AGP Executive Report

Church Accountability in Spain: Pope Leo XIV met six Catholic clergy abuse survivors in Spain, urging bishops to show a “determined commitment” to strengthen safeguarding and offer reparations, though some survivor groups complained they were left out. Montserrat Marine Protection: Montserrat officially joined the UK Blue Belt Programme on World Ocean Day, aiming to protect at least 20% of its maritime zone with support for marine protected areas, fisheries management, and updated marine laws. Hawksbill Turtle Season: Turtle nesting season has begun, with residents and visitors urged to avoid disturbing nesting females—especially at night—and to reduce light and noise on beaches. Volcano Watch: The Montserrat Volcano Observatory says the Soufrière Hills volcano remains active and in unrest despite no eruption since 2010, with monitoring still showing ground changes, gas emissions, and seismic activity. Hurricane Readiness: As the Atlantic season starts, Montserrat preparedness is back in focus—especially planning for power loss, charging options, and offline documents. Local Business Funding: The Government is seeking new funding after fully deploying an EC$2 million MBPF soft-loan programme, with 39 loans approved across 11 sectors and no defaults reported. Regional Governance: BVI urged the UN decolonization committee to push harder on remaining Non-Self-Governing Territories, calling for more visiting missions and dialogue. Pope in the Spotlight: The pope’s Spain trip also drew viral attention, including a brief “6-7” hand gesture moment during his Madrid visit.

Papal Visit, Faith in Public Life: Pope Leo XIV drew more than a million people to Mass in Madrid and urged Europe to acknowledge Christianity’s role in its cultural identity, linking faith to schools, hospitals and public life. Clergy Abuse, Survivor Meeting: The Vatican says Leo will privately meet clergy sexual abuse victims during the Spain trip, with details released only after the encounter. Montserrat Connection, Disaster Planning: As Montserrat enters hurricane season, officials are stressing food security alongside storm readiness, highlighting local farming efforts and the risk that shipping disruptions and import costs can hit what people eat. Local Finance, Business Support: The Montserrat Government is seeking fresh funding to expand the MBPF Soft Loan Programme after fully deploying its initial EC$2 million and approving 39 loans across 11 sectors, with no defaults reported to date. Regional Resilience, CDEMA: CDEMA’s chief praised Antigua and Barbuda’s new five-year resilience framework as a roadmap for protecting lives and livelihoods across sectors.

Montserrat Business Support: The Government of Montserrat is chasing fresh funding to expand the MBPF Soft Loan Programme after fully deploying its initial EC$2 million, with EC$1.94 million already pushed into 39 approved loans across 11 sectors and no defaults reported. Hurricane Readiness & Food Security: As the Atlantic season begins, officials are urging residents to prepare, while also stressing a key local worry: keeping food supplies steady when storms disrupt shipping and raise import costs. Papal Visit to Spain (with Montserrat link): Pope Leo XIV’s week-long Spain trip kicks off with Mass in Madrid for more than a million people, with a strong focus on Europe’s Christian roots, migration, and calls to reduce division; his itinerary includes Montserrat Monastery. Vatican Communications Shake-up: Maria Montserrat Alvarado, head of EWTN News, has been named prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for Communication, starting Nov. 1. Regional Finance Watch: A Caribbean banking analysis looks at why borrowing costs stay high across the ECCU and what the region’s “decade of decision” could mean for growth. Sports (Caribbean audience): Rush Sports says it’s preparing expanded 2026 World Cup coverage across multiple Caribbean markets, including Montserrat.

Papal Spotlight: Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Spain for a week-long visit to Madrid, Barcelona, Montserrat Monastery and the Canary Islands, with a clear focus on migrants, peace, and pushing back against division as he prepares to address Spain’s parliament and meet abuse survivors. Montserrat Link: The itinerary includes a stop at Montserrat Monastery, keeping the island’s name in the spotlight during a high-profile European tour. Vatican Communications: Women in the Vatican have welcomed Maria Montserrat “Montse” Alvarado as the new prefect for the Dicastery for Communication, taking effect Nov. 1—an historic laywoman appointment. Local Resilience: Montserrat’s hurricane readiness coverage continues, with officials detailing preparations across healthcare and vulnerable residents as the Atlantic season begins. Regional Economy: A Caribbean banking analysis argues the “cost of money” in the Eastern Caribbean is holding back growth, while pointing to credit unions as a possible lower-rate alternative. Sports: The Matildas’ home run ended with a 1-0 friendly loss to Mexico in stoppage time, while Montserrat’s Kriston Yearwood is tipped to make a bigger impact for Penwortham after a slow start.

Vatican & Montserrat Connection: Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Spain for a June 6–12 visit that includes a stop at Montserrat Monastery, with a clear focus on migrants, peace, and pushing back against division as he prepares to give more than 20 speeches and become the first pope to address Spain’s parliament. Local Vatican Leadership: Women in the Vatican have welcomed Maria Montserrat “Montse” Alvarado as the new prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, a historic first for a laywoman not in religious life, taking effect Nov. 1. Church Abuse Reckoning: Ahead of the trip, Spain has advanced a reparations program for clergy sexual abuse cases involving deceased accused, while critics question how enforceable and transparent payouts will be. ECCU Money Costs: A new Caribbean banking analysis argues that “the cost of money” in the Eastern Caribbean is keeping borrowing expensive and slowing growth, and points to credit unions as a possible route to more affordable lending. Montserrat Hurricane Readiness: Montserrat officials are using the start of hurricane season to stress food security and healthcare continuity, highlighting local cultivation efforts and detailed medical emergency planning. Sports (Caribbean interest): Australia’s Matildas fell 1-0 to Mexico in a late winner, while Montserrat-linked cricket player Kriston Yearwood is backing Penwortham’s push for promotion.

Papal Visit Watch: Pope Leo XIV has set off for a week-long trip to Spain (June 6–12), with migrants, political polarization, and peace messaging at the center of the agenda, including stops in Madrid, Barcelona, Montserrat Monastery, and the Canary Islands. Local Hurricane Readiness: Montserrat is stepping up disaster response with new tools and planning, including drone-based thermal imaging and expanded health preparations to keep care running before, during, and after major storms. Food Security Focus: Officials say hurricane season also means protecting the island’s food supply, with efforts to grow more locally as shipping disruptions and import costs threaten availability. Vatican Communications Shake-up: Maria Montserrat “Montse” Alvarado, head of EWTN News, has been appointed prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication, a historic first for a laywoman not in religious life. Eastern Caribbean Courts: The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court has named Margaret Price Findlay as Chief Justice, effective April 9, 2026. World Cup Viewing in the Region: Rush Sports says it’s preparing expanded Caribbean World Cup coverage across multiple territories, including Montserrat. Montserrat Recognition: Dulcie James received an OBE at Windsor Castle for services to public and financial work and community development in Montserrat.

Montserrat Hurricane Readiness: Officials say the island is already strengthening food supply and healthcare continuity ahead of the 2026 Atlantic season, with more local crops under cultivation and detailed plans for vulnerable residents, clinics, and hospital operations. Regional Governance: The Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court has a new Chief Justice: Her Ladyship Madam Margaret Price Findlay, appointed effective April 9, 2026. Local Recognition: Dulcie James received an OBE at Windsor Castle for services to public and financial work and community development in Montserrat. Vatican Spotlight (Spain visit): Pope Leo XIV’s week-long trip to Spain begins June 6, with major events across Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canaries, plus a focus on migration. Church Accountability: Spain is also rolling out a reparations program for clergy abuse cases involving deceased accused members, as Pope Leo’s visit approaches. Caribbean Sports Business: Rush Sports says it has World Cup broadcast coverage across multiple Caribbean markets, including Montserrat, aiming to bring fans a fuller “touch and feel” viewing experience. Vatican Communications Appointment: Maria Montserrat “Montse” Alvarado, head of EWTN News, is named prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication, effective Nov. 1.

World Cup Viewing in Montserrat: Rush Sports (CPSL) says it’s building a “touch and feel” World Cup experience for Caribbean audiences, holding rights across 13 markets including Montserrat, with all 104 matches carried in most territories and Jamaica split with TVJ. Hurricane Readiness in Montserrat: Health and disaster officials report major preparations for the 2026 Atlantic season, including backup generators, pre-positioned medical staff, shelter readiness, and plans to keep care running during and after a major storm. Disaster Tech Boost: Montserrat’s response is getting a tech upgrade, with Royal Montserrat Police drones using thermal imaging to spot people and assess damage fast, plus expanded drone work by the Montserrat Volcano Observatory. Local Recognition: Dulcie James received an OBE at Windsor Castle, honoured for public and financial services and community development in Montserrat. Regional Governance: Montserrat joined the Overseas Territories Parliamentary Conference in the Cayman Islands, as speakers discussed strengthening institutions and governance across the territories.

Hurricane Readiness: Montserrat’s 2026 Atlantic season is underway, and officials say the island is already set up for major storms—covering shelters, emergency communications, healthcare continuity, transport, fuel security, and support for vulnerable residents. Disaster Tech Boost: The Royal Montserrat Police Service is using thermal-imaging drones to assess damage, spot blocked roads, and locate people needing help, while disaster planners highlight upgraded warning and response tools. Vatican Communications Shake-up: Pope Leo XIV has appointed Maria Montserrat “Montse” Alvarado—EWTN News president and COO—as prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication, a historic first for a laywoman not in religious life. Papal Spain Trip (Montserrat Mention): The Pope’s six-day Spain itinerary includes Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands, with Montserrat also on the route as he addresses themes including migration and peace. Regional Governance: Bermuda has wrapped up public consultations on full CARICOM membership, with the next step now shifting to government review and a final decision through CARICOM’s Council of Ministers.

Church Accountability in Spain: Ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s visit, Spain has launched a reparations program for victims of Catholic clergy sex abuse, including cases involving deceased accused clergy, with a one-year application window and government control over payouts. Vatican Communications Shake-up: Pope Leo XIV appointed Maria Montserrat “Montse” Alvarado—EWTN News president and COO—as prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication, effective Nov. 1, making her the first laywoman not in religious life to lead a dicastery. Montserrat Disaster Readiness: Montserrat’s DMCA says hurricane preparations are already in motion, including activation-ready shelters and upgraded emergency tools like thermal-imaging drones and expanded response capabilities. Hurricane Season Reminder: Leaders urged residents and businesses not to get complacent as the 2026 Atlantic season begins, stressing year-round preparedness. Local Economy & Work Rights: A Manitoba hotel chain ordered to pay over $100,000 in wages to foreign workers says it didn’t know some workers were employed at its hotel, as the appeal proceeds. Caribbean Regional Watch: Bermuda has wrapped public consultations on full CARICOM membership and will now review feedback before taking a position later this year.

Disaster Readiness: Montserrat is stepping up hurricane season planning with new tech and tighter coordination, including Royal Montserrat Police drones with thermal imaging to spot people, assess damage, and guide responders, plus expanded drone capability from the Montserrat Volcano Observatory. Local Preparedness: Officials also urged residents and businesses not to get complacent, pointing to last year’s flooding as proof that serious damage can happen even without a major hurricane hit. Hurricane Shelters: The DMCA says seven shelters are designated for activation, including Lookout, Davy Hill, Cavalla Hill and Salem, with Salem Community Centre back in the mix. Regional Governance: Montserrat’s Speaker and Clerk are attending the 2026 Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference in the Cayman Islands, focusing on keeping parliaments resilient amid rapid change. Vatican Spotlight: Pope Leo XIV’s Spain trip includes stops in Madrid, Barcelona and the Canary Islands, and he has appointed EWTN News chief Montse Alvarado as prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication. Caribbean Development: Montserrat launched CDB’s Basic Needs Trust Fund 11, securing EC$8.1 million for poverty reduction, livelihoods, and essential services. SMART Update: St. Maarten’s SMART 2026 trade show is 79% booked, with only a few booths left.

Hurricane Readiness: Montserrat’s Disaster Management Coordination Agency says shelters, emergency communications, healthcare, transport, fuel security and public safety teams are already in place as the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins, with officials urging residents and businesses to stay prepared year-round. Local Governance & Funding: The Government of Montserrat has launched the Caribbean Development Bank’s BNTF11 programme, securing EC$8.1 million for projects aimed at reducing poverty, strengthening livelihoods and improving essential services. Regional Parliament Links: Montserrat’s Legislative Assembly leadership is attending the 2026 Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference in the Cayman Islands to discuss keeping legislatures resilient, including during emergencies. Health Watch: The Ministry of Health says Ebola risk to Montserrat remains low while it monitors outbreaks in the DRC and Uganda and reports two imported malaria cases in Antigua & Barbuda. Earthquake Update: A magnitude 4.3 quake was recorded late Tuesday evening, with no reports of damage or injuries. Vatican & Montserrat Connection: Pope Leo XIV’s Spain visit includes a stop in Montserrat, and he has appointed EWTN News president Montse Alvarado as prefect of the Vatican Dicastery for Communication.

Hurricane Preparedness: Montserrat’s Disaster Management Coordination Agency says shelters, emergency communications, healthcare services, transport, fuel security and public safety teams are already lined up for the 2026 Atlantic Hurricane Season, with seven shelters designated for about 190 people and the Salem Community Centre back in the mix. Local Leadership Push: Governor Harriet Cross, Premier Reuben T. Meade and DMCA Director Lt. Col. Alvin Ryan urged residents and businesses to stay ready year-round, warning that last year’s flooding showed damage can come even without a direct hurricane hit. Regional Governance: Montserrat’s Speaker Marjorie Smith and Clerk Dr. Judith Baker are attending the Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference in the Cayman Islands, focusing on resilience, governance reform and keeping legislatures effective during emergencies. Community Funding: The Government of Montserrat launched CDB’s Basic Needs Trust Fund 11 with EC$8.1 million for projects to cut poverty, boost livelihoods and strengthen essential services. Health Watch: Montserrat’s Ministry of Health says Ebola risk remains low while it monitors outbreaks in the DRC and Uganda and reviews response plans; it also continues malaria surveillance after imported cases were reported in Antigua and Barbuda.

Montserrat Culture & Arts: Teatro de la Zarzuela has announced its 2026-27 season, with performances of “La verbena de la Paloma” (Sept. 23-Oct. 4, 2026), “Las Trece Rosas Rojas” (Nov. 25-Dec. 2, 2026), “Los Gavilanes” (Jan. 28-Feb. 13, 2027), and “La Bruja” (March 2027). Eastern Caribbean Courts: Her Ladyship the Honourable Madam Margaret Price Findlay has been appointed the 14th Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, effective 9 April 2026. Public Health: Montserrat’s Ministry of Health says it is monitoring Ebola outbreaks in the DRC and Uganda and reports two imported malaria cases in Antigua and Barbuda, while stressing the risk to Montserrat remains low. Island Life & Community: A new study highlights why many Montserratians struggle to follow the DASH diet for hypertension, pointing to cost and access barriers to fresh produce and healthy options. Regional Governance: Montserrat’s parliamentary leadership is attending the 2026 Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference in the Cayman Islands. Funding Boost: Government has launched CDB BNTF 11, with EC$8.1 million for poverty reduction, livelihoods, and essential services.

Judicial Appointment: King Charles III has appointed Her Ladyship Madam Margaret Price Findlay as the 14th Chief Justice of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, effective 9 April 2026, a leadership boost for the court serving OECS states and British Overseas Territories. Public Health: Montserrat’s Ministry of Health says it is monitoring Ebola outbreaks in the DRC and Uganda while noting the risk to Montserrat remains low; it also confirmed two imported malaria cases in Antigua and Barbuda and highlighted strengthened preparedness steps. Earthquake Update: A magnitude 4.3 earthquake was recorded late Tuesday evening, with no reports of damage or injuries reported so far. Regional Parliament Links: Montserrat’s Speaker Marjorie Smith and Legislative Assembly Clerk Dr. Judith Baker are attending the 2026 Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference in the Cayman Islands, focusing on resilience, governance reform, and parliamentary continuity. Community Funding: Government launched CDB’s Basic Needs Trust Fund 11 Programme, securing EC$8.1 million for poverty reduction, livelihoods, and essential services. Healthier Eating Study: A new study finds many Montserratians know what to eat for DASH-style blood pressure control, but face barriers like cost and limited access to fresh produce and fish. Tourism & Events: Summer travel tips highlight Montserrat’s festival season, including the Calabash Festival (July 18–26) and PRIME 2026 (July 24–26). Football Development: The Montserrat Football Association reports Shernyl Burns completed a Concacaf Venue and Match Coordinator course in Mexico City, supporting plans to resume home matches.

Mango Murder Case: Spain’s investigation into the death of Mango founder Isak Andic continues as his son Jonathan Andic insists a new video shows the fall was accidental, arguing his father’s knee condition slowed his reaction; Jonathan has also stepped back from executive roles while he fights the “serious, unjust and unfounded” allegations. Public Health Watch: Montserrat’s Ministry of Health says the risk of Ebola to the island remains low, while monitoring outbreaks in the DRC and Uganda and reviewing response plans; it also confirmed two imported malaria cases in Antigua and Barbuda are being tracked regionally. Disaster Preparedness: DMCA’s “Hurricane Preparedness is Everyone’s Business” Open Day runs June 2–3 at Yellow Hill, with hands-on drills, supply-kit building, and a “Grab & Go” challenge. Regional Governance: Montserrat’s Speaker and Clerk are attending the Cayman-hosted 2026 Commons and Overseas Territories Speakers’ Conference, focusing on keeping legislatures resilient amid political and technological change. Island Development: Government launched CDB’s Basic Needs Trust Fund 11 with EC$8.1 million for poverty reduction and essential services, including support for community facilities. Earthquake Update: A magnitude 4.3 quake was recorded late Tuesday evening with no reports of damage or injuries.