Whilst time and space through this medium is a premium, I wish however to congratulate all of us the people of Dominica on yet another occasion of celebrating our political independence.
Thirty-two years ago on November 3, 1978, Dominica severed its political links with Great Britain and assumed controlled of its affairs among the independent nations of the world.
I remember sneaking away from home to join the thousands of Dominicans who came to the Windsor Park where the Union Jack was lowered for the last time and replaced by our own. Should I call it the “Sisserou Standard”? For some this was the end of political marginalization by a mother country and the beginning of “being in charge”. For others this was ill-timed as those who held on to the reins of power were not properly equipped to deal with the challenges of a small poor developing state.
There were three major speeches that night. The leader of Opposition did not mince her words nor did the Premier/Prime Minister. They were both scathing in their remarks directly principally at defending individual turf. Princess Margaret, the Queen’s representative, also delivered Her Majesty’s address as Dominica’s “umbilical cord” was detached from the Mother Country.
In the intervening years, Dominica has had its fair share of challenges to survive. As an ardent follower and participant of things developmental in Dominica, I have witnessed firsthand what we can truly call difficulty moments (politics, economics, natural disasters, social dysfunction) in our history. Conversely we have seen the hand of God in every conceivable way leading our country day after day in a manner that we are not deserving of. No one can truly say that Dominica has not made strides since we took that first step on our own. To put it mildly much has been achieved. Yes! We could have achieved more, but we have achieved nevertheless.
In the area of defending and protecting our democracy, we stand head and shoulders above many. Our people have understood in large measure what it is to be free. Some may argue – too free indeed. By way of education development, there is no denying the fact that great strides have taken place in our educational development thrust. And whilst some may wish to find fault in our present state, there is every reason to be joyful and thankful. The announced policy of achieving one university graduate in every home by 2015 may sound a bit ambitious, but it is a good one. The evidence suggest that we are well on our way with the State College coming into being and the record number of students pursuing tertiary education at institutions of higher learning around the world.
Consider the advances in communication. There was a time when we were told that cell phones cannot work on Dominica, given its ruggedness. Granted, Dominica’s topography is unlike many of its neighbours. But when we see the work that has gone into bringing cell phones services into virtually all of Dominica, we all can be justifiably proud. I also remember the days (1980’s) when we paid $7.00 a minute to call the U.K. See how far we have come? That is why I take with a grain of salt the partisan comments from certain nay sayers who advanced the view that it is so unsafe to land at Melville Hall Airport on Runway 29. Whilst the technology for assisting the aircraft to land safely may not be available just now at the airport, it is in fact possible to acquire the equipment and to facilitate the opening up of Melville Hall Airport after sunset. Only the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviations Authority expertise can convince me otherwise. I am certain that if it was not technically possible they would have indicated so a long time ago. In fact they would not have granted the O.K for the inaugural flight last September.
Back in the days when we stepped forward to face bravely the challenges of political independence, we depended on television service from Barbados. At Pointe Cachacrou (Scotts Head) we had the massive transmitter towers which relayed programs from Barbados a few hours a day, mostly in the evenings. It was Hurricane David in 1979 that laid waste the repeater towers. It took a few years later for television to resurface, still limited to the urban areas of Dominica.
That sector too has experienced rapid changes. Today we boast of unlimited hours of hours of service (news, entertainment, sports business etc) right in the palm of our hands as we travel or go about our daily lives. No longer do we burn the midnight oil, straining our ears listening to commentaries from a live cricket match – “down under”. We now sit in the comfort of our living rooms and are able to appreciate the athleticism not only of local sporting heroes (Shane Shillingford and Billy Doctrove) as they perform on the world stage, but indeed we are able to witness the exploits of the Brian Laras, Ricky Pontings, Shane Warne, Mura, the Sri Lankan “spin maestro”, the Williams sisters, Usain Bolt etc as these unfold before our very eyes. Yes! Dominica has made great progress. Not that we have arrived at all, but we have made significant forward movement.
Back then we still depended on the Princess Margaret Hospital and the satellite clinics at Grand Bay, Marigot and Portsmouth as the main and regional centers for managing our health problems. The number of medical practitioners was limited. The specializations were few and far in between. Happily, not too long ago, a former Minister of Health went on the record to state that there were too many medical doctors here and that government was exploring the possibility of sending some of them overseas for specialized training and relieving the rest of their scholarship bond to pursue their goals outside this jurisdiction. Our medical service today is a far cry from what was obtained back then in 1978.
We can continue across the board to identify and list so many other achievements. Consider for example our physical development. Every ruling party since independence has sought to make their own mark in developing and improving the country’s infrastructure. From buildings (banks, Financial Centre), communications (cruise ship berths, airports) roads and bridges, sea defense works among an impressive list of projects. Sadly so, successive ruling parties, when in opposition has bitterly criticized the infrastructural program of the then ruling party as too much infrastructure and not enough personal development. Prime Eugenia Charles who worked hard to restore the country’s battered infrastructure bore the brunt of that criticism. Because she did not have a proper public relations response, to counteract such a campaign, her efforts at building the country’s roads, bridges, buildings etc were nullified and her party was humiliated in the 1995 general elections. In their turn at the “batting crease’ though, the succeeding government embarked on its own program of infrastructure development.
We turn to education. What about the scores of young and not so young Dominicans who have benefitted from government’s assistance to pursue further education at institutions of higher learning here and overseas?. Every conceivable area or profession, with few exceptions, applicable to a small developing country with very limited resources has been targeted. Today one can find a Dominican in nearly every area of the professional world. Where ever they may be, as nationals they have always credited their initial training and development to Dominica. A pity more of our professionals do not turn back on the land that nurtured them. On many occasions you find those who do turn back, seemingly get so nauseated with their successes that they often times speak down on those of us who were unfortunate not to walk the hallowed portals of a university, not because we do not possess the academic ability, but more often than not, because of economics. In 1978 support for education was limited to a few individuals, the island scholar etc. In the 1980’s, government’s program of support for education was revolutionized when many more young people left Dominica to pursue higher education opportunities overseas.
In the area of politics, whilst we have a long way to go, in terms of how we relate to each other even with our divergent views, we can take pride in how we have succeeded in managing our own political affairs. Very early in our life as an independent state and still recovering from the celebration of “political emancipation” our local politics was thrown into certain disarray when the government was removed from office by a popular people’s uprising a mere seven months later. We were forced to learn on the move. A new government was sworn in and as a nation we matched ourselves back to the polls, to elect a new government and restore democracy as history would have recorded. We have had eight Presidents, seven Prime Ministers and seven general elections since independence. We have changed from one government and head of state to another with an ease comparable to any of the “big countries”. That is an achievement on its own.
The shortcomings in the system, whatever that is, do require review after three decades, but the long and short of it all is that the system has worked for us whether you end up as a winner or a loser. In recent times much ado (mostly partisan) has been said about the authenticity of the electoral process. Interestingly the system has been found wanting (criminally it is alleged) where there are losers and endorsed wholeheartedly in full where there are winners.
Natural disasters such as hurricanes have become integral to the annual challenges for us. Hurricane David in 1979 led the list of devastating hurricanes to “blow” over Dominica. We can also speak to Hurricane Allen in 1980, and later Hugo, Marylyn, Lenny, Dean and co. In one month, in 1995, we had three of them in three weeks. Each successive hurricane has left its mark either on our landscape, economy or emotions and psyche.
Despite the setbacks and disappointments along the way, I make bold to advance the view that Dominica has made significant strides in its development path. We are not there as yet. There is still a long way to go, but we can take pride in our achievements as a nation. Because of partisan politics, some it calculatedly, some of us might have lagged or left behind, but the nation as a whole has made certain strides. My personal efforts at pursuing further education in the mid to late 1990’s, suffered immensely. My only sin is my past association with “mamos” party back in my youthful years. Do I regret being part of the merry gang of young freedom fighters then? For the sake of education advancement? Yes! The rest I’ll answer in the stillness of my thought processes.
Partisan politics in its cruellest form could be considered Dominica’s number one enemy. This was true back in 1978. Without a doubt, it also existed in the intervening years. Today the ugly head of purely partisan agendas is threatening to rock the very foundations of what has made Dominica what it is.
Imagine, for partisan, political expediency, we are now finding fault with every national and state institutions that have disagreed with the positions we have taken on current happenings. Our institutions helped build and develop Dominica in good times and bad times. Some of us were left crying and angry, whilst others were happy and comfortable. But it has served us and continues to serve us well – nonetheless.
There are indeed solid indications that there’s a bright light down the tunnel. Should we curse it or light a candle? I wish all of us, the people of Dominica well.
@Carlty: LET ME TELL U “BASE” POINT OF VIEW IS JUST WELL WRITTEN, JUST AS DAT ARTICLE HE MAKE US UNDERSTAND HIS POINT OF VIEW, AND DAT IS WHAT DAT HAPPENIN IN DA, NO BODY DNT LIKE TO SEE THE THRUCH, HE IS SO RIGHT! HE JUST COME TO FINISH WAT THIS ARCLE HAS FORGOTTEN DAT IS ALL,!!!! WELL SAID ”BASE” WELL SAID!
@Princess:
Dominica is a beautiful country. There is nothing wrong with it as any country. People make up a country and some of them can spoil it for others.
Lest we forget. There is not much to exult about. Sad to say and sadly reminded, prior to achieving independence there was a lot of violence in Dominica which resulted in name calling, lack of peace and love, hatred, injuries and death, the latter if I recall. It also included burning down the Court House and Registrar. A lot of important records as birth certificates were burnt and could not be salvaged.
In my estimation, this violence though past should never have occurred. Similar violence occurs during an election every four years. Some people have not learned “free to agree or disagree” amicably.
As news is broadcasted, it gives law-abiding Dominicans, those who reside overseas and non-Dominicans abroad a poor reflection of Dominica. No exception, democratic governments of other countries, who may be willing to assist Dominica may not do so due to the extent of violence at such times.
The trouble makers caused the reputation of Dominica and its good people to be tarnished and which could leave a bad mark on Dominica. This has also put a bad taste in our mouths, so-to-speak. It makes others wonder, can they not do anything and achieve anything peacefully?
Nevertheless, I wish Dominicans a happy, enjoyable and peaceful Independent Day and celebration.
Mr. Charles, I must commend you on a job well done in articulating this perspective. Believe it or not, of all the PMs we have had, they all had/have strong points as well as weak points – and we will always have supporters of either side. And this is what we are seeing here in this forum…
We can stay all day long comparing D/ca to St. Lucia or Bdos, but that will not bring us to a better state. What Dominican leaders have failed to realize, as one person pointed out, is that we have always been on the ‘bad’ side of development because of our topography… mountainous, wet, little/no white sand beaches. This is what the rest of the Caribbean is known for – and why, for the major part, developoment has paraded their way.
It is time that Dominicans solve Dominica’s problems with Dominican solutions – ie take what we have and make it the envy of the world. We cannot have all these white sand beaches, but we have mountains, rivers… well, get developments around those that will for one, make us unique, generate unlimited demand for our products and bring us unprecedented development. Since Dominica faces challenges unlike most of our Caribbean neighbors, Dominicans need to think outside the box to solves its challenges.
If we think Dominica should be the market, then we need to create the market. For ex, had we not created the World Creols Music Festival, there would be no increased demand to come to Dca for independece celebrations. But look what has happened. If we create something unique and in demand, they will come… to our shores.
First a few things… Dominica must realize that development breeds development. If investors see we invest in our infrastructure, they are more likely to invest with us. Too, we must also set a business-friendly climate – easily attainable permits, registration for businesses, streamlined gov’t processes, lower fees for businesses, etc. Gov’t needs to realize if you make entry easier, on the back end they will more than make up for it thru payroll taxes, business taxes, business expenditures, increased revenue from VAT, and the list goes on.
We must minimize the partisan bickering – and focus on nation building.For example, the Opposition should oppose just for their name’s sake… it must be tempered, deliberative and for the good of the country. Leaders must realise that their voices don’t remain in Dominica anymore, but thru the internet, etc is heard around the world almost instantly. This can have profound effect of potential investors.
Lastly, DOminicans must believe in themselves… the human capacity to do. ‘I CAN’ are the last four letters in DOMINICAN. We can do it. I see the only difference in developing country like D/ca and other advanced countries is…. attitude. We must believe that we can do it. And work hard to do it. So productivity must increase if we are to erase our national debt and negative balance of trade. The Ministers of Trade should be busy scouting the globe speaking to companies, countries about setting up shop in Dominica. Our country shold be busy preparing our people for such development. Why can’t we pursue all these companies from the US who are looking to other far-flung countries to sep up, when we are right here in their front yard? And why is it that Dominica only exports $2.5 miilion worth of goods to the US – even when we have preferential treatment under the Caribbean Basin Initiative? We are just not doing enough to get our products into US markets …
There’s much more we could address, but we have come a long way, and definitely have way to go. We need to get to the point where folks should be flown INTO DOminican for medical care… not flown out. Let’s get to that point.
Let’s work hard Dominica. We need to support and encourage those in goverment now instead of beating them down. Skerritt and the DLP isn’t perfect, but if we can recommend what they need to do to serve us better, just maybe, they may listen…
@SAY WHAT?: In replty to the Blogger SAY WHAT I say, his comment is symtomatic of all Un Patriotic Dominicans, he is raging mad because the article states that our Primary Health Care is the best in the world, Granted, even if it was not the best isn’t it the prerogative of all Non Partisan Patriotic Dominicans to praise and hightlight their country’s achievement. Has he ever spoken to a Bajan , Bajans think that Barbados is Eden on Earth
We ask the rhetorical question “Arent we a Democracy” thank God for that , because had it been the other way , just for posting that critcal blog he would have been dragged from his hiding place TARED & FEATHERED.
Let us see some positive instead of all that negative Partisan Un patriotic vitriol
The commentator who referred to Ronald Charles as an “idiot” for reporting that Dominica’s primary health care system” was and still is the envy of the world must make a simple telephone call to Geneva and ask Dr. Carissa Ettienne, a Dominica medical luminary, about Dominica’s Primary health Care system. That is all he needs to do.
Ronald did not say the “medical service as a whole”. He said “primary health” but missed out on the “care”. Of course we have a long way to go. In any event there are a number of Dominicans who have left New York and elsewhere and return to Dominica for cheaper health care. If they were not satisfied with the quality of service then they would either spent the tens of thousands or simply stay and waste. There was a time when a rock fell on a young lady’s head under the Solomon cliffss and rendered her almost a “vegetable”. It was in Dominica’s health care system and some excellent health care professionals who worked to stabilize her condition, provided the primary emergency care, before referral overseas which ensured that she survived. I am told that she is now a graduate or is attending university – years after Dominica’s health care system rescued her.
Two years ago a truck load of tourists ran off the road in Castle Comfort. All passengers on board (mostly Americans) were badly injured. It was Dominica’s health care system that provided the initial care before they were airlifted to better facilities and more specialized treatment in the US. The commnedations for our medical sevice and health care providers by the receiving mediacl institution in the US said and says alot about our health system. That is progress.
Seemingly some would prefer that we remained in the dark ages. How pathetic. Dominicans we have done well, we could have done better. let us therefore commit ourselves to work for an improvement – a significant one at that. Never mind those who prefer that there were no strides.
Well,..I guess we can all agree to agree,or,to disagree (L.o.L.)….But in the mist of all that,i would like to add, yes; Independence should be our People’s greatest achievement over the last 32 years. There is not a more valuable achievement than”Independence” for any Nation…But,we must examine our Country’s social conditions and economic situation, and also the People’s Freedom, then ask ourselves some basic questions…..
(1)….Have we truly recognized the value of “Independence”?..(because if not,we will never see any significant achievements without realizing its value).
(2)….Have we squandered the opportunities of ‘Independence”?…(what do you think?..)
(3)….Are we producing the means of our subsistence?…..
(4)…..Are People..(.well, strike that.)…Are the elite of our society,afraid of our Govt.? (is this a fair question?).
(5)Does the Govt. in turn,love, and care for the People?…
(6)….Is there any social injustice which will hamper Dominica’s development?…
(7)…..Is Dominica governed by a Political Party that is interested in the interest of the Political Party and its friends,…or that of Dominica and its People?…..( is that a fair and valid question?…,remember,I am just asking.)….
(8)…..And lastly,(but not the least)….Are we as a Country and a People, better off today,than We were 30 years ago?.
What do you my fellow Dominicans think….Can we truthfully and honestly give genuine and honest answers to these valid questions…..Please,..what do you think……
Thank you…..
All the best to you……and….May GOD bless and protect beautiful Dominica and its People….
Profound Peace!!,…to all….
MANCHAT!!!!
Just to acknowledge the tremendous response on and off line for the piece. I am indeed bouyed by solid the support, but also a bit fuzzled at the extent to which certain elements would continue to deny what is for all, the obvious. But it is their right so to do. I alsohave my right to associate politically and I have never hidden that fact. The challenges in my life would indicate that I suffered greatly for opinions and positions I held.
I also find some support in some of the comments even if the writers did not share my view in its entirety. That is part of the development process I am referring to. To be able to hold divergent views and be unafraid to express oneself.
My friend Grotius, whether you like it or not that is a form of development. One which many countries wished they had. I am afraid it will take much more than your online comments to stop me. You would have sensed that I am unafraid of the devil. I believe in the power of the most high.
@Chief: Interesting point Chief~ Well I guess it’s a good thing they left us ‘last kaka-wat’ because now we have all that unspoiled beauty people are paying thousands to come to see. If we didn’t have so may corrupt political figures, maybe the island’s people would benefit more from the natural beauty.
$7 a minute to call England!!! I’d speak like I was at an auction! Glad to see we’ve come a long way technologically…compared to back then.
THis is a Labour party article…
Dominica may be celebrating 32 yers of independence from Great Britain, but it will never be independent from ignorance.
Why do Dominicans waste so much time and energy on the same things year in year out.
DLP are criminals/UWP are stupid etc. It does not matter which party is in power. Dominicans will allways be unsatisfied/grudgeful people.
It has taken 32 years to get this far. I say SHAME on you Dominicans.
Stop comparing what other islands have achieved and think what Dominica CAN achieve.
Dominicans please clean up your act (as well as your island). Stop banging on about the villas
and worry about child abuse/crime and other more important social matters.
Lets look upwards and onwards, and not in the past.
They say that Dominicans are proud people, lets start showing it.
While everyone is enjoying our 32 years, wether it was sweet or sour do’nt forget it was Mr Patrick
JOHN WHO LED dOMINICA INTO INDPENDANT FROM ENGLAND, SO BEAR IN MIND OF THAT AND GIVE CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE REGARDLESS OF WHAT HAPPENS WE HAVE TO RESPECT THAT AND GIVE THE MAN SOME RESPECT THANK YOU,
“……. there’s a bright light down the tunnel. Should we curse it……?
No!! Let it burn into a raging fire of social and physical development. This writer is looking towards a brighter future for the country while others keep their curse and evil spirit hovering over our heads. Let’s come together in these critical times to uplift the country and its people and to stop the “put down” and evil curse. Long live Dominica as a free nation!! May God continue to guide and bless our people!
It’s a great article but lets not pretend that it did not come from a place of political bias.
@RC: WAIT A FRIGGING MINUTE,YOU TAKING THIS A BIT TOO FAR…STOP!.”.our primary health system which Ronald did not mention is the envy of the world”, ???…..Are you serious?…or just hallucinating?..You must be a mad man…
Where have you been,have you traveled the world?
I am challenging you to back this outrageous claim with data..Now!…What the heck is wrong with some of you people?…..You are taking your propaganda a bit too far.
……Aren’t we a Democracy…..or maybe you don’t know what this means?
I am too upset to read the rest of your comment..then again i will spare myself from the contamination,and the aggravation…… YOU IDIOT!!!!!!
We keep talking about coming together and working for the good of the country but the question where do we start and even better yet how do we start. The problem is we like to get back at each other, we harbour grudges, and we dont forgive. We just wait our turn to burn on thosr who burnt us. That means that our level of civilization is still in the stone age.
That is why Mandela is a great man. He stopped the hate or at least he did not lash back at those who jailed him for 27 years. He was smart enough to know that that there must be reconciliation for there to be peace. That is what we need in DA. Too much grudges being perpetuated that go back before so may of us were born.
If we dont the next generation will be on DNO cussing out each other. Twenty years after the coup attempt the trinees are looking to peace and reconciliation. Its time we mature 32 years is approaching old age.
@gwen: The writer was only expressing opinions. Very little evidence to substantiate his claims. It is obvious that the country has made strides and we will always think that more could be done. What i dont get is where you calling Mr James names. It was he who lead the banana industry from crisis to recovery and handed the freedomites a 1985 re-election. he did not apply for the job the funding agencies told the dame that she needed his expertise or she would not get the money to resusitate the ailing industry.All you need to post things that people can learn from and not get petty.
It is a fact that the dame abandoned melville hall in favour of canefield. She and the doh doh brain both were of the view that melville hall was inadequate for expansion. That is why she wanted to build an international airport. So they have that in common.
This government took the easy way out it is as simple as that.All this hate u spew is of no use. What u need to do is reply and tell us where the uwp as a government failed.
Ronald Charles – how are you, man? I saw the photo, then your name & then I enjoyed your writing. Hope you are well & hope to see you soon. W had many “happy” worry days together. We were kids, but our efforts were for the land we love. Good luck.
dominicans to me have a kinda of attitude maybe if they believed inthe Lambs Bread they would better deal with issues…..
what strikes me as being highly foolish about Dominicans they are so star struck in terms if the fancy someone or some idol they clinch onto that for dear life even though its a fake or smoke screen even the so call intelligent and Pros have dropped the bar so damm low its amazing!
and on top of that Dominicans bath,sleep eat,pray educate and work in a highly level of ignornace its a massive shame to the rest of the caribbean islands…
These folks in Dominica if something is steering they dead wrong in the face even the so called spirtual leaders bishops etc blind the people just because of the getting monies its a damm shame..
maybe they should isolate dominica when it comes to caribbean intergrity….these folks are just way to damm proud of being ignorant its a damm shame!!
@Towards Economic Independence: You’ve summed up everything I have been saying for the longest time now. I hope Dominicans take note sooner rather than later.
Dominica should have kept the Queen as Head of State like the rest of the OECS. Wonder why we had attempted coups, Bird Island stolen, wannabe dictators in power; because they smell the weakness and takes advantage of Dominicans. The OECS is the only thing between Dominica and the sharks, long live the OECS.
This is a well written piece with some really good points that we as Dominicans should ponder. I do not see the need for the attacks and the politiking. Articles like these is what we need as a nation so let us all be positive and work together to build our nation. All the negativity please hold your comments and don’t spoil this positive discourse. Great Article Mr. Charles, indeed we have made progress and there is HOPE.
lets get this right, here folks. we all need to respect the opinion(s) of each other. one of our problems is vision; this writer makes a lot of sense and to say that he/she is stupid tells me that whoever makes such statement is quite naive.
i really love and admired the way the writer expressed him/herself in this article; now what we need to do is to ask ourselves what can i do to make or create an impact in society that will bring about change. lets embrace the vision of making our country productive and stop complaining that Barbados and St. Lucia is way ahead; get your ideal minds up and stop sitting on your blessed assurances and do something!!!
great article but a saying goes ‘no one man can be unbiase’,,,the writer took jabs at the u.w.p at least 3 times,,,,i too young (was 10 in 95) to know workers criticized mamo’s development initiatives but i do know labour said “development doesn’t matter,,is corrupt they corrupt” so i suppose the writer should have given labour a jab also,,,,,but i like the article overall,,,the writer was a freedomite hence the photo of mamo the iron lady,,,i’ll never forget in portsmouth 1990,,,i was 5yrs i went to the freedom rally with my parents,,,,n mamo was crying on stage while talking next day in class grade 1 calibishie school,,,all my class mates was talking bout wat they saw or heard,,,i was 5 n still remember that so indeed i have alot of respect for mamo,,,,but the writer could have inserted a photo of our first prime minister the hon. patrick john,,,,let’s give the man his flowers while he dere,,,i have understood that he was mislead,,,even some hard labourites n workers already admit to me,,,mr. john was a good leader,,,i had the chance to ask mr john if he would write a book,,,,he told me many people b4 has asked him that question n his thinking of it,,,,,well mr. john i’m waiting on ur book sir,,,,i believe so much of our political history has remain hidden,,,,Mamo is dead,,so is Rosie n Michael,,,,but please for love of our country,,i’d like to see,,,mr savarin,,,mr john…mr james and other stalwarts of the political movement have an open dialogue, lets bring some closure to some issues,,,,is that too much to ask for?????
@physicse: ask eddie y we don’t have an international airport ……………..remember he told his people don’t let Mamo them cut down thier fig trees
Development, Dominica has more taxes, more crime, more corruption in Government, a more difficult life, than it did 32 years ago, the only thing that has remained from 32 years ago is our allegiance to a foreign power before 1978 it was Britain, 2010 it is China.
Nice article. Despite its many challenges a small nation state with limited resources like Dominica has seen some levels of development, although not as much as the other islands.
We must remember that in colonial times Dominica was, to use local parlance, the “last kaka rat” in the eyes of the competing colonizers because they saw no value in this rough mountainous island. Hence while resources were being poured into the other island colonies, Dominica received very little and the other colonies were always ahead. So from a historical perspective Dominica was always behind developmentally because of this.
One of the critical errors of leadership in Dominica and which has set back the island tremendously was the failure of diversifying the economy from banana to something else. The idea of diversifying the economy was floating around since the time of Patrick John but no one else pushed the idea more than Dame Mary Eugenia Charles. However it was vigorously opposed by Edison James and United Workers Party (UWP) (which was formed in 1988) on premise that diversifying the economy would cause thousands of Dominicans to lose their only source of livelihood, the cultivation of bananas.
At that time our bananas were protected on the European market by the LOME Convention but with the formation of the World Trade Organization in 1995 (to replace the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), which commenced in 1948), the writing was on the wall that LOME would never stand scrutiny of the WTO.
Ironically the UWP came into power the same year that the WTO came into existence (1995) and they never heeded the call to diversify the economy but continued to rely heavily on the banana industry.
The banana industry, as we knew it, was given its death blow in September 1997 when the WTO ruled that the LOME was unfair international trading. So while our other banana growing neighbours had diversified or was diversifying, Dominica missed the boat and the effects of this critical blunder can be felt to this day.
@base: On Top of that Dominicans are so damm hypocrite
they know the Prime Minister owns the Villas but they hide behind all foolishness to try to protect a Prime Minister which is Historic in Terms of a Degree Lier and misleads his natives at all points with his crooked and evil liked smile….
This DLP Regime is the Most Corrupted Regime in the Past Decade in the Eastern Caribbean!
Will definetly be on a campaign world wide to influence the nesscary agencies through my aides
in the EU UN and other groupings on that campaign the time has come when this Regime has to come Clean with its citizens….
The Villas will never be swept under the carpet at all…its most be taken all over!!
THIS IS HIGHWAY AND FIRST CLASS CRIMINAL OPERATIONS BY THIS Historic Corrupted DLP Regime Ever!
everyone seems to be taking what they want from this article. I personally like this part…..
“In the intervening years, Dominica has had its fair share of challenges to survive. As an ardent follower and participant of things developmental in Dominica, I have witnessed firsthand what we can truly call difficulty moments (politics, economics, natural disasters, social dysfunction) in our history. Conversely we have seen the hand of God in every conceivable way leading our country day after day in a manner that we are not deserving of. No one can truly say that Dominica has not made strides since we took that first step on our own. To put it mildly much has been achieved. Yes! We could have achieved more, but we have achieved nevertheless.
thanks be to God we’ve come this far
@base: You hit the Nail dead and spot on well said thats the truth infact lays out the ills which has cause DA not to be up with the other islands…
because we lack depth in what we aspire to be as a nation
well said Base!!
Amazingly so many contributors do not understand the concept of carrying capacity.
Dominica’s carrying capacity is much much less than many other island.
After 32 years of Political Independence, the writer cannot point to any specific advancements towards our ECONOMIC INDEPENDENCE. Agriculture has been virtually abandoned by this DLP Govt. Our FOOD SECURITY is at Stake. The other linkages to Agriculture, that of AGRO-PROCESSING, MANUFACTURING, MARKETING etc. have been totally disregarded especially by that DLP present administration. The Standard of living of the majority of Dominicans have declined considerably. Dominica has become more of a MENDICANT STATE than ever before.
There are many more persons who have attained higher education, yet the country is drowning in ignorance as pertinent issues of National Development are not consciously and intelligently discussed and implemented. Many have resorted to support the Status Quo, and to get rich quickly through all kinds of dubious means. MENTAL SLAVERY exists so much after all those years that the country has not been able to chart any positive PATH for forward movement POLITICALLY, ECONOMICALLY or SOCIALLY and CULTURALLY.
After 32 years of Political Independence we are cheering inauguration of ‘NIGHT LANDING in MELVILLE HALL AIRPORT’ even before the main instruments and actual scheduling of flights are not yet in place. Imagine almost $40,000.00 plus ( GOVT. yet to disclose the real amount to Dominicans) of taxpayers money being used for that ill-timed show. HOW Backward and SHAMEFUL. Dominica should have advanced on the construction of an INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, instead of wasting millions on that Night Landing Fiasco.
Local businesses are shutting down while Chinese businesses are setting up and taking control of the city. The commanding heights of our economy are being controlled by foreign entities. Geothermal Exploration is a classic example. Our policy makers have not developed a NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLAN, discuss it with the people so that everybody could be more on board as to their role in the Nation’s Development.
Frankly, Our JUSTICE or rather INJUSTICE System continues to favour the ‘ELITE CLASS.’ After 32 years of POLITICAL INDEPENDENCE, Dominica is witnessing a rise in CRIMINAL Activities, Corruption and disrespect for our constitution. Those in ‘HIGH PLACES’ who commit criminal or other illegal acts evade the courts and are not brought to justice. Meanwhile, the jails are overfilled with young persons who engage in petty crimes, shootings and stabbings.
Never in Dominica’s history have those presently in PUBLIC OFFICE been involved in so many controversial, illegal criminal acts that are not being addressed. In Dominica, it is those who investigate and reveal truthfully, with FACTS, the criminal acts done who are demonised as the villains not the real culprits who commit the illegal acts. Many of our institutions which have served Dominica well over the years are being derailed. They have lost their autonomy due to political interference from authorities.
Imagine the ‘INDEPENDENT ELECTORAL COMMISSION’ recommended and has been pleading to the GOVT for about 7 years now for Electoral Reform so that the Commission could better conduct elections which would be more FREE and FAIR, BUT TO NO AVAIL. No provisions or dollars for providing VOTER ID CARDS as they have been requesting. OUR DEMOCRATIC WAY OF LIFE IS IN SHAMBLES.
The RURAL Folks, who were once very hard working and somewhat independent and living off their farms, have been migrating in droves to the CITY and overseas. POVERTY is on the rise. About 50% of OUR BELOVED INDIGENOUS PEOPLES, KALINAGO, who fought so hard with their blood to preserve our environment and protect Dominica from foreign invaders and colonialists, are POOR and getting POORER. Isn’t that SHAMEFUL and unacceptable after 32 years of POLITICAL INDEPENDENCE? Is that how a country treats its FIRST PEOPLES? Some Foreigners and a few locals, who have come long after the KALINAGO people, and who have not been involved in the kind of struggles that the KALINAGOS have gone through, have amassed and are making millions on their backs.
I could go on and on and on to show how those people in authority, POLICY MAKERS, in particular, over the years, have failed this Nature Isle and its citizens miserably. We care less about protecting and conserving our pristine environment. Indiscriminate Mining, Pollution, indiscriminate use of Pesticides, Herbicides, lack of or No Planning, absence of proper LAND USE POLICY, almost Total DEPENDENCE form outside, are all taking its toll.
1 STEP forward, 10 STEPS backward. Dominicans need urgently to rethink, refocus and change our PERSISTENT NEGATIVE ATTITUDES regarding DEVELOPMENT. DEVELOPMENT is about PEOPLE. PEOPLE COME FIRST. This year’s POLITICAL INDEPENDENCE celebrations will again be more about SEWO, wearing of colourful Madras and Wob Dwiyet, Unconvincing Speeches about getting together. BUT MENTAL SLAVERY CONTINUES. The NOOSE further tightens to the apron STRINGS of our POLITICAL and NEO-COLONIAL MASTERS.
Nicely written article. Obviously some thought was put into it and it flowed well. I share your view that Dominica has made some strides since independance but we have some ways to go before we can be taken seriously.
Our capital city is an eye sore. Although, there have been efforts to modernise the Town, the place continues to suggest decline. Almost every building in Roseau require a face lift ( a coat of paint). in my recent trip to D/ca, I sought to determine the rationale for this apparent decay and I was convinced that there is need for a cap on the cost of land in Roseau. The cost of land in Roseau is more exensive than in the USA and in the UK. People, like me, interested in investing to try to modernise our city just think the cost of land is prohibitive and as such prefer to invest elsewhere. It is unfortunate but with a population of just about 60,000, an acre of land in lagon is in excess of two million East Caribbean (EC) dollars, how can one seriously think of investing in this country. you will not recoup your expenses.
As a necessary hint to Lands and planning department may I suggest that a welcoming gesture for our Independence would be the placement of a cap on the cost of Roseau lands.
Comrades one and all solidarity over this independance celebration.
@Hugo Grotius: There must be some benchmark to measure success – so you are not making any sense! The progress we have made is little in comparison to our sister islands – so hush pls! Stupes.
To Hugo Grotius,
What is development? Development has a wide meaning. Is development infrastructure only?. If that alone is development then we can say that St.Lucia and Barbados have left us behind as they are more advance in their physical development . We can also say that many of the countries you consider to be developed are not developed given what is percieved to be your understanding of development. So many other countries are so way advance in their physical development than these two countries. But what is the social consequence associated with the development in the countries you cited?. Is the state spending more money than it is saving in its attempt to fight the social problems asscoaited with the development?. We still have a certain modicum of respect for each other, we have a good education system, we are able to change our governments when we are fed up with them through the valued system of elections every five years, our primary health system which Ronald did not mention is the envy of the world, see the quality of our housing another important ommission in the article, we are able to host international cricket right here in Roseau, something we could only dream about earlier, we have a world class cricket umpire and we are able to play at the highest level in world cricket, Our people continue to make a mark for themselves all over the world, thanks to the primary education they received in Dominica. Are you saying Sir, that given our progress in telecomunications this is not a sign of development?
If we compare todays Dominica with the Dominica of 1978 and certainly the Dominica after Hurricane David, then you will agree with some of the arguments. Its your right anyway to agree or disagree. Ronald did make the point that whilst Dominica has made certain strides, there is much more to be done. Did you see that Grotius? Only someone whois drunk from partisan consideration and wearing blinkers would dare disagree that Dominica has not made any progress since 1978.
Hey My Friend, excellent piece, we go see….. and to “physicse”, you should ck your history book maybe even ask Eddison James and Honeychurch before you open ur month on Ms Charles regardin the International Airport and if Eddison is honest he will tell u the truth, then again that might be askign too much! And, please, please let the Iron Lady rest in Peace, she did what she cld for DA with the card she was dealt…Dominicans are not appreciative, nor do they thank God for his many blessings we tend to see only the negative. There are signs of wat she did while in power and there are still Dominicans who will say she didnt do anything for DA. See what the present government is doing (am not a supporter) and yet still there are people who will say that nothing is being done and thats just because they are not the party supporter, but as a nation if we want to move forward we should learn to give praise when it is merited and criticise constructively when necessary. We should also try to be more patriotic, less partisan and work together to more our country Dominica forward….or politicans will be the death of our beautiful country! Happy Independence to all Dominicans!
What kind of photo is this.
Where is our first Prime Minister
this article is so politically driven!no country can never be too free!
I disagree with the author, what did u use as a benchmark to determine development? If you compared Dominicas development since independence in comparison to St.Lucia or Barbados, we are no where at all, but if u look at Dominica with no benchmark you can boast of some progress which is similar to most of the other islands, so this article is politically motivated.
@base:
You have just spoilt a well written article with your party potitics.That was one of the very points made so eloquently by Ronald.Too many of us can’t have a decent discussion without letting our Party bias cloud out thinking.I genuienly hope that one day we can sit down and have an honest discussion without seeing colour….Oh how I long for this day.Over the past decade or so we have sunk to new depths in relation to healthy discussion where we only talk party potitics and this attitude has severly retarded our objective growth.Let us put DA first and stop making ourselves a nuisance in the eyes of the world
@physicse, please do your research. It was a priority for Ms Charles the, but Mr EDISON JAMES, the nuisance chose to write to the U.S gov’t and put a stop to the whole process.
Not to sound political, because I am not associated with any party, since I leave outside DA, but that man is a DOH-DOH brain.
I wish all comments on this forum can be written as eloquently and precise as this. Well said, well written and you seem well versed sir. I agree with you on a personal level of the effects the association of a particular party can have on some trying to pursue further education because I too has fallen victim of such, whilst I know of others who enjoy all the perks.
well laid out Sir,,,but honestly Dominican lack the skill of constructive and postive debate the main issue on island here its that we arent maturted politicaly to have a open discuss.
in par with other islands we still cant see the bigger picture and we seem to enjoy mediocracy to the highest order which in terms in deeply sad and lacks any hope..
Fact in point land was purchased for a better line of sight airfield..if we were matured in our thinking as a nation the common good would be to explore the options criticaly the earth movement is key..but our friends like Venezula gave us countless resources to that point…if infact we were a brilliant in our forward thinking thats the key area..
Great nations are not built upon small ideas and lack of open debate…the winners and fore runners in today’s world and market are driven by a passion to be successful and be around the major achievers in the industries and other fields what we lack and have gone and keep going down in this island of Dominica…we have Proffessional Grads and look around we have nothing to show at all…in agriculture sports tourism health etc…we still are back benchers in Dominica..
With regards to Freedon they ruled Dominica for 15 years…things may have to stable in terms of governace and the rule or law and constitution with has being deeply destroyed by this History Corrupted Labour Party now…But i must admit that Freedom lack the radical ideas to nation empowerment etc….we should have gotten a staduim way back then,World Class Recording Studios, Beer Factory which all landed up in our sister islands, due to the fact that we werent open to the bigger picture..so the struggle and lack of continunity started sadly from the 80s period.
Many Dominicans arent Patrotic AT ALL…this independance stuff is only a flash in the Pan..
Take a look at other islands they pride themselves in doing the rights things etc…
Look at the Present global situation in terms of Finance etc…what right thinking Government of Grouping at this point would think of doing a state house costing in excess of 27M..
Their goes again our lack of vision and sadly i would never ever surpport this Labour Regime as they lack any substance…there isnt anyone in the camp who can redirect the policy makers to rethink this idea in terms of what is key now in Dominica..
Thats why islands like Antigua,St.Lucia etc to name a few are attracting the bigger and smarter modules and investors…when you come into Dominica their is a vibe that isnt welcoming based on a
Proffessional output from the natives…its deeply lacking..ours instutions etc…dont guide the citizens at all..so its like a flock of fools just eating on each etc…
Tell me home come we consider folks Proffessionals and they cant speak on issues…Why does the US , Europe Canada etc out do us even though they are bigger is the fact that Profs speak in issues and guide policy makers…sadly in Dominica we have that rather foolish crab thinking which is so damm ignorant its makes you want to vomit….
From Slave-ships to Championships.
Onward Forward marching onto glory.
Let’s go Dominica!
Happy Independence.
Good piece, Ron.
R.I.P MISS CHARLES YOU DID WHAT YOU COULD
EVEN BACK THEN ,IT WAS DECIDED THE DOMINICA WAS NOT IN NEED OF AN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT!!!!!!!!!
COULD YOU IMAGINE HOW FAR DOMINICA WOULD HAVE BEEN IF ONLY MISS CHARLES HAD MADE IT A PRIOTITY TO BUILD AT LEAST A 7000 FT RUNWAY IN DOMINICA>>??????
TODAY THE POWERS THAT BE IS SAYING TO US THE SAME THING….. WE DONT NEED A JET AIRPORT…….
Very Very Good. Well written Article. Good wording