Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica has officially announced the permanent appointments of 125 teachers in 2025, marking a significant step in addressing the nation’s educational staffing needs. During a recent press conference, Skerrit disclosed that while these appointments have been confirmed, numerous additional requests are still pending review by the public service commission. He emphasized the need for more efficient communication within the system, citing delays in notifying appointees as a critical issue. ‘It takes too long for a letter to reach the employee,’ Skerrit stated, recounting an instance where a decision made in April was only communicated months later. He stressed the importance of timely updates to ensure fairness and transparency. Beyond the 125 confirmed appointments, the Prime Minister hinted at more permanent positions being granted to teachers in the near future. Skerrit also expressed concern over public officers remaining in temporary or acting roles for extended periods, labeling such practices as ‘unfair’ and ‘borderline unjust.’ He highlighted the challenges posed by study leaves and secondments, noting that these often delay permanent appointments for others. The cabinet has since taken a firm stance on limiting secondments to ensure smoother staffing processes. Skerrit explained that while ending a secondment might be misinterpreted as personal conflict, it is often necessary to facilitate permanent appointments for those in acting roles. He concluded by affirming the government’s commitment to addressing these systemic issues to improve the overall efficiency of public service appointments.
分类： society
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Twelfth annual E.O. LeBlanc Memorial Lecture to explore traditional cultural livelihoods
The 12th Annual E.O. LeBlanc Memorial Lecture, a collaborative effort between the University of the West Indies (UWI) Global Campus Dominica and the Division of Culture, is set to take place on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The event will be hosted at the Alwin Bully Auditorium on the UWI campus, focusing on the livelihoods and cultural practices of communities across Dominica. This year’s lecture will feature a distinguished panel of experts who will explore various dimensions of community resilience and sustainability. Among the speakers, Mrs. Miranda Stephenson will present on ‘Toloma: Roots of Sustainability & Community Resilience,’ shedding light on traditional practices that enhance environmental and social stability. Mr. Derrick Theophille will delve into ‘Annou wivé bò lanmè-a: The Fishing Culture of Soufriere & Scottshead,’ examining the critical role of fishing communities in local economies. Mrs. Gweneth Frederick will discuss ‘Kalinago crafts: Weaving traditional practice and modern business innovations,’ showcasing how Indigenous crafts bridge cultural preservation and economic development. The discussion will be moderated by Mr. Micah Walter, Coordinator for Private Sector Relations, Industry, Commerce, and Innovation at the Ministry of Labour, Public Service Reform, Social Partnership, Entrepreneurship, and Small Business Development. Dr. Kimone Joseph, Head of UWI Global Campus Dominica, emphasized that this year’s theme aligns with Dominica’s History Week and Independence celebrations, highlighting the fusion of traditional practices and modern innovations in fostering community resilience. The E.O. LeBlanc Memorial Lecture series, part of the National Independence Calendar, honors the legacy of Edward Oliver LeBlanc, Dominica’s first Premier, known for his dedication to culture and literature.
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Dodelijk ongeval bij bouwwerkzaamheden in Latour
A devastating workplace accident occurred this morning at approximately 10:20 AM on Frederikshoopweg in the Latour district. During construction activities, a concrete wall collapsed onto a worker, resulting in a fatal outcome. Emergency services were dispatched immediately, but upon arrival, it was confirmed that the victim had already succumbed to his injuries. It is believed that the man died on the spot due to the severity of his wounds. Local authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident and to ensure such tragedies are prevented in the future. The incident has raised concerns about safety protocols at construction sites, prompting calls for stricter enforcement of regulations.
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Woman Testifies Against Two Police Officers Over 2017 Rape Allegations
A woman has courageously taken the stand in the High Court to recount a harrowing incident in which she alleges two police officers sexually assaulted her in 2017. The trial, presided over by Justice Ann-Marie Smith and a jury of five women and four men, centers on the events of May 12 in Cooks. The complainant detailed how she had spent the evening with a WhatsApp group that included the defendants before getting into a vehicle with them. She testified that the officers drove her to a secluded area, threatened her with a gun, and subjected her to forced intercourse and other sexual acts. The woman further claimed that the officers warned her they would kill her if she reported the attack. After the alleged assault, she left the scene, visited a bar, and reported the incident to the police the following morning. Investigators later recovered a wrapper and condom from the location. The complainant also revealed that one of the officers sent her post-incident messages downplaying the encounter and suggesting it had been ‘planned’ within the group. During cross-examination, defense lawyers questioned the consistency of her testimony, particularly regarding whether the vehicle had stopped and her recollection of events, pointing to discrepancies with her initial police statement. The trial continues as the court seeks to uncover the truth behind these grave allegations.
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Pastor admits defrauding victims of over $300,000
In a shocking breach of trust, Pastor Gavin Otto has admitted to orchestrating a fraudulent scheme that swindled individuals and businesses out of more than $300,000. Otto pleaded guilty to all 19 charges brought against him on Monday, which included six counts of fraudulent conversion and 13 counts of obtaining money by false pretenses. The crimes were committed between February 2021 and October 2022, and he is scheduled to be sentenced on November 7. The fraudulent conversion charges stem from cases where victims paid for steel and 40-foot shipping containers that were never delivered. One victim paid over $15,000 for a container that never arrived, while another paid $16,000 for two containers but received only one after Otto issued a bounced cheque. Other victims were deceived into paying for building materials or steel, receiving either partial deliveries or worthless cheques. Otto also cashed multiple cheques at gas stations and businesses that later bounced due to insufficient funds. In October 2022, police executed a search warrant at Otto’s home, where he was caught attempting to evade officers. During the search, receipts and cheque stubs were recovered, further incriminating him. The pastor now faces sentencing for defrauding victims and businesses of more than $300,000, marking a significant fall from grace for a man once trusted by his community.
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PHOTO: Minor landslide in Fond Cole
A landslide has occurred in the Fond Cole Housing Scheme area, triggered by the severe weather conditions experienced today. The incident was captured in a photograph by a local resident, providing a stark visual of the event. Fortunately, there have been no reports of injuries so far. The landslide underscores the vulnerability of the area to extreme weather events and raises concerns about the safety and preparedness of local infrastructure. Authorities are likely to assess the damage and implement measures to prevent future occurrences. The community remains on alert as weather conditions continue to pose risks.
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Ministry of Education Launches Reading Month 2025
The Ministry of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries has officially designated October as Reading Month, a nationwide initiative aimed at celebrating the profound impact of reading on personal and societal development. Under the theme ‘Unlock Your Possibilities: Read, Imagine, Grow,’ the campaign seeks to inspire students, educators, parents, and the broader community to embrace the transformative power of books. This year’s observance highlights reading as a gateway to knowledge, creativity, and self-discovery, emphasizing its role in fostering a literate, informed, and innovative nation. Throughout the month, schools and libraries will host an array of engaging activities, including reading challenges, storytelling sessions, book fairs, author visits, and community outreach programs. These events are designed to cultivate a lifelong love for reading and underscore its significance in academic and personal growth. Speaking on the initiative, the Education Officer of School Library Services emphasized that reading is not merely an academic tool but a vital means of empowerment and self-expression. Each book read opens doors to new perspectives, enabling individuals to envision a better future and grow into confident, well-rounded citizens. The public is encouraged to participate by dedicating time to daily reading, supporting local library initiatives, and sharing the joy of literature with others. This celebration of reading serves as a reminder of its enduring value in shaping minds and communities.
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Forensic analyst says blood found on curtains in Noel Maitland’s apartment
During a court hearing on Wednesday, a government forensic analyst presented crucial evidence in the trial of Constable Noel Maitland, who is accused of murder and preventing the lawful burial of a corpse. The case stems from the July 2022 disappearance of his girlfriend, Donna-Lee Donaldson, a social media influencer last seen at the Chelsea Manor complex in St Andrew. The forensic analyst detailed her findings from Maitland’s apartment, where she processed the living and dining room on July 21, 2022. She reported discovering bloodstains on curtains, suggesting an individual was injured inside the apartment. No signs of forced entry were observed, but the uppermost lock on the door was broken from the inside. Other notable findings included women’s clothing in a black suitcase, a removed kitchen mat, and various items such as a brown fiber barrel, a couch, and an air freshener. The analyst also examined a truck at Matilda’s Corner Police Station but found no blood evidence. Trial judge Leighton Pusey cautioned the seven-member jury against forming premature conclusions, emphasizing that more evidence is yet to be presented. The case was adjourned until today.
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Indecom targets Area Fugitive Apprehension Teams
KINGSTON, Jamaica—The Independent Commission of Investigations (Indecom) has identified a significant rise in fatalities during planned police operations (PPOs), attributing the trend to the increased deployment of Area Fugitive Apprehension Teams (AFATs). According to a Special Investigative Report tabled in the House of Representatives, AFATs, which accounted for less than 5% of PPO deployments and fatalities in 2022/23, now represent 50% of deployments and nearly half of all PPO-related deaths as of July 2025. This stark escalation contrasts sharply with 2019, when the disbandment of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s Mobile Reserve command coincided with the lowest fatality figures in recent history—86 fatal shootings and only 10 PPO-related deaths. Indecom’s data reveals a concerning trajectory: in 2022, AFATs were involved in 5% of PPOs, resulting in 31 deaths; by 2025, their involvement surged to 51% of PPOs, with 97 fatalities recorded in just seven months. The AFATs, a specialized unit targeting violent criminals across divisional boundaries, were established to address the mobility and networking of high-profile offenders. However, Indecom has raised alarms about the lack of modern forensic protocols during operations, noting that recovered firearms are often improperly handled, compromising evidence integrity. The commission also highlighted the disproportionate involvement of senior officers with prior fatal shooting incidents in PPOs, with 11 operations under their command flagged as suspicious. Indecom’s findings underscore the urgent need for improved oversight and forensic practices to mitigate the rising toll of PPO-related fatalities.
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Govt parade move ‘to cost JCNP $1m’
The Junkanoo Corporation of New Providence (JCNP) has expressed deep frustration over the government’s decision to revoke its authority to manage the annual Boxing Day and New Year’s Day parades. This move, described as profoundly unfair, is projected to result in nearly $1 million in losses and damages for the organization. In a strongly worded letter to Youth, Sports, and Culture Minister Mario Bowleg, JCNP Chairman Dion Miller highlighted the severe financial and operational repercussions of the decision. The corporation estimates losses of $747,000, including unpaid sponsorship fees from ALIV and Commonwealth Brewery, as well as $57,000 recently invested in upgrading its scoring system. The abrupt shift in control has also jeopardized long-standing sponsorship agreements and undermined years of collaboration between the JCNP and the government. Miller issued a seven-day ultimatum for the ministry to reverse its decision, warning that failure to do so would compel the JCNP to organize its own private parades in 2025 and 2026. This could lead to a historic showdown, with four separate Junkanoo parades instead of the traditional two, as major groups like the Saxons, One Family, and Roots rally under the JCNP’s banner. The Valley Boys, a prominent Junkanoo group, have split their support, with one faction backing the JCNP and the other aligning with the government. Corporate sponsors have reportedly advised that private parades are the only viable option to avoid breaching existing contracts if the ministry persists with its decision. Miller emphasized that the government provides no direct funding to the JCNP, leaving the organization financially vulnerable. Despite the escalating tensions, the JCNP remains committed to preserving Junkanoo as a cornerstone of Bahamian culture, striving to ensure its celebration reflects fairness and excellence. The corporation also criticized the ministry for allegedly abandoning a prior agreement reached during a September 9 meeting attended by key government officials, including Minister Bowleg and Attorney General Ryan Pinder. The JCNP dismissed a ministry-cited poll as unrepresentative, claiming that longstanding Junkanoo groups were excluded from the process. Miller concluded by urging the ministry not to obstruct its efforts to host private parades, invoking Minister Bowleg’s own statement that private parades are permissible in a free country.