A shortage of pharmacists on the Island has forced the temporary closure of the Bermuda TB, Cancer and Health Association's pharmacy on Point Finger Road.

The pharmacy dispenses oral diabetic medication and insulin and unlike other pharmacies in Bermuda does not charge additional fees besides the cost of the medication.

The association is hoping the pharmacy will re-open later this summer.

“We're very sorry and as soon as we find another pharmacist we will re-open and put an advertisement in the newspaper,” manager Maureen Simmons said.

Digging into Bermuda Triangle mystery

Scientists are digging into the ocean bed this week hoping to shed some light on the mystery of the Bermuda Triangle.

Experts from Cardiff University have designed technology to isolate ancient high pressure bacteria from deep sediments in the ocean that are thought to contain most of the bacteria on earth - organisms which could actually provide answers to the mystery.

One theory suggests the covering of methane ice which exists over the seabed of the Bermuda Triangle becomes unstable creating instability in the sea and an explosive mixture of air and methane above, therefore causing ships or planes to sink or catch fire.

“Ancient, deep sediment bacteria may be a key to sustainable energy in the future and to explaining a few disasters,” Professor John Parkes told The Los Angeles Times this week. Professor Parkes is taking part in the project.

Experimental lobster trap

Government is allowing up to six fishermen to use an experimental lobster trap to harvest guinea chick lobsters.

The trap was approved by Marine Resources for testing and will be in use until December 31.

The traps can be set 90 feet below the surface and are marked with buoys and numbered identification tabs and the public is warned not to tamper with them.

For more information, contact the Marine Resources Division on 293-5600 or the Fisheries Extension Officer on 239-2319.

MPs to discuss pension contributions

MPs will debate a bill to increase both pension contributions and pay outs today.

Also set to be debated is the Bermuda College Amendment Act giving the board president and vice president three-year rather than one-year terms and staggering the appointment of new board members in order not to lose the entire board in one go.

In what should be a short session MPs will also debate a report on women in sport.

Marching Band Festival a ‘success'

Last month's Marching Band Festival 2005 has been hailed as an overwhelming success by Minister of Community Affairs and Sport Dale Butler.

Mr. Butler this week congratulated the festival's committee, including chairperson Dr. Melvyn Bassett, co-chair Pat-Dill-Chapman, Chrystal Bean and Yhoshi Production.

The festival, which took place at the National Sports Centre on May 21, was a first for the Island.

Highlights included performances by choirs and bands from Island school's, the Bermuda Regiment Band, Bermuda Island Pipe Band, Gombey Dancers and US universities.