Carib Scope

标签： Dominica

多米尼克

  • CARICOM Chair emphasizes agriculture’s leadership role at launch of regional agricultural insurance in St Kitts and Nevis

    CARICOM Chair emphasizes agriculture’s leadership role at launch of regional agricultural insurance in St Kitts and Nevis

    ST. KITTS AND NEVIS – CARICOM Chairman and Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis, Dr. Terrance Drew, inaugurated the Regional Economical Agri-Insurance Programme (REAP) on Tuesday, March 17, positioning agricultural resilience at the forefront of regional development agendas. The initiative aims to safeguard Caribbean farmers and fishers against devastating financial losses caused by natural disasters.

    In his keynote address, Prime Minister Drew emphasized that agriculture must be central to national development strategies rather than marginalized as a secondary sector. “Agriculture is essential for building a resilient and sustainable island nation,” he stated, according to an official CARICOM release.

    The Prime Minister framed REAP as a testament to the value of regional cooperation, referencing the recent 50th Regular Meeting of CARICOM held in St. Kitts and Nevis. He explicitly addressed skeptics of the regional body: “St. Kitts and Nevis alone could not have done this. This is the value of CARICOM.”

    Dr. Drew highlighted the extreme vulnerabilities faced by agricultural producers, noting that a single catastrophic event could “wipe out millions of dollars in investment with no guarantee of compensation.” REAP establishes a safety net for registered farmers and fishers, providing risk mitigation guarantees that offer “ease of mind” and faster recovery following natural phenomena.

    The program primarily benefits crop farmers, livestock producers, and fishers, representing a fundamental step in strengthening the Caribbean’s agricultural sector. This marks the third launch of REAP following successful implementations in Guyana and Saint Lucia.

    The event featured remarks from St. Kitts and Nevis Agriculture Minister Hon. Samal Duggins, CARICOM Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Integration Dr. Wendell Samuel, and leadership from Lynch Caribbean Brokers Ltd. and National Caribbean Insurance.

    REAP advances the Caribbean’s 25×25+5 food security initiative, which aims to reduce regional food imports by 25 percent by 2030 through enhanced agricultural sustainability and disaster resilience.

  • PRESS RELEASE: CCJ remits matter to high court for reconsideration

    PRESS RELEASE: CCJ remits matter to high court for reconsideration

    In a landmark ruling with significant implications for Caribbean judicial procedures, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) has established a comprehensive framework for handling deficient statements of claim in civil litigation. The decision, delivered on March 17, 2026, stems from the case Harry Panday v Malcolm Panday and Deosaran David, originating from Guyana.

    The court’s reasoning addresses a longstanding partnership dispute between brothers Harry Panday (the Applicant) and Malcolm Panday (the First Respondent) concerning a judgment sum of USD 733,451 plus interest that Harry claims belongs to their partnership. The case had previously been struck out at multiple judicial levels—first by Guyana’s High Court, then upheld by both the full Court and Court of Appeal—due to insufficient particulars in the statement of claim.

    The CCJ’s groundbreaking approach, now termed the ‘Panday Approach,’ mandates that courts must first determine whether a pleading discloses a reasonable cause of action before considering striking it out. Crucially, the framework requires judges to conduct a balancing exercise considering multiple factors: effective use of judicial resources, proportionality, fairness to all parties, and the overriding objective of delivering justice.

    Justice Jamadar, delivering the judgment on behalf of the panel comprising Honourable Justices Barrow, Jamadar, Ononaiwu, Eboe-Osuji, and Bulkan, emphasized that cases should be determined on substantive merits rather than procedural technicalities whenever possible. The court found that lower courts had erred in law by failing to consider whether the Applicant should have been granted an opportunity to amend his Statement of Claim before dismissal.

    The ruling represents a significant shift in judicial philosophy toward more substantive justice rather than procedural technicalities, potentially affecting civil litigation practices throughout the Caribbean Community. The full judgment is available for legal professionals and scholars on the CCJ’s official website at www.ccj.org.

  • Voter confirmation is a prerequisite for casting ballot, says former gov’t minister

    Voter confirmation is a prerequisite for casting ballot, says former gov’t minister

    In a compelling address at a recent Town Hall Meeting hosted at Newtown Primary School, former Dominican government minister Ambrose George issued a critical public advisory regarding electoral participation. The seasoned politician emphasized the mandatory nature of voter confirmation procedures, warning constituents that incomplete registration could disenfranchise them in upcoming elections.

    George articulated with clarity that historical presence on voter rolls provides no guarantee of voting eligibility. “Merely having your name previously listed doesn’t authorize participation in future elections,” he stated during the gathering. The procedural requirement demands that all prospective voters undergo a formal confirmation process to appear on the official roster of confirmed electors—the only document permitting ballot access.

    The former minister outlined tangible consequences for non-compliance: “Arriving at polling stations without confirmed status constitutes wasted effort and lost opportunity.” He framed confirmation as essential to exercising fundamental democratic rights, enabling citizens to select both their preferred local representatives and national governance leadership.

    The confirmation protocol involves multiple verification stages: First, officials cross-reference applicants against the May 2025 voter registry. Subsequently, they validate witness registration within identical polling districts while reviewing supporting documentation. Participants must then complete and sign Form 31 under supervision of enrollment officers and witnesses.

    Finally, authorities photograph applicants and scan documents into electronic databases, with applicants verifying accuracy through dual-screen review systems. Successful applicants receive Form 32 receipts as confirmation of completed registration—the ultimate safeguard for electoral participation.

  • CARICOM Private Sector Organization commends the approval of the CARICOM Industrial Policy and Strategy

    CARICOM Private Sector Organization commends the approval of the CARICOM Industrial Policy and Strategy

    In a landmark development for Caribbean economic integration, the CARICOM Private Sector Organization (CPSO) has enthusiastically endorsed the newly ratified CARICOM Industrial Policy and Strategy (CIPS) 2035. The policy received formal adoption during the Fiftieth Regular Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government convened in St. Kitts and Nevis this past February.

    The CPSO, representing collective business interests across the region, characterizes CIPS 2035 as a transformative framework designed to propel industrial growth through private sector leadership. The comprehensive strategy outlines mechanisms for stimulating innovation ecosystems and fortifying inter-industry linkages throughout CARICOM member states. This coordinated architectural approach specifically targets enhanced positioning within global value chains, potentially elevating the region’s competitiveness in international markets for both goods and services.

    Notably, the CPSO played an instrumental role in the policy’s formulation through active participation in technical consultations and developmental dialogues. The organization facilitated crucial input from diverse business constituencies while collaborating with the CARICOM Secretariat, member state governments, and regional institutions to ensure the policy’s alignment with contemporary commercial realities and opportunities.

    Dr. Patrick Antoine, CPSO’s Chief Executive and Technical Director, identified the policy as a pivotal milestone for Caribbean economic development. “This represents a foundational advancement toward reinforcing our productive sectors and unleashing new potential for CARICOM enterprises,” Antoine remarked. He further emphasized the imperative of translating policy into concrete action, specifically advocating for the operationalization of the Competitiveness Council to strengthen regional supply networks, foster innovation, and enhance global market competitiveness.

    The organization additionally acknowledged the leadership of Suriname’s President within the CARICOM Quasi-Cabinet structure, recognizing the concerted governmental efforts that enabled the policy’s development and ultimate ratification. Looking forward, the CPSO reaffirmed its commitment to collaborative implementation with regional stakeholders to actualize the strategic objectives outlined in CIPS 2035, ensuring tangible economic outcomes across the Caribbean community.

  • UPDATE: Donald Michael Dorival charged with murder of Everton Sabin

    UPDATE: Donald Michael Dorival charged with murder of Everton Sabin

    Dominican authorities have formally charged Donald Michael Dorival with murder in connection with the death of Everton Sabin, a Bath Estate resident. The accused, an adult male from the Elmshall area, appeared at the Roseau Magistrate Court on March 17, 2026, where the capital charge was formally presented. Magistrate court proceedings resulted in Dorival’s remand to State Prison without entering a plea, as murder qualifies as an indictable offense within Dominica’s judicial system. The court has scheduled the preliminary inquiry commencement for June 29, 2026.

    According to official police reports, the investigation began when Sabin was discovered with critical injuries on March 14, 2026, in the Elmshall vicinity. Emergency responders transported the victim to Dominica-China Friendship Hospital for urgent medical intervention. Despite receiving comprehensive trauma care, Sabin succumbed to his injuries on March 15, 2026, prompting the homicide investigation.

    In a separate criminal development, law enforcement officials are investigating another homicide case involving Rasaan Griffith of Goodwill, who died on March 13, 2026. The prime suspect, identified as 32-year-old Anselm Florent from Castle Bruce, voluntarily surrendered to the Criminal Investigation Department on March 17, 2026. Florent remains in police custody as detectives continue their investigation into Griffith’s death.

  • Poetry and Jazz night celebration to honor the spirit of Edward Oliver LeBlanc

    Poetry and Jazz night celebration to honor the spirit of Edward Oliver LeBlanc

    Dominica prepares to celebrate the dual legacy of Edward Oliver LeBlanc—the nation’s final Chief Minister and inaugural Premier—through an innovative cultural fusion of poetry and jazz. A collaborative effort between Jungle Bay Resort, MAC Services Inc., the LeBlanc family, and the Alwin Bully Foundation Inc. will present a distinctive Poetry and Jazz Cocktail event on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 6 PM.

    The evening will feature the posthumous unveiling of LeBlanc’s recently published poetry collection, “Fragments of the Dawn,” offering attendees an intimate glimpse into the creative mind that simultaneously shaped both Dominican politics and literature. The event forms part of the prelude to Jazz Creole 2026, enhancing the festival’s cultural programming with profound literary significance.

    Young talents from Roseau’s secondary schools and performers from the theatrical production “STREAK” will conduct poetry readings alongside live musical accompaniment from Dominica’s premier jazz musicians. This interdisciplinary approach aims to bridge artistic mediums while honoring LeBlanc’s multifaceted contributions to national development.

    Organizers emphasize the statesman’s previously private poetic vocation, which powerfully articulated the experiences of Dominican farmers, fishermen, and workers. His verses, now recognized as foundational to the nation’s cultural identity, reflected the same principles of humility, integrity, and devotion that characterized his political leadership.

    The event encourages business casual attire incorporating national colors. Tickets, priced at EC$150.00, are exclusively available in advance at Jay’s Bookstore and Jungle Bay Resort, with no door sales permitted. Net proceeds will support the Alwin Bully Foundation’s ongoing mission to advance arts, culture, and educational initiatives across Dominica.

  • Three CARICOM Competition Commissioners recently sworn in

    Three CARICOM Competition Commissioners recently sworn in

    In a significant advancement for Caribbean regional governance, the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission (RJLSC) has inaugurated three new commissioners to the CARICOM Competition Commission (CCC). The swearing-in ceremony, presided over by RJLSC Chairman Honourable Mr. Justice Winston Anderson on March 13, 2026, marks a pivotal step in strengthening the framework of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME).

    The newly appointed commissioners—Mr. David Miller of Jamaica, Ms. Ayiesha De Coteau Sammy of Trinidad and Tobago (resident in the Virgin Islands), and Mr. Joel Allen of Jamaica—were formally sworn in pursuant to the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. Their induction signifies the region’s commitment to enforcing fair market practices, protecting consumer rights, and enhancing economic cooperation among member states.

    The event garnered notable regional attention, with the presence of Virgin Islands Premier Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, underscoring the political significance of the appointments. Addresses were delivered by key figures including Justice Anderson, who emphasized the critical responsibilities of the new commissioners, and Professor Andrew Downes, Chairman of the CCC, who highlighted the necessity of robust competition policy for regional integration. Premier Wheatley also expressed his support, wishing the appointees success in their new roles.

    The RJLSC congratulated the commissioners and affirmed confidence in their ability to contribute effectively to the development and implementation of competition law within the CARICOM community.

  • CARPHA convenes regional stakeholders for antimicrobial resistance partnership meeting

    CARPHA convenes regional stakeholders for antimicrobial resistance partnership meeting

    PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad and Tobago – The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) convened a landmark regional summit in early March 2026, mobilizing international health organizations to address the escalating crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) throughout the Caribbean region. Held at CARPHA’s headquarters, this strategic gathering united key global health partners to coordinate a reinforced defense against one of modern medicine’s most pressing challenges.

    The high-level meeting, orchestrated by the UK Department of Health and Social Care with financial backing from the Fleming Fund, served as a critical juncture for evaluating current progress and aligning future strategies. Participants included senior representatives from the UK Health Security Agency, the International Centre for Antimicrobial Resistance Solutions, and the Pan American Health Organization/WHO, creating a multidisciplinary coalition against AMR.

    CARPHA’s Executive Director Dr. Lisa Indar underscored the gravity of the situation, stating: ‘Antimicrobial resistance presents a severe and escalating danger to Caribbean health security. Our collaborative partnerships are essential for building regional capabilities to detect, monitor, and counter AMR through coordinated, sustainable approaches.’

    The technical discussions focused on four pivotal areas: enhancing regional laboratory networks, advancing integrated AMR surveillance systems, developing healthcare workforce competencies, and identifying opportunities for combined technical and financial assistance to member states. These conversations addressed specific regional vulnerabilities including limited laboratory infrastructure, professional staffing shortages, and the transnational spread of drug-resistant infections.

    Looking forward, CARPHA and its partners announced plans to expand regional initiatives through broader laboratory services, improved data exchange protocols, and implementation of the One Health framework that interconnected human, animal, and environmental health sectors. The conclusions from this summit will directly influence future investments under the Fleming Fund and other global health security programs, ensuring sustained advancement toward regional resilience against antimicrobial resistance.

  • PM Skerrit: ‘Nobody’ in the country will stop the completion of the airport

    PM Skerrit: ‘Nobody’ in the country will stop the completion of the airport

    Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has emphatically declared that Dominica’s long-awaited international airport will reach completion by December 2027, dismissing what he characterizes as deliberate attempts to obstruct the landmark infrastructure project. The announcement came during a recent Town Hall assembly at Newtown Primary School, where Skerrit addressed growing public interest in the development timeline.

    Reflecting on historical context, the Prime Minister noted that multiple administrations since the Frank Baron and E.O. LeBlanc eras had pursued—yet failed to achieve—the construction of an international airport for the Caribbean nation. He specifically referenced former Prime Minister Dame Mary Eugenia Charles’ unsuccessful attempts, acknowledging her determination while emphasizing the project’s historical challenges.

    Skerrit revealed unprecedented financial preparations behind the current initiative, disclosing that his government had systematically saved $5 million monthly toward an International Airport Development Fund. By the time Hurricane Maria struck in 2017, this dedicated account had accumulated approximately $260 million—sufficient funds to fully finance the airport without future debt obligations for Dominican citizens. The catastrophic hurricane necessitated reallocation of these resources toward national recovery efforts.

    The Prime Minister strongly criticized project opponents, suggesting they predominantly comprise retired individuals or citizens with children residing overseas. He asserted that those seeking to impede progress have diminished stakes in Dominica’s long-term development. Currently, over 100 Dominican workers are employed at the construction site, representing tangible economic benefits already emerging from the project.

    Despite operating in what he described as ‘the most difficult period’ for such undertakings, Skerrit remained resolute about the 2027 deadline, positioning the airport as critical infrastructure that would transform Dominica’s connectivity and economic prospects for generations to come.

  • Grenada’s Ministry of Agriculture acknowledges IICA’ role in supporting growth of agricultural sector

    Grenada’s Ministry of Agriculture acknowledges IICA’ role in supporting growth of agricultural sector

    Grenada’s agricultural sector has entered a new era of institutional collaboration with the inauguration of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture’s (IICA) shared office space with the Partnership Initiative for Sustainable Land Management (PISLM). The ceremony, attended by senior government officials and regional representatives, marks a significant advancement in Caribbean agricultural cooperation.

    Minister of Agriculture, Lands and Forestry Honorable Lennox Andrews emphasized the strategic importance of physical presence for international partners during his address. “When our partners are here, accessible and integrated, collaboration becomes easier, coordination improves, and implementation is accelerated,” Andrews stated. The minister explicitly rejected viewing international organizations as external actors, instead characterizing them as “integral partners in achieving our national agricultural objectives.”

    The minister articulated a vision of regional self-reliance, noting that while international partnerships remain valuable, Caribbean nations must increasingly “look within – to our own institutions, our own technical capacity, and our own regional networks – to craft solutions that are suited to our realities.” This approach comes at a time when geopolitical pressures make regional strategies increasingly necessary.

    Three concrete projects demonstrate the practical implementation of this partnership:

    The Water Resource Management and Improved Irrigation initiative, developed with Global Water Partnership-Caribbean, will provide water access to 25 farmers managing 75 acres in La Poterie through dam construction and four miles of pipeline infrastructure.

    A Seamoss Drying Facility and Packaging House in La Calome, primarily funded by the Food and Agriculture Organization, will establish three drying structures and include grinding equipment for powdered seamoss production.

    A planned Memorandum of Understanding between IICA Grenada, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Rural Development Unit aims to strengthen organizational and technical capabilities within the apiculture sector through the Grenada Association of Beekeepers.

    Gregg Rawlins, IICA’s Eastern Caribbean States representative, characterized the office opening as “a new chapter in the story of IICA in Grenada” that builds upon 45 years of service to the agricultural sector. The organization’s technical cooperation has consistently focused on enhancing agricultural resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability through strategic institutional partnerships.

    Technical Specialist Gregory Delsol detailed IICA’s comprehensive approach, encompassing capacity building, value chain strengthening, and initiatives in agricultural health and food safety. These include African Swine Fever preparedness programs, EU-funded SPS projects, support for MSME trade readiness, territorial development programs, family farming initiatives, and research in white potato cultivation.

    The new facility at #594 Concordia House, Archibald Avenue, St. George’s also serves as PISLM headquarters, reinforcing institutional commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience across the Caribbean region.

    Dr. Ronen Francis, PISLM Executive Director, framed the inauguration as representing “institutional maturity, political confidence and a decisive step forward for Caribbean cooperation on land, soil and climate resilience,” signaling a transformative moment in regional agricultural development.