Cassani Laville, the Parliamentary Representative for the Mahaut Constituency, has voiced significant concerns regarding the persistent issue of vagrancy at the Mahaut market. Speaking at the “Market Day with a Difference” event held over the weekend, Laville highlighted the challenges posed by vagrants in the area. He emphasized that the presence of vagrants, often linked to drug abuse and hunger, creates a social dilemma that undermines the dignity of the community. Laville recounted personal experiences, including seeing a former football teammate scavenging for food, which he described as deeply distressing. He called for a collective effort to address the issue, urging community members to take responsibility rather than assigning blame. Laville stressed that solving this problem requires a unified approach, with everyone contributing in their own way to improve the situation.
标签： Dominica
多米尼克
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CBI Regulatory Authority, Sperm Whale Reserve on table for next Parliamentary session
The Parliament of Dominica is set to reconvene on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, with a packed agenda featuring several pivotal legislative proposals. Among the highlights is the introduction of a bill to implement the Eastern Caribbean Citizenship by Investment Regulatory Authority (ECCIRA) Agreement, which Dominica signed last month. This initiative aims to enhance the credibility, transparency, and sustainability of Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs across the Caribbean, as emphasized by the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM).
In a significant step toward environmental conservation, lawmakers will also deliberate on the creation of the Sperm Whale Reserve, a project that builds on the government’s 2023 decision to establish a protected marine zone along Dominica’s western coastline. The proposed legislation will outline detailed management strategies, including navigation protocols and monitoring systems, to promote responsible use and conservation of this globally significant habitat.
Additionally, Parliament will review amendments to key financial laws, including the Financial Services Unit Act, the Suppression of the Financing of Terrorism Act, and the Money Laundering Act. These updates are designed to strengthen Dominica’s financial regulatory framework and enhance anti-money laundering measures.
In a tribute to national leaders, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit will propose conferring the Dominica Award of Honour (D.A.H.) on the late Prime Ministers Roosevelt ‘Rosie’ Douglas and Pierre Charles, recognizing their enduring contributions to the nation’s development.
The parliamentary session will be broadcast live starting at 10:00 a.m. through the Government Information Service (GIS) and the Dominica Broadcasting Corporation (DBS Radio), enabling the public to engage with these critical discussions in real time.
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CXC® promotes the ethical and responsible application of AI in educational evaluation
The Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC®) recently concluded a series of regional engagement sessions in Guyana, focusing on the responsible and ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational assessments. Held from October 8 to 11, the event attracted over 300 participants, including educators, students, employers, and other key stakeholders. The sessions aimed to introduce CXC®’s standards and guidelines for AI integration, fostering a collaborative approach to modernizing education across the Caribbean. Dr. Wayne Wesley, CXC®’s Registrar and CEO, emphasized the organization’s commitment to aligning its initiatives with the educational goals of member states. During a meeting with Guyana’s newly appointed Minister of Education, Hon. Sonia Parag, Dr. Wesley highlighted ongoing projects such as the Caribbean Targeted Education Certificate (CTEC), which targets out-of-school youth and adult learners through modular learning. Minister Parag praised CXC®’s efforts, noting their alignment with the Ministry’s digital school initiative aimed at enhancing student performance. The engagement sessions, which began in Barbados in mid-September and continued across Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and the OECS, will culminate in an online webinar on October 17. Dr. Nicole Manning, CXC®’s Director of Operations, expressed satisfaction with the regional response, particularly the consensus reached in Guyana to allow AI tools for idea generation in student assessments, while prohibiting direct AI content in submissions. Looking ahead, CXC® will host a Regional Education Conference in Jamaica from October 28 to 30, themed “Navigating the Digital Age: Rethinking Teaching, Learning, and Assessment,” to further advance the region’s educational transformation.
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Living hostages freed in Gaza conflict, sealing conditions of ceasefire
In a landmark development, Israel and Hamas initiated a tentative ceasefire agreement on Monday by exchanging prisoners and hostages, marking a pivotal moment in the two-year conflict that has ravaged Gaza. The U.S.-mediated deal has ignited cautious optimism for a potential resolution to the protracted crisis, according to an AP News report. However, significant challenges persist, including Hamas’s potential disarmament, the governance of Gaza, and the broader issue of Palestinian statehood, underscoring the fragility of the accord. The release of the remaining 20 living hostages brought a sense of relief and closure to many Israelis, though efforts to recover those who perished in Gaza remain ongoing. Meanwhile, celebrations erupted in Beitunia, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, and Khan Younis in Gaza, as 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences for attacks on Israelis, alongside 1,700 others detained without charges, were freed. Mahmoud Fayez, a detainee released after being held since last year, expressed gratitude, stating, “Praise be to God, our Lord, who has honored us with this release and this joy.” The release of hostages has alleviated some urgency to end the war, reducing pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to expedite subsequent phases of the agreement. As part of the initial ceasefire, four deceased hostages were returned to Israel, with 24 more expected soon. The deal also mandates Israel to facilitate a surge of humanitarian aid—food, medicine, and essentials—into Gaza. Despite the celebrations, Gaza’s residents face a grim reality: the territory remains devastated by Israeli bombardments, with its economy in ruins, essential services disrupted, and countless homes destroyed. Netanyahu, absent from the Egypt meeting due to a Jewish holiday, assured the Israeli parliament of his commitment to the deal, claiming it “ends the war by achieving all our objectives.” U.S. President Donald Trump, visiting the region to celebrate the progress, urged Israeli lawmakers to seize the opportunity for broader Middle East peace. In Egypt, Trump and other global leaders convened to address the agreement’s complexities and lay the groundwork for future negotiations.
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COMMENTARY: IOM chief highlights record disaster displacement and calls for resilience funding
The aftermath of Hurricane Beryl has left Union Island in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines in a state of utter devastation. Aerial imagery reveals widespread destruction, with two-thirds of the island’s buildings reduced to rubble and countless residents rendered homeless. Critical infrastructure, including power, water, and transportation systems, lies in ruins, severely disrupting daily life. The tourism sector, a cornerstone of the local economy, has suffered catastrophic losses, triggering a cascade of unemployment, poverty, and escalating food insecurity. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has captured the dire situation in a poignant photograph by Gema Cortés, underscoring the urgent need for action. In light of the escalating frequency and intensity of climate-driven disasters, the IOM is advocating for a paradigm shift in global financing priorities. This year’s International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) carries the theme ‘Fund Resilience, Not Disasters,’ emphasizing the need to redirect resources from costly disaster response to proactive prevention and preparedness. IOM Director General Amy Pope has issued a clarion call, stating, ‘Every dollar invested in resilience saves many more in avoided losses and protects the dignity of those most at risk.’ She urges governments, donors, and the private sector to prioritize investments that mitigate disaster risks and bolster the resilience of vulnerable communities. In 2024 alone, nearly 46 million people were displaced by disasters, marking a record high. Despite this alarming trend, disaster risk reduction efforts remain woefully underfunded, with most governments allocating less than 1% of their budgets to prevention. As the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) approaches, the IOM is poised to champion the integration of disaster and climate risk reduction into climate finance negotiations. Leveraging innovative tools like the Risk Index for Climate Displacement and the Climate Catalytic Fund, the organization aims to harness predictive analytics and community-driven finance to preempt displacement and safeguard developmental progress.
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PAHO makes donation to bolster health education in Dominica
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has made a significant contribution to Dominica’s Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Social Services (MOHWSS) by donating a 40-inch Vizio Smart TV and a mobile stand. This initiative, announced in a recent media release, aims to strengthen health education, raise public awareness, and support community outreach programs across the island. The donation highlights PAHO’s dedication to delivering essential health information directly to local communities.
The official handover ceremony occurred on October 8, 2025, with Nicole Slack-Liburd, PAHO Country Programme Specialist, presenting the equipment to Dr. Kyra Paul-L’Homme, Permanent Secretary of the MOHWSS. Mignon Rolle-Shillingford, Coordinator of the Health Promotion Unit, also attended the event. Slack-Liburd emphasized the importance of community-centered healthcare, stating, ‘A core principle of the primary healthcare approach is meeting people where they are.’ She added that the mobile stand ensures the device can be utilized not only in health facilities but also in various community locations.
The donation is expected to bolster the Ministry’s Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) and other public health initiatives. Additionally, PAHO continues to support Vaccination Week in the Americas (VWA) 2025 by distributing educational materials and extending vaccination service hours at the Fond Cole Health Centre and surrounding areas.
The new equipment will enable health professionals to display educational content, health messages, and awareness videos during outreach events, school visits, and health fairs, fostering improved health literacy and community engagement. Dr. Paul-L’Homme expressed gratitude for PAHO’s unwavering partnership, noting that the donation will significantly enhance the Ministry’s ability to deliver effective and accessible health education to all citizens.
PAHO’s collaboration with the Dominican government remains focused on creating healthier communities through innovative approaches, improved accessibility, and empowerment.
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PM to file motion to honour late leaders Douglas and Charles with nation’s highest award
In a historic move, Prime Minister Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit announced plans to introduce a parliamentary motion on October 14, seeking approval to confer the Dominica Award of Honour (D.A.H.), the country’s most prestigious accolade, upon the late Prime Ministers Roosevelt “Rosie” Douglas and Pierre Charles. The motion aims to recognize the exceptional contributions of both leaders, whose visionary leadership and dedication to social justice, education, and community development left an indelible mark on Dominica’s progress. Prime Minister Skerrit emphasized the enduring legacy of Douglas and Charles, stating, “Their unwavering commitment to our nation continues to inspire resilience and unity among our people.” The awards will be presented posthumously during the formal commemoration of Dominica’s 47th Independence Anniversary on November 3. Roosevelt “Rosie” Douglas served as Prime Minister from February 2000 until his untimely death on October 1 of the same year. Pierre Charles succeeded him, holding office from October 3, 2000, until his passing on January 6, 2004. The Government of Dominica has called upon all citizens to join in celebrating the legacy of these two leaders, whose efforts remain a cornerstone of the nation’s identity and aspirations.
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Dominica celebrates World Food Day 2025 with planned activities
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy (MoAFBGE) has unveiled an extensive program to celebrate World Food Day 2025, embracing the global theme ‘Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.’ The initiative highlights the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to sustainable food production, youth engagement, educational outreach, and inclusive dialogue on agriculture, fisheries, and food security. The events span from October 11 to October 16, 2025, and include a variety of activities designed to engage diverse audiences. On October 11–12, a youth-focused radio segment on DBS Radio, messages during church services, and a national address will kick off the celebrations. October 15 will feature school outreach programs, including poster distributions and classroom discussions, alongside an online poster and poem competition organized by the FAO. The pinnacle of the celebrations on October 16, World Food Day, will include a national speech by the Minister broadcast across multiple platforms, an educational discussion at the Documentation Center, a social media campaign, and the WFD 4-H Clubs Food Expo at the Marigot Youth Center. The Ministry encourages widespread participation from citizens, schools, communities, and stakeholders to raise awareness, celebrate agricultural achievements, and promote resilient food systems. For more information, the public is advised to follow the MoAFBGE Facebook page and tune into scheduled radio broadcasts.
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OECS conducts 5th Regional Data Governance Council Meeting to promote evidence-based growth
The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) Commission successfully concluded the fifth session of the Regional Data Governance Council (RDGC), held from October 7 to 10, 2025. The four-day event brought together statistical leaders from OECS member states, regional agencies, and international development organizations to enhance collaboration, improve statistical capabilities, and promote data-informed decision-making across the Caribbean region.
Corneil Williams, Chairperson of the RDGC, opened the session by stressing the importance of unified strategies in data collection and governance. Key figures and partners underscored the critical role of data governance in driving sustainable development within the OECS.
Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the OECS Commission, emphasized the organization’s commitment to strengthening statistical systems as vital tools for evidence-based policymaking. He highlighted the need to cultivate a culture of data use and trust, urging stakeholders to move beyond data collection to actionable insights. Jules also called for integration beyond formal treaties, fostering a shared understanding through data.
Elbert Ellis of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) reiterated the bank’s support for regional development efforts, including the Enhanced Country Poverty Assessment (eCPA). He emphasized the importance of robust data systems for sustainable development and outlined the CDB’s technical and financial contributions to improving data governance and institutional frameworks.
Ms. Anna Luisa Paffhausen from the World Bank highlighted the Bank’s collaboration with the OECS through the Data for Decision Making (DDM) Project. She noted the meeting’s focus on anonymizing core datasets to support data dissemination and analysis, aiming to address key policy and development priorities in the region.
Ms. Sherma Beroo, OECS DDM Project Manager, emphasized the importance of fostering stronger partnerships to ensure robust, harmonized data systems capable of supporting sustainable development.
The sessions covered critical topics, including progress on regional and national statistical initiatives, updates on flagship projects like DDM and CARDTP, strategies for data anonymization, and the development of a Communication and Advocacy Strategy to promote statistical data use. The meeting concluded with a coordinated work plan, renewed commitments to data harmonization and privacy protections, and strengthened collaborations among OECS member states and development partners.
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Prime Minister Skerrit meets with Cambodian leader on 15th anniversary of alliance
In a landmark diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Dr. Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica met with Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia during a working visit to Phnom Penh last week. The discussions, held in a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation, focused on enhancing bilateral relations across key sectors such as trade, economic development, agriculture, tourism, and cultural exchanges. The meeting coincided with the 15th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, marking a significant milestone in their partnership.