New constitution for Montserrat takes effect on September 1

Montserrat’s Chief Minister Reuben Meade says the country's new constitution will become effective on September 1 this year.



Meade says the constitutional reform has now been completed after more than five years of discussion. He says his administration has successfully negotiated with Britain for the Montserrat Constitution Order.



According to the Chief Minister, his government recognises that many persons would have liked to see more radical changes. However, he says the constitution improves upon the 1989 Constitutional Order and there is a mechanism for change where appropriate and justifiable.



He told legislators during the budget presentation that the new Constitution Order contains significant advances recommended by citizens. Chief minister Reid says the new constitution also introduces a number of improvements to the island’s relationship with the United Kingdom.