Dominica has initiated a groundbreaking Co-Parenting Campaign aimed at enhancing the welfare of children in foster care, as announced by Dr. Cassandra Williams, Minister of State in the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services. The campaign, which commenced on Wednesday, is set to continue until February 2026. Dr. Williams highlighted that approximately 160 children are currently enrolled in Dominica’s foster care program. While some of these placements offer long-term stability, many serve as transitional arrangements, providing a safe haven for children as their families work towards reunification. Dr. Williams emphasized the critical role of effective co-parenting in these scenarios, urging biological parents, foster parents, and social workers to maintain open communication and shared responsibility for the children’s emotional and developmental well-being. The campaign underscores the principle that every child deserves consistent love, guidance, and care, regardless of their living arrangements. It promotes healthy co-parenting practices founded on communication, respect, and stability. Nicole Toussaint-Jno Baptiste, Child Protection Officer at the Department of Social Services, echoed these sentiments, noting a rise in the number of children being raised in households where parents are separated or divorced. She pointed out that the breakdown of co-parenting relationships often leads to emotional difficulties for children, impacting their growth and development. The campaign, themed ‘Apart but United- A Co-Parenting Campaign,’ aims to convey that separated parents can still collaborate effectively in the best interest of their child.
标签： Dominica
多米尼克
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Evelina Blanc is Madam Wob Dwiyet 2025
In a dazzling display of talent and cultural pride, Evelina Blanc, the owner of Everglow Beauty Salon, emerged victorious as the Madam Wob Dwiyet 2025. Representing Grand Bay and Mahaut, Blanc triumphed over two other contestants in a fiercely contested competition held at the Massacre Indoor Sporting Facility last night. The event, which was anticipated to feature four participants, saw Cynthia Talbert, the Pichelin representative, withdraw from the contest. Blanc not only clinched the prestigious title but also garnered accolades for Best Performing Talent and Best Creole Contemporary Wear. The first runner-up position was awarded to Angelica ‘Teacher Fiah’ Gasper from Castle Bruce, while Virginia Mendes secured the second runner-up spot, winning awards for Madam Photogenic and Best in Wob Dwiyet. The competition highlighted the rich cultural heritage and artistic excellence of the participants, making it a night to remember.
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Integration of sustainable energy practices and regional tourism subject of new cross-sector agreement
The Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) and the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA), alongside its affiliate, the Caribbean Alliance for Sustainable Tourism (CAST), have formalized a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing the Caribbean’s energy and tourism sectors. Signed on October 20, 2025, during the opening of the annual CARILEC Resilient Energy Community (CAREC) Conference and Exhibition in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the agreement seeks to foster collaboration between these critical industries. The partnership focuses on promoting sustainable energy practices, accelerating renewable energy integration, and bolstering climate resilience within the region’s tourism and hospitality sectors. Additionally, it aims to support economic development and environmental responsibility. The MOU outlines a collaborative framework across five key areas: knowledge exchange and research, policy and regulatory enhancements, disaster preparedness and resilience, membership opportunities and joint promotional efforts, and workforce development and capacity building. CARILEC emphasized that this initiative aligns with its overarching goal of achieving a sustainable energy future for the Caribbean. Furthermore, CARILEC has expanded its membership criteria to include Large Commercial Prosumers—businesses and institutions with at least 20 kW of grid-connected generation capacity. This inclusion allows tourism operators and self-generating enterprises to participate directly in regional dialogue, share best practices, and influence policies for cleaner, more resilient, and economically sustainable energy systems. The signing ceremony featured Mr. Wayne M. Caines, Chairman of CARILEC’s Board of Directors, and Dr. Cletus Bertin, CARILEC’s Executive Director, who highlighted the partnership’s potential to bridge energy and tourism for tangible progress in renewable energy deployment and disaster resilience. Mr. Sanovnik Destang, President of CHTA, underscored the interconnectedness of tourism and energy, noting that hotels and resorts are among the largest energy users in the region. He cited renewable energy projects in Aruba, Barbados, and Dominica as examples of progress but emphasized the need for greater adoption. The MOU also establishes a Joint Working Group to develop annual work plans, monitor implementation, and evaluate progress. The agreement is set for an initial term of three years, with provisions for renewal by mutual consent. This alliance aims to empower Caribbean utilities and tourism stakeholders to collaborate toward a cleaner, more resilient, and energy-efficient future, strengthening sustainable economic growth and competitiveness across the region.
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The International Seed Testing Association and IICA collaborate to upgrade seed testing and certfificationin region
In a landmark virtual ceremony, the International Seed Testing Association (ISTA) and the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) formalized a groundbreaking partnership aimed at revolutionizing seed quality testing and certification systems across the Americas. The memorandum of understanding was signed by ISTA President Ernest Allen and IICA Director General Manuel Otero, marking a significant step toward agricultural modernization and food security in the region. The collaboration will focus on sharing technical expertise, training personnel, standardizing seed analysis protocols, and enhancing the capabilities of certification and quality assurance bodies. Ernest Allen emphasized the transformative potential of the agreement, stating, ‘This partnership is a bridge between our organizations. Just as a small seed can grow into something extraordinary, we expect this alliance to flourish into a robust collaboration benefiting all 34 IICA Member States.’ Manuel Otero highlighted the critical role of seeds in agricultural development, stressing the need for actionable strategies to improve quality of life across the hemisphere. The partnership will also promote regional technological innovation and facilitate greater participation in international seed trade, ensuring the Americas remain at the forefront of agricultural advancements.
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FRS Express ferry service resumes full service; charter flight for affected parties from St Lucia to DA
Desma Patrick, Marketing Officer at H.H.V Whitchurch & Co. Ltd, has confirmed the full restoration of FRS Express Des Iles services, ensuring seamless travel for passengers. Speaking at the weekly World Creole Music Festival (WCMF) press conference on Tuesday, Patrick addressed earlier operational challenges but emphasized the resumption of multiple sailings between Dominica and neighboring islands, including Guadeloupe, Martinique, and St Lucia. These sailings are crucial for transporting visitors, returning nationals, and festival enthusiasts to Dominica in time for the grand celebrations. As the WCMF marks its 25th anniversary, Patrick expressed pride in H.H.V Whitchurch’s continued support for Dominica’s vibrant music, culture, and spirit. She urged everyone to unite in celebrating Creole heritage and making this milestone event unforgettable. In related updates, FRS Express Des Iles has arranged charter flights for passengers affected by cancellations between October 18 and 21. These flights, scheduled for October 23 and 24, are exclusively available to passengers holding unused ferry tickets from the specified period. Registration is required at the Castries Ferry Terminal on October 22 and 23.
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PM Skerrit, PM Pierre in St Vincent and Grenadines for one-day visit
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica and Prime Minister Phillip J. Pierre of Saint Lucia are set to conduct a one-day official visit to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines on October 22, 2025. The visit, as reported by The St Vincent Times, will focus on key infrastructure developments and bilateral discussions. The leaders are scheduled to tour two major projects: the Acute Care Hospital at Arnos Vale and the newly upgraded Port of Kingstown. These sites represent significant advancements in healthcare and maritime infrastructure for the region. Following the tours, Prime Ministers Skerrit and Pierre will engage in high-level talks with Prime Minister Dr. Ralph Gonsalves and his Cabinet members. The visit will culminate in a press briefing at the conference room within the Modern Port facility, where the leaders are expected to address the media and share insights from their discussions. This visit underscores the ongoing collaboration and diplomatic ties among the Caribbean nations, highlighting their commitment to regional development and cooperation.
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In nobody’s backyard: Open letter opposing US military incursions and reaffirming the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace
In a bold move to protect regional sovereignty and peace, a coalition of Caribbean women and organizations has issued an open letter condemning recent U.S. military incursions in the Caribbean Sea. Addressed to CARICOM Chair and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness, the letter highlights the grave consequences of these actions, including the extrajudicial killing of at least 32 individuals, two of whom were Trinidad and Tobago nationals. The letter, signed by 112 organizations, underscores the threat posed to the Caribbean tourism industry, local livelihoods, and the region’s commitment to peace. The coalition also criticizes a recent U.S. request to install radar equipment in Grenada, viewing it as an extension of the Monroe Doctrine and a violation of Caribbean sovereignty. The letter calls on CARICOM leaders to uphold the 2014 declaration of the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace and to resist U.S. militarization efforts. It emphasizes the region’s history of overcoming violence and exploitation, asserting that the Caribbean is “in nobody’s backyard.” The coalition urges Grenada to reject the U.S. request and for CARICOM to support this stance, even if it incurs economic or political costs. The letter concludes with a powerful reminder of the region’s resilience and determination to safeguard its independence and peace.
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IN PICTURES: SMA Alumni reunion activities
The St. Mary’s Academy Alumni Association recently hosted a week-long reunion, bringing together former students from various graduating classes. The event, filled with nostalgia and camaraderie, featured a series of activities designed to reconnect alumni and celebrate their shared history. Attendees participated in group discussions, photo sessions, and social gatherings, reminiscing about their time at the prestigious institution. The reunion also highlighted the enduring bonds formed during their school years, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to reconnect with old friends and mentors. The event concluded with a grand dinner, where alumni shared stories of their personal and professional achievements since graduating. The reunion not only strengthened the alumni network but also underscored the lasting impact of St. Mary’s Academy on its graduates.
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Extreme Dominica, American Canyoneering Association seek support for search & rescue training in Dominica
In a significant development for Dominica’s emergency response capabilities, the American Canyoneering Association (ACA) is set to deploy a team of expert educators to the Caribbean nation in November. These volunteers will provide specialized training to Dominica’s Search & Rescue (SAR) unit, focusing on advanced rescue techniques tailored to the island’s challenging terrain. The initiative, supported by Extreme Dominica Canyon Tours, aims to bolster the island’s preparedness for emergencies, particularly as canyoning and outdoor tourism gain popularity. The rugged landscape of Dominica, while a draw for adventure enthusiasts, also poses unique risks, necessitating enhanced technical rescue skills. The ACA’s training program is expected to equip local rescuers with the expertise needed to handle complex rescue scenarios effectively. Additionally, a call for donations has been issued to provide essential technical gear for up to six local rescuers, ensuring their ability to conduct safe and efficient operations. This collaboration underscores the ongoing partnership between the ACA and Dominica, highlighting a shared commitment to improving public safety and emergency response. For those interested in supporting this vital cause, further details and donation options are available online.
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Assistant police commissioner says expect increased police presence
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Alleyne Maximea has reassured the public that the Dominica Police Force is fully prepared to uphold safety and security during the upcoming 2025 World Creole Music Festival (WCMF). Speaking at the weekly WCMF press conference on Tuesday, Maximea emphasized the force’s readiness to ensure a secure environment for all festival-goers. ‘The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force is ready to perform its role at this year’s World Creole Music Festival,’ he declared. ‘We are ready to perform our duties.’ Maximea outlined that comprehensive plans have been implemented to guarantee the safety of patrons, including heightened police visibility in both uniform and plain clothes across Roseau and its surrounding areas. He issued a stern warning to potential lawbreakers, stating, ‘We will not tolerate any transgressions as it pertains to the laws of the Commonwealth of Dominica. Anyone who disturbs the peace or breaches the law during these activities will be dealt with to the full extent of the law.’ The announcement underscores the police force’s commitment to maintaining order and ensuring a festive yet secure atmosphere for the highly anticipated cultural event.