标签： Dominica

Growing environmental apprehensions surround the ongoing development of Dominica’s International Airport, with citizens and experts urging immediate governmental intervention. Former Chief Physical Planner Annie Edwards has emerged as a prominent voice demanding an immediate suspension of construction activities, citing severe ecological disruptions already observable in the Marigot region.

The primary environmental concern centers on significant sediment discharge into local river systems, transforming previously clear waterways into turbid, brown flows. Edwards warns this sedimentation phenomenon represents just the initial manifestation of broader ecological damage. Additional alarms have been raised regarding potential encroachment into legally protected forestry zones, suggesting possible violations of environmental preservation statutes.

This developing situation has sparked substantial public discourse, with media outlets initiating official polls to gauge citizen sentiment. The critical question posed to the public asks whether construction should be halted until all environmental compliance standards undergo thorough verification and are completely satisfied. These poll results, expected within fourteen days, are anticipated to influence governmental decision-making regarding the project’s continuation.

The controversy highlights the enduring tension between infrastructural development and environmental conservation, particularly significant for Dominica’s ecology-sensitive landscape. Public commentary continues to expand across various platforms as stakeholders await both official responses and comprehensive environmental impact assessments.

A significant environmental and legal confrontation is unfolding in Dominica as the United Workers Party (UWP) – Team Dominica forms a coalition with residents of Concord, the Kalinago Territory, and Marigot, alongside environmental experts and geologists. The alliance demands an immediate halt to quarrying operations at Deux Branche in Concord, condemning them as unlawful and ecologically devastating.

The UWP, in an official press release, detailed the extensive damage already inflicted, particularly on the Pagua River, which has suffered from severe sedimentation. This degradation has directly harmed local livelihoods, disrupting recreational uses, diminishing tourism prospects, and compromising traditional food sources for Concord communities.

Central to the dispute is a alleged violation of the nation’s Physical Planning Act. The party asserts the operation lacks the mandatory planning approval, directly contravening Section 17(1) of the legislation. This statute explicitly requires prior authorization from the Development and Planning Authority for any development, a category which includes quarrying activities contingent on a completed environmental impact assessment (EIA).

The UWP expressed profound disturbance over what it characterizes as a ‘blatant disregard’ for legal protocols, ostensibly justified by the international airport project and associated developments. These projects, the party contends, are generating substantial negative externalities and community stress spanning from Concord to Woodford Hill.

Emphasizing non-negotiable environmental safeguards, the UWP underscored the critical function of EIAs. These studies are designed to meticulously evaluate social, ecological, and economic ramifications, identify potential hazards, and prescribe mitigation measures. In certain scenarios, an EIA may conclude that a proposed location is fundamentally inappropriate for development due to insurmountable environmental risks.

A particularly alarming dimension of the controversy involves the quarry’s alleged encroachment into the Central Forest Reserve. This protected rainforest, established in 1952, constitutes a cornerstone of Dominica’s natural heritage. It acts as a refuge for rare species and unique ecosystems, protected under a suite of laws including the Forests Act, the Forestry and Wildlife Act, the National Parks and Protected Areas Act, and the National Forest Policy of 2022, all mandating conservation, sustainable management, and biodiversity protection.

In its concluding remarks, the UWP issued a direct appeal to the Roosevelt Skerrit administration, urging an immediate cessation of the current operation and the pursuit of an alternative site for quarrying where environmental and social impacts would be substantially mitigated.

The Kingshill community is grappling with profound grief following the untimely passing of Ken Joseph, widely known as ‘Ratin’, who died at age 43 in a weekend bicycle accident. The devastating incident has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community where Joseph served as both a inspirational youth sports coach and dedicated public servant.

Joseph’s multifaceted contributions to society extended across several domains. As a football coach for Kingshill and Newtown youth teams, he transcended conventional coaching roles by instilling core values of discipline, collaborative teamwork, and resilience in young athletes. His mentorship extended beyond the field, providing guidance that helped shape character and life trajectories.

In the political arena, Joseph brought his characteristic passion to the Roseau City Council, where he advocated for community strengthening initiatives and unity projects. His approach to public service was distinguished by genuine compassion, ethical leadership, and a steadfast belief in collective action for community betterment.

Beyond his formal roles, Joseph will be remembered for his exceptional personal qualities—his ever-present smile, unwavering encouragement, and unique ability to make every individual feel recognized and valued. His sudden absence creates a palpable void in community spaces from sports fields to council chambers.

The legacy he leaves behind serves as both a comfort and challenge to those who knew him: to continue supporting youth development, engaging in community service with compassion, and maintaining the interpersonal connections that Joseph so effectively nurtured throughout his purposeful life.

The Government of Dominica, through its Emergency Agricultural Livelihoods and Climate Resilience Project (EALCRP), will officially transfer approximately EC$1 million worth of agricultural equipment to local producers on December 10, 2025. The ceremony at the DAPEX Warehouse Facility marks a significant milestone in the nation’s ongoing efforts to climate-proof its agricultural sector.

As the EALCRP enters its final implementation phase, the project continues to support the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy in enhancing productivity nationwide. The event will showcase two critical initiatives funded through the Contingency Emergency Response Component: irrigation system distribution and beekeeping equipment provision.

Ninety-five farmers and agribusiness operators will receive comprehensive irrigation kits containing water tanks, pumps, and durable polyethylene piping. These systems are designed to promote climate-resilient farming practices and optimize water management strategies.

Concurrently, ten apiculture beneficiaries will obtain specialized beekeeping tools including honey extractors, hive components, wax melting vats, and filtration devices. This initiative aims to strengthen the honey production industry while increasing its climate adaptability.

Over the past five years, the EALCRP has facilitated over EC$80 million in investments across Dominica’s agricultural and fisheries sectors. This substantial funding has supported diverse initiatives ranging from crop and livestock inputs to fishing gear provision and vessel construction. Significant infrastructure projects including the National Abattoir, Citrus Certification Facility, and multiple fish landing sites have been modernized through this program, benefiting thousands of stakeholders across the agricultural value chain.

The December ceremony symbolizes the government’s sustained commitment to developing a climate-resilient agricultural economy. This approach emphasizes empowering local farmers, enhancing production systems, and safeguarding livelihoods against increasingly frequent climate-related challenges.

The Commonwealth of Dominica marked International Anti-Corruption Day on December 9 with a series of official ceremonies and recognition events organized by the nation’s Integrity Commission. This global observance traces its origins to the United Nations Convention against Corruption adopted on October 31, 2003, serving as an annual reminder of the continuous international battle against corrupt practices.

The 2025 commemorations commenced on December 8 with an Ecumenical Service and Awards Ceremony at Bethesda Methodist Church, held under the patronage of Honourable Rayburn Blackmoore, Minister for National Security and Legal Affairs. The event highlighted the Commission’s unwavering dedication to promoting principles of honesty, transparency, and accountability within public institutions.

A significant highlight of the ceremony involved President Sylvanie Burton presenting Compliance Awards to seven distinguished public officials. These recipients were honored for their sustained commitment and strict adherence to the standards outlined in the Integrity in Public Office Act, with many being among the longest-serving declarants who have maintained exemplary compliance throughout their careers.

In a special recognition, the Commission bestowed the Outstanding Service Award upon Mr. Julian Johnson, the inaugural Chairperson of the Integrity Commission. The accolade celebrated his exceptional leadership, unwavering integrity, and substantial contributions to public service during his tenure.

Looking ahead, the Commission announced plans for a Prize Giving Ceremony in January 2026 to honor winners of school competitions focused on anti-corruption themes. These educational initiatives, including essay, painting, and poetry contests organized under the theme “Uniting With Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,” represent the Commission’s proactive efforts to instill ethical values among Dominica’s younger generation.

The Commission’s concluding statement reinforced its commitment to fostering transparent governance and accountability structures throughout the Commonwealth of Dominica, emphasizing the collective responsibility shared by all citizens in supporting ethical conduct in public life.

The Newtown Youth Development Program (NYDP) has issued a moving tribute honoring the life and legacy of Ken “Ratin” Joseph, whose unexpected demise has created an profound emptiness within the Kingshill community. The 43-year-old met with a fatal bicycle collision on the evening of December 6th in proximity to the Ocean Edge Oasis Hotel.

Joseph was celebrated as far more than a Kingshill resident—he stood as a foundational pillar of strength, service, and inspiration. To countless young individuals, he was affectionately known as “Coach,” investing innumerable hours mentoring aspiring athletes on football fields. His coaching methodology extended well beyond athletic techniques; he embedded essential values of discipline, collaborative teamwork, and unwavering perseverance, actively steering youth toward more promising futures.

For the younger generation throughout Kingshill and Newtown, Joseph represented a consistent guiding force—an exemplary role model and a wellspring of motivation during both victorious moments and challenging times. Concurrently, he served with dedication on the Roseau City Council, channeling his profound community passion into tangible public service initiatives. Colleagues memorialize his relentless drive to enhance municipal unity, safety, and accessible opportunities for all citizens.

The NYDP, an organization committed to uplifting disadvantaged youth through athletic engagement and life skill development, characterized Joseph’s influence as genuinely transformative. He was remembered not merely as a coach or public official, but as an authentic friend who engaged others with radiant positivity, heartfelt encouragement, and an unmistakable personal presence that made everyone feel recognized and valued.

While Joseph’s absence resonates deeply across all facets of community life—from athletic grounds to governmental proceedings—the NYDP encourages residents to perpetuate his legacy by persistently supporting young people, administering kindness in service, and fostering mutual care within the community. The tribute concluded with shared condolences for his family, friends, and all who held him dear, expressing hope that comfort may be found in cherished memories, shared laughter, and the enduring impact of a purpose-driven life.

A brewing environmental crisis has engulfed Dominica’s ambitious international airport project, prompting former Chief Physical Planner Annie Edwards to demand an immediate suspension of all construction activities. Edwards warns that extensive quarrying and excavation operations in the Deux Branches area are causing severe ecological damage without proper preliminary studies.

The controversy has reached the highest levels of government, with Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit convening an emergency meeting today with ministry officials, developers, and contractors to address growing concerns from residents and environmental advocates across the island nation.

Edwards asserts that the project commenced on fundamentally flawed foundations, noting the apparent absence of completed essential assessments, including a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment. She points to visibly sediment-laden rivers in Marigot and surrounding regions, directly linking the ecological deterioration to widespread deforestation and land clearing at the quarry site.

“We are witnessing multiple rivers transforming from clear to turbid brown within an alarmingly short timeframe,” Edwards cautioned, further suggesting that operations may be infringing upon legally protected forestry zones in direct violation of the Forestry Act.

The former planner’s concerns reflect broader community anxieties. Residents from Concord, Stonefield, Pagua, and the Kalinago Territory report increasingly murky waters in the once-pristine Concord-Pagua River, with some experiencing skin irritations and noting significant declines in aquatic biodiversity. Local commentator Gary Auguiste poetically described the relentless sound of heavy machinery as “a river being broken down again,” highlighting fears that fragile ecosystems—including habitats of Dominica’s endangered national bird, the Sisserou Parrot—face irreversible disruption.

Critics further allege the project advances without proper permits, public hearings, or adequate community consultation, raising serious questions about governmental transparency and public trust. They contend that quarrying within a critical watershed area sacrifices long-term environmental security for short-term economic gain, warning of potential slope collapses, species displacement, and permanent ecological damage. The Kalinago chief has joined calls for an immediate suspension, while some speculate the valley’s mineral-rich soil may be targeted for purposes beyond mere construction materials.

Project developers MMCD and contractor CR5 have vigorously rejected these allegations as misinformation. They emphasize that a complete Environmental and Social Impact Assessment, along with ten Environmental, Social, Health, and Safety management plans, have been mandated and submitted for regulatory review under both the Physical Planning Act and World Bank standards. The companies highlight extensive community engagement initiatives since April, including door-to-door visits and public consultations, while insisting the quarry site operates outside protected areas and critical parrot habitats. They maintain sedimentation levels remain within natural variation parameters, with stringent control measures actively implemented.

Prime Minister Skerrit, following a site inspection on December 4, acknowledged environmental concerns while underscoring the project’s national significance. “All government agencies have roles to play in this process,” he stated, noting that forestry, environment, physical planning, and other departments would collaborate with developers to review documentation and expedite solutions. The Prime Minister emphasized the project’s importance in facilitating international aid, while affirming that mitigation and restoration practices could effectively reduce environmental impacts.

As Dominicans await the outcome of the high-stakes meeting, the controversy transcends infrastructure development to touch upon the very identity of the “Nature Island.” Whether the airport project ultimately represents a milestone of national progress or becomes synonymous with ecological degradation now hinges on decisions made in yesterday’s critical deliberations.