Caledonian youth movement disbanded

The Union of Caledonian Youth (UJC) composed of European and Melanesian dissidents has announced its own dissolution. The youth move ment, closely watched by the administration and gendarmerie, saw 14 of its sympathisers gaoled late last year after a series of protests against the economic and political handling of the territory.

In a press statement in March, the UJC noted that it had failed to rally the support of the Caledonian population and politicians. Reviewing the present economic conditions of unemployment, inflation, Caledonians’ loss of jobs to outsiders and alleged exploitation of the island, they concluded that the Caledonian masses enjoy inferior status and submission and should not be disturbed in their ways.

As for the territory s elected representatives, the UJC accused them of neglect of duty and general inertia. But they asked why should politicians want to take on the responsibility of detailed studies into local affairs, organising meetings and risking prison when they are already paid $ A 1,000 monthly for their part time “work” in the Territorial Assembly?

A*,, so : s * nce everyone is happy, there is nothing to change, the Union of Caledonian Youth declares itself disbanded.