Political Eruption In Montserrat Minister Resigns Over Protests On Handling Of Volcano Crisis

Montserrat’s chief minister resigned Thursday, forced out by protests over his handling of the island’s volcano crisis. He was replaced by a critic of British policy toward its endangered Caribbean colony.

Chief Minister Bertrand Osborne quit just hours after more than 200 people demonstrated outside his office, demanding he step down - the latest in days of anti-government demonstrations on the tense Caribbean island.

He was replaced by David Brandt, an independent member of Montserrat’s Parliament and a critic of Britain’s response to the upheaval caused by the restive Soufriere Hills volcano.

Brandt’s selection followed a Cabinet meeting and must be approved by the island’s British governor, Frank Savage. The governor was expected to make an announcement by this morning.

Britain has offered $3,840 to each adult to help them leave the island and its deadly volcano behind.

Montserrat’s government had proposed a larger relocation package during a visit to London earlier this month. Under their proposal, a family of four would receive $41,000 over 18 months, with $8,200 paid up front.

Residents complained that both offers were too low, saying neither would cover essential living expenses on other islands where the cost of living can be higher.

Osborne’s opposition to the package didn’t appease the crowd, which said he had been ineffective in representing islanders’ interests. “We the people want you out, Bertrand,” the demonstrators chanted as he spoke.

It wasn’t immediately known what impact, if any, the change in leadership would have on the relocation offer.

Protesters have demanded British citizenship, protection for property left behind, medical coverage, unemployment compensation and assistance for displaced children to attend school.

Tensions have increased since a partial evacuation Saturday of the island’s central region added to crowding in shelters to the north.

This week’s protests are unusual for Montserrat, an idyllic Caribbean island of tranquil villages and a former vacation home to hundreds of expatriates, including rock stars.