Montserrat Blue Belt: Montserrat has officially joined the UK’s Blue Belt marine conservation programme, committing to protect at least 20% of its maritime zone and gaining access to scientific expertise to set up Marine Protected Areas, modernise marine legislation, and strengthen fisheries management. Public Service Hiring: An international summit of British Overseas Territories highlighted recruitment struggles for civil service roles, with Montserrat among the territories discussing how migration, ageing populations, and private-sector competition are making staffing harder. Pension Reform: Montserrat Government has started a major pension reform process led by the Office of the Deputy Governor, aiming for a more modern, transparent, sustainable system and moving toward a defined contribution model, supported by a 17-member committee and TELUS Health. Hurricane Preparedness: A new explainer urges households to plan for hurricane season risks, stressing that even if forecasts are calmer, one storm can be enough—especially where phones and power depend on charging. Volcano Update: Scientists say the Soufrière Hills Volcano remains active and in unrest despite no eruption since 2010, with monitoring showing ground inflation, gas emissions, and seismic activity. Local Business Finance: After fully deploying an EC$2m MBPF soft loan allocation, Montserrat is seeking additional funding to expand the programme, citing strong uptake and no defaults so far. Global Payments for Entrepreneurs: Sendana’s borderless banking platform is gaining traction across the Caribbean by helping freelancers and entrepreneurs receive international payments via a virtual US dollar account.