标签: Dominica

多米尼克

  • STATEMENT: United Progressive Party extends deepest sympathy following devastating Fire in Roseau

    STATEMENT: United Progressive Party extends deepest sympathy following devastating Fire in Roseau

    ROSEAU, DOMINICA – March 2, 2026: The United Progressive Party (UPP) has issued a formal statement expressing profound condolences to residents and business owners impacted by a catastrophic fire that recently ravaged sections of Dominica’s capital city. Party leader Joshua Francis conveyed heartfelt sympathy to those confronting the arduous task of rebuilding destroyed homes and businesses.

    The opposition party specifically praised the rapid intervention of the Dominica Fire Service, acknowledging their professional conduct and bravery in preventing further devastation. Additionally, the UPP highlighted the courageous efforts of local community members and young volunteers who assisted emergency responders in containing the blaze, citing their actions as emblematic of national solidarity during crises.

    However, the statement raised significant concerns regarding the adequacy of national emergency preparedness. Reports of limited resources available at the incident scene have prompted the UPP to demand immediate government action to enhance firefighting capabilities. The party formally urged the administration to prioritize the acquisition of new fire trucks and modernized equipment, framing disaster response infrastructure as critical to public safety and economic stability.

    Emphasizing collective responsibility, the UPP reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for comprehensive emergency protocols and sustainable safety measures for all citizens. The party’s communication office, led by Public Relations Officer Lofty Durand, remains available for further media engagement.

  • West Coast Cooperative Credit Union island-wide Domino League results

    West Coast Cooperative Credit Union island-wide Domino League results

    The West Coast Cooperative Credit Union Island-wide Domino League entered another electrifying weekend, showcasing strategic brilliance and competitive fervor across all four zones. Teams demonstrated exceptional skill in this culturally significant sport, drawing enthusiastic community engagement.

    In Zone A, Skills established early dominance with a commanding 2,504-1,577 victory against Unik Stars. Jimmit Stars secured a hard-fought 2,545-2,223 win over Layou, while West Bridge narrowly defeated Denver 2,537-2,379. Valiant emerged victorious against Family First with a score of 2,522-2,122. Sunday’s matches saw Jimmit Stars maintain momentum with a 2,514-2,456 triumph over West Bridge, while Skills continued their winning streak against Denver (2,503-2,386). Valiant overpowered Unik Stars 2,511-2,342, and Layou claimed victory against Family First 2,503-2,143.

    Zone B witnessed Casgorie’s impressive 2,505-1,757 performance against Depa. Kalinago dominated Bells 2,509-1,447, while Nun Players defeated Nato Full Effect 2,505-2,212. Rosema White City secured a decisive 2,504-1,814 victory over Baghdad. Sunday’s action featured Kalinago overpowering Casgorie 2,508-1,922, with White City defeating Bells 2,508-1,555. Nun Players edged past Baghdad 2,501-2,228, and Nato Full Effect bounced back with a 2,526-1,795 win against Depa.

    Zone C competition saw Eclipse deliver a masterclass performance against One Love (2,533-1,447). Challengers won a nail-biting contest against No Name 2,502-2,480, while Public Enemies defeated Strikers 2,504-1,906. Purple City emerged victorious in a close match against Sea Side Boys 2,503-2,340. Sunday’s matches featured Eclipse narrowly defeating Public Enemies 2,503-2,492 in the weekend’s closest contest. Challengers overcame Strikers 2,524-2,104, Purple City defeated No Name 2,501-2,337, and One Love rebounded with a 2,507-1,550 victory against Sea Side Boys.

    Zone D showcased Warriors dominating Shatta 2,506-1,441, while Massy Square delivered the weekend’s most spectacular performance with a crushing 5,026-1,777 victory over Fireball. Nathon Wake Up Stars demonstrated exceptional form with a 2,549-2,063 win against Focus. Sunday’s matches saw Brigidy Stars defeat Warriors 2,530-2,068, while Nathon Wake Up Stars continued their impressive run with a 2,550-2,009 victory over Massy Square. Focus secured a 2,522-2,269 win against Shatta.

    The league continues to celebrate the rich tradition of competitive dominoes, fostering community spirit and showcasing strategic excellence that resonates throughout the island’s sporting culture.

  • WEATHER (6:00 AM, March 02): Cloudiness, passing showers across the region this morning

    WEATHER (6:00 AM, March 02): Cloudiness, passing showers across the region this morning

    A potent high-pressure system is forecast to maintain blustery conditions across the region throughout the coming day. Meteorological analysis indicates this system will drive moisture-laden winds, resulting in intermittent cloud cover and brisk, transient showers, predominantly during morning hours.

    Concurrently, a significant surge in Saharan dust particulate is anticipated to elevate atmospheric concentrations. Health officials have issued specific guidance for individuals with respiratory conditions, urging them to implement appropriate protective measures to mitigate potential adverse effects.

    Maritime conditions are projected to deteriorate, with seas expected to persist at moderate to rough levels. Wave heights along western coastal areas are predicted to approach 5 feet, while eastern exposures may experience swells nearing 10 feet. The existing Small Craft Advisory remains particularly stringent for eastern coastal zones, prompting warnings for marine operators and coastal residents.

    Navigation experts emphasize the critical need for proper safety equipment aboard all vessels, while coastal safety authorities recommend heightened vigilance for beachgoers and seaside communities. The convergence of strong winds and reduced visibility from dust haze creates particularly hazardous conditions for maritime activities.

  • Fire in Roseau damages multiple businesses, including Jolly’s Pharmacy

    Fire in Roseau damages multiple businesses, including Jolly’s Pharmacy

    A substantial fire erupted in Dominica’s capital during the early hours of Monday, inflicting considerable damage on multiple commercial establishments in Roseau and prompting the indefinite closure of a prominent pharmaceutical outlet. The incident has drawn attention to urban fire safety protocols in the Caribbean nation.

    Deputy Fire Chief Matthew Prosper provided official confirmation that the conflagration impacted Jolly’s Pharmacy, an adjacent fitness facility, a retail store operated by Chinese proprietors, and a local bar. In statements to DBS Radio, Prosper commended the rapid intervention of firefighting personnel, emphasizing that their strategic containment efforts successfully prevented catastrophic spread to neighboring structures.

    “Our fire officers demonstrated exceptional professionalism in confining the blaze to the affected buildings,” Prosper stated during his radio address. While comprehensive damage assessments remain ongoing, the deputy chief indicated the financial implications would be substantial, noting repeatedly that losses would “run in a lot of money.”

    Emergency crews maintained continuous presence at the scene throughout Monday morning, conducting thorough mop-up procedures and preliminary investigative work. Public safety authorities have issued formal advisories requesting citizens avoid the impacted zone until debris removal and structural evaluations are completed.

    In response to the incident, Jolly’s Pharmacy management announced the immediate suspension of operations at their Roseau location pending full damage assessment and restoration. The pharmaceutical retailer confirmed all alternative locations throughout Dominica would maintain standard operating hours to ensure continuity of medical services for residents.

    Prosper utilized the platform to issue broader recommendations to Roseau’s business community, urging enhanced preventive measures including electrical system inspections, updated fire suppression equipment, and compliance with building safety codes. Other enterprises affected by the blaze anticipate resuming operations within coming days pending minor repairs.

    The precise ignition source and initial cause remain undetermined as forensic investigators continue examining evidence. The Fire Department has committed to releasing detailed findings upon completion of their technical investigation.

  • STATEMENT: President of Cricket West Indies, Dr. The Hon. Kishore Shallow on ICC Men’s T20 loss against India

    STATEMENT: President of Cricket West Indies, Dr. The Hon. Kishore Shallow on ICC Men’s T20 loss against India

    Cricket West Indies (CWI) President Dr. Kishore Shallow has publicly praised the national team’s performance following their elimination from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Despite the disappointment of their Super 8s defeat against India at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Shallow emphasized the significant progress demonstrated throughout the tournament.

    The West Indies team concluded their campaign with an impressive record of five victories in seven matches, showcasing notable growth in team cohesion and competitive belief. According to Dr. Shallow, this achievement underscores the thorough preparation and dedication of both players and support staff. The team’s journey to the knockout stages represented a substantial step forward for Caribbean cricket.

    Particularly noteworthy was the team’s demonstrated resilience and fighting spirit, which resonated deeply with fans across the region. This display of determination reinforced pride in West Indies cricket and highlighted the character inherent in the squad. The leadership of Head Coach Daren Sammy and the contributions of the entire support staff received special recognition for their role in building a solid foundation for future competitions.

    Dr. Shallow concluded his statement with a forward-looking perspective, affirming that the team would regroup and return to international competition with strengthened unity and clear purpose. The message ended with a traditional rallying cry for continued support of West Indies cricket, emphasizing the enduring connection between the team and its supporters.

  • Iran launches retaliation on neighboring states housing US assets following US-Israeli strikes on Tehran

    Iran launches retaliation on neighboring states housing US assets following US-Israeli strikes on Tehran

    The Middle East has plunged into a dangerous escalation of hostilities following Iran’s coordinated military strikes against American installations throughout Gulf Arab nations. This aggressive action represents Tehran’s direct retaliation for a large-scale joint offensive conducted by the United States and Israel against Iranian targets.

    Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for targeting multiple locations across Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates on Saturday. Particularly significant were the strikes on UAE airbases housing U.S. forces. The Fars news agency reported the IRGC’s declaration that all Israeli and American military sites throughout the Middle East were struck by “powerful blows of Iranian missiles.”

    The IRGC issued an uncompromising warning that operations would continue “relentlessly until the enemy is decisively defeated,” explicitly designating all U.S. regional assets as legitimate targets. Iranian officials presented their actions as justified self-defense, with Deputy Foreign Minister Hamid Ghanbari expressing regret over potential civilian casualties while asserting Iran’s right to protect itself.

    Diplomatic channels saw activity as Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi communicated Iran’s position to the United Nations, affirming Tehran’s determination to exercise self-defense “decisively and without hesitation until the aggression ceases fully and unequivocally.”

    The attacks produced varied outcomes across the region. Abu Dhabi reported one fatality from missile strikes, though details remained scarce. Bahrain experienced targeting of the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Manama. Kuwait successfully intercepted ballistic missiles aimed at Ali al-Salem Air Base, though the attack resulted in minor injuries and facility damage. Saudi Arabia repelled strikes targeting Riyadh and eastern regions, while Qatar prevented all missiles from reaching their territory.

    In Iraq’s Kurdish region, Erbil Airport faced two separate drone attacks, both neutralized by air defenses. Southwest of Baghdad, a strike on Kataeb Hezbollah headquarters killed two individuals, prompting the armed group to threaten retaliatory attacks on American bases.

    The regional consequences extended beyond immediate military impacts. Multiple Gulf nations temporarily closed their airspace, while shipping operations received notices about potential closure of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz—a critical passage for global oil exports.

    U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed to Fox News that three American service members died during operations, while claiming significant losses among Iranian leadership. The conflict’s ripple effects reached Israel, where nine fatalities were reported in Beit Shemesh from missile strikes, with civilians remaining on high alert amid ongoing sirens.

    BBC News reported Israeli military actions within Tehran itself, with Iranian officials claiming at least 153 casualties, including children, from a strike on a school facility—further intensifying the humanitarian dimensions of the escalating conflict.

  • COMMENTARY: Bats – Flying pest controllers for some! A delicacy for others!

    COMMENTARY: Bats – Flying pest controllers for some! A delicacy for others!

    The Caribbean island of Dominica, known as the Nature Isle, harbors an extraordinary biological treasure: twelve distinct species of bats that represent the island’s only indigenous mammals. While many residents assume only one or two species exist, scientific documentation reveals a diverse chiropteran population that surpasses larger neighboring islands in biodiversity significance.

    Unlike introduced species such as agouti, wild pigs, and opossums, bats have inhabited Dominica for millennia. The island’s bat community includes six insectivorous species that perform aerial acrobatics under streetlights, three frugivorous species that feed on fruits like mangoes and soursop, two nectarvorous species that pollinate night-blooming flowers, and the impressive piscivorous greater bulldog bat that uses specialized talons to catch fish.

    Notably, Dominica hosts several endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. The Dominican Myotis (Noctilio leporinus mastivus) shares exclusive island status with the Sisserou parrot and other endemic wildlife. Additionally, the Antillean Tree Bat (Ardops nichollsi nichollsi) and Yellow-shouldered Bat (Sturnira lilium angeli) exist as Dominica-specific subspecies.

    These flying mammals provide crucial ecosystem services. Insectivorous bats consume between 1,000-8,000 insects nightly, offering natural pest control and mosquito management. Frugivorous bats assist in seed dispersal by carrying fruits to feeding perches, while nectarvorous species contribute to plant pollination. Their guano (known locally as ‘kaka chouchòt’) serves as valuable natural fertilizer.

    Bats are deeply woven into Dominica’s cultural heritage. Kalinago pottery historically featured bat designs, while traditional Carnival costumes include the ‘souswèl souwi’ bat-inspired outfits. Culinary traditions in villages like Dublanc maintain bat stew (‘chouchòt épi donmbwé’) as a Christmas delicacy, though recent bat poaching incidents have prompted forestry officials to issue conservation warnings.

    The island’s geological features support numerous bat habitats, including coastal caves like Anba Chouchòt at Massacre and the remarkable Stinking Hole (Tou Santi)—a collapsed lava tube near Middleham Falls that hosts approximately 65,000 bats of three species. Local nomenclature reflects cultural connections, with Kwéyòl names like ‘souswèl souwi,’ ‘djenbo,’ and ‘wat volan’ varying by community.

    Globally, bats demonstrate remarkable biological adaptations. With over 1,400 species worldwide, they represent 20% of all mammal species. They give birth upside down, produce typically single offspring called pups, and can live over 30 years. Contrary to the ‘blind as a bat’ myth, they possess excellent low-light vision alongside sophisticated echolocation capabilities.

    Dominica’s bat conservation story represents a microcosm of broader biodiversity protection challenges, balancing ecological significance with cultural traditions while ensuring the survival of these unique mammalian aviators.

  • Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei killed in U.S.-Israeli strikes

    Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei killed in U.S.-Israeli strikes

    The geopolitical landscape of the Middle East has been irrevocably altered following the confirmed death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a coordinated military operation conducted by United States and Israeli forces this Saturday. Multiple major news outlets, including USA TODAY, Reuters, and CNN, have verified the demise of the long-serving Iranian leader, citing confirmation from an Israeli intelligence source.

    The strategic strikes, personally authorized and announced by President Donald Trump, specifically targeted Iran’s missile infrastructure. President Trump characterized the offensive as the initiation of ‘major combat operations,’ describing it as an extensive, continuing campaign designed to neutralize what he termed ‘imminent threats from the Iranian regime.’

    In immediate retaliation, Iranian revolutionary forces unleashed a barrage of drone and missile attacks against strategic American and Israeli assets. A significant counterstrike hit a U.S. Naval installation in Bahrain; preliminary reports indicate no casualties among American personnel. Iranian military command issued a stark warning, promising their adversaries would face ‘decisive defeat.’

    On the ground in Tehran, distressing imagery depicted plumes of dark smoke ascending over the capital city as civilians scrambled for shelter. Iranian government officials reported a devastating human cost, alleging that a strike on a girls’ school in southern Iran resulted in at least 40 civilian fatalities, highlighting the severe humanitarian consequences of the rapidly intensifying conflict.

    This dramatic military escalation culminates weeks of mounting diplomatic tensions, during which President Trump consistently issued warnings of potential armed intervention should negotiations concerning Iran’s controversial nuclear and ballistic missile programs reach an impasse.

    The assassination of Supreme Leader Khamenei creates an immediate and profound power vacuum within Iran’s complex political structure at a critically volatile time. Regional security analysts are warning that the ensuing fallout possesses the potential to radically reconfigure the balance of power throughout the Middle East, carrying significant and unpredictable implications for international stability and global security apparatus.

  • Dominica Cadet Corps hosts intensive training camp to prepare over 20 potential officers for leadership roles

    Dominica Cadet Corps hosts intensive training camp to prepare over 20 potential officers for leadership roles

    The Dominica Cadet Corps (DCC) has launched an intensive weekend training initiative to bolster its leadership capabilities. From February 27th to March 1st, 2026, over twenty Potential Cadet Officers (PCOs) will participate in a comprehensive camp alongside commissioned and non-commissioned officers at the Office of Disaster Management facility in Jimmit.

    This strategic training camp represents a critical phase in the DCC’s ongoing expansion efforts, designed to equip future officers with essential skills for assuming command positions and various operational roles within the organization. The program bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge acquired through virtual sessions since November and practical field application.

    Senior DCC officers will lead the three-day immersive training, focusing on hands-on exercises that complement previous digital instruction on cadet corps operations. The camp simultaneously serves as a professional development opportunity for existing officers to refresh their expertise and leadership competencies.

    As a paramilitary youth organization operating through secondary schools nationwide, the DCC plays a vital role in fostering discipline, civic responsibility, and leadership qualities among Dominica’s youth population. This current recruitment and training drive reflects the organization’s commitment to strengthening its institutional framework and expanding its positive influence across the island.

    Media representatives have been extended a formal invitation to observe and document the training activities, highlighting the program’s transparency and community engagement objectives.

  • US and Israel launch strikes on Iran, Tehran responds with regional atacks

    US and Israel launch strikes on Iran, Tehran responds with regional atacks

    In a significant escalation of Middle Eastern tensions, the United States and Israel executed a series of coordinated military operations targeting Iran in the early hours of Saturday. The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed that this large-scale offensive was the culmination of extensive joint strategic planning between the two allied nations. High-value targets reportedly included Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Ebrahim Raisi, and senior military command officials.

    U.S. authorities, speaking to CNN on condition of anonymity, indicated that the American campaign is projected to extend over several days with subsequent strikes already in preparation. Former President Donald Trump characterized the operation as both ‘massive and ongoing,’ while issuing a stark warning about potential American casualties. In a public address, Trump called upon Iranian citizens to ‘take over your government,’ alleging that Tehran had resumed efforts to reconstruct its nuclear capabilities following previous U.S. airstrikes that allegedly incapacitated critical infrastructure last summer. Iranian authorities have persistently denied these allegations, maintaining their nuclear program serves exclusively peaceful civilian purposes.

    Iran responded with immediate and forceful retaliation, launching an unprecedented barrage of missile and drone attacks against Israeli territory and American assets throughout the region. Security officials reported detonations across multiple nations including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Qatar, demonstrating the conflict’s rapid regional expansion beyond the initial belligerents.

    This exchange of offensive operations represents one of the most perilous military confrontations in recent history, generating grave concerns among international observers about the potential emergence of a broader regional war. Geopolitical analysts caution that multilateral involvement could severely destabilize the Persian Gulf region and potentially disrupt global energy markets due to the area’s crucial oil production and shipping lanes.

    The situation remains fluid with ongoing developments expected as military and diplomatic actions continue to unfold.