.publications.parliament.uk (pdf) ] |
| 15th July | Young Islanders to Compete in Commonwealth Games A team of Falkland Islanders are to make their way to Pune in Western India for the Commonwealth Youth Games in October. Badminton players Aidan Smith and Julian Barton will play in both singles and doubles competitions, while Murray Middleton will represent the Islands in pistol shooting and Bono McKay will take part in the shotgun competitions. |
| 7th July | Wind Farm Set To Grow The second phase of the Sand Bay Wind Farm is to go ahead. The project entails the purchase of a further three turbines and two flywheel energy storage units with a payback time of around seven years, although increasing fuel prices could reduce this period. It is anticipated that the project will be completed during the 2009/10 financial year. Phase One of the wind farm has been highly successful with an average fuel displacement of 20% to date and displacement of up to 23% is anticipated for 2008/09. |
| 3rd July | Falkland Islands Government's Tenth Year at the Royal Show The Falkland Islands Government is exhibiting at the Royal Show this year, marking the tenth occasion of its attendance at the event at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, from 3-6 July. Visitors to the colourful Falklands exhibition stand will be able to find out how the Islands have developed since 1982 into a dynamic UK Overseas Territory which is diversifying its rural economy to achieve sustainable development. The stand will feature information and photography highlighting developments in the Islands' agriculture, fisheries and tourism industries. A plasma TV screen will show DVDs and beautiful images of the Falklands. The stand will be located in the International Village and will be manned by Falkland Islands Government UK Representative Sukey Cameron MBE and colleagues from the Islands. [ Press Release... ] |
| 20th June | Draft Constitution Ready for Public Consultation The Select Committee on the Constitution has now reached agreement with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on the content of the new Draft Constitution for the Falkland Islands, and it can now be released for public consultation. Copies of the Draft Constitution are available from the Clerk of Councils at Gilbert House by electronic copy or in hard copy. The Draft Constitution contains a number of important updates from the current 1985 Constitution, in improvements to the protection of fundamental human rights of the individual, including the right to self-determination and the right to freely dispose of the territories natural resources. It will enhance local democracy by making clear Councillors' responsibility for domestic policies, and the obligation of the Governor to follow the advice of Executive Council, whilst retaining for the UK Government through the Governor responsibility for foreign affairs, defence, internal security, the administration of justice, audit and the management of the public service. The new draft replaces the Commonwealth qualification for application for Falklands status with a British qualification, and breaks the automatic link between naturalisation and Falklands status, though importantly none of these provisions have retrospective effect. New provision is made for a Public Accounts Committee and for a Complaints Commissioner independent of Government to strengthen civil society. The new Draft Constitution will now go for a period of formal public consultation, and if it receives general approval will be submitted to Legislative Council in September, and to the Privy Council in October, providing for an effective date for the new Constitution of 1 January 2009. The Select Committee will now prepare fuller briefing notes for the public on the changes to the Constitution and their effect, and will organise a series of public briefing and consultation meetings both in Stanley and in Camp. The proposed schedule for these will be issued following next week's meetings round. [ May 2008: Draft Falkland Islands Constitution (pdf) ] |
| 20th June | Falklands Conservationist Recognised in Queen's Birthday Honours Robin Woods, a trustee and former chair of Falklands Conservation, has been awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List for his services to the conservation of wildlife in the Falklands. He is a leading authority on the birds of the Falklands Islands and has written a number of guides to Falklands wildlife. Rear Admiral Richard Ibbotson, Commander British Forces Falkland Islands from 2002 to 2003, was made a CBE. |
| 20th June | Liberation Day Remembered in Falklands and UK A large crowd gathered at the Liberation Monument in the Falkland Islands on 14 June, Liberation Day, to pay homage to those members of the British Armed Forces, the Merchant Navy and civilians who died during the fighting to free the Falkland Islands from Argentine occupation in 1982. The sun shone as wreaths were laid by His Excellency the Governor, the Commander British Forces South Atlantic and the Hon Richard Cockwell on behalf of Legislative Council. Among the representatives of military units, veterans associations and family members who laid wreaths were members of a contingent of visiting veterans. Earlier in the morning, a thanksgiving service was held in Christ Church Cathedral, attended by the Governor, the Commander British Forces and members of the Legislative Council. As is usual on this occasion, there was a full congregation of local people, together with representatives of the armed forces, youth groups, the Falkland Islands Defence Force and members of the Merchant Navy. In the UK, the annual Falklands Families Association service took place in the Crypt of St Paul's Cathedral on 14 June. Some forty people attended the short service which was followed by a moving tribute of the laying of flowers in front of the Falklands memorial. Falkland Islands Government UK Representative Sukey Cameron MBE laid a basket of red, white and blue flowers on behalf of the Islands. A service was also held at the Falkland Islands Memorial Chapel in Pangbourne on 15 June. Over 150 people attended the annual service, including families, veterans and a number of commanders from 1982. In Wigan, a service took place at the Parish Church, attended by more than 100 people, including veterans and sea cadets. |
| 12th June | Councillors Defend Right to Self Determination at UN Meeting Councillors Janet Robertson and Richard Stevens attended the United Nations General Assembly 62nd Session of the Special Committee of 24 on Decolonisation on 12 June. As democratically elected representatives of the Falkland Islands, both Councillors spoke in front of the Committee to defend the Falkland Islands right to self determination and to protest about the Committee's support for Resolution 2065 which is contrary to the concept of self-determination, to human rights and to the rights of peoples as enshrined by the UN's Declaration on Decolonisation Charter. [ Councillor Janet Robertson's speech (pdf) ] [ Councillor Richard Stevens' speech (pdf) ] [ To read the speeches in Spanish visit: www.britain.org.ar ] |
| 10th June | Address by Councillor Mike Summers OBE at the Falkland Islands Government Annual Reception "It is a very great pleasure to be here in London on the occasion of the FIG Annual reception at Lincoln's Inn, and to be able to welcome you all to this important event. This time last year we were in the midst of the 25th Anniversary commemorations both here and in the Islands; events that were at times emotional and always moving, which enabled us not only to honour those who paid the ultimate price for freedom, but also to portray to the world the gratitude of Falkland Islanders to Her Majesty's Government and her armed forces, for the professional and effective manner in which they acted to restore the rule of law and democracy to our Islands. And we were also able to demonstrate how the Falklands has moved on in the last 25 years from a failing grant-in-aid economy to a self confident society, economically self sufficient in all but defence." [ Please click here for the full text... ] |
| 6th June | Councillors to Attend UN C24 Councillors Janet Robertson and Richard Stevens will attend the United Nations C24 Committee on Decolonisation in New York on 12 June. The meeting will allow the Councillors to rebut the Argentine Sovereignty claim and query why Islanders are not deemed, like other self-governing countries, to have the right to self-determination. |
| 6th June | New Constitution Nears Conclusion A new Falkland Islands Constitution is due to be in place by 1 January 2009. An agreement has been reached with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London that the process can now move into its final stages. The shape and timetable for public discussions of the latest draft are being agreed and the public consultation will begin soon. The draft will then be approved by the Falkland Islands Legislative Council, the Foreign Affairs Select Committee and the Privy Council. [ May 2008: Draft Falkland Islands Constitution (pdf) ] |
| 6th June | 2008-9 Budget is Announced Following considerations at the special budget meeting of Standing Finance Committee, the Financial Secretary the Hon Mr Derek Howatt announced that as well as striking a balanced budget, the committee also struck a reasonable balance between expenditure across the full range of service provision, social purposes, economic development and capital investment. The Government is planning to spend more than £40 million over the next financial year and the estimates support the Islands Plan, forming a series of promises in financial terms to the general public. All essential services are maintained at existing levels. The focus for the new financial year will be the review of Government and its structure in order to reduce spending. [ Please click here to see the Budget Highlights... ] |
| 30th May | Joint Services Display Capabilities A joint British armed forces and Falkland Islands Defence Force capability demonstration took place on 24 May, attended by 300 visitors. The event demonstrated the substantial capability and readiness of the joint forces of the Falklands, reassuring Islanders of their security. Organisers Major Pete Biggs and Captain Iain Robertson were particularly impressed by the enthusiasm of the young visitors and said it was great to see young and old alike ask so many questions of the soldiers, sailors and airmen. |
| 29th May | Governor's Address to the Opening Session of Legislative Council Mr Speaker, Sir, Last year, the 25th Anniversary of the Argentine invasion of the Falkland Islands and of their liberation by British forces, was a very moving year for us all. The commemorative events allowed us to remember the courage and commitment of the British servicemen and their civilian counterparts who helped to restore freedom and re-instate the rule of law and democracy to these Islands - and it allowed us to honour the dead on both sides. [ Full text of Speech... ] |
| 23rd May | Landings Commemorated at Blue Beach The Falkland Islands marked the 26th anniversary of the landing of the British Task Force on 21 May 1982. Islanders were joined by members of the military community for the Landing Day service held inside Blue Beach Cemetery, San Carlos. Wreaths were laid by His Excellency the Governor, Councillor Andrea Clausen, the Commander of British Forces, representatives of the Royal Navy, Army, Royal Air Force and Royal Fleet Auxiliary and also by members of the public. |
| 23 May | WoolCo Well on the Way to Being 'Stand Alone' The Falklands Wool Company has completed its first full year of trading and is well on its way to being a stand alone company. The company was established, with Falkland Islands Government funding, in 2006 on a not-for-profit basis, with cost savings passed back to farmers in a final payment at the end of the season. WoolCo works with 15 of the approximately 80 wool producing farms in the Falklands. There were 4,550 bales (872,791 greasy kgs/ 583,248 clean kgs) of wool sold throughout the year at an average net Stanley price of 210p per clean kg and a number of new buyers were found throughout the season. |
| 16th May | Scholars Dispute Argentine Claim Two independent scholars of Falklands history have disputed Argentina's claim to the Islands at a presentation at the London School of Economics. University lecturer Dr Graham Pascoe and Peter Pepper gave a public lecture on 13 May entitled "Getting it right: the real history of the Falklands/Malvinas". This was as a direct response to a seminar organised by the Argentine Embassy in London, which took place in December and contained factual inaccuracies. Mr Pepper said: "We want to put the record straight and expose the falsehoods the Argentines are telling." [ Full text on external web site ] |
| 16th May | Discussions on Rural Strategy Key stakeholders from Government and business have attended meetings to discuss the development of a rural strategy for the Falkland Islands. The discussions looked at ways to strengthen the economy of Camp (local term for the countryside); improve access to goods and services; enhance the quality of life for those living in Camp; ensure that Camp continues to be central to the Falklands' culture and heritage; make a strong case for future investment in Camp and guide that investment where it is most needed. |
| 16th May | Record Loligo Squid Season The Falklands Fishery has reported a record loligo squid season with a total production of almost 25,000 tonnes of high quality squid. The recent development and implementation of prerecruit surveys, electronic logbooks, and daily monitoring of the fishery with 'up to the minute' reports on stock status by the Fisheries Department contributed greatly to the successful management of one of the most important domestic resources of squid around the Falkland Islands. |
| 9th May | Government Statement: Landmine Clearance The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) is very conscious of the obligations of Her Majesty's Government (HMG) under the 1997 Ottowa Convention to remove all anti-personnel mines from its territory. No pressure, however, has been placed on HMG in respect of mine clearance. We are satisfied that all mined areas are safely fenced, and present no long term social or economic difficulties for the Falklands. Whilst we would not obstruct any efforts HMG wished to make to fulfil its international obligations, FIG would have to pay close attention to the environmental implications of complete clearance, and the possible negative effect on UK public opinion of high levels of expenditure for little practical purpose. Indeed, we would prefer the money to be spent on removing landmines from needier parts of the world. |
| 7th May | Councillors to Attend Commonwealth Conference in Gibraltar Falkland Islands Councillors Richard Cockwell and Richard Stevens will attend the annual Commonwealth Parliamentary Association British Islands and Mediterranean Regional Conference to be held in Gibraltar from 11 to 15 May. The conference will explore and discuss strategies that can be pursued by small territories in relation to energy conservation and generation and tourism and the environment. |
| 7th May | MPs Stress Importance of Airbridge and Fishery Members of the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee have recognised the importance of the airbridge between the UK and the Falklands. In a report issued on 1 May, MPs urged the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), the Ministry of Defence and the Falkland Islands Government that the costs, risks and awards of the new airbridge contract should be apportioned between the partners, so that reliable public access to the Islands is provided and the requirements of all parties are met. The FCO assured the Committee that it is continuing diplomatic contacts with Argentina over a lack of air access through Argentinean space to the Falklands Islands. The report also stressed the importance of the fishing industry to the Islands and the need for a treaty governing high seas fishing in the South West Atlantic. |
| 7th May | Falklands Fisheries Represented at World's Largest Seafood Show Representatives from the Falklands fishing industry attended the Brussels Seafood Exhibition from 22-24 April to promote Falklands fish to world buyers. The Brussels Seafood Exhibition is the largest seafood show in the world and attracts many of the companies that market or buy seafood originating in Falkland waters. Held annually, exhibitors from over 80 countries attract in excess of 30,000 visitors over the three days. The Falkland Islands stand was manned by representatives from six local companies and showcased the Falklands as an important fishing region with high quality fishery products. A Falklands Fishery DVD, commissioned by the loligo industry and Consolidated Fisheries Ltd, was distributed and attracted a lot of attention on the stand. |
| 7th May | Islanders Discuss Oil at Texas Convention The Falkland Islands were represented by Councillor Ian Hansen, Director of Mineral Resources Phyl Rendell and Pippa Christie from the Mineral Resources Department, at the Annual American Association of Petroleum Geologists' Convention in San Antonio, Texas, from 20-23 April. Around 7,000 delegates attended with the Falklands stand attracting a steady flow of visitors from geologists and oil company representatives interested to learn about hydrocarbon exploration in the Islands. |
| 1st May | Government Statement: Next of Kin Visits to the Falkland Islands by Argentine families There has been some comment lately on the response of the Falkland Islands Government to the request from the Argentine Government to bring up to 800 people to the Islands by air for the inauguration of a memorial to the Argentine soldiers buried at Darwin cemetery. [ Press Release... ] |
| 25th April | Work Begins to Upgrade Ferry Terminal Work has begun on the ferry terminal at Port Howard on West Falkland to make it ready for the arrival of a new coastal shipping vessel, Concordia Bay. A new ramp will be built for ferry operations before the vessel arrives in late June. |
| 25th April | Recruitment of Port Development Officer The Falkland Islands Government is actively recruiting a Port Development Officer to oversee the decision making process on where to build a new port in the Islands. Those being considered for the role will require strong project management experience including working on issues of funding and construction. |
| 25th April | Meat Industry Celebrates Successful Season The Falkland Islands Meat Company has revealed that throughout the 2007 / 2008 export season a higher yield was achieved despite fewer animals being processed though the abattoir than the previous year. An average increase of 15% in prices obtained further increased the overall income. It is hoped that the new transport system coming into action will result in an improved supply chain to the benefit of the abattoir and the farmer. |
| 25th April | Falklands Film Wins Award Falklands: The Islanders' War has won an award for the best multi-channel programme in the Broadcasting Press Guild Television and Radio Awards. The Broadcasting Press Guild is made up of around 100 journalists that specialise in the media including writers for the national press and trade titles. The Islanders' War was filmed in the Falklands under the direction of Mike Ford and produced by Point of View Productions for the History Channel. |
| 17th April | Falklands Hosts First Leg of Seven Magnificent Marathons Challenge The Falklands Islands was the location of the first leg of blind runner Dave Heeley's challenge to run seven marathons in seven days on seven continents in aid of Guide Dogs UK. A flypast by an RAF Tornado F-3 marked the start of the Marathon. Blind Dave, as he likes to be called, and his running partner Malcolm Carr, were accompanied on the 26.2 mile Mount Pleasant course by the respective winner and runner up of the 2008 Stanley Marathon, Simon Almond and Hugh Marsden. As he crossed the finish line in a time of 4 hours and 14 minutes, Dave said: "we've started with Brits and we're going to finish with Brits." The seventh and final leg of his marathon challenge was the London Marathon on 13 April. |
| 17th April | Falklands Sees Impressive Cruise Ship Rise Cruise ship tourism to the Falklands continues to grow, with the 2007/08 season showing an impressive 21% increase on the year before. More than 62,200 ship passengers were cleared to land in the Islands between October 2007 and April 2008. The increase in arrivals this season is part of a larger growth pattern, according to Falkland Islands Tourism Board, whose calculations showed that passenger numbers had grown by an average of 16% per annum for seven consecutive seasons, comparing favourably with global growth of just 8% per annum. A total of 46 different vessels visited the Islands during the season, compared to 42 in 2006/07. This included ten maiden calls. According to FITB, local increases are set to continue with cruise holidays experiencing unprecedented growth across the globe. |
| 17th April | Camp Connects to Broadband Broadband connections have now been installed in the first Camp settlement (Camp is the Falklands term for the countryside). This link up to the Cable and Wireless broadband service will bring huge benefits to both residents and businesses, improving communication within the Islands and further afield. Half of Camp customers are due to be on line by December and the remainder by March 2009. |
| 17th April | New Equipment for Hospital The King Edward VII Memorial Hospital's bowel screening campaign has received a boost in the shape of £150,000 worth of new equipment. The hospital offers regular screening for those people who are members of high risk families. Since the introduction of the campaign for regular screening in 1994, there has been a dramatic reduction in the incidence of bowel cancer in the Islands. |
| 27th March | Islands Plan Measures Success The Falkland Islands Government has published a report on the progress made on the Islands Plan for the period 2004-2007, written jointly by Councillor Mike Summers and Chief Executive Dr Tim Thorogood. Achievements include increases in small business profitability and tourism numbers, the retention of low unemployment, improved communications and health services and prudent management of Government. The report was released in conjunction with the new Islands Plan, which will run from 2008-2012. |
| 27th March | Falklands Students Meet the Queen Two Falklands students, from Chichester College, were nominated to represent the Falkland Islands at various events in London on Commonwealth Day, Monday 10th March. The events, organised by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, included a tour of the Houses of Parliament, discussions on the Commonwealth, presentations and debates of current critical issues in the Commonwealth, attendance at the Observance at Westminster Abbey and culminated in a reception at Marlborough House in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen. Karen Minto and Michael Brownlee met the Queen, who was interested to find out where they were from. |
| 27th March | MPs Appreciate Falklands Issues Foreign Affairs Select Committee members Eric Illsley MP and Gisela Stuart MP were in the Islands from 12-18 March as part of an inquiry on Overseas Territories. During the visit they met with representatives from both the public and private sectors and said they would leave the Falkland Islands better able to appreciate the issues affecting Islanders. |
| 27th March | Stanley Marathon The world's most southerly marathon, the Stanley Marathon, has a new champion. After running almost the entire course side by side with three-time winner Hugh Marsden, military runner Simon Almond made a break in the final mile, crossing the finish line in a new marathon record of two hours, 55 minutes and 46 seconds, collecting prize money of £1,000 for his efforts. One hundred and sixty-five runners turned up for the 26 mile race, which was blessed with beautiful weather and only a slight, cool breeze. Thirty-four individuals ran the entire distance while the rest ran in a team relay event. Organised by Standard Chartered Bank, the marathon supports the bank's charity for visually impaired people, Seeing is Believing. |
| 4th March | Falklands Flight Concessions for Veterans From 1 September all British Falklands War Veterans will be able to apply for indulgence flights to the Islands via the airbridge. The concession has been granted by the Ministry of Defence and all applications for the service will be channelled through the South Atlantic Medal Association (SAMA). The concession will not apply for spouses or dependents. |
| 22ndFebruary | British Politicians Praise Falkland Islands A delegation of British politicians visited the Falkland Islands this week and described their visit as "a real eye opening experience". Labour MP Jeff Ennis, parliamentary private secretary to cabinet secretary Ed Milliband, led the delegation, which also included Paul Holmes (Lib Dem), Lord Nigel Jones of Cheltenham (Lib Dem) and Lord Ian McColl of Dulwich (Con). The group were representing the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association's UK branch at the invitation of the Falkland Islands Government. At a press conference on the eve of their departure, the group were full of praise for the work of the Falklands Councillors in furthering the cause of the Falkland Islands. A team from the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, which looks at the exercise by the FCO of its responsibilities in the Overseas Territories, is visiting the Falklands next month. |
| 6th February | British Explore Options for Mine Clearance The British Government is considering ways of clearing approximately 20,000 mines left on the Falklands Islands after the Conflict in 1982. Baroness Crawley, Government Spokesperson for Defence in the House of Lords, informed the House that clearance would be "challenging but technically possible". |
| 18th January | FIGO Celebrates 25th Anniversary The Falkland Islands Government Office in London celebrated its 25th anniversary on Monday with an informal reception at Falkland House. Baroness Thatcher was Guest of Honour at the event which was also attended by MPs, Peers, journalists and friends of the Falklands. Sukey Cameron MBE, the Falkland Islands Government UK Representative, gave a short speech outlining the history of the office in London before Baroness Thatcher cut the FIGO birthday cake. [ Press Release... ] |
| 7th January | Prime Minister's New Year Message In his first New Year address to the Falklands, Prime Minister Gordon Brown told Falkland Islanders that he had no doubts about the UK's sovereignty over the Falklands. He undertook to uphold Islanders' security and everything they have worked to achieve over the past 25 years. [ Press Release... ] |
| 7th January | By-Election Result John Birmingham has been elected as a Councillor to represent the Stanley constituency following a by-election on 3 January. 47% of Stanley's electorate voted in the by-election. Cllr Birmingham previously served on the Legislative Council from 1993 to 2005. |
| 7th January | Overseas Territories Minister Visit The new Overseas Territories Minister Meg Munn MP visited the Falklands from 3 to 5 January. Ms Munn met FIG officials, Councillors and members of the business community. She visited Gypsy Cove and Sea Lion Island, where she laid a wreath at the memorial to HMS Sheffield. |
| 7th January | New Chief Executive Arrives Dr. Tim Thorogood arrived in the Islands on 3 January to take up his position as the new Falkland Islands Government Chief Executive. Dr. Thorogood was previously Chief Executive of the Local Government Information Unit and, prior to this, Chief Executive of Swansea City and County Council. |
| 7th January | New Memorial Marks 175th Anniversary A memorial to the Royal Marines was unveiled in the Falklands on 3 January, the day that marks 175 years since the re-establishment of British occupation of the Islands. The memorial stands by Government House in Stanley. |
| 4th January | Falkland Islands Government Office Celebrates 25 Years in London 12 January marks 25 years since the opening of the Falkland Islands Government Office (FIGO) in London, making it one of the longest established UK Overseas Territories Offices. Sukey Cameron MBE has been the Falkland Islands Government (FIG) UK Representative since 1990. She is available for interview about the changing role of FIGO and what it's like to be the face of the Falkland Islands in the UK. [ Press Release... ] |
