In his annual Christmas message to the nation, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of the Commonwealth of Dominica reflected on the country’s significant achievements throughout 2025 while outlining an optimistic vision for the upcoming year. Addressing citizens both domestically and abroad, the Prime Minister emphasized the season’s core values of compassion, humility, and service to others as fundamental to the national character.
Prime Minister Skerrit characterized 2025 as a period of determined effort and meaningful progress despite global economic uncertainties, climate challenges, and geopolitical instability. The government’s implementation of a revised minimum wage policy stood as a landmark achievement, designed to protect working families and restore dignity to labor. Additionally, the removal of Value Added Tax and customs duties on essential food items provided substantial cost-of-living relief for households across the island nation.
The administration continued its comprehensive investment strategy across critical sectors including housing, healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. These initiatives form part of a broader vision to build a resilient and opportunity-rich society. Significant advancements in the International Airport Project marked another milestone, with the transformative infrastructure development expected to enhance tourism, trade, and global connectivity while creating employment opportunities for hundreds of citizens.
Environmental sustainability remained a key consideration in national development plans, with the government affirming its commitment to balancing economic progress with ecological preservation. The Prime Minister specifically acknowledged the contributions of various sectors including agriculture, fishing, public service, healthcare, education, law enforcement, and private enterprise, recognizing them as the nation’s backbone.
Special attention was directed toward the Dominican diaspora, whose continued support and investment were described as invaluable to national development. The government reaffirmed its dedication to creating opportunities for youth through education, skills training, entrepreneurship programs, and meaningful employment initiatives.
Looking ahead to 2026, the administration promised continued investments, further reforms, and enhanced focus on improving quality of life for all citizens. While acknowledging inevitable challenges, the Prime Minister expressed confidence in the nation’s collective resilience and shared destiny. The message concluded with seasonal greetings and blessings for health, hope, and prosperity in the coming year.