III.

Population and Government

Montserrat’s population was estimated in 1994 to be about 10,581, of whom about 3,500 (1991 estimate) lived in the capital, Plymouth. However, as a result of the eruption of the Soufriere Hills Volcano from mid-1995 onwards, the population of Plymouth and other settlements in the south of the island—some 6,000 people in total—had to be evacuated to the north, causing considerable overcrowding. By mid-1997 it was estimated that more than 4,000 Montserratians had left the island, at least temporarily. Outmigration generally has kept the population relatively stable in recent decades. However, together with the island’s large community of retired expatriates (mainly North Americans), outmigration has also contributed to the ageing of Montserrat’s population.

The majority of the population is black, the descendants of African slaves. The official language is English, with a local dialect in everyday use. Most people belong to Protestant denominations, notably Anglican, Methodist, Seventh-Day Adventist, and Pentecostalist. However, there is also a strong Roman Catholic tradition reflecting the island’s settlement in the early colonial period by Irish Catholic exiles. The culture is a blend of Irish and African traditions; the Irish influence is seen in aspects of the island’s cuisine, in the names of places and people, and in the annual celebrations for St Patrick’s Day.

Under the 1960 constitution Montserrat has a limited form of self-government. A governor, appointed by the British monarch, is responsible for defence, external affairs, and internal security. The governor is also head of the seven-member Executive Council. The 12-member, partly elected Legislative Council sits for five-year terms.