MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Constitutional Debate at Public Meeting

Around 40 people attended yesterday's public meeting, which was chaired by Councillor John Birmingham. Other Councillors in attendance included Jan Cheek, Mike Summers, Norma Edwards and Sharon Halford. The first item discussed was the constitutional reform debate. Councillor Summers said the select committee is awaiting a paper from the Attorney General and Chief Executive, which will attempt to devise the current system of Government as described in the constitution. Adding, they are looking at General Purposes Committee, Executive Council and Legislative Council and how the functions of those may be described in a constitutional pretext. Asked how the select committee will address any suggested changes from the public Councillor Summers said all ideas would be discussed by the select committee who will then prepare a set of recommendations. A full report will then be submitted to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office for review. There was no reason why this report should not be made public he said.

Other items discussed at the Historic Buildings Committee

The listing of important Historic Government Buildings was discussed at the Historic Buildings Committee yesterday. It was questioned whether the dockyard was an appropriate setting for a modern government department, or whether other uses should be considered, such as leisure, tourism or historic matters. The Committee approved a grant for new windows to a traditional design for a listed building in Stanley. Work has been completed on the roof of the Goose Green social club, which has now been declared a listed building by Executive Council. Finally, Shirley Hirtle at 4 Villiers Street has also had her house listed.

Former Chief Executive Book Publication Date Premature

Andrew Gurr, former Chief Executive of the Falkland Islands, who has written a book on the place has described the publication date as premature. The Amazon website gave the date as the 3rd of May, however Mr Gurr said the book is currently still with the printers and has to be distributed from about May the 14th onwards. Adding, it should be ready for release in mid June.

Historic Buildings Committee ? the visit of Roger Capps

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