Bulletin of the Former ITU Staff Association

August 2012Bulletin No 30

T he Secretary-General’s editorial

in the January/February issue of ITU News reminds us that the year 2012 will once again set the stage for important ITU conferences and the preparation of scheduled future events, thus demonstrating the organization’s forceful vitality and the constant changes occurring in the world of telecommunications and its actors. ITU’s basic mission is to ensure continuity within a constantly evolving sector and to provide its global focal point.

This year’s conferences include the following.

Two conferences have already taken place in Geneva with satisfactory results (see also in the same issue of ITU News the article by the Director of the Radiocommunication Bureau). The Radiocommunication

Assembly (Geneva, 16-20 January), among other important decisions, reorganized BR’s activities into six study groups (instead of the former eight), namely: Spectrum Management (SG 1), Radiowave Propagation (SG 2), Satellite Services (SG 4), Terrestrial services (SG 5), Broadcasting Service (SG 6) and Science Services (SG 7). These study groups, which have several Vice-Chairmen, continue the work of the sector’s advisory group.

The World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-12, Geneva, 23 January- 17 February), which was attended by over 3,500 delegates, focused on matters relating to the regulation of aviation and maritime safety and decided on the possible use of the digital dividend. Environmental issues and the principle of

equitable access for satellite systems also aroused much interest.

The sector is continuing its activities and its six study groups have already begun preparations for WRC-15.

Plans have been made to hold various summits dedicated to connecting the world. The Arab Summit has already taken place (Doha, 5-7 March) and the finishing touches are being added to the Connect Americas Summit, which is to be held from 17 to 19 July in Panama City.

Dubai will be staging the World Telecommunication Assembly (20-29 November) and the World Conference on International Telecommunications (WCIT-12, 3-14 December). It may be remembered – and some of us were there at the time – that the

Summary

1 Editorial

2 Minutes of the General Assembly

6 Complementary Insurance

7 Malte 2011

13 Lully-Soral 2011

19 Autumn Luncheon 2011

21 Spring Luncheon 2012

23 ICT Discovery

23 Our Website

23 They have passed away

24 Committee of the Association

EDITORIAL

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mobile services, the digitization of networks and services and increased competition in the private sector.

In conclusion, we should like to wish ITU’s managers and all our working colleagues (who will one day be joining our ranks) every

success with these conferences so as to ensure that the Union may continue to play a leading role in world telecommunications.

Fabio Bigi

last Regulations date back to the Melbourne Conference in 1988, and it is easy to imagine how our sectors have changed since then, in particular with regard to the growth in the number of stakeholders involved and the part played by governments, due to such factors as the explosion of

Minutes of the General Assembly of the Former ITU Staff Association

outings: Messrs. Bernard Bourloud, Jean-Marie Estero and Willy Justrich, as well as Mr Jean-Pierre Berthet for his computer help and the creation of the Committee’s Website.

Mr Zhao, Vice Secretary-General, who was invited to the meeting to address a few words to the Assembly, had to excuse himself as he had been called away on mission.

Mr Bigi then requested a minute’s silence in memory of those colleagues who had left us

2. Appointment of the Meeting Chairman

Mr Bigi proposed that Mr Pierre-André Traub chairs the meeting. His proposal was approved by acclamation.

Mr Traub thanked the participants for electing him as Chairman of the Meeting. He asserted that he had made note of the work accomplished by the Committee members; he thanked them and invited them to help him with his task. He regretted that Mr Zhao had been unable to attend the meeting;

12 May 2012

The meeting opened at 2 p.m.

1. Adoption of the Agenda

Mr Fabio Bigi requested that the Agenda be adopted – it was so approved.

Then he welcomed the participants, introducing the Committee members and describing their individual role in the Committee:

Mr Fabio Bigi, Chairman

Mr Eddy Augsburger, Vice-Chairman

Ms Paulette Clerc, Treasurer

Ms Liliane de Michely-Jeanmonod, Secretary

He thanked them as well as the other Committee members: Mr Georges Araman, Mr Jacques Bacaly, Mr Pierre Johner, Ms Lydia Scolari.

Mr Fabio Bigi also thanked all the persons who had offered their support in organizing the trips and

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he said the participation of senior officials was favorable to the 400-odd members of the Former Civil Servants Association. He also thanked the Secretary-General for his support.

3. Appointment of the Rapporteur

Ms Sibyl de Peic was appointed Rapporteur to the Meeting. Approved by acclamation.

4. Report of the Committee

Pension Fund

In the absence of Mr Jacques Bacaly, Mr Michel Rolland stated that the 0.5% withheld on the adjustment to pensions would not be immediately lifted. In addition, studies were under way with a view to extending retirement age to offset the actuarial deficit.

Owing to negative inflation in Switzerland, there had been no adjustment to pensions. However, there had been such an adjustment in France.

Health Insurance Fund

In 2011, the UN General Assembly requested a report on the various health insurance funds of the common system. They will be presented in 2012.

We were told that the ILO had begun a study with a view to evaluating the benefits paid out by the organizations, as also for certain classes of officials (in active service or retired).

According to that study, ITU benefits exceeded those of ILO on a percentage basis, taking into account that ILO officials were more widespread around the world (particularly in countries where medical expenses were less costly).

Nevertheless, it appeared that the situation of the Fund was good.

Mr P.A. Traub wished that, in the absence of Jacques Bacaly, Mr Michel Rolland would keep the Committee informed of developments in that area.

The Complementary Fund

Mr E. Augsburger said there had been two joint discussions and one special meeting. This year there had been on average a 4% increase in contributions, which seemed normal considering there had been no increase in the previous years. Nevertheless, persons with a low release threshold would have to enquire of Mr Orcel as to the amount of their contributions.

For 2009 the Fund showed a positive balance of CHF 4,701. For 2012 the balance was CHF 15,531, but the accounts had not been finalized. There was a positive balance of CHF 85,593 for 2011; however these were not yet final numbers; it was decided to pay CHF 38,000 into the stable Fund.

AAFI

Some members of the Committee also participate in monthly AAFI meetings that deal with issues relating to Pensions and the Health Insurance Fund. Its Chairman, Mr Roger Eggleston, having resigned and left Geneva, the new AAFI Chairman was Mr Roger Ferrari.

AAFIC brings together all former civil servants associations and will meet in Paris from 25-28 June.

Mr F. Bigi noted the presence of the Secretary-General, Dr Hamadoun Touré, and gave him the floor.

Statement by the Secretary-General

Dr Touré said he was very pleased to note the presence of former officials at different events, such as the end-of-year party and other gatherings. He noted the radiant expressions on the faces of the retirees and realized there was life after ITU; he said that each of us in turn would reach retirement. He reiterated his satisfaction with the management team that he had put together in ITU.

He expressed satisfaction also with the important meetings that took place in ITU, such as the WSIS forum, with the participation of 1,500 delegates from 140 countries, and the WRC held in January this year. Major events will take place in Geneva this year, such as the Administrative Council in July; it would be more relaxed this year, which was not a budget year. Last year the Council approved the ITU Budget.

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ITU is in good health. Staff movements have rased tensions; the prevailing atmosphere among elected officials is good, all are working towards the same goal. Dr Touré was proud to note the central role played by ITU in the technological world.

Dr Touré ended his speech with these words: “I thank you once again for allowing me the opportunity to meet you and to address this meeting. If you ever happen to be in ITU, do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you again.”

Mr Fabio Bigi thanked Dr Touré profusely and said he was counting on him to ensure our pensions and our future.

Mr Pierre-André Traub also thanked the Secretary-General for his words and his support for the retirees.

Leisure Activities

Mr Bernard Bourloud mentioned the five-day trip to Appenzell, attended by some 20 participants; all went well. Fine weather presided over the rail trip and the aerial railway ride to reach the mountains. It was the only long trip for 2011. Mr Bourloud recognized that he was no longer very motivated, for personal reasons, he said; he would make only one trip in 2012, probably in September; there may be a second trip.

Mr Jean-Marie Estero, in collaboration with Willi Justrich and Cécile Estero, organized the outings of the “Fun Ramblers” Club. These were many, with many participants and to everyone’s satisfaction. He thanked all who had participated in these outings and presented a gift to the most assiduous among them: Messrs. Frédéric Zanelli and Jacques Letondeur.

Jean-Marie Estero also thanked Will Justrich for his support throughout the year, as well as Jean-Pierre Berthet for the creation of the Website. He ended his speech with this slogan: “One day’s walk = ten days of good health”.

Mr Jean-Pierre Berthet then presented the Association’s Websites (htp://life.itu.int/retraites/) and the Fun Ramblers Websites (http://life.itu.int/rando/Accueil.html).

Mr Berthet was thanked for placing his professional expertise at the service of the retirees.

Mr Bigi stressed the importance of the Association’s Website and encouraged the members to consult

it. He hoped that, gradually, the retirees would consult the Bulletin online; he was keen to use it for communication as this will reduce the cost of regular mailings. On this topic, the Committee would carry out a survey to determine which members wished to receive information by e-mail.

Ms de Michely reminded members that distribution of information such as circular letters and others was faster, simpler and less costly by e-mail. She also invited members to update their personal information (postal and e-mail addresses). Much mail is returned to the Secretariat that cannot be redirected because HRMD is not allowed to provide retirees' contact details without their permission.

Association Secretariat

Ms de Michely stated that secretarial work was becoming something of a burden for a person of her age. She asked for volunteers and thanked them in advance.

Mr Bigi called mainly upon recent retirees to take over a number of the jobs held by Committee members who are keen to end their activities. He believes there is a need for new blood.

Mr Traub thanked him and hoped the call would be heard. He also thanked Ms Paulette Clerc for her professionalism as Treasurer of the Association.

The latter in turn expressed her thanks and stated that she was pleased to be the Treasurer. She introduced the financial situation. Firstly, the two accounts with the Banque Cantonale de Genève had been closed and new accounts opened with La Poste, for convenience and to facilitate payments by members.

The Association’s financial situation is good. A contribution had been received from the Staff Council; this helped fund outings, trips and other activities. Expenses had been reasonable, especially on account of the favourable exchange rate. Starting next year, the Administration would be charging for all expenses incurred by the Association. Nevertheless, a subsidy would continue to be paid.

Mr Dahlen explained the new provisions that would need to be put in place, both with regard to logistic support and for the payment of subsidies.

Mr Traub thanked Mr Dahlen for his statement and Ms Clerc for the work she had accomplished. He

August 2012 Page 5

was pleased to be able to count on them and to have ITU’s support.

5. Auditors' Report (Verification and Approval)

Messrs Willi Justrich and Paul Kalezic, the Auditors, stated they had examined and approved the accounts on 24 April 2012. They noted the precision of Ms Clerc’s work, which had greatly facilitated their job. Therefore, they recommended that the Meeting approve the accounts. The accounts were approved unanimously.

6. Appointment of Auditors

Mr Traub proposed that the auditors’ mandate be renewed.

Mr Kalezic thanked Mr Johner for his help during the auditing; he also thanked Ms Clerc for her excellent work. However, having seen persons in the room younger than himself, he said he would like to be replaced; it was not a difficult job, he added, but one that required precision.

Mr Justrich accepted to continue as auditor and Mr Carlos Sanchez offered to take over from Mr Kalezic. He was acclaimed by the Meeting, as also were the two outgoing auditors.

7. Programme of activities for the next exercise

Mr Bigi reminded the Meeting of the spring luncheon on June 5. He assured the meeting that there would certainly be an autumn luncheon. The luncheons continue to enjoy a great success.

Mr Bourloud said a trip to the Emmental was foreseen, most probably in the autumn. There would be a trip to the Kambly biscuit factory, one of the finest in Switzerland.

Mr Estero said he had drawn up a list of possible outings, each depending on the seasons of the year.

Mr Traub thanked our two colleagues for their devotion and for the good times they allowed us to enjoy.

8. Other Business

Mr Traub thanked Ms Marianne Wilson and Mr Eric Dahlen for the speed and attention with which they dealt with issues regarding Health Insurance Fund invoices.

Mr Labory enquired if it might be possible, through the PC Club, to update software that retirees were no longer permitted to use.

Mr Dahlen replied that these programmes were accessible during the staff members’ active service; however, it may be possible to use them via the PC Club under individual or collective licences.

Mr Labory said there was a list of retirees, names and addresses. He believed information should be e-mailed to those who had such an address, and sent by regular mail to those who did not have one; this was to reduce costs.

Mr Bigi said the Committee was looking into the matter and that the issue should be addressed shortly, in order to reduce mailing costs. The Bulletin is online. He also noted that many people omit to notify the Association of changes in their personal contact information.

Mr Labory enquired about the Inter-Organisation Games; he wanted to know whom to contact in ITU and what were the dates of the Games.

Mr Dahlen said the Staff Council and Mr Leroy Brown were the persons to contact, as well as Mr Ravindra Chopra retirees. He also mentioned that ITU contributed to the funding of the games.

Mr Estero proposed to include information on the games on the Association’s Website.

Mr Kalezic congratulated the Committee for having opened the postal account; that decision was taken in 2009.

Mr Augsburger recalled that a seminar on preparing for retirement was organized every year by the ITU Administration; for an hour, retirees could express their opinions. It would be desirable to replace the volunteers each year in order to gain from their experience. Volunteers were sought for the next session. He thanked those who had made presentations at the previous seminar; these included

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Ms Magdalena Boon, Mr Marcel Coopoosamy and Mr Alfredo Descalzi.

Mr Traub thanked Mr Augsburger for having participated in the seminar for many years; he was looking forward to enjoying the experience again with future retirees.

Mr Bigi announced the inauguration on 15 May, at ITU, of the ICT DISCOVERY Museum. He called on retired ITU engineers to help with specialized guided tours. He would submit that proposal to the Committee and would ask for a list of volunteers.

Mr Dahlen pointed out that such visits were organized ahead of time and that the groups would be under the guidance of interns or retirees.

Mr Traub encouraged the retirees to visit the museum.

Mr Bigi reminded participants that refreshments would be served after the meeting and that the wine had been donated by Messrs. Traub and Augsburger. He also thanked Ms Clerc and Ms De Michely with a gift of some flowers.

He thanked all the participants and accepted to chair the next year's meeting.

Ms de Michely reminded the meeting that there was a FICSA guide at the entrance with a discount card valid in a number of stores.

The meeting closed at 4 p.m.

Sibyl de Peic

This past year, that is from June 2011 to May 2012, your representatives attended two consultative meetings and one special meeting with the administrators of the Complementary Insurance Fund. Members of the ITU Staff Union have always played an active part in these meetings, which deal not only with questions concerning health but also different types of insurance cover, of interest especially to ITU staff still in service.

As regards complementary health cover, the fine point marking this period is certainly the increase of 4% in premiums as from 1 January 2012. This increase, which had been announced well in advance, is fully justified when taking into account the constant increase in treatment costs, as well as hospital and medical expenditure.

Financial results over the last three years clearly show the necessity to increase premiuMs The year

2009 showed a slight profit as did the years 2010 and 2011. While sound financial management and maintenance of the guarantee fund ensured modest contributions, it was inevitable that these needed to be increased.

Understandably, it is too soon to measure the effect of such changes but one can certainly hope that for the year 2012 and thereafter the financial situation will improve. Mr. Orsel and the MSPINT team have been on constant watch to ensure optimal management of affairs and are committed to the long-term and harmonious development of the Complementary Insurance. The retired members affiliated to the Complementary Insurance Fund have every reason to be satisfied.

Eddy Augsburger

Complementary Insurance

August 2012 Page 7

Malte 2011From 10 to 17 September 2011

In area, Malte is the smallest State in the European Union but owing to its historical reach and influence, exercised for centuries over Western civilization, it may be ranked without hesitation among countries that have made their mark on this continent.

You will have guessed we are referring to Malte, the beautiful island where the eastern and western Mediterranean meet; it was chosen by our friend Jean-Marie Estero, moderator of our “Fun Ramblers” group, for a memorable trip intended for members of the Association. Considering that ITU is chock full of staff members of different nationalities, we found among those still in service Ms Adrienne Bonnici, a native of Malte, who belongs also to the Art Club. She offered to collaborate with Jean-Marie to organize the trip. With regard to assessing and researching the project, which

involves a lot of work, Adrienne was associated with its development; her advice was of great help. On site, her knowledge of the country and the local language were also much appreciated.

And so it was that a friendly group of 30 people flew Air Malte from Geneva on 10 September 2011. All the travelers happily reached their destination, their every sense alert to collect the maximum impressions from this initial contact. Seen from the coach that drove us to the hotel we noticed very quickly how many of the older homes featured a mashrabiya, that small adjunct to the building façade which allows the occupants to see out without being seen. This detail was a reminder that Arab peoples came through here at one time. Over there was a red telephone box, serving also as a reminder of a former British influence. Night was falling as we reached Sliema (a township facing Valletta), where our hotel was located. The next day, Sunday, would be the start of a series of most interesting discoveries.

The new day shone bright and warm; we boarded a boat specially designed for short harbour trips such as a cruising around the port of Valletta. Malte’s

Our colleague,Adrienne Bonnici

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history is ever present with its many fortifications built up around the island. The impressive walls are the remains of palaces and hospitals. It must be remembered that from 1530 to 1798 Malte was the undisputed home to the order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem; it was initially a hospital order and then a military one.

But the port of Valletta is ambitiously modern today; it is adapted to the traffic of merchant ships, tankers, as well as cruise ships, private yachts and sailing ships.

Reluctantly, we left the harbour with dreams of high seas adventure; the sea breezes had made us a little peckish so we satisfied our hunger on one of the open-air terraces that border the bay.

That evening participants were ferried by coach to the village of Mellieha, north of the island, where a village fair was in full swing. The coloured lights around the main church building were particularly admired. The local population and visitors pressed forward to admire groups of dancers and to applaud young singers … but also to find seating around a table on the terrace of one of the few restaurants on the square.

On Monday 12 September, it was early reveille – and for good reason; at 8.15 a.m., already, we were to set off to visit the island of Gozo. Malte is an archipelago consisting of eight islands, only four of which are inhabited permanently. In surface area, Gozo is the second largest of them (67 km2 / 41 mi2) whereas Malte, the largest island measures 316 km2 (196 mi2) We covered a lot of ground by coach, to embark at the northernmost point, in Marfa.

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How small our little group seemed next to the hordes of tourists pushing forward to board the ferry; it felt as though we were lost! The crossing to Gozo took 25 minutes, just enough time to have a coffee and enjoy the sweet treats at the doughnut counter. The island has the same type of vegetation as does Malte, with beautiful palm trees on village squares, prickly pear trees along roadways and all around, vegetable or fruit trees that need constant care owing to the dry climate and scarcity of water.

The first visit was to the temples of Ggantija; they consist of large blocks of rough-hewn stone piled one on top of the other to form walls at a respectable height; one needs to consider the rudimentary means available to ancient peoples. Over there, people were worshipping the goddess of fertility; her munificence was being rewarded with sacrifices of livestock or the fruits of the Earth. Considering the state of the premises, much imagination was needed to portray what life could have been like in those ancient times; after all, that occurred from 3,000 to 4,000 years B.C.

The weather was sultry. It was almost noon when we reached Victoria, Gozo’s main town; it was market day. First of all, we needed refreshments; a few shady terraces helped sate what had seemed to us to be an unquenchable thirst. The market stalls also drained away some of our colleagues; it was only the fear of “missing the boat” (i.e. the coach) that convinced all of them to abandon their search for that elusive blouse, skirt, scarf, necklace and so many other wonderful things … and they were inexpensive too, even in euros!

The coach drove us to lunch but not without first a side-trip to admire the “Azure Window”, a tall open arch in a rocky promontory that projects out over the sea; it is a whim of Nature’s own architect, a witness to a definite geological upheaval but also to the eroding effect of water. By taking a few steps back, the view from that “window” is impressive and grandiose.

After a steep descent we reached Xlendi, a small seaside resort protectively surrounded by the hills; there are a few hotels, an equal number of restaurants but many people too; seating is at a premium but finally the group got a table and it was an opportunity for us to order one of those delicious freshly-caught fish. Considering the hot weather, a few of our colleagues preferred to have a welcome dip in the sea.

The return to the main island offered interesting views of the countryside and its cultivated lands, its small coves rimmed with fine sand, that are very popular with bathers; and, at every bend in the coastal road, there was the view over the deep blue sea.

On Tuesday 13 September, the weather was still fine and very hot; we were to visit Valletta, the island nation’s historical and administrative centre. The city was built on a peninsula, slightly overlooking several surrounding cities. We began with a walk through a beautiful garden, thoughtfully located on the terrace of a fortification that offers an uninterrupted view of Sliema, the town that was to be our home during our stay in Malte. It was an opportunity for us to take some group photos, that all turned out well. There followed a series

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of palaces, churches and prestigious buildings all erected to suit the activities of the Knights and also to ensure their comfort and pleasure.

We greatly admired St. John’s Cathedral, the conventual Church of that order; on entering one is dazzled by the riches that emanate from the whole; the gilded décor covers not only the central vault but also all the arches and pillars; the flooring consists of approximately 400 multicolored tombstones. This is the resting place of many of the Grand Masters of the order that governed Malte and many Knights and nobles of the time. The remarkable paintings of the arch and the magnificent sanctuary add to the richness of the location. In the oratory there are many works of art, Flemish tapestries and, in particular, Caravaggio’s masterpiece: the beheading of St. John the Baptist. That painting and the Cathedral itself certainly left a lasting impression on all the members of our group.

We went on to visit the Palace of the Grand Master; this official residence was home to the Grand Master; it comprises also many large, beautifully decorated rooms (tapestries, paintings, sculptures, armour and weaponry of the time) for the conduct of official ceremonies. Fifty-three Grand Masters succeeded each other in leading the order during the 268 years when Knights ruled over Malte. Currently, the Palace houses the Office of the President of the Republic.

Of course, Valletta boasts a large number of churches, museums, palaces as well as a wealth of interesting sites; unfortunately, in the time at our disposal, we were not able to visit any others. The city is very lively; long avenues are bisected at right angles by streets which, for most part, lead to the sea; it is easy to find

one’s way; those looking for good deals were able to scatter into the many stores (shopping for clothes, souvenirs, jewellery, etc.). Valletta also boasts some excellent restaurants, some of which offer magnificent views of the city, the harbour, the sea. The fine weather and the heat stayed with us throughout the entire, pleasant day.

Wednesday 14 September, already! Time was flying too quickly on this island that is blessed by the gods and where the sun greeted us every morning, inviting us to step out. It should be pointed out that our hotel, the “Bayview”, was ideally situated right on the seafront and provided a magnificent view of the marina and an ideal location for walks on the quayside. Everything was at hand to quench one’s thirst or sate a need for food or even to enjoy some before-dinner-drinks. A small group of the participants had discovered a great “watering hole” that served “two-for-one” drinks during “happy hour”.

August 2012 Page 11

Needless to say the ladies would go back there every night to have a “wee nip”.

That day, Wednesday, the coach drove us to the centre of the island and, because the main built-up area stretches out and nibbles away at the surrounding land area, we reached Mosta without appearing to have left the city. The great attraction of this locality is certainly the beautiful parish church; on the outside the architecture resembles that of Rome’s Pantheon, primarily because of its circular shape and its dome; the interior is spacious and light; there are several richly decorated altars as well as the statue of the Virgin Mary all bedecked with gold.

This church is famous because of an incident which occurred during the second world war, on 9 April 1942. That day, several bombs fell around the rotunda and one of them pierced the dome, sliding down the main aisle towards the centre of the Church, without exploding. About 300 people were attending a service at the time and no one was hurt; everybody in Mosta saw this as a clear sign of divine protection. An exact replica of the bomb that pierced the dome may be seen in the vestry.

En route to Mdina, the ancient capital of Malte, we stopped in the village of Ta Qali, known for its artisans who work with blown glass, turning out many objects such as vases, pots, plates, tables and even glass animals; it was all quite colourful and yet in good taste. That day, there was quite a boom on purchases.

The city of Mdina is located on a hill so it can be seen from afar from many parts of the island; the impressive

fortifications surrounding the city attracted our attention on arrival, as did also the majestic doors, the facades of the Palace, the beautiful church of St. Paul; everything around us spoke to the greatness of what was once a capital. The hike on foot was a pleasure for our photographers and led us to the “Domus Romana”; parts of this Roman dwelling are very well maintained and particularly the Court of the Colonnade of which the mosaic floor is testament to the high rank of the owners.

The island of Malte is of great importance for Christianity, since the biblical account relates how St. Paul stayed there for three months on his way to Rome in the year 60 B.C. The apostle and his travel companions were shipwrecked and cast aground on one of Malte’s bays where the island people gave them shelter. As a result, and thereafter, many buildings, churches, statues and catacombs were built in honour and in memory of that remarkable saint.

In Roman times, many catacombs were constructed in Rabat, the suburb of Mdina. Burying the dead within the city walls was prohibited, which explains the existence of these catacombs. We visited the one that took the name of St. Paul; it was carved out of the rock face and is accessed down a long staircase. Each family had its own tomb and narrow passages along the graves lead to different rooms in this vast burial place. The funeral ceremonies took place in the dim light of oil lamps. Following the burial of the dead, a feast table was set; such funeral celebrations ended with what is described as the “funeral feast”.

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It was without regrets that we left those baneful premises and headed for a restaurant. Our friendly driver took a wrong turning and then proceeded to demonstrate his chauffeuring skills by driving the coach a considerable distance in reverse; we then reached our destination without further let or hindrance. This was on a cliff overlooking a wide strip of cultivated land as well as the beach. The view was breathtaking, though it did not spoil our appetite; we were welcomed to the “Bobbiland” restaurant. This establishment has a history; it was first a rudimentary shack until it became – in the 40s – a refectory for the technicians of RAF’s Signal to Air operations during WW2, then later a comfortable restaurant for tourists like us. We enjoyed a pleasant meal there as well as some of the local wine. Before leaving the place, we had another look at the exceptional view that lay before us.

It would have been a pity, surrounded as we were by the sea, to not devote one day to relaxation and to enjoying the beautiful beach at Ghadira Mellieha Bay. On Thursday 15 September, the day was marked by many pleasant swiMs

It was now Friday 16 September, the last full day during which to enjoy the mild Maltese climate. First we took the beautiful highway that crosses the country from north to south, passing near the airport and then following roads that would lead us to visit the south of the island. In this area, the coastline is quite rugged and often the road follows the edge of the cliffs, offering exceptional views of the sea that sparkled in the sunlight.

We stopped to admire the well-known Blue Grotto, one of Nature’s wonders. A brief halt enabled us to

quench our thirst … as well as switch coaches. Indeed, it seems that ours was on the verge of breaking down, though we never noticed a thing! Let’s open a bracket here to say that the coach service was perfect from the first day to the last; at the appointed time, we found the coach stationed in front of the hotel and we were greeted by the friendly chauffeur who drove us carefully on all the island roads.

Since remote times many peoples have come to Malte and left traces of their existence; several sites in different parts of the island show the remains of what had been temples where ceremonies were carried out in honour of various gods and goddesses. We visited Hagar Qim, an impressive temple from the onset with its huge blocks of hewn stone forming its perimeter; once again one has to wonder at the ingenuity of those primitive peoples who, with rudimentary means, erected such great works. Inside this vast temple there are rooms accessed through holes carved out of the rock. This temple, it seems, was devoted to the goddess of fertility. A protective roof tent over the entire site was built recently to prevent further damage to this symbol of a very distant past.

It was almost noon when we got to Marsalokk, a large fishing village; before choosing our meal in one of the many restaurants where fish is king, the group stopped to browse the stalls of a small market offering various Maltese products as well as clothing, embroidery, chinaware and even spices.

Later no-one had any difficulty finding something to eat; pleased with the nice trip south, we got back on the coach. It was back to the hotel in the afternoon,

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when we spent time packing; unfortunately, we were leaving next day. After this chore was over, an evening surprise awaited us; it took place in a festive

atmosphere in one of Mosta’s large restaurants. Music, folk dances, dances in which many of the participants joined in, and a delicious meal brought to a happy end our stay in Malte.

Many thanks to our friends Jean-Marie and Adrienne for their well-structured and equally well-organized programme which allowed us to discover a host of things in a very short time. The trip took place without incident and in good spirits. Happy and filled with memories and lasting impressions, we set foot back in Geneva on Saturday 17 September 2011.

Eddy Augsburger

Lully, by Soral

17 novembre 2011

When the last outing of 2011 was proposed, we said:

Fellow pleasure-ramblers, after well-deserved vacations, we are offering you a final walking tour, for the 2011 season, through Geneva’s vineyards.

Our 10th stroll will take us to the Lully area (Switzerland), Norcier (France), Soral (Switzerland) and Sézenove (Switzerland), all lovely villages located

in the middle of the wine-growing and market-gardening areas of the canton of Geneva.

Join us for a great time in an atmosphere of fun and friendship. Think about your health; come in numbers.

It was not surprising, therefore, that 22 participants turned up at the appointed time of 08h45 in front of Cornavin train station in Geneva. There might even

PS: To appreciate the photos of participants, visit the brilliant Rando Plaisir Website: http://life.itu.int/rando/Accueil.html Photos, Albums 2011, 09 10-17.09.2011 Malte, séjour sur l’île.

Page 14 Bulletin of the Association

have been more of us if that Thursday 17 November had not unfortunately coincided with a meeting of the Committee of the Former ITU Officials Association. Some members of the Committee were therefore obliged to pay the price of their devotion to duty rather than give in to the urge to take a stroll through the Franco-Genevese countryside. Their sacrifice was even more laudable considering the resplendent autumn sunshine we were having following several days of thick fog.

We left the city centre by bus towards the charming village of Lully, which was to be the starting point of our stroll. Alighting from the bus, we were invited to get our strength back by partaking of coffee and croissants in the charming local bakery. Energized by this welcome snack, we were ready to start our

pleasure stroll which, according to Jean-Marie Estero (newly returned from Spain with Cécile) had been prepared entirely by Willi Justrich. We took note that, once again, the team of Jean-Marie and Willi work together in perfect harmony, to the delight of us all.

The photos illustrating this report show the participants’ happy faces. There was much chatter along the way, especially on the flat. On the uphill portions, however, silence returned as the participants caught their breath so as to continue their chattering on the downhill stretches. We nattered about this and that, discovering every time some previously unknown facets about colleagues whom we may have known already for decades. Our pleasant strolls in the countryside tend to bring out our deep-rooted individual human nature. So there is something new to

August 2012 Page 15

discover every time. After much chattering for a couple of hours, and not noticing we had crossed over into French territory (when we passed through the village of Norcier), we reached Soral. Below the covered village fountain, we met Cécile, steadfastly waiting to serve up a delicious aperitif with varied drinks and sweet titbits.

It was then time for lunch in a friendly country restaurant (the Ecu) where we were welcomed eagerly. After a lively repast where joy, good humour and laughter all mingled, each participant received from Cécile a gift of some home-made jam as well as a candle.

Then it came time to publicly express warm thanks to our two organizers, Willi and Jean-Marie, as well as Cécile, for their dedication and for the enthusiasm they have shown in concocting, down to the smallest detail, each of these country strolls.

Participants then warmly acclaimed their hosts and loudly sounded their desire to continue to avail themselves of the latters’ expertise in 2012.

As it was time for the return trip, we left the charming village of Soral to reach equally charming Sézenove where Willi mentioned a surprise. Indeed, owing to his connections in the art world, he was able to get us into the "Ancre Bleue" (Blue Anchor) art gallery, deep in the countryside, where Eric ALIBERT exhibits his watercolours (original works), from his book entitled “Voyage d’un peintre autour du Mont-Blanc” (“The Journey of an Artist around Mont-Blanc”).

So thank you, Willi, for combining Pleasure Rambling with Art.

Pierre André Traub

Page 16 Bulletin of the Association

2011

August 2012 Page 17

Notre groupe au complet

Page 18 Bulletin of the Association

Armoiries d’Appenzell Vue panoramique

August 2012 Page 19

Autumn luncheon(14 October 2011)

We had decided to change our venue for our traditional luncheons….. Hence, for our autumn luncheon, we made our way, by coach, to a very pleasant location: the restaurant “Les Cornettes” in Chapelle d’Abondance (Haute Savoie). Our departure from ITU under overcast skies gradually gave way, to our surprise, to bright sunlight as we reached our destination.

After a leisurely pause for refreshments on the sunny terrace, we proceeded to the restaurant and enjoyed to the full an agreeable meal in a very pleasant atmosphere.

As the bus wasn’t due to depart until 17h, we had time to visit either the museum next door to the restaurant or ramble in the woods and fields surrounding the hotel/restaurant.

We returned to ITU around 18h30, happy to have renewed acquaintance with old colleagues as well as

meeting the “younger retirees” who had joined us for the first time and to be able to pass such an agreeable day together.

Liliane de Michely

Page 20 Bulletin of the Association

August 2012 Page 21

Oeschinensee

Spring luncheon(5 June 2012)

Inspired by the success of our autumn luncheon outing in nearby France, we decided this time round to travel even further afield. This excursion took us in the direction of Combloux, near Megève, to the restaurant of the Hotel “Au Coeur des Prés”.

Our departure was unexpectedly delayed because the bus driver suffered a dizzy turn on arriving at ITU. We had to await the arrival of a fellow colleague to replace him … while he was brought to the hospital for a check-up. It all ended well as we later learnt he was able to return home quite soon. Needless to say, there was a fair amount of trembling in our seats at the thought of what could have happened had he fallen ill along the motorway.

Our replacement ‘lady’ driver – who calmly announced that this was her first time to drive a two-level coach – was perfectly competent and we were very happy to make her acquaintance. Again, it was our lucky day as we enjoyed magnificent sunshine, the Mont Blanc opposite so close that we felt we could practically touch it with our fingers, and where once again we savoured the restaurant’s culinary delights.

Then, it was home again, having enjoyed some very convivial moments and as always happy to renew the pleasure of meeting old acquaintances and to reminisce about the "olden" days.

Liliane de Michely

Page 22 Bulletin of the Association

August 2012 Page 23

Dans les rues de Lindau

ICT Discovery – ITU MuseumDiscover Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) by visiting the exhibition which opened to the public on 21 May 2012, on the second floor of the ITU Montbrillant building.

Visitors should book specific time slots. There will be four one-and-a-half hour slots per day: 10h00 / 11h30 / 14h00 / 15h30.

For further information: www.ictdiscovery.org or contact Josh Jiyoung CHOI Project Coordinator / ICT Discovery Corporate Strategy Division International Telecommunication Union Tel: +41 22 730 6170

Do you want to know the dates when the Former Staff 's office is manned, or get a copy of an article from an older Bulletin, or find out the year’s programme of trips,

outings and visits? Visit the Former ITU Staff Association Website

http://life.itu.int/retraites/

There you will find all manner of useful information. We hope you will visit the site on a regular basis and help to improve it by sending us your suggestions

(write to: retraites@itu.int). Thanks in advance.

They have passed away:

Ms Françoise BARBEZAT, on 20 November 2011

Mr Maurice BRODSKY, on 13 January 2012

Mr Richard C. KIRBY, on 26 January 2012

Mr Hervé POULIQUEN, on 19 February 2012

Ms Marie ZINOVIEFF, on 18 March 2012

Mr Richard (Dick) BUTLER, on 23 June 2012

Ms Rosa GANOSE, on 11 July 2012

Mr John Anthony WALKER, on 28 July 2012

Page 24 Bulletin of the Association

Comité de l’Association des anciens fonctionnaires de l’UITFormer ITU Staff Association Committee

Union internationale des télécommunications Place des Nations – Bureau V23 – CH-1211 Genève 20

CompositionPrésident d’honneur / Honorary Chairman: .......... Jean Balfroid Président / President: ................................................................................... Fabio Bigi Vice-Président / Vice-President: ................................................. Eddy Augsburger Secrétaire / Secretary: ................................................................................. Liliane de Michely-JeanmonodTrésorier / Treasurer: .................................................................................. Paulette ClercMembres / Members: ....................................................................................... Jacques Bacaly, Pierre Johner, Lydia Scolari

Répartition des tâches / Distribution of TasksLiaison avec l’Association des anciens fonctionnaires internationaux Genève (AAFI) / Contacts with the Association of Former Inter- national Civil Servants in Geneva (AFICS): ............. F. Bigi, J. Bacaly Questions de pensions / Pensions: ........................................... J. Balfroid, E.Augsburger Caisse-maladie / Health Insurance: ............................................. J. Bacaly, E. Augsburger Assurance complémentaire / Complementary Insurance: ....................................................................................................................... E. Augsburger, P. JohnerPréparation du Bulletin / Preparation of the Bulletin: L. de Michely-Jeanmonod, assistée des autres membres du Bureau ainsi que de/with the help of the other members of the Bureau as well as F. Sala, G. Araman, P.-A. Traub, P.Whiting, M. McMahon et / and Y. SaundersActivités récréatives / Leisure Activities: .................... B. Bourloud, L. de Michely-JeanmonodRandonnées / Hiking: ................................................................................... Jean-Marie Estero, Willy JustrichInformatique et site web / Computer issues and website: ................................................................................................................................. G. Araman, J.-P. Berthet

Pour nous contacter / To contact usTél. / Tel.: 022 730 5584 Courriel / E-mail: retraites@itu.int Site web / Website: http://life.itu.int/retraites Permanences / Office opening hours: 1er et 3e mardi du mois – Bureau V23 – bâtiment Varembé de 14 h à 16 h / 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month – Office V23 – Varembé-Building, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.Numéros utiles à l’UIT / Useful ITU numbersSecrétariat du Syndicat / Staff Union Secretariat: ................................................................................................................... 022 730 5799 / www.syndicat.itu.orgService Social / Social Service: ..................................................... 022 730 5380 / social.service@itu.intPensions/Pensions: ........................................................................................... 022 730 5381 / pension@itu.intAssurance-maladie / Health Insurance: ......................... E-mail: shif@itu.intNom / Surname: C – L Mme E. Valauskaite: ............ 022 730 5385 M – T Mme C. Ackley: ............................. 022 730 5684 U – B Mme C. Perrin: .............................. 022 730 5824 (uniquement entre 14 h 00 et 16 h 00 / between 2 and 4 p.m. only)

Assurance complémentaire / Complementary Insurance:Mutuelle Santé Prévoyance Internationale Adresse postale/Postal address: .................................................. MSPINT.ORG Case postale 5757 CH-1211 Genève 11 Tel.: +41 22 810 3939 Fax: +41 22 310 3434 E-mail: UNmanagement@mspint.org