HM Queen Elizabeth
Monday, July 13, 2015
This week the people of Montserrat and Montserratians in other parts of the world are pausing to reflect on the events of the last twenty years since the start of the eruption of the Soufriere Hills volcano on 18 July 1995.
I remember well hearing about the devastation that the volcano caused and its impact on the lives of everyone living in Montserrat. I recall from my visit to Montserrat in 1966 the beauty of the island and its capital, Plymouth, and was much saddened to hear of Plymouth’s destruction. In the years that followed I heard about the resilience of the community and the determination to re-build lives, properties and businesses in the safe part of the island. I know that this determination and resilience continue today.
As you mark this important date in Montserrat’s history, I hope you can look forward with optimism while marking the events of the past. I send my warmest good wishes to the people of Montserrat for a successful and peaceful future.
