The CEO of one of the main sponsors of a virtual currency project to take place in Dominica has said there is no secrecy involved in planning and executing it.
Ira Miller, of Coinapult, told DNO on Friday that organizers of the project are trying to be as clear as possible on the matter since there has been “some speculation”.
“We want to be open about this,” Miller said from his office in Panama. “We don’t have any secret deals or anything, we are trying to be very clear about our goals, we just want to hand Bitcoins out to the people and teach them how to use it.”
He pointed out that the project is not getting or receiving any special treatment from officials. “We are not giving any special payment to anyone in the government or receiving anything from them,” he noted. “We are not asking the government for any treatment.”
The project, named Bit Drop, is to be launched in Dominica on March 14, 2015.
Miller explained that during the project about US$10 of Bitcoin will be sent to everyone in Dominica via SMS text message. Those who want to participate will then respond, also via text message, expressing interest. Another text message is then sent to the interested person pointing to the place where the money can be spent, probably at parties organized just for the event.
He said there will be a main party, probably at the Windsor Park, with smaller parties around the island.
Miller noted that ATMs will also be available to change the Bitcoin to EC dollars or vice versa.
He stated the idea for the project goes back when former prime minister O. J. Seraphine visited Coinapult’s office in Panama and the idea of Bitcoins was discussed.
“We showed him how it works and he saw there was a lot of potential in Bitcoin to be used on the island,” Miller stated. “He then presented it to the government about a year ago. Since then it has been in discussion and recently I visited the island and met with some people and everyone seems to be happy with it, so we are moving forward.”
Seraphine has been described as the chairman of the board and director of public relations of Aspen Assurance Company Ltd., one of the partners of the event.
Miller noted that the overall goal of the project is to get people to use Bitcoin.
“We are an outreach group and we just want to increase Bitcoin adoption around the world,” he noted.
There has been some concerns about Bitcoin since it is largely unregulated and Miller was asked about this by DNO.
“This is open source technology, so they don’t really have to take my word for it,” he said in response. “We are going to help provide education on Bitcoin in general and alleviate some of their concerns. It is an open project that is used all over the world and we just want to encourage people to do their own research.”
He said Bitcoin is an open source software that can be downloaded as an application.
“There are people in Dominica today using Bitcoin,” he stated. “If you have a smart phone you can go to the App Store right now and download it and start using it. Bitcoin is not currency that is trying to compete with the EC dollar or anything like that. It is just open source software that we think people will find useful.”
Meanwhile authorities here have been silent on the matter.
Dr. Kenneth Darroux, the main local contact on the matter, has said he will comment “at an appropriate time.”
A word to Mr Ira Miller..
IGNORE THE ZAPOTOES …Dominica has very bright folks who will not stoop like zapotoe …we need new ideas new cash inflows
you and your billionaire freinds are what we need to develop this land not the paucity of backward thinking you may have noted making outrageious ill informed commennts
The idea of BITCOIN is new and challenges those whose comfort zone of ignorant grandstanding on trivial politics and character destruction has no place at this level of potentail development
please continue …
Once again, Skeritt has shown the people of Dominica his lack of leadership qualities. He is Minister of Finance, he did not hide under the Speaker’s dress according to Mr. Linton, this time he hides under a bucket of water and sends a doctor to take the heat. What does the Doctor know about financial matters. Maybe he should have sent Ambrose, he has a reputation for not being able to find banks but this time the people who are involved in that kind of banking transaction will be visiting Dominica. Them Labor Party fellers like to recycle, what is O.J. Seraphin doing in anything concerning the Government of Dominica.
Ira Miller was sold on the idea that Dominica has the visisonary leadership and people to step up to the plate as it pertains to new ideas .Trust he will not lose his enthusiasm
We did the unusual when our govt.did the ALBA which of course began with the Diplomatic initiatives with the VENEZUELAN GOVERNMENT during the OJ ADMINSITRATION.
SEEM THEIR ARE MALCONTENTS WITH THERI OWN ISSUES WISHING TO demolish the progressive ideas consisitently .
OJ a former PM is not the issue- he is known for being at the cutting edge …a pioneer on Aviation-” Dominica AIRWAYS ‘..and SO MANY OTHER FIRSTS ..the “WHITE SEAlL Dominica,s first commercial fishing million dollarboat ,,MV RIGEL FIRST MERCHANT MiLLION DOLLAR BOAT
His green lantern club was the social club of the day ..his floral gardens the eco inn with many awards ..he rescued and initated the mateur dam site Layou road with his company TP godinot .
He introduced the Cuban scholarship program ..It was during his administration the Ross university received their license
He began the diplomatic relations with VENEZUELA AS WELL AS FRANCE, IFAD ROME, BASIC HUMAN NEEDS PROGRAM ETC.
HOUSING ROYAL BANK -BATH ESTATE -SAWS SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST HOUSING AND CDB HOUISNG IN THE 100,S
“Anonymous” will remain anonymous as what is offered is a diatribe meaning to distract from the issue at hand
There are scams and villains in all sysstems -check what is occuring with credit cards and wall street- the stock market insider trading etc
Bit coin has had issues like all systems and remember the very exisitence of BIT COIN challenges the dominance of the world economies
Atkinson seem consistent in his her anti OJ comments ..interestingly the birth place of O.J,S wife ..some village rivalry perhaps ? jealousies..
this is about bitcoin a virtual currency ..we are in a world where economies are controless ny the IMF WORLD BANK AND US TREASURY ETC,
The death of Gaddifi came shortly after he agreed to open a development bank in Dominica as well as open a new platform of money control away from the US DOMINATION
This is a new age thank you OJ for your iniitative ..
On 2 August the Russian news agency RAI NOVOSTI reported that the Russian Finance Ministry is drafting legislation to prohibit crypto currencies and ban all money substitutes, including electronic currencies (such as Bitcoin). Trading in them would also be illegal as apparently they are being used to for the purchase of illegal goods.
and I bet the money in your pocket never been used for illegal activities hmm
Thank goodness nobody has ever purchased anything illegal with US Dollars or EC
I have seen the comments by Emile zapotas who seem to have his . agenda to firebomb the idea of having Dominca to become a country to associate with the modern world of doing business by the BITCOIN proposal .
Bitcoin is a new immovative accepted way of money transfer worldwide..
The proposal does not include taking money from government ..it does NOT include seeking money from ciitzens
western union and money gram do serve as money transfer mediums at a cost …BITCOIN offers the same CONCEPT at no cost ..
Zapotas have issues with OJ about being a hero ..he is! ..He served a nation during the throes of a revolution and brought back stability …..the only PM to be elected by a concil of leaders CNS AND THE PARLIAMENT OF DOMINICA .He it was who faced the worst hurricane in our history and fed a nation and housed multitudes ,,Ross university came into being as an active entityBY BEING GIVEN a license to operate duiring his term of office .
He distributed more lands to the landless than any other leader in our history .He was resposnsible for building more houses before and after hurricane David more than anayone else .FACT!
He intoroduced the Cuban scholarship program where we now have most of our doctors and professionals serving this nation .
He initiated the diplomatic connection with VENEZULA ..FRANCE etc..our main allies of development
He was the first domincan to initiate an AIRLINE “Dominica airways” ,,the first longline fishing>>” WHITE SEAL -‘ a million dollar boat ..the first with Snakey Peters and Hugh white to intoroduce a million dollar cargo ship “MV RIGEL “lost during hurricane David .
The Minister who iniitated the canefield airport..
the PM who brought gramax — jeff jo to super bowl MIAMI
WHO FIRST BROIUGHT TABOU COMBO to Dominiica 1979
The one who brought out Gramax to Guadeloupe on their initiaL OVERSEAS TRIP .
Chairman of NDC who introduced the CROLE FESTIVAL 1996 etc ..hero yes !please Zapota lay down your qulifications for being who you are !
OJ introducing BIT COIN is what he always do ..seeking new areas and not the well beaten paths
Open source means open for all to modify . Just how andriod is an open source to any developer . Once open any person can do anything with it . For example, viruses and worms . Technology is good but its how you use it. So when he said about open source and download don’t be fooled . Open source means the source code can be modified by anybody.
DNO I hope you can access the New York Times to read an article by Sydney Ember and Nathaniel Popper about a Bitcoin user facing jail time.
The biggest mistake the Government can do is to give Bitcoin a license to operate in Dominica, or to give them legislative approval. In fact a bulletin should be issued to discourage Dominicans from using it. And Bitcoin should not be allowed to hold any rally in any part of the country. We should say ‘NO THANK YOU’
bitcoin cannot be controlled because it is virtual, it is not a business…. I have bitcoins and I live in Dominica I can transfer money to an american bank then get bitcoins or when I get bitcoins I can sell the bitcoins online and get US dollars for my bitcoins then wire transfer my money to NBD bank in Dominica, it’s clear to me you know nothing about bitcoins or how it works and have a preconceived negative view of the system
well duh if he conducted illegal activities of course he should go to jail, based on your logic you’re saying users of bitcoins=automatic jail time/ illegal activity hmm
just like money you buy crack with money you get caught you go to jail, nothing wrong with money, but alot is wrong with people who use it for bad…
We should not be frayed by new ideas. However, like most new ventures, it is always wise to conduct research and make decisions based on proven facts that are beneficial to us.
I’m curious why the government or Minister of Finance has not made any official comments thus far, if testing of this idea will begin in six months?
Silence by the Ministry of Finance and government at large will only serve to fuel more speculation and paranoia amongst the citizenry.
Your two nieghbours Guadeloupe and Martinque use the Euro, Dominica uses EC and US dollars correct, if you can add, that makes 3 different currencies. That is what is know as a currencey exchange issue because you are losing money inter changing these currencies Bitcoin eliminates that……….Next question ?
5 US States Poised to Promote Bitcoin-Friendly Regulation
http://www.coindesk.com/5-us-states-poised-promote-bitcoin-friendly-regulation/
One of them is a little place called California……..come guys move out of the 19th Century.
On 30 August the BBC reported that Ecuador is to introduce its own version of bit coin by the end of this year. This currency has as yet no name but will be supervised and controlled by the Central bank of Ecuador and will run concurrent with the country’s existing official currency, the U.S.$, adopted in 2000.
Ecuador has a lot of external debt, particularly with China, which is also the largest customer for its oil. There is a chronic shortage of foreign exchange to service this debt and to help remedy this the govt. of Ecuador has decided to start paying its civil servant in the new virtual currency instead of U.S.$.$.
We have to be extremely cautious that our govt is not persuaded make a similar move, tempting as it may be.
The result would be an immediate black market in hard currencies such as the U.S.$. and the Euro and making it virtually impossible for most of our citizens to travel overseas.
The indication that any such currency would not be introduced to Dominica before March next year is telling as the Govt. would need an election victory before they could put such drastic measure in place.
Please Mr. Skerrit, don’t even contemplate it. We are already at odds with our fellow OECS members about your unilateral decision to adopt the CCJ and the unseemly scramble for customers for our varying economic citizenship programmes. To add a bit- coin scheme for Dominica to the mix may well tear this union apart.
our island has such a small uneducated population….. alas. They so damn stupid.
O.K did O.J. paid with bitcoins his airfare to get to panama. And i wil like to see all the government ministers, including the prime minister skerrit, and darroux get the salary in bitcoin, instead of EC dollars, starting in september.
Airfare and salary can be paid in Bitcoin
Comrade, what does a Russian look like? Russia has 185 ethnic groups….
Russia also have the Russian mafia.
More ignorants and racism……..
I AM SHAKING MY HEAD HERE WE GO AGAIN ………..RUSH FOR FREENESS…ARE we that desperate …?.Dominicans never learn……read…… read ..read……do your home work…about …..Digital-Currency….PRO AND CONS….WHEN MONEY WALK TO YOUR DOOR…THE INSIDE OF THAT SHOES SMELLS…..
http://www.sfu.ca/pamr/media-releases/2014/sfu-is-first-canadian-university-to-accept-bitcoin-donations.html
Oh looky there University in Canada accepts bitcoin
question do the Govt vet bit coin and history associated with dominca please the bit coin is not insured by Federal reserve and European bank authority this very risk currency.
See link the ceo of bitcoin was arrested for money laundering
http://time.com/1892/bitinstant-ceo-charlie-shrem-arrested-for-alleged-money-laundering/
A single bitcoin is worth about US 500. ( Give or take a figure or two) How are you going to send each person $10 us worth of bit coins.
*sniff sniff*. anyone else smells that?
I have $1 l can still give you 5 cents right, same with Bitcoin fool
then it is not a bitCOIN it is a smaller value. say cents.
A bit coin is $500 uc. you getting $10us, from that 500. that is barely a cent.
Smart guy.
Id love to see what you can do with 0.000001 BTC. you cannot even join a mining pool with that
VIP $10US = 0.0208 Bitcoin today September 1, 2014. By next year it could be more or less depending on the market. But certainly $10US is about $27 EC regardless of the value of the Bitcoin next year. Don’t you think you could buy 2 lunches in Roseau for that price?
What 2 things did Mama teach you?
1. Not to play with your food
2. Do not play with money
What? … Open source software – (hackers delight!)
OJ is in it (we should like it too??) ??
Buyers beware (Dominica … U on your own in this papa.)
I don’t understand this. How is it that we are gonna be given free money to test out soon where it seems our officials have attended a few meetings and such but Dr. Darroux would like to stay tight lipped, our minister finance have not even hinted at this ever in his tenure. Now Mr. Miller is basically saying we are the test subjects (basically). Why is it that the government is staying silent and Dominicans just sit and take things easy.
I am doing some research though and it seems like it works something like a Pyramid Scheme though. I would just like to say all transactions are tracked.
Also, is this the start of a 1 currency world?
spreading the web, you need to read before you make comments.
About Panama:Panama’s economy is one of the most stable in America. The main economic activities are financial, tourism and logistics, which represent 75% of the GDP (Gross Domestic Product). From 2003 to 2009 the GDP doubled, propelled by high foreign and domestic investment, coupled with the tourism and logistics industries. According to the Bank, the IMF and the UN, the country has the highest per capita income in Central America, which is about $13,090; it is also the largest exporter and importer at the regional level, according to ECLAC. The GDP has enjoyed a sustained growth for more than twenty years in a row (1989). The country is classified in the category of investment grade by these credit rating companies: Standard and Poor’s, Moody’s and Fitch Ratings.
Panama is a member of the UN General Assembly (and most major UN agencies) and has served three terms in the UN Security Council. In November 2006 it was elected to serve a two year term on the Security Council, beginning January 1, 2007. It maintains membership in several international financial institutions, including the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, and the International Monetary Fund.
The US-Panama Trade Promotion Agreement was approved by Congress and signed into law in October 2011, and entered into force in October 2012. Panama also achieved removal from the Organization of Economic Development’s gray-list of tax havens by signing various double taxation treaties with other nations.
In 2013, Panama ranked 5th among Latin American countries in terms of the Human Development Index.
Unemployment was 4.5% in 2013.
Merchant Marine ranked #1 in the world with 6413 registered vessels.
Airports number 57.
Panama completed Line 1 of a Metro System, part of a “National Master Plan”, at a cost of $1.45 billion, this year. Line 2 is underway and will cost $2.2 billion.
Panama also is one of the founding members of the Union of Banana Exporting Countries and belongs to the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission.
Oh put a sock in your gobs thecentire Dominican nations
Isle of Man and Jersey are vying to become Bitcoin Island. Article date 30 August 2014. They are British Crown Dependencies. I think the naysayers on island need to wake up. If we lose this opportunity to welcome the bitcoin endeavor, shame on our ignorance and close minded ness. See article at http://www.coindesk.com/meet-british-crown-dependencies-vying-become-bitcoin-island/
honestly Dominicans just want to watch there country burn, then they go BEGGING to politicians and crying
I would prefer if Dominicans are not the Guinea pigs for this project. This should have been discussed with the people first through organizations such as the DAIC, DHTA, DEF and Trade Unions. The process seems all wrong…and the news is coming to us from the outside party in the collaboration? where is the protocol in all this? Come on!!!
as much as this is a good move for Dominica it is yet a bigger move for OJ one of our visionairries who never stopped thinking of ideas
OJ is an icon and i can associate him with big dreams, i loved stopping at his place and chatting with him sometimes i used to say he is a mad man
OJ has alot of dreams and i am happy if at least one could come true we need to look at this in a positive way and stop the way we thing about that
with the advancement of technology anything is possible. if its an offshore gimmick let it be.
all systems have ways of keeping us down and for yeas the imf, the G3, and tyhis and that has been labelling us and giving us rules and prevent us from being independ and be interdependent on them, so if one person have a vision that can let the world see us as taking the lead so be it.
“Top Bitcoin Proponent to Plead Guilty to Federal”
NEW YORK TIMES…… 8-30-2014
A prominent supporter of Bitcoin, Charles Shrem, says he will plead guilty on Thursday to resolve federal charges that he helped smooth the way for drug transactions on the online marketplace Silk Road. He is to plead in New York federal court to one count of aiding and abetting the operation of an unlicensed money transmitting business.
Since his arrest, Mr. Shrem — a founding member of the Bitcoin Foundation’s board and a co-founder and former chief executive of the company BitInstant — has remained involved with Bitcoin.
Mr. Shrem had been under house arrest at his parents’, but he has been allowed to leave the home from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on most weekdays.
Mr. Shrem, 24, said his plea could include jail time, though he is optimistic that it will not. Before his sentencing in about three months, he said, he plans to ask Bitcoin supporters to write letters to the judge on his behalf.
Though each bitcoin transaction is recorded in a public log, names of buyers and sellers are never revealed – only their wallet IDs. While that keeps bitcoin users’ transactions private, it also lets them buy or sell anything without easily tracing it back to them. That’s why it has become the currency of choice for people online buying drugs or other illicit activities.
Wallet in cloud: Servers have been hacked. Companies have fled with clients’ Bitcoins.
Wallet on computer: You can accidentally delete them. Viruses could destroy them.
This is just the tip of the iceberg.
There is more to this than meets the eye. The article is to long and I doubt if DNO would publish it.
Those of you who are reading this can Google Bitcoin and you can read all there is to know about this CRAP, then let “OJ” & “Skero” know that this is not a good move for our Nature Isle.
OK Admin. let me see how long this is going to take for you to moderate and publish.
Doc go with his fastness and get himself involve in comess.
Seems like Ambrose train him.
Now he frighten to make comment… I bet you a million Bitcoins that Doc not making any statement.
The cow will jump where the gate is lowest. Let’s sit back and ponder, why does the cow jump? The cow sees “green grass”. Maybe you are thinking – oh great… Fresh milk!
Just a closer look and the cow turns out to be a bull. Try getting milk from a bull.
Unless you slaughter the bull the only product you get is the by-product of the green grass it eats.
As for me, I don’t eat beef. And I hate bull$$.
OJ is involve people. Know who this man is and what he does. This is a scam .. lord help this people of Dominica. Why should everyone think that we are Duminicans. NO WE ARE DOMINICANS SIR/MADAM
why is not the minister of finance the one introducing bitcoin to his loyal subjects? I SMELL A MANIOCOU
Well, well well. God help us in Dominica. I am one of those open to new ideas but really I have a few concerns.
1. It was stated that the idea of the project goes back when former prime minister O. J. Seraphine visited Coinapult’s office in Panama and the idea of Bitcoins was discussed. Who and where is Mr Seraphine to give us some insights?
2. If the government officials are okay with it why can’t they come forward to clear the air?
3. To drop $26 per person is frightening. For example 26 X 30,000 residents =780,000.00. For us as Dominicans that is too good to be true. For Bit Drop that is quite an investment for an unsure market.
4. Why supply the Bit Coins before the services. I would expect the services which would then encourage residents to use the Bit Coin.
5. We have our simple problems in Dominica, many of which we are unable to solve, how can the use of Bit Coins by Dominican solve the world’s problem? Are you all real?
Hi Hillside,
Answers to your questions (addressed to me) are below.
3. It is a significant amount of money, but we think the Bitcoin community is generous enough to donate it. We Bitcoiners have seen our economy grow from nothing to over US$6B over the past 5 years. We want to take it to the next level, and hope Dominica can be a shining example for the world.
4. Great question! We have been working non-stop with people on island to set up infrastructure. Student and youth groups, businesses, and more partnerships are coming in the very near future.
5. We don’t claim that the use of Bitcoin can solve all of Dominica’s or the world’s problems. Bitcoin is free, open technology, in a world of 2.5B people with no financial services. We believe it can make a real, positive impact. Here is a wonderful article on that subject written by the 38th Director of the US Mint, Edmund Moy:
http://www.newsmax.com/Finance/bitcoin-bank-account-pay/2014/08/29/id/591581/
@ Ira Miller………..So how come Dominica can be the first of something that started in 1991 and went “world wide” in 2008?
Then who is SATOSHI NAKAMOTO?
Who is HAL FINNEY?
Who is ROBERT FAIELLA?
What is a BTCKing
I understand some of your people were arrested since January 2014, but 8 months later Dominica is the “first” to accept Bitcoin.
There is an old saying, “If the premise is wrong the conclusion is a gimmick.
I think you believe Dominicans are suffering from DEBILITATION.
Ira Miller … Why not try this in a more advance income ? Why not St Lucia ? why not Barbados ? Why you trying it in a low GDP country ? So if there is a fall out we will feel it less cause of low population ? Until some security measures can be done about bit coin then u are welcome . I am afraid of two words . Open source . You know open source means software open to anybody for modification . How can we be secure with some software giving my money which is open ? This is like leaving the bank door open for the customers
IT do you live in Dominica?
again you have no idea what bitcoins are you don’t own the bitcoin only the authorization to use it, and the network prevents someone form modifying the fundamentals in other words your software must be compatible with the network it if violates that your software won’t work with the bitcoins
IF I were to consult MR Adam Sanford, he probably would tell me continue to hide my money under my mattress. but if would not listen he would be laughing his way to the cleaners. Remember I came to us first, But we were smart enough not too fall for his “# BS”. A word to the wise if it sound too good to be true simple examine the package for the “Devil is always in the details.” Oppps!!! I meant always in Dominica?
to catch flies you can use honey . free money is indeed the honey to dupe people so in all fairness we need absolute transparency.
My cell information belongs to me. I will seek redress if any information or text comes to any of my cell phones on Bitcoin.
Please supply your number so l can request your $10 hahaha
you don’t own your number only authorization to use it,
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bitcoin
here you will read about the origin,Legal status and regulation,contradictions and which countries accept the use of bitcoin
@lldro……I am reliable informed that information supplied by this site is suspect and unreliable.
name your “reliable” source
So it seems Bitcoin management team an INTL company is the only one doing damage control in the Dominica media and not the GOVT.
It clearly shows the GOVT does not even understand Bitcoin offering at this stage to provide an inform voice on it.
But they agreed with the company to use Dominica as their first Bitcoin Nation.
SMFH :-)
Parry, I would say to the Prime Minister that he is putting the cart before the horse. I would say to him, the people of Dominica should be totally informed about Bitcoin. I would remind him of the pressure he received as regards the non disclosure of the MOU with China. I would also tell him that with a General Election so close, he cannot afford to bring more heat on himself, he cannot open the door for Mr. Linton.
“There are people in Dominica today using Bitcoin,”
true….
Is that the same O.J. Seraphin who just a few months ago said he was not affiliated to DEMLAB political party and the Douglas boy. Is that the same man who said he had no interest in politics. Is that the same Prime Minister of Dominica who printed or wanted to print his own money. Now he has joined with Skeritt and his Government, Dominica deserves that combination.
CEO of clico the insurance company that took millions of investors money from Dominican where is he today?,media reports told us that the Dominican labour party received campaign finance from that CEO.the minister of finance and prime minister of Dominica is reported to have used the private jet of the then CEO of clico.tody we are hearing of BITCOIN shouldn’t our finance minister be up and front to talk to the nation?
Bram!!!!! Bram!!!!!
http://news.msn.com/crime-justice/exclusive-bitcoin-promoter-to-plead-guilty-to-unlicensed-money-transmission
my comment was out of concern but is has disappeared?
NEW YORK (Reuters) – Bitcoin entrepreneur Charlie Shrem has reached a plea deal to resolve U.S. charges that he engaged in a scheme to sell over $1 million of the digital currency to users of illicit online marketplace Silk Road, his lawyer said Friday.
Shrem, the former vice chairman of the Bitcoin Foundation, will plead guilty next Thursday in New York federal court to unlicensed money transmission, Marc Agnifilo, his lawyer told Reuters in an email.
Prosecutors had previously charged Shrem with operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, money laundering conspiracy and failing to file suspicious activity reports with government banking authorities.
Federal authorities shut down Silk Road last year, though a new Internet marketplace under the same name was launched in November. Prosecutors contend Silk Road enabled users to buy and sell illegal drugs and other illicit goods and services.
Soon after his arrest in January, Shrem stepped down from his role at the Bitcoin Foundation, a well-known trade group. He was previously CEO of BitInstant, a bitcoin exchange company.
http://news.msn.com/crime-justice/exclusive-bitcoin-promoter-to-plead-guilty-to-unlicensed-money-transmission
No comments so far DNO? Did they purchase you as well?
Ha ha what goes around?
Free money! Whoopee!
That’s the spirit! Lets have a party!
@ Ira Miller ………we are quite capable at partying without your help. Go party in Panama with O. J. That will be premature because you will not operate in Dominica.
I personally think that Bitcoin is great technology and surely it can be used for business…however potential of implementation of Bitcoin in Dominica is low. There are 2 obstacles here: 1) Idea of using cryptography as alternative for EC requires a research and a preparedness to be open minded. Research and open-mind are rare commodities in Dominica. 2) You guys are whites and its a big problem for your business development…whatever people might argue online the reality is the following: foreigner business is not welcome in Dominica unless you just pour money on Dominicans for free: organizing parties, giving handouts, sponsoring events or just making expensive gifts to right people – in this cases, yes, foreign business is tolerated….
Its not an alternative to EC it clearly says that
Please read
http://bitcoinmagazine.com/15906/interview-bobby-lee-ceo-btc-china/
It is obvious to those who have been au courant with BitCoin , that this is an opportuniity for Dominca to be at the cutting edge of a new medium of doing business internationally which is transparent.
This is not to be an opportunity for naysayers or the ignorant to attack the messenger but to focus on the message .Indeed the contributors to the DNO should first do the research and speak with the authority of knowledge based intelligence and not froth in the mouth with suspicions unfounded and predicated on malice.
We need to lift ourselves from the doldrums of anaemic mundane developemnt and spring into the new paradyms and dimensions where the new world of finance is reposed .
BIT COIN has been a talking point at the highest levels in the capitals of the West, Russsia and China .
The US has decided to tax the earnings as property and not as a currency exchange so that this does not implicate our commitments to the EASTERN CARIBBEAN CURRENCY AUTHORITY .
Dominca has led with ALBA and only now St lucia wishes to get in .
Coincidentally it was the PM Seraphin who iniitiated the Venezuelan conection .
The other OECS countries will obviously follow that lead .
The world has researched and despite an occasional concern the mainstream activity of BIT COIN remains consistent with positve acclaim by all finanncial experts internationally .The earnings and value of BITCOIN has been in vetical takeoff from the out set .
For Dominica to lock in at this terrific marketing and promotion opportunty at no cost to the state is an imperative for positive response by the SKERRITT adminsistartion
This is not a party matter indeed if my memeory serves me correctly Seraphin a former labour leader ,who contacted Bit Coin for the Dominca project served as Chairman of the NDC during the UWP Adminsistration and was the the permannet representative of the DHTA as a Director there and on the NDC BOARD as their nominee as DIRECTOR for over a decade under the Freedom party Charles administration .
Let us not attack the messenger or drive this into a party versus party debacle .
Clearly this is a Dominica thing and should receive equal educuated inquiry and support of the opposition UWP
.
Okay, so, let us now hear you expound on the disadvantages of Bitcoins.
I have not read any attacks on the messenger, nor any attempt to politicize the project. People are being rightfully skeptical.
Let’s hear from the Government, especially from Dr. Darroux, who supports the project. Let them tell us what specific benefit our Dominican economy will derive from it.
Huh! You expect UWP to support this? When was the last time did you ever hear them support anything? Tune in to their radio station on 95.1FM for more…….
@ historian …….you sound like an agent whose job is damage control.
You have already printed misinformation about O J , trying to paint him as a hero. A lot of people know O J . He is no hero
Now this is the transparency I like to see
More sales pitch. Sounds like Combine Insurance of the sixties. This seem to be an offshore company, but a tricky one.
So if it is so world wide and is used even in Dominica, how come the breaking news was that Dominica “is the first that will be useing it.
because Dominica is the FIRST, don’t you get that first time bitcoins would be distributed to an entire country
Dominicans, DO NOT GET INVOLVED WITH NOR IN BITCOIN as you will all lose your money and live to regret it. These people have tried Asia and Europe with their scam, now they’re targeting my Island home! DON’T DO IT!!!!
ignorant and uniformed commentary
This is the beginning of the end of time ,
all these most come to pass. Next thing will be one government go the entire Caribbean
“Gardner added that College Cryptocurrency Network intends to start a bitcoin club at the island’s state university, and that CCN members will visit the country to help educate local bitcoin users”.- uhhh what state university, is that the one next to the pediatric hospital?
I was misquoted in that article, I was referring to Ross University School of Medicine in Portsmouth, which, as far as I am aware, is not state-run.
“Dominica citizens also face currency exchange issues when traveling to nearby islands.” What currency exchange issues do we face? Please enlighten me! ” Blincoe believes Dominica’s smartphone users will be able to solve real-world problems using bitcoin, adding” what problems will we be solving? Quotes from http://www.coindesk.com/70000-caribbean-island-residents-receive-bitcoin-2015/
Here you are being enlightened, your two nieghbours Guadeloupe and Martinque use the Euro, Dominica use EC and US dollars correct, if you can add, that makes 3 different currencies. That is what is know as a currencey exchange issue because you are losing money inter changing these currencies Bitcoin eliminates that……….Next question ?
“For instance, there is a work-sharing space in Casco Viejo [the historic center] that takes bitcoins for rent … there is a restaurant, there is another company called Panama Bitcoins, where you can pay bills. But at the same time, there is not really wide adoption; still it is a small country and a small market. Most business don’t have websites, or if they do they are not very up to date. People just don’t use [the internet] as much. ” this is what Ira said about Panama and now he want to come to dominica? As if our country or market bigger? Alas, my soul hurts for Dominica. When will our government learn that they represent us and not themselves?! We need to rise up!
cause bitcoins don’t charge you fees like the banks do when you buy USD it’s at 2.7169 but when you want to change it to EC you not getting back 2.7169 you getting less…
Neither Panama nor Dominica is too small. In fact there are many things you can do with bitcoin in Panama, and I hope Dominica can catch up and surpass it. The fact is that we could do this in Panama, and one day may. Dominica is just the first stop, because it is a manageable size and the right demographics. (high cell phone use, low bank penetration)
Proceed if you dare.
As usual we the people of this beautiful island are once again being used as guinea pigs. Have we stopped to take the time to ask what is in it for us? Why do we as a people a nation always jump into things without first seeing the results of those types of businesses on other nations in the Caribbean before we jump on it? Who stand to benefit the most from this type of activity? Jah help us.
Do you really want to live in the 19th Century forever? This is what you want for your children?
You stand to gain roughly 10 US$ out of this, as well as some new technology skills. The people using bitcoin stand to benefit the most from it, as it is free to use. In other countries, like Argentina, bitcoin use is skyrocketing.
This is no different than if we gave each Dominican a credit card with a $10 credit on it, and organized an event for people to practice using their new cards. Well, the difference is that credit cards charge 3% or more per transaction while bitcoin is free…
@ Ira Miller………..Like Argentina ? This country is bankrupt and cannot meet its international financial obligations. Its money is facing daily devaluation. Could Bitcoin have something to do with this?
You said you COULD do this in Panama, But your office is in Panama.
No surprise bit coin in Argentina is sky rocketing. They have run out of hard money, particularly U.S. Dollars. They can not even even service their Govt. bonds. That country is broke!
“He stated the idea of the project goes back when former prime minister OJ Seraphine visited Coinapult’s office in Panama and the idea of Bitcoins was discussed.
“We showed him how it works and he saw there was a lot of potentials in Bitcoin to be used on the island,” Miller stated. “He then presented it to the government about a year ago. Since then it has been in discussion and recently I visited the island and met with some people and everyone seems to be happy with it, so we are moving forward.”
Seraphine has been described as the chairman of the board and director of public relation of Aspen Assurance Company Ltd., one of the partners of the event.”
DNO, where is Mr. OJ Seraphine to coment on the so-called
Bitcoin project???
OJ who?
any body remembers the OJ is OK era and the dollars flying out of helicopters???
Dominicans to stup… Let me use a more politically correct phrase, Dominicans are to uneducated and ignorant to understand how this works. You might as well get a smarter population to test it out on. They might more believe it’s a diabolic plan by the “Whiteman” to destroy . I’ve done my research and from what I’ve heard, once no foul play is involved this is a good alternative to money.
Only an uneducated person would refer to a whole country as uneducated, If you are then you are on your own. He who has nothing to say should keep quiet.
Sounds to good to be true ponzi scheme to me. Dominicans please be aware, make sure none of your personal information is given out.
So no comments? I would like to congratulate everybody on finally getting an education and understanding this is only good for Dominica!
this idea of giving this free digital currency to every one i can see why Kenneth Darroux and government interested, the fact that mr Millers office the CEO base is in Panama,and not a first world respected and reputable sound country,i will not go anywhere near this experiment,Dominican like parties so they will hold people into their web
I’m a bit skeptical.
See who is speaking out and see who is typed lipped. The coward elected government is saying absolutely nothing while it is the organizers of the project that is telling us “There are people in Dominica today using Bitcoin.” Who are these people? Could it possibly be those who are tight lipped about it? If they care about us and found something that can help us, why not speak out? I mean we talking about a project that the government has blessed and endorsed! Why remain like moomoose? Why stay tight lip about it? Cowards are they! Little boys that is! No leadership! The project organizers who are foreigners are the leaders on this in Dominica? What government? Stupeses
OK I am confused. It is over a year now the government new about this, a date is already set and we have yet to hear from the government. You may be open sir but you are in no position to be bringing news to Dominicans for something planned so long. As far as we are concerned it is not open and transparent.
At the end you say bit coin is not currency but at the top you said US$10 worth of bitcoin will be sent to phone. Do you think we are idiots. If it has a currency equivalent how can it not be currency? Let’s assume you give 50000 dinicans, that will equal 1.4 million ec. Is that all going to be spent in Dominica.
Thirdly, you said you are an outreach group however, that could mean anything. My question is are you a profit or non profit group. Your response the that question is more important.
The College Cryptocurrency Network is an educational nonprofit working on the project.
The Bit Drop is a non-profit group, which is still in its formative days. More details on its organization and transparency will be coming in the weeks and months ahead.
Coinapult is a for-profit company headquartered in Panama City, Panama. We provide free bitcoin wallet services to over 180 countries, and make money by helping merchants and other businesses integrate bitcoin. If you go to https://coinapult.com/signup you can create a wallet and start sending money anywhere in the world for free. All that is required is an email address.
Before you ask, Coinapult does stand to gain from this endeavor in the long run. We hope that the Dominican business community will see the value in using bitcoin, and will give their customers that additional payment option. We aren’t forcing anyone, but simply asking nicely. The millions of EC$ worth of bitcoins which will flow into the island might tip their decision, though, so be prepared to see ‘Bitcoin Accepted Here’ stickers everywhere!
Ira, putting advertisement on the radio or television is asking nicely, sending bitcoin to everyone is forcing. There is no way you would be allowed access to cell phones by any cell phone company in the US to do such a thing without having people’s permission. I will tell you frankly, I really don’t have a problem with new tech and financial options, but is the way you guys going about it. Why did you not present your program and request permission of the cell phone users beforehand? You are saying the details of the non profit status is not final. I question the true intentions and will keep my ears open on your scheme.
Shaka Zulu,
We aren’t getting any inside access to people’s cell phone numbers. This is an opt-in program. We are notifying and educating people now, months in advance, so that they can decide for themselves whether to participate next March.
Mr Miller, Can you tell the Dominican public the truth about the hackers taking out 25,000 credits worth $ 500,000 in June 2011 and the $5.5 million worth a few weeks later causing the individual value of the coin to drop from $17 per coin to $0.01 causing the business to close indefinitely. Dominicans please do not rush into this remember the old saying Are we the luckiest one under the planet? and also this was lunched in 2009 how come they are telling us we are the first nation to go into. The person who developed the idea why is he not proud enough to come forward and say this is my idea. google this Bitcoin: What are they and how do the work. Can we get some answers?
Bitcoins are like any other asset, in that they can be stolen. This is similar to when Target got hacked and lost 40 million credit card numbers. You should be careful with your bitcoins, and whenever possible store them yourself for further security.
Bitcoin is an open source software project. It is not created or controlled by any government. The claims around the internet about Dominica being the first nation to adopt it are referring to the Dominican people, not its government. The Dominican people are going to be among the first users of this free and exciting technology which is spreading rapidly to people all around the world.
For anyone wishing to learn more about Bitcoin, I highly recommend this beginners information page: http://www.coindesk.com/information/what-is-bitcoin/
That was an exchange called Mt. Gox, that wasn’t Bitcoin. What you’re suggesting is the equivalent to saying the U.S. dollar is worthless if some American bank fails.
@ C Mills……I am like you. I have more questions than answers.
Where is the company registered? What law is there to regulate its operation? Is it legal?
Why is the government silent?
Why is our investigating reporters not investigating it?
Why is O J Seraphine not telling us something?
Where is OJ? Why are our politicians not saying anything . Even the new uwp DAAS team is silent.
Get the event details here:
http://banksworstfear.com/entire-population-caribbean-country-dominica-receiving-free-bitcoins-early-2015-let-bit-drop/
“We don’t have any secret deals or anything, we are trying to be very clear about our goals, we just want to hand Bitcoins out to the people and teach them how to use it.” (Millier)
How did you select Dominica for this outreach in the first place? What made you believe Dominicans didn’t have a say in their selection? Don’t you think it was taking us for granted, that we are so destitute, we would welcome any ‘monetary’ gift from anyone?
You speak now only because you realize Dominicans have expressed outrage at this invasion. Personally, I would not welcome you to our shores. O.J. Seraphine should have advised you better.
We selected Dominica based on its size, demographic makeup (lots of cell phones, not very many bank accounts). While there are perhaps a few dozen similar sized nations in the world, only a few have the right demographic mix, and among those, Dominica is simply the first. This status of ‘first’ is largely due to the foresight and outreach by your former PM, OJ Seraphin.
Like the foresight and outreach of DAAS, “a non profit organization”
I hope our young PM will not have a” lapse in judgement “like them. But will ban you and yours from operating in Dominica.
Papa Bondieu, you obviously were not alive when O.J. Seraphin was prime minister of Dominica. Ask him why his reign lasted for barely a yearf, from June 1979 to July 1980.
He always talked like an insurance salesman and to my mind that has not changed.
I should add that every Dominican has a say in their selection. If you do not wish to use your free bitcoins, simply ignore the text message you receive on the morning of next March 14th. We promise we will never bother you again.
You mean you already have government’s authority to operate from March 14th. Is this like the ides of march.
I want everyone to know that I do not want my mobile phone company to invade my privacy with unsolicited crap of that kind. That is an intrusion of privacy in my book. That is just like junk mail.
“Don’t you think it was taking us for granted, that we are so destitute, we would welcome any ‘monetary’ gift from anyone?” I would say they pretty much nailed their research on that point. We have the longest outstretched arms in the world. I think the part they may have overlooked is: Carbon paper, dot-matrix printers, rubber stamps and at least 3 initials from three separate departments for a basic transaction are the “norm” here.