Sixty-six jobless as aerial tram shuts down

The tram

An adventurous part of  Dominica’s eco-tourism offering has hit rock bottom, with 66 Dominicans now out of a job as a result.

A senior staff member of the Rain Forest Aerial Tram facility in Laudat confirmed on Wednesday that it was closing down after 10 years of operation.

A source close to the company told Dominica News Online that slow tourism arrivals had impacted negatively on the business, with Rain Forest Aerial Tram  no longer able to stay in operation because of financial difficulties.

DNO has also been told that the company is drowning in debt.

Staff were given the devastating news at a meeting held earlier Wednesday.

Management were reluctant to talk about the situation when contacted but confirmed that the operation was going out of business.

A shareholders meeting is carded for some time next week, after which management is expected to make an official statement on the closure.

The Rain Forest Aerial Tram transported passengers in a hanging gondola, which seats up to 8 people, through one mile of protected tropical mountain rainforest bordering the Morne Trois Pitons National Park.

Copyright 2012 Dominica News Online, DURAVISION INC. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or distributed.

Disclaimer: The comments posted do not necessarily reflect the views of DominicaNewsOnline.com and its parent company or any individual staff member. All comments are posted subject to approval by DominicaNewsOnline.com. We never censor based on political or ideological points of view, but we do try to maintain a sensible balance between free speech and responsible moderating.

We will delete comments that:

  • contain any material which violates or infringes the rights of any person, are defamatory or harassing or are purely ad hominem attacks
  • a reasonable person would consider abusive or profane
  • contain material which violates or encourages others to violate any applicable law
  • promote prejudice or prejudicial hatred of any kind
  • refer to people arrested or charged with a crime as though they had been found guilty
  • contain links to "chain letters", pornographic or obscene movies or graphic images
  • are off-topic and/or excessively long

See our full comment/user policy/agreement.

230 Comments

  1. :-(
    June 3, 2012

    I hope Skerrit Red Clinic still open for those 66 unemployed persons… Dominica’s unemployment list is getting longer everyday… Alas…18-3

  2. evenhanded
    June 3, 2012

    The Diasporans are calling for the “take over “of the business by Government or that Resident Dominicans “do something “about it.(JoshGabeboo,Drs.C & D Shillingfords et al)Is this a private company under the Companies Act?If so, do the Diasporans not have talents,experience and moneys that they can invest in the business? Does their policy paper speak to that type of developement?Govt may be persuaded to participate by equity participation but should not these outstanding, articulate and well to do Gros Diasporants not take the bull by the horns and run with it?
    If on the other hand Govt were to “take over” the Company the Constitution mandates that “ADEQUATE COMPENSATION” must be paid in a reasonable time.!

  3. bousselaire
    June 2, 2012

    Only thing in the matter of aerial tram and a lot of tourisms projects and activities in Dominica is than nobody take care of the real size of the land and its possibility. Most part of foreign investors takes their dreams for reality ( with help of Invest Dominica)! No real marketing studies, no economical research. A lot of time these investments are simple money laundering. Local and foreign small investors often know better the limits of the market, but receive less attention from the authorities…. Nevertheless it is much better to help ten or hundred small businesses which have chance working well than a big one which have a lot of chance to decease as soon it born and then kill a lot of employments plus all kind of financial help it got.

  4. June 2, 2012

    These foreign Company comes in our Country, they get all the Government incentives, starts a business, the Banks treat them like kings. They make profits, take the money and run, close down the business, and they blame economic conditions.
    If a local goes to the bank with a business proposal, they look down on you. Here you have it, Only Dominicans can get dominica moving. Foreigners are only looking for what they can take away from Dominica.

    • Ann E. Riviere
      June 3, 2012

      True say!!!

  5. KTWM d:D
    June 1, 2012

    To all my friends in Laudat….
    Sad to hear this bad news, and I/We love you all here in Pennsylvania…. and you know who we are

    Investors, and management…. Hmmm sorry subject…… We know they never had a handle on it from day one! We know they listened to all the wrong people who were made up of a bunch of corrupt greedy people. We know what they did to the 2 Men who dreamt this idea up before BCV. We know the team who created the original Eco-Tourism Concept in the first place from Cali….. were stomped out, and silenced…. We remember in the beginning BCV didn’t do the right thing when it came to paying the local men on a regular basis, and their vendors when thy should have. I hope they all got paid eventually, but I know for sure many didn’t ….. This Brilliant Capital Investor Group from Boston – BCV were bamboozelled by everyone who came through there. Well – everyone but us. I remember fighting to get the locals paid, the air crane service from Caracas paid, and everyone else who deserved to be taken care of financially who either sold goods, or did work, or provided services to the tram – but they never did the right thing for anyone there either.
    Their click of friends and family were well taken care of though.. I remember trying to convince these people what was actually happening within their group, no one listened….. Then I got kicked in the teeth, I suppose guilt through association LOL . Furthermore – No doubt – in my opinion their management team who eventually took over – just plan sucked. They had the money to make this tram work, but didn’t have the skills, talent, or the will…. They decided to take the easy route in the end, and spend in Costa Rica, and many other well established tourist places mentioned above, say like Saint Lucia, and Saint Kitts etc? Just saying…… Heres your problem….. http://www.bcv.com/profile_hjg.html Johan von der Goltz and his management team…. email him and his son, and see what they say about the whole thing……… Why didn’t they market this tram smarter? Why didn’t they cater to the cruise ships better… Why didn’t they do things differently from the start. Stupidity, Corruption, and Greed – thats the truth and reality of it all………… Dominica – there’s your problem… It’s not your fault.

    I hope, and pray for you all it reopens soon, so my friends can get back to work. I hope your Country can turn this around on your own. It is within Dominica’s ability to turn this around, and make it work for Dominica, and Laudat. You have the skills, the talent, and the will to get this done……. if you want it…. Sincerely Your Old Friend

  6. DOM
    June 1, 2012

    NOTHING can last in Dominica, what a d-shame! Well only tourist yall can attract are the cruise visitors or the handful of brave souls who brave the 24hr air travel after at least 2 planes. Sorry 66

  7. Setup
    June 1, 2012

    We have a tendency to criticize everything that goes wrong in Dominica, but I would like to see people come together, and do what they think what must be done so the propserity we want can become a reality. Everybody always knows what is best, so now is the time to put our heads together and do it. We are the government, we decide what happens in our country. Let us stop looking to another person or to politicians and let us do what needs to be done, and stop crying down our country. Words are powerful. We cannot choose how we were born, but we can improve our life, by being positive, not negative. May Jehovah God bless and protect us from iniquities.

  8. Setup
    June 1, 2012

    It is unbelievable to hear all thiese negative comments and blame game for the closure of the Arial Tram. I am a taxi driver, and I have transported many visitors to the tram, but I coult not afford to buy anything there, it was just too expensive. Even people who wanted to buy something had to almost force the certain staff members to serve them. I brought school children to the tram, but their were so called rich people. None came from poor homes. The place was too expensive. They should have done things differently as some people suggested to bring in more locals.

    • Ann E. Riviere
      June 3, 2012

      As this is a foreign company. sounds to me that they were only interested in making their money, once that done kai poule quazey!!! Memories of colonialism, “rip off the resouces and piss off!!!”

  9. zengleden deplacee
    June 1, 2012

    Who turn massa God world around! Me wan feh know how this world a run! Things just can’t get worst than they are presently! Is one shot down after the other! Imagine all the other islands fighting to keep tourism live and in Dominica things are jus tete abar? All the islands are now giving Dominica serious competition when it comes to tourism product! Look at st lucia as an example, tourists coming to lucia like tower! St Lucia Government spends millions to market the Spirit of St Lucia! How many millions allocated just for promotion and tourism development in Dominica? Instead of the powers that be, come together to develop Dominica for the sake of the kids that live there, well its war of words, bachanal, hate, jealousy, and nasti biznis,not forgetting under the carpet rackets! If the Nation doesn’t get its acts together, well the place might become a desert! Dominica remains a beautiful country but the problem is mismanagement, party politics and unwillingness of the electorate to be able to demand of their leaders to give an account of their stewardship in a non- partisan manner! Its is pathetic to imagine tourist attraction sights are being shotdown in Da in 2012. The pain is, there people invested so much money, and look where they are right now! Other countries would have welcome this aerial tram! God help Dominicans especially the poor- malawayee_ becuase the big boys and gals who drive fancy cars, travel the world, live the life with full bling, will never feel the pressure! Fool some people sometime, but u can’t fool all the people all of the time! The world is watching, and the poor folks sucking salt night and day! But its said: every pig got its saturday!Time will tell!

  10. June 1, 2012

    I am here to uplift your spirit. A company going out of business creates an opportunity for another to go into business. The Costarican company does not know the treasure that it has and so it should move aside and make way for another to take over the operation. I see a thriving operation. So do not be dismayed Dominica. You just need the right people operation this thing. Seek and you shall find.

    • Peeping Tom
      June 1, 2012

      Well said!

    • 1979
      June 2, 2012

      i just hope it wont be the chinese, ill keep my fingers crossed.

  11. A.E.W
    June 1, 2012

    The Economy consists of 3 things;

    1. PEOPLE
    2. Paper
    & 3. Plastic!

    If the people aren’t in place to work, the cycle will not be complete. So the Arial Tram closed down. Its not the end of the world. As a people, we need to stop complaining and clamoring and start acting. We need to spot depending on the government for things we can surely do ourselves. We can create jobs for ourselves. We are so rich as a country yet we seriously lack UNITY. The term “Crabs in a barrel” is almost an understatement judging the character of the majority of our population. We need to step up and do more for ourselves. Lets open businesses instead of waiting for someone else to open one so that we can get a job.

    Look at it this way, if we stop conforming to the norms, we wont turn out the way it may seem that they want us to be.

  12. ROSEAU VALLEY
    June 1, 2012

    Thank you Mr. Minister of Tourism. For once the PM may have listened to you. I have no doubt that the Parl.Rep of the Roseau valley-Mr. Mc Intyre must have added his usual quiet voice to cause. This tells me that you must be reading our comments on DNO and/or listening to the cries of the people on the radio call-in programmes that the PM has repeatedly condemned. We understand that there is no legislation to mandate government’s intervention. Nevertheless, please continue to do your best to assist this private enterprise. While at it, please demand that management of the Aerial Tram compensate the people of Laudat without delay (Mr. Magloire et al). All outstanding payments must be settled forthwith. The effort of government is well appreciated.

  13. June 1, 2012

    DA man should ride the trams more often,
    take your girlfriend up tere every weekend

    • Malatete
      June 1, 2012

      The Aerial tram was only operational on days of cruise ship arrivals., tickets being mostly sold in advance through the cruise operators. Dominicans were never frequent patrons of this facility, even at reduced prices.

    • yep
      June 2, 2012

      NA! THEY WILL GET SUSPICIOUS…
      ESPECIALLY IF THEY CHEATIN

  14. Anonymous
    June 1, 2012

    The Minister of Tourism is an attorney, all he is trained in is to be lawyer but he is the Minister of Tourism. All these people do is travel and enjoy trips. Never prepared for anything. Its embarrassing. PM wanted Ian out of Ministry of Legal Affairs so he just took him and out him in Tourism. Just embarrassing – Ministry of Tourism and Legal Affairs – why are these together ????? What is the connection ?????? This is embarrassing people.

    • 1979
      June 2, 2012

      well then with a nation of people who refuse to learn how to make INFORMED decisions what do you expect. they let the ministers make all the decisions and they hate being informed. just look at how they celebrated when the pm refuse to testify to avoid self incrimination, NOW THAT IS EMBARRASSING!!!

  15. Massacre
    June 1, 2012

    When then Tourism minister, Nassif told the DLP to abandon Agriculture in favour of Tourism, the DLP sadly went along with this plan, not knowing that it was a plan to put Dominicans in more poverty.
    It is all well and good to look to other avanues for economic advancement, but in this case here in Da, nothing was done to build a Tourism industry as it was in the case of Agriculture before.
    I feel sorry for those peole who will lost their job . But the DLP is the Gov’t of the day and have to take all the blame for not having forsight to take over this bussiness.
    next election here we come.

  16. ann
    May 31, 2012

    to make a long story short, The Global financial crisis just start to strike DA!!!!!

    • June 1, 2012

      it’s been hiting DA long time man

  17. A question...
    May 31, 2012

    Is there provision in the planning contract to ensure that, in the event of the company closing down, all infrastructure be removed. If not, one mile of pristine rainforest will be disfigured with rusty metal for evermore.

    • bousselaire
      June 2, 2012

      very good question !

  18. J.....
    May 31, 2012

    Wellll, what can I say ??? The adervertising for this island is abysimal to say the least. You mention Dominica to anyone in the U K and they just say HUH WHERE. Go into a travel agent in the U K and they will tell you, Really a HARD PLACE TO GET TO. Do you REALLY want to change planes and risk you luggage being lost. When you insist thats where you want to go, you can see the stunned expression on their faces. Then you hear the sniggers. To find any hotel other than Fort Young in the travel brochures is nigh in impossable. I once asked why this is. The answer was. Hmm not really up to standard for the big companies to get involved. I have commented before about people quitely selling up and moving on for various reasons. And another one bites the dust.

  19. RastaMarn
    May 31, 2012

    But Dat must happen!!! Couple months ago when Marn posted the comment about d project down at Cabrits allyou tell me all kinna-ting about Marn negative,,,
    I glad it doh take too long for mine message to manifest itself,,,
    Tourism is not d answer for Dominica’s economy boost,,,
    Wait allyou will see more to come, Dat hotel in Cabrits going to be another flop,,,

  20. Observer
    May 31, 2012

    mINISTER OF TOURISM MY BOY you forgot you werein Sen Joe telling Dominicans how much accolades we get and getting. Partner accolades cannot create employment,it cannot bring money in the pockets of poor folks and it sure can’t ease up the hunger in this country. But then again is the same chorous of fools who were jumping and applauding your nonsensical ravings and rantings. Magway sa. Eh beh nou domnichen dotish

  21. ???????
    May 31, 2012

    You call that 18-3………..OOPS Next Level! Ian must start doing his work like the tourism ministers of St Lucia, St Kitts etc, and stop singing for Skerrit..
    IN THE MEANTIME WE ARE NOSE DIVING in chaos and greater poverty… The worst governemt in the entire Caribbean.No law not even the Constitution can stop them.

    • Ann E. Riviere
      June 1, 2012

      Thought this was a private company, what has it got to do with the government? Is the company’s target only tourist? In which case why does it not set up special programs for the locals. I.E. BIRTHDAY,day out to include picnic basket. You get the idea.

  22. Choice X
    May 31, 2012

    The PM joins ALBA – The people rejoiced.
    The PM openly insults the US ambassador – The people rejoiced
    The PM is shamelessly cozy with all America’s enemies – the people rejoiced
    The PM Called America Racist – The people cheered.
    The PM says only Venezuela, China and other radical states helps his economy – the people rejoiced
    The PM boasts that his economy is doing better than the US economy – The people cheered.

    AMERICAN ship carnival pulls out – The people wept
    AMERICAN Aerial tram co. pulls out – the people wept too
    AMERICAN Eagle Airline pulling out – the weeping continues.
    AMERICAN company Palmolive pulling out – more weeping.
    AMERICA franchise KFC closes – even more weeping
    American company Ross University is on standby mode – the people ??????

    • APG
      May 31, 2012

      You are so right. America is right here in our backyard and we have not taken advantage of the great opportunities that exists. America teach you to fish and feed yourself; China/Venezuela/Cuba teach you to depend on the the State… and be dependent on government for everything. Hence people can’t even think for themselves, without consulting the government. Everything they need, the government must come to the rescue. Wake up Dominicans, and work!

    • well sa overseas
      June 1, 2012

      u cant be serious; u serious? what :cry: :?:

    • DPM
      June 1, 2012

      Well said.

    • Take it from me
      June 1, 2012

      Well said!!!!!!!

    • Ms Cuffy
      June 1, 2012

      Choice X,

      I got cold after reading your contribution. Mark you, I was a supporter of the government but have since disassociated myself with these people.
      Dominica is surely falling apart!!!

      Who have eyes to see, let them see, who have no eyes, this blind reckless government will lead us all into distruction.

  23. Laudat
    May 31, 2012

    Sorry Laudat ppl, i feel for u

  24. Plz understand
    May 31, 2012

    This is coming from one of the employees for aerial tram in Costa Rica where the head office is located. I understand everyone’s concerns in this matter it is a sad one however please understand the facts before jumping to conclusion.This decision was one in the making. And the Head office has sent there final decision to close.Regardless if the government tries to intervene or invest it would be very unlikely that this will happen. Aerial Tram is a Costa Rican based company who decided several years ago to expand to a few Caribbean countries however after taking a look at the companies financial records over a very long period of time (Note: that this decision was not based on the most recent tourism season) it has indicated that that company was not doing well financially. Why keep a business afloat when no profit is being made.And thus the reason for this decision. I agree with you all that is would be nice to see if the government could save this business however due to the fact that it is a “PRIVATE” company originated from Costa Rica it is a matter where the government cannot subsidize the failure of this business.

  25. 4u2C
    May 31, 2012

    Another SAD afair; another poor man/woman left to fight for food or climb the red clinic step. This is what happen when u have greedy children in high places.
    we ask for young leaders with new ideas instead we got young greedy leaders with old ideas, no value system, hostile to the poor, selfishness to the core and so the MASSES suffer!! We competing with Haiti to be #1 in poverty!! We are a sick people!!

    • well sa overseas
      June 1, 2012

      lol lol lol; God forbid :wink:

  26. nature Girl
    May 31, 2012

    WE ARE IN A WORLD WIDE RECESSION THIS IS JUST THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG THINGS ARE GOING TO GET SO MUCH WORSE!! WE SHOULD CONSIDER GOING BACK TO THE BARTER SYSTEM. DOMINICA WILL SURVIVE BECAUSE WE HAVE EVERYTHING WE NEED TO DO SO. JUST GROW EVERYTHING AND YES GO BACK TO THE SOIL!! WE ARE SO VERY LUCKY LIVING IN DOMINICA. DOMINICA BE PROUD WE WILL SURVIVE. WE ALL JUST HAVE TO PULL TOGETHER. HELP EACH OTHER.

    • deesseafricaine
      May 31, 2012

      yes nature girl that is the way to go. when we did for self we were better off as a people.

  27. resident
    May 31, 2012

    its very pity and unfortunate that they had to close down and dismiss all personnel..at the same time it is the reality of Dominica. The tourism sector exists only on paper and in imagination of guys working for VisitDominica. First of all, there is no apparent reason for tourists with money to visit Dominica: infrastructure is crap (roads are getting better but road from/to Melville Hall is hell..), hotels are expensive, in Roseau only 1-2 normal restaurants, crimes against foreigners skyrocketing (rapes, murders, robberies), medical facilities are stone age…and Dominicans totally disrespect foreigners: calling white people whittey is a common place, treat foreign women as whores is a long-standing tradition etc etc etc
    So why to blame the government when your first step to tourism may start from stop shitting there you live: don’t drop litter once you finished your KFC chicken, don’t urinate publicly once you done with your 8th bottle of kubuli, be polite with foreigners…they came here with good cause…

    • well sa overseas
      June 1, 2012

      wow wow wow something is happening and it is so exciting that was there song , so what happening now, resident give it a break, and be real

    • bousselaire
      June 2, 2012

      Dear “Resident”I dont understand why you stay in Dominica as resident …. come back home and tell me what is the difference : High Prices,low comfort, racket from taxi and tour operators, racisism and bad manieers are undoubtly in a higher level in your homeland, where tourisism operators have no other object than to make a maximum of moneies in the small while of touristic season. Tell me the cost of a hotel in the same “class” than FY. The streets, sidewalk full of caca chien and beaches where you have to walk on liyng bodies to acces to the sa are no mor clean .Murders and crimes against tourstis are increasing in DA but not exceed 3 to 4 each year , a litle bit more robberies….. How many in your country ?
      I did spend five days in hospital in Roseau Princess Margaret Hospital. They certainely save my live. Of course they have a lack of up to date material but they have skills and human respect that is the most important thing to recover. health- For divers there is now a recompression chamber-. And now there is no more Kfc ( are there yet in your country with Mc Do and a lot of all labels which deliver their so called food in no bio-degreradable containers ?)
      For what cause did you came there, and what is your behaviour if people dont respect you ???

  28. What?!
    May 31, 2012

    They doe need to worry next election around the corner they might get a little 2k each to go and buy some clothes.

    • May 31, 2012

      true dat… with our money

    • Take it from me
      June 1, 2012

      Well people have to rememer.. they vote in the governement and its their choice to vote them out. We seem to forget our rights.. cz if it not working out why we still supporting it and becoming the world’s enemy

  29. I'mWondering
    May 31, 2012

    That’s sad, but the reality of Dominican life is that advertising, marketing, promoting and showcasing Dominica SUCKS!

    There are no signs, no ads, nothing which would catch the eye of a visitor. I can’t even direct interested persons to a website that inform them about entertainment,leisure time in Dominica…

    If i am to tell someone what to do in Dominica, what do i say? I know the basics – visit the falls, Emerald Pool etc… but what about other forms of entertainment. When are we going to advertise properly – websites, videos, brochures at supermarkets etc?

    All i can say is that visiting Dominica gets boring sometimes and i’m a local – imagine the tourist who has no idea.
    We need to promote DCA more – SIMPLE. Sell her, and the people will come.

    • Exxxxx
      June 1, 2012

      You know, the other day I was describing Dominica to some older folks who asked about it. It started out about how amazing and beautiful of an island it is. One of three boiling lakes on the planet, amazing rivers and waterfalls, and beautiful beaches and just as i was going to tell them they should go there, I realized…. I will never recommend that someone come to Dominica, The crime against tourists is out of control, and I am unable to tell them what a sweet lovely place it is anymore. Hopefully one day it will turn back around.
      Sorry for those who lost their jobs. As if it wasn’t hard enough already.

    • Dominican
      June 1, 2012

      I leave in Trinidad and the only time I see ads of Dominica is leading up to Creole Festival, and the focus is only on the festival.

      In addition the air fare to Dominica is ridiculous. Ads like this appear in the daily papers: New York TT$2,565, Miami TT$1,761 (to five an idea). In 2011 I paid about TT$2,500 to Dominica. Persons have expressed for that price they prefer go to the US.

  30. vieille case girl
    May 31, 2012

    I will be there in July and this one of things that I wanted to done- dam!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :(

  31. merge
    May 31, 2012

    Question (1) why is SVG doing better than us, in tourism, agriculture and hotels (2) why are they building a grand international airport, and think it will turn their economy around 100%, and they can compete with other countries around the world, they even change their tourism logo 2 years ago, and wining a price for it in NYC. We in Dominica think building an int-airport will bring economic crises here (3) why more investors running to SVG, and here business closing down every time you read the news, (4) why are they traveling more than we do, when I were there you can see 3&4 air line coming in full with Vincentian (5) SVG business and St Lucia business are merging together to build each other economy. And what the government of Dominica is doing, to try and kick start Dominica economy. there are three Caribbean countries have fiber optic cables, it’s the same system like Verizon Fios in NY. The countries are St Lucia, Antigua and SVG, now Barbados government wants it; they claim it will create over three hundred jobs there, because their tourism not doing well as they expect, hotel closing down rapidly. My point throughout this, I think the government of this country should start looking out of the box? Start merging business with other Caribbean countries.

  32. May 31, 2012

    My comment is always awaiting moderation for a whole decade! That’s too long man, DNO. Speed up the process

  33. Afro-Muslim Diaspora
    May 31, 2012

    Allah is the one who gives sustenance to whom He wants and whom He wills and He can take it away as well as a test or a punishment.

    Allah has placed many rivers, lovely fruits and vegetables in which we can survive. The reason we are regressing economically is because the hearts of the Dominican society are locked up. They are spiritually blind, the light of Allah does not penetrate their hearts because of the great evils and injustices that are practiced there. Some are incest, some men having promiscuous relationships with both mother and daughter, even having children with them, senseless murders, attacking of guests (tourists), corruption in high places, twisted hearts and hypocrisy, the glorification of fornication, buggery and adultery, sexual molestation of 5 and 6 year old boys and girls etc. The Dominican land is blessed by Allah but the people are cursed yet their state of affairs.

    The people are so materialistic, they measure success by monetary gains rather than spirituality, ethics and virtues. If monetary gains were the way to measure success then the Messiah Isa (Jesus) peace be upon him would be decked with gold, rubies etc. Yet, he was a humble and simple man and so were all the prophets including the last prophet Muhammad peace be upon him.

    We invite the people of Dominica to stop believing in the propaganda machine of the white man, BBC, CNN, Fox spews, Al-Jazeera etc and look into Islam. Allah will solve their economic problems. Dominica has money but its greed hence the poor distribution. Not only will Allah solve their economic problems but will grant Dominicans an exalted place in paradise.

    • May 31, 2012

      materialism right
      like ISLAM doesn’t itself feed on our materialism.
      likw ISLAM doesn’t see us as mere farm animals to be milked

      • Afro-Muslim Diaspora
        May 31, 2012

        Sir/madam, when we die we will not even feel what type of cloth or clothes they are putting on us for burial. Do you think we want your materialism? Who can provide better than Allah, the Lord and Provider of this universe?

        Sir/madam we were created out of nothing and we have to return to Allah to account for the manner in which we spent our life on this earth. To Allah is our final return.

        Tell me sir/madam, how many doctors, lawyers, psychologists, and educated people do we have in Dominica? Has this improved the quality of life in Dominica? Are people safer in their homes? Sir/madam it is the very banking institutions that milks us with their interest rates which is forbidden by Allah in the Noble Quran and this was also forbidden in the time of Moses and Jesus peace be upon them.

    • bousselaire
      June 2, 2012

      How many moneies to give to Hallah ro hire his protection ? isn’i his duty to watch to everybody ?

  34. eyeswideshut
    May 31, 2012

    “WE MUST GO BACK, BACK TO THE ‘SOIL”…
    They contol your food they control YOU

  35. 4progress
    May 31, 2012

    Is there a case for an international airport, which will bring in more people.

    Is the the Tourist Board doing enough – doing the extra mile – to attract more people to DA, given that everyone knows of the world financial crisis.

    Should the Ferry service be reviewed

    Many questions, any answers?

  36. world traveler
    May 31, 2012

    i wanted to go and try out the zip line

  37. world traveler
    May 31, 2012

    that is a big lost
    :twisted: :twisted:

  38. trendsetter
    May 31, 2012

    NEXT LEVEL

    • Take it from me
      June 1, 2012

      lol next level for real… we thought it was a level up but it was a level or 2 down

  39. 1979
    May 31, 2012

    really??, maybe we need to work on this “tourism product” basket that we putting all our eggs in…maybe medical tourism would serve us better, since more locals would DEFINITELY make use of and benefit from that.

    • 1979
      May 31, 2012

      when it was banana, everybody wanted to plant banana, bus drivers saying they not making what they used to because one little village have 100 buses serving it….when will folks get it. we have to diversify. when investing in stock that is a RULE, that u diversify your portfolio but NO00000. mad people will do the same thing over and over and expect a different result. let us look for other avenues to stimulate our economy, who knows, the ripple effect just might help everybody.

  40. mytwocents
    May 31, 2012

    OMG! i was planning to visit there over the weekend. so sad! Where is the Ministry of Tourism on this. The P.M need to reshuffle his Cabinet cus i doe see what they getting paid for. Tourism sector failing, no cruiseships, tourist sites goin out of business…Come one get to work ppl. Lets help build and promote our beautiful country. we’re already being promoted by other countries, lets do our part

  41. Dominican overseas
    May 31, 2012

    Hess closed on St.Croix, 1000’s of Dominician’s out of job. It is only 60 at the trams. It is easier to survive in Dominica than on St.Croix

    • maboya
      May 31, 2012

      Sort sort sort. Cuyon cuyon cuyon.

    • Met Yo
      May 31, 2012

      Ya and it’s easy to get a free vacation right? Just wait for election time to collect that red t-shirt and free ticket!

    • LANGBEF
      May 31, 2012

      you sound like a retard

    • VA for lovers
      May 31, 2012

      ridiculous. how dumb,can u compare ST.croix,s economy with that of dominica,remember it is a dependent state of maama USA,we are an impoverished developing country with very few development plans, especially for tourisms.The loss of 6 jobs would have significant impact on their families, not the fortunates who line up at the RED CLINIC, and i wonder for how much longer.

      • BZ,
        May 31, 2012

        Man yes ,if we compare Dominica with ST.Croix Dominica is much better they said USVI,but man i dnt see US yet in ST>croix.Am living here and settle down already but am nt telling anyone come live here visit yes.trust me Dominican speaking.

    • BZ,
      May 31, 2012

      You so right ,am on St.croix and yes am working but man thank god for D.A.

  42. ალბერტ პოლ
    May 31, 2012

    Evertime I read certain comments on this blog I’m amazed. We blame the government for everything, we say they give too many hand-outs and then we never want to help ourselves…someone always has to bail us out.

    It doesn’t matter how many tourist ships we bring to this Country…..we don’t market our products and even when the place is flooding with foreigners…it’s still business as usual…people are rude to customers, stores close early, Roseau is a ghost town by 5pm and don’t even talk about the weekends. Do we seriously expect people to leave their homes, millions of miles away, and come to Dominica and “PULL UP” with nothing exciting to do both during the day and at nights?…..REALLY!!!!!!!

    BOSS when I get my little leave, struggle to a get a loan and go overseas…you better believe i have to get my monies worth….if I buy a juice, i might all eat “di” cup cause my money have to stretch.

    SO THINK OF IT FROM THE POINT OF VIEW OF THE TOURIST…HE IS IN THE SAME BOAT YOU ARE WHEN YOU TRAVEL OVERSEAS…DI MAN WANT VALUE FOR HIS MONEY PERIOD.

    • Fed Up
      May 31, 2012

      Oh man or woman – you hit the nail on the head!

    • Milly
      May 31, 2012

      couldnt have said it any better.

  43. Fed Up
    May 31, 2012

    When you make international news arresting people on a gay cruise ship being affectionate with one another – which is very normal between two people in love – do you really expect tourists to want to visit Dominica? When the people of Dominica start opening their minds and begin to progress like the rest of the free world, then maybe. But for now, I will spend my dollars elsewhere!

    • me
      May 31, 2012

      what country in the world can you have sex in public and not get arrested

      • Girlfriend
        May 31, 2012

        America. You get a sermons. That goes for peeing in public too.

      • May
        May 31, 2012

        Dominica offcourse!!!! and GAY too.

    • Cool1
      May 31, 2012

      Wow! When we begin to progress?? U mean by embracing something as unnatural as two people of the same sex boldly having sex out in the open; in clear view of OUR under aged and a population that is clearly against homosexuality? We all know that the charges brought against these two men had nothing to do with their sexuality. They could not have done the foolishness they were doing in Dominica in any other country and get away with in, so get over the Gay defense strategy. We have other problems, such as unemployment, to deal with!

    • Whale Watcher
      May 31, 2012

      Mr. Fed Up, I understand we need the tourist dollar, but it surely does not mean that we must stand by for all illegal or imoral things from the Tourist. We have no problem with gay men coming to Dominica to enjoy the beauty of the island, but to stand and watch them disrespect us on our shores, (something that they will not do in San Francisco) because they will indeed to arrested; is beyond a tourist dollar. Get real and stick to your moral grounds. The terrible thing is that this is becoming the mode of operation in our country – we will do and condone to anything for a dollar. Shame on you.

      • Fed Up
        May 31, 2012

        You stand for immoral things everyday Whale Watcher. Were your parents married when you were born? Do you have half brothers and sisters? Is that not immoral? Just saying…

      • May 31, 2012

        SO “FED UP”U ARE ADMITTING THAT THE GAY LIFESTYLE IS INDEED IMMORAL!!!

    • Dominican 2 de bone
      May 31, 2012

      Does progress involve angering God? The bible clearly bashes homosexuality. Why should we jump on that band wagon just because the rest of the world is doing it. Are we to please man or GOD? It won’t profit us anything if we gain the whole world and in the process lose our own soul. Dominica is a beautiful country and we can find other ways to attract tourist and keep them entertained can’t we?

      • Fed Up
        May 31, 2012

        Angering God? Does it anger God when your men and women have children out of wedlock? When your men and women commit adultery at a moment’s notice. When your women have children with different men? When men lust after young girls? Does that anger God? Isn’t this acceptable in Dominican society. Please don’t come with this religious hypocritical crap? What, homosexuality is the only sin you know?

    • Tri-State Beauty
      May 31, 2012

      Ignorance is free as air, but you don’t need to over indulge like that. The entire world economy is in shambles and people are guarded with their pennies, furthermore all inclusive cruises on board ship have been eating up the tourism market for landed visitors. Couple that with more intensive and responsible advertising from premier destinations versus the lazy modus oprandi of the tourism officials in Dominica.

      Now what does Dominica protecting itself from a two men publicly having sex have to do with the topic again. You are stuck on negativity. Is it any better where you are?

    • Anonymous
      May 31, 2012

      http://www.tribune.com.ng/sun/sunday-zest/7391-sex-in-dubai-couple-faces-3-years-in-jail-for-having-sex-in-a-taxi

      Guess this does not only happen in DOminica does it? they are actually facing jail time.

    • Observant
      June 1, 2012

      @ FedUp maybe you should call Matt in your crying voice and say ..” what is wrong with my people, what is wrong with Dominicans, my people are so this and that..”. Your tongue alone help to kill the tourisim sector all you do is wail and moan and slander the island. Not you yourself and your warped mentality that said Dominica is a failed state? the same things you say on radio you post on blogs shamelessly. All you do is sit in Atlanta and slader Dominica, bring those gays at your house to have sex on your porch, since you have been so vocal on the topic

  44. Sam
    May 31, 2012

    Oh Man that’s terrible news. I was really looking forward to doing the Aerial Tram after I finish the Waitukubuli National Trail. This sucks.

  45. Kukum
    May 31, 2012

    …..and Dominicans are exporting money to the USA according to the PM!! There is more to come!

    I am awaiting the “closed down justification” by the spin Doctors!!!

  46. jamming
    May 31, 2012

    Urggg….and i was planning a trip there with friends this summer

  47. SALT
    May 31, 2012

    Now what are the kids going to do for summer…I try to send my kids down to Dominica every summer to be with the family and have activities to do like the Tram, but now that this is our what do they do…stay home and watch TV…Isn’t there someone out there (IN Dominica) to help make things better…Thank you

    • bousselaire
      June 2, 2012

      There is an excellent booklet called ” 100+ things to do in Dominica, showing a wide variety of things to do in Dominica….And certainely more than 100. The one which died will be replaced by lot of more exciting other ways to enjoy Dominica ! e mail [email protected]

  48. Robert Wright
    May 31, 2012

    I was looking forward to the tram ride !

  49. bougla
    May 31, 2012

    There is a world recession and businesses are failing every minute everywhere. Stop blaming the government . It is the same everywhere. Many people have posted that the locals should also use the facility more.

    • LANGBEF
      May 31, 2012

      that is why they should not jump into that 27 million madness.

      • Take it from me
        June 1, 2012

        that money should have been spent on jobs and boosting the economy or even lowering out debt

  50. Anonymous
    May 31, 2012

    KFC portsmouth closed…Tram closed…The super market near the Roseau market closed….Next level we say…It has just begun…World crisis finally taking effect in Dominica…Gas $16.34 per gallon…Social Security gone up…I say no more…next level….

    • Malgraysa
      May 31, 2012

      Just waiting for Govt. to increase VAT now.

    • Dominican 2 de bone
      May 31, 2012

      which supermarket closed?

  51. @WELL
    May 31, 2012

    Maybe organizing some summer packages for locals will help at least keep the business open and keep some staff. I hate to hear things like that man. And there’s no support from the the Ministry of Tourism? I hope that the owners would have at least try to get the Tourism Ministry involved at least to help maintain staff. This is a down low man

    • Dominican for sure
      May 31, 2012

      I support your point wholeheartedly, this is when the Management of the Tram should become inovative and offer special packages to the locals. Special packages should have been offered to the schools(grade 6 students have free time now, soon fifth formers will be off), packages to business places should have been offered as well, as a staff body. In these times, we can’t just cater for Tourist, the focus has to be diversed and inovative. Its sad, but i wish management could “re-strategize”.

    • May 31, 2012

      Talking about summer packages for locals, where are the locals getting money? Cash flow is stagnant. The little we have is to put in our stomachs, for crying out loud!

  52. Cerberus
    May 31, 2012

    Whilst I’m sorry to hear this the decision to close down operations is almost inevetable given the dramatic reduction in cruise ship arrivals, scheduled for the 2012/2013 season. Cruise ship paasengers are the mainstay of an entrerprise like the Aerial Tram and I suspect that projected reveneue would not even cover their fixed costs. From the 1st. Oct.of this year thru. to the end of May of 2013 only 97 cruise ships are scheduled to call at Roseau. From 16 in Oct, to a Dec. peak of 23 it drops off to only 14 in March, 7 in April and a lone 1 in May. This will not only impact the Aerial Tram but also Trafalgar Falls, Emerald Pool and, of course bus/taxi drivers- and vendors’ income. It hink it prudent to take measures now so we are not faced with surprises when the season opens.

    PS. Details of arrivals (dates & names of ships) are available from web site: cruisetimetables.com

    • Cerberus
      May 31, 2012

      Correction: The actual no. of scheduled cruise ship arrivals for Roseau between 1 Oct. 2012 and the end of May 2113 is 100. For the cruise season “proper”, 1 Oct 2012 – 31 March 2013 the number is 97 with only three arrivals scheduled for Oct 2012. (“Norwegain Sun”, “Celebrity Summit”, “Silver Whisper”. I do not want to comment on the spending power of the cruise passengers. The vendors /busdrivers know better than anyone, which ships bring “high rollers” and which have a reputation for low spending and I advise them to examine the full list closely, so they can tailor their commitments accordingly.

      • Malgraysa
        May 31, 2012

        Makes me wonder about the timing of the slot machines at Krazy Kokonuts intended for cruise ship passengers. Didn’t these guys know this? Are the real? Best Ian Douglas start selling tickets for guided tours of the State Palace. I hear the P.M. say it is a tourist attraction, not so?

    • My2Sense
      May 31, 2012

      Thanks for your input.

  53. Concern 5th former
    May 31, 2012

    I wonder what am i going to do when im done with cxc n graduate from high school!!! We Dominican Fini Bat eh! more younger ppl leave school more business places close down
    ALAS PAPA BOUDYE

    • Dayandnightvision
      May 31, 2012

      CONCERN 5TH FORMER. WHY DONT YOU START TO THINK OF UTILISING YOUR GOD GIVEN GIFTS AND TALENTS TO HELP YOURSELF AFTER GRADUATION? YOU DIE NER???????

    • Malgraysa
      May 31, 2012

      Emigrate my boy and leave our politicians to wallow in their petty illusions of grandeur and importance. Dominica I love but is only a tiny part of the world. Go and take your chances wherever you find them.

    • ann
      May 31, 2012

      as a fith former, college you should be looking to go now

  54. no name
    May 31, 2012

    Come on Mr PM and Mr Minister of Tourism. Do something about that, it will be a shame to see it go

    • hmmm
      May 31, 2012

      the government did alot already.some people were milking that company.living lavishly on company rented homes and vehicles what did you expect? now company bankrupt alyou want to jump and say PM and government do something?plueeeeeeeeeeeeezzzeee it was only a matter of time.sad but true.

      • So sad
        June 1, 2012

        couldn’t have said it better hmmm

  55. I wonder
    May 31, 2012

    18-3 18-3 18-3 18- 3 18- 3 18- 3 18-3 18-3 18-3

    • ashanti
      May 31, 2012

      and ur point exactly is?

  56. Oh oh!
    May 31, 2012

    We need a bailout asap as this is one of the many attractions that tourist come for. Discover Dca Authority where are you? Min of Tourism where are you? AID Bank where are you? Social Security instead of buying half of Marpin, where are you when we need you?

  57. thinker
    May 31, 2012

    Did the government Ministry of Labour seek severance pay for the workers or were they sent home penniless?

  58. Girlfriend
    May 31, 2012

    Well do what they do in jamaica. You charge the local people less and the tourist more. That will keep things going.

    • Malgraysa
      May 31, 2012

      Dear girfriend, wake up. That is already being done. Don’t understand why but we Caribbean people have a habit of expecting to pay less than foreigners, when the costs are exactly the same. And we shouting about equality? When you fill up your tank at the gas station next time try getting a discount because you are local.

      • Girlfriend
        May 31, 2012

        Well then maybe you should patronise your local places more.

  59. walle
    May 31, 2012

    In Dominica we are so quick to talk, criticize and bad mouth each other in almost everything that we do. If only we as a people could turn all that negative energy and criticism into something positive. Bring forth ideas, be innovative, Hold these SO CALLED leaders accountable instead of that Blue, Red and Green Garbage (Bunch of stale heads Stuck in time). These “Leaders” have all gotten a chance to make this country relevant and yet somehow we still seem to be in neutral….
    This is a country with arguably the most potential in the entire Caribbean.. but somehow we’re stuck.
    We are always so quick to ridicule everything someone tries that the project/ plan/ venture is somehow doomed to fail before it could ever get going.

  60. Nassief
    May 31, 2012

    First KFC now Aerial Tram, everyone closing down in Dominica just look at how well they doing in St.Lucia, THAT GOVT MUST GO!

    Skerrit ReSIGN 8)

    • LANGBEF
      May 31, 2012

      how much chines leaving de country

    • Observer
      May 31, 2012

      To Nassief – The people of Dominica (locals and abroad) must contribute to their country by patronizing to help the economy. The St. Lucians abroad visit their country at least once or twice a year in great numbers to support local businesses. Buy locally made products and enjoy what Dominica has to offer. If you spend money then companies will hire more people and everybody WINNS!!

      • Take it from me
        June 1, 2012

        At least they have something to look forward to in slu and dont compare slu to dom… dem ridiculous tax dominica have their can never help the economy… is just tax tax tax and no money for the civil servants… CHUPS… leave slu where it be… they know how to invest in their ppl

  61. Looking in
    May 31, 2012

    Red clinic….here we come

  62. the voice
    May 30, 2012

    dat wat happen when a goverment is surpressing it people in other to hold on tp power. only time will tell, for people can only handle so much

  63. Autism
    May 30, 2012

    My dear dcans do the math…….one in the us can get an all inclusive trip/hotel and air fare for the price for an airline ticket alone to dca…….now we still attacking the tourist……

  64. Giggla
    May 30, 2012

    Boy not little coshonee that going on behind close doors in dominica what lennox talking about is trivail till the bomb burst and de secret will come out all senior citizen going to their grave voting labour the amount of caring these people getting from de man himself house rent paying for loads of people get a house for about 500 or less monthly, doe worry those losing jobs your needs will be taken care of just keep voting labour whether u work or not all will be fine

  65. Anonymous
    May 30, 2012

    more people to go clean harbor eh

  66. Francisco Telemaque
    May 30, 2012

    Someone asks why would the government of Dominica allow such a tragedy?

    No one should believe they deliberately allow that to happen, unless it was done to victimize someone.

    It would not be in the interest of the any government to create the condition that would cause sixty people to loose their jobs, knowing that sixty less people salary wound not be contributing to the economy of the country by their parole tax deductions.

    That sort of business depends mainly or solely on the volume of tourist visiting the island, and their interest of riding in a tram over the forest of the country in sweltering heat and humidity! On the other hand the population of Dominica is too small to sustain that, there the only hope for such a business to survive in Dominica, we would have to be in a position to attract millions of visitors to the island during the tourist season.

    Her we would have to concentrate on millions of tourist spending more than five days on the island. Ships spending one day in the port would never be able to sustain that sort of operation for very long, one is surprised it lasted so long.

    And so I must ask this very important question:

    Would it have made if Dominica had an International Airport, along with at least three Hotels of international standards, even if they would not be classified as ” Five Star ” Hotels?

    I do believe so, because that International Airport would indeed help sell Dominica as an tourist destination, thus more holiday seekers might chose Dominica for a five or ten day vacation.

    When the priorities of a country is not set right, such losses are inevitable. Rather than accepting a ball park from the Chines, our first priority should ask for their assistance in financing an International Airport, the Stadium could have come later; so we suffer because our nations priority is upside down.

    Where is our International Airport?

    Where is Dominica’s International Airport.

    Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

  67. Holiday Island Man
    May 30, 2012

    This is really a hard blow, not only to the thriving tourism industry , but also to those displaced employees. I had the privilege of riding on the Aerial Tram, and one of the things that really impressed me was the professionalism and knowledge displayed by the tour guides.
    I do hope that some other enterprise is able to come up with a solution to save the tram.Too much , in terms of financial and human resources have been put into this venture to just allow it to become a rusty blot on the tree tops.

  68. Anonymous
    May 30, 2012

    that what going to happen with international airport. if we waste money on it.

  69. conscious
    May 30, 2012

    Thanks for the concern, but its not a time to rejoice on staff out of job. My advise is best you wait for an official report on the reasons why RFAT shut down. We are all children of God, where there’s a way there’s a will.. God will take us through it like every body else.. We strongly believe we are ambitious ppl, we always work as a team, we’ll surely remain as a team and we won’t be knocking on Red Clinic Door.. One Love.

  70. room
    May 30, 2012

    There is much room for development in Dominica but business places are faced with the problem which plagues us as a people. That problem is a general don’t care attitude. We live just to get by from day to day. Ask most of us and we cannot tell you the last time we recommended to a stranger a good place to lime, visit etc, forget stranger, a returning Dominican for that matter.We only seem to like talking and not acting.
    I believe we need a larger population of risk takers.

  71. Clarity
    May 30, 2012

    No surprise. Any business that is heavily dependent on tourism will feel the effects when overseas economies go through turmoil as is the case with some of the major global economies.

    Their people’s priorities are not entertainment or fun; they leave these two priorities to those in Third World countries who just cannot get enough of what they cannot afford.

    The company can “market” as much as it wants. Their target market is just not interested right now and might not be for a while. Sometimes the best business decision IS to shut down, as painful as that might be. The Company seems to have financial issues that require major intervention.

  72. PAT COCHON
    May 30, 2012

    This is worrisome and heart-breaking. The economic gremlims are starting to show their faces. The perception that the country is doing well cannot be hidden anymore. The blame has to fall in part on this incompetent boyscout criminal enterprise that you all call a government. Take for example, American Eagles will pull out in march 2013 and the gov has yet to make any alternative moves, come next yr, we will wake up to reality

  73. Inevitable
    May 30, 2012

    The tram has always had financial problems from day one. This is capital intensive venture with heavy debt. Without the numbers it would fail. There is so much investors would be willing to put in without returns. The bank debt has to be repaid. Government cannot put money into a bottomless hole. So the next best thing is to close down.

  74. lisad
    May 30, 2012

    Dominicans must open their eyes to the global financial situation. If tourists have no money to travel then obviously, jobs which are directly related to tourism are definitely going to be affected.I believe that presently jobs in health care and funeral services are the ones which are booming.

  75. Hate ignorance
    May 30, 2012

    politics is life and who think i am political thats their problem but instead of spending 27 million dollars on a palace some of that money could have been spent on the tourism industry which would bring back much needed earnings to the country. Will the palace employ these 60 persons? Dominicans really …. but they will still support the palace because their government is in power. where will the taxes come from to repay that 27 million when people loosing jobs black is white. Dominica i feeling sorry for your children in time to come while some fatten their pockets for rainy days the 18 seats putting their foot in their mouths now. who won the valley seat again hmmm. take wat all u get tebee

    • Hate ignorance
      May 30, 2012

      that is why all of the pal rep seats should be made vacant all now , they aint doing she-eat for the country who is the minister of tourism i wonder if he was even aware of the difficulties they faced. (the tram owners)

  76. Righteous!
    May 30, 2012

    With every business venture there are risk. We(Dominica) as a whole need to do a better job marketing what Dominica has to offer. We need to explore every opportunity to keep entities such as the tram in service. Someone suggested a seasonal opening like the ski-resorts in America for example….The Tourism department need to do a better job in marketing the Nature Isle.

    On the other hand, we can’t expect Government to bail out every failing private entity. Put the blasted politics aside and come together for the betterment of the country. We need to stop letting politician cause you to hate your brother; last I check they are all politricksers who go in with their pockets empty and come out with their pockets full. DFP, UWP, DLP all the same….Meme bet meme pwel….We need a revolution of coming together for the common good of the country.

    • Democratic
      May 30, 2012

      That’s right if this continues were heading towards great depression and our leaders can stop this from happening we need to set our differences aside and come together as one .
      United we stand divided we fall apart.

    • Mr Gouty
      May 31, 2012

      Righteous i am 100% with you but Dominica need a change of Government before its to late not with DLP,UWP,DFP but with hard working local business people not those who are in it for them self and thier group alone but for our country..

      • LANGBEF
        May 31, 2012

        and you recommending business people, they will make policies for their own financial gain

    • Woodford Hill girl
      May 31, 2012

      And that’s real talk!

    • jerseydominica
      May 31, 2012

      i back you that for sure

    • May 31, 2012

      Don’t tie UWP in your story. UWP under the leadership of Edison James was the only government with a vision that would put proper infrastructure in place to bring in money, economic growth! A chinese highway can bring in money? All you don’t start to see nothing yet, Just wait!!!!!

    • Anonymous1
      May 31, 2012

      The revolution will do away with politics? Think man, everything is about politics

  77. Calibishie
    May 30, 2012

    Why would the Gov’t allow such a tredegy?! Come on! What is the reason for the closure?

    • Anonymous
      May 30, 2012

      no one going on it

    • So sad
      May 31, 2012

      i said the same thing. why is the government allow such a tragedy that was until i learnt that aerial tram is a costa rica based company and they have already made the final decision to close down leaving the government or out ministry of tourism very little or no choice in the matter

    • hmmm
      June 1, 2012

      they should step in and help save the organization and not let it drown.. SKEWWOOO invest in ur pppl, ur country garsa. stop let ppl suffer while u sit on ur gold thrown in ur palace

  78. needjobs
    May 30, 2012

    To the people of Dominica, my love goes out to all the people who are losing their jobs, because of these hard economic times, especially those in the tourism sectors, (JOBS) this will be a hard pill to digest, but I believed Dominica need a more efficient Air access; (1) when you are creating eco-tourism to boost tourism and jobs that is one thing (2) for the people who have to travel. Who are looking for a cheaper flight or how to get to their destination in one flight? Will think twice, people need to save monies in this hard time. When tourist not coming to your country, business is going too closed down, and the poor are going to suffer. The government needs to be more proactive, and should start now. Because the worse still to come :-o

  79. babsal
    May 30, 2012

    shame

  80. Met Yo
    May 30, 2012

    It’s the latest trend in the country…woooye mama

    and it baffling everybody…waay papa..

    those who..high in society…woye mama..

    they are the ones crippling the country…

    Everything is upside down…

    Everything is back to front…papa bordiay

    And if i didnt know better, I would swear is voodoo working in Dominica…

    Everything is upside down…everything is back to front…

    And I didn’t know better…between u and me brother..i would swear is that all them politicians them want…

    BLOW DE HORN!

    • too hard too long
      May 30, 2012

      this is nothing to rejoice about.

      • Met Yo
        May 30, 2012

        But who say I rejoicing? I singing a song. Everything not back to front in Dominica then?

    • wikileaks one
      May 30, 2012

      I LOVE THIS ONE : YES EVERY THING IS UPSIDE DOWN … ITS NOT GETING BETTER .

    • wikileaks one
      May 30, 2012

      I LOVE THIS ONE : YES EVERY THING IS UPSIDE DOWN … ITS NOT GETING BETTER.. :?: :?: :?:

    • concerned
      May 31, 2012

      you too…………………………….

  81. Reporter
    May 30, 2012

    This is what you call the next level.

  82. President
    May 30, 2012

    Government need to intervene..take over the business and keep people employed. instead of bringing them to the red clinic.

    • The truth
      May 30, 2012

      face the facts/the ppl has made their money and are now going on to st.martin to open up shop, it was costing them $4 mill to fix the cable pole and they are in debt to the government of Dominica.but we must note that this unemployment will trickle down to all who depend on the ships.

    • anonymous2
      May 30, 2012

      The government is not your savior and never was. It only wants you to believe that. The people are the govt. but most people don’t recognize that.

    • ah ah!
      May 31, 2012

      Seriously Dude…You would take over a business that is “drowning in debt”?

      You are asking the Government to do that? Are you willing to accept a tax increase to meet the costs of operations?

      Such a smart piece of advice! I guess thats why some of us are not in government.

  83. Anonymous
    May 30, 2012

    I am grateful that I was able to visit the tram earlier this year. The workers there were well trained, happy to be doing what they were doing and made the experience a great one. I am so sorry to hear that you guys won’t be able to do what you seemed to have come to love. All the best to you. I don’t know how many Dominicans visited the tram and zip because is not a sewo, but those who didn’t you missed out bigtime.

  84. kevin
    May 30, 2012

    the employment situation in Dominica is getting worst, and this current administration isnt doing anything to alleviate the situation. My heart goes out to those who lost their jobs today. The time has come for a change of government in Dominica, if we need to go foward.

  85. jump
    May 30, 2012

    Well by the end of the day we should realize that AGRICULTURE is our option and not tourism but its a sad day for a lot more than 66 people.

    Thing are not right economically in our country as some people boast it to be.

    How many people are out of work on the road project of GANAkAN or what ever his name is and the list goes on and on.

    The truth hurts.

    • AFAN
      May 31, 2012

      agri should compliment tourism as logics say that if more ppl visit our island their are more mouths to feed. however agri have its fair share of issues as well, when are we going to start adding value to what we produce? how are we modernising to attract youth?

  86. Help
    May 30, 2012

    Oh boy Laudat Village 66 ppl with familes, PM help them ppl

    • Stealth Critiuqe
      May 30, 2012

      The government cannot subsidize the failure of every private enterprise.

      • concerned
        May 30, 2012

        but they need to create the environment to attract the business, and that they are not doing.

      • Concerned citizen
        May 30, 2012

        That may sound true bread at about the decreased number in tourist arrivals as cruise liners continue to reduce calls to our island .
        The best way to compare is look at our neighboring islands and their total arrival figures of tourists .

      • Mr Gouty
        May 31, 2012

        But 27 million for a sate house in a time like now this is crazy i have nothing agains the Government but these people have turned to be to wealthy in a shot time.

      • Anonymous
        May 31, 2012

        but they need to create the environment to attract the business, and that they are not doing … i agree. and they are not doing it so they can have people beg and the haylay “thank God for skerrit” and run and vote the back in

      • So sad
        May 31, 2012

        that is so true stealth critiuqe and thats wat some people fail to realize. the government really has no say in this nor can they invest in this private enterprise.

      • May 31, 2012

        which one he subsidize for already pal?

    • Concerned citizen
      May 30, 2012

      Go to the red clinic problem solvers .COM

  87. vivi
    May 30, 2012

    this is truly sad indeed.. and i strongly believe that this is due to poor marketing and under managerment.. a proper marketing plan can work wonders.. this is a big problem in Dominica

    • Teresa
      May 30, 2012

      Vivi you’ve hit the nail on its head. Poor or no marketing. That is the case for tourism in Dominica, period. I used to urge the folks managing that sector to promote DA with a everything we have but they always gave me some silly reason for not doing so. You can’t do any job half- if you expect great results. It’s like we’re not really serious about tourism, but just dabbling. To have so much to offer and not make the effort is painful. So sad.

      • LOL
        May 30, 2012

        Agree with you guys.. The Marketibg strategies is DA is extremely poor. I gave a member of govt influence some ideas back in Dec. He gave a sorts of excuses…

        Yes, excuses and success are opposites. My employees don’t give me excuses. I don’t give my boss excuses… we make it happen. and if we fail, we try again. we go back to the drawing board and start over..

        But managers in DA don’t do that.

        On my last trip, i can’t recall any marketing idea that catch my eye or ear. that’s a problem…. i shouldn’t be in Da wondering what to do.. information should be everywhere.

        we have a myopic idea of tourism.. We don’t seem to release that visiting Dominicans are also tourist and we need to capitalize on that..

      • AFAN
        May 31, 2012

        though marketing is a problem you must admit we have a lopsided product as well, and even in the nature and adventure tourism we practice we still have limited products/attractions on offer. we must realise that tourism is more than just goingto the river or visiting the forest. what about night life, what about ease of travel, what about ease of access to the country what about getting an affordable hotel. what about using the island to do things like ironmen competitions and motocrosses , what about using our old feeder roads to do some sort of rally racing. the point i am trying to make is, we need to completely revamp our tourism industry if we are to compete, being unspoilt just isnt enough.

  88. Anonymous
    May 30, 2012

    Poor the people of Laudat, i understand most of the employees were from that village, PM help the 66 ppl keep their jobs. BOY BOY that hard 66 ppl and them 66 ppl have their families papa God. trust jahjah

  89. Not a herd follower
    May 30, 2012

    A BIG BLOW to Dominica’s tourism product.

    What is Ian Douglas doing to increase the number of visitors to the island. The man is just there ranting and not listening to what he is saying. Most of what he says as a Minister and MP have no connection with actual reality. He should be dismissed as a Minister. He brings to leadership quality to the tourism portfolio.

    • LOL
      May 30, 2012

      agree!

  90. Anonymous
    May 30, 2012

    How about opening on a seasonal basis

    Can’t believe something like this is closing down :(

    • Teresa
      May 30, 2012

      Or even how about encouraging locals to enjoy the rides. Generally, I find that residents tend to know very little about where they reside. Not just in DA but everywhere. When I tell Jamaicans that I’ve been all over Jamaica their mouths always drop open, considering that most of them hardly know their parish. So it would be nice if locals could get to enjoy the trams even at a small cost.

    • Views Expressed
      May 30, 2012

      THey already open ona seasobal basis. When the tourist season is coosed , the TraM bUSINESS IS CLOSED………SAD FOR DA
      SOMEONE, ANYONE, EVERYONE, KICK THESE FLY BY NIHTS OUT OF THE YARD…TE FNANCIAL CENTRE..

    • Wiseup
      May 31, 2012

      they do open on a seasonal basis….smh…its just that the lines and everything else has to be maintained. so the place cant be isolated or left alone for to long….considering the fact that its in the forest

  91. islandboy
    May 30, 2012

    i am saddened by this news truly, apart from costa rico, dom, stlucia this is the only attraction other popular white sandy beach islands like barbados or antigua that they dont have this attraction and now dom tram way is closed down , is st lucia next , i think jamaica has a similar attraction as well… i hope another company tries to get that tramway back up soon , its there to stay dominica its just a matter of time an investor reopens this eco friendly attraction .. PS- its about time the WINDWARD ISLANDS come together to make have 4 in one travel destination lets see how that will help boosts tourist arrivals its never been done b4 i think we can do it Windwards we can no longer go it alone, if we want to compete with jamaica or barbados we can try to come as one ..IF i am a tourist i would prefer to visit 4 islands instead of just one makes so much sense

    • AFAN
      May 31, 2012

      and have easier access from island to island!! what about a high speed ferry? when are we going to see our government do the right things?

  92. May 30, 2012

    Dam shame nothing good last forever in D/ca. Hope some able group or individuals with the cash flow take up the operations of such a necessary and job creating project. I am willing as usual to contribute. Please do not let the tram die.

  93. Upside Down
    May 30, 2012

    Sad and worrisome. An island with so much potential plagued by corrupt politicians who are simply enriching themselves while the country is on it’s knees. Nothing of substance has been done to bring stay over tourist to the island. The cruise ship industry is struggling.
    This train need a new captain and crew- something need to happen

    • B.E.B
      May 30, 2012

      Its a world wide issue, who should be blamed for this? Visitors cant afford going on tours any more. Its a global melt down
      What the propietors need to do is make the project more friendly to us Dominicans, cause the tours to be cheaper . I’ve been on the tram already, I said to myself, this could be cheaper. I have also been on a tram in Venezuela, which is much more bigger than the one in DA, due to the fact that I’m a senior citizen, I was able to get a free ride on the presentation of my passport. I’m not saying that management should do like wise but make it more friendly for DA people.

      • justice and peace
        May 30, 2012

        This is exactly what i expect from an appologist. Sit by and accept mediocrity and watch Dominica operate in reverse gear.

      • Madness
        May 30, 2012

        Global melt down my foot. Take closer look at Barbados. I had a connecting flight through Sir Grantly Adams Internation on my way to Dominica. The lines were out the door most of the passengers were visitors from Europe. Barbados was the final destination for these people. Barbados has its international airport and flights are cheap. Who the hell is gonna pay $900.00 us to fight to Dominica for vacation. You can fly a family of three for the same price to Barbados. I bought my ticket from JFK to BGI for $286.00 round trip. Liat wanted almost $400.00 from BGI to DOM. Dominica needs an international airport.

      • AFAN
        May 31, 2012

        what you are recommending is not telling us how they are going to make money to take care of their overheads. what do we really have to offer in dominca other than rivers and forest? where is our tourism plan and what are we doing to get more visitors onto our shores, where the regional people who like here so much? when you have limited beds on island, arbitrary high rates for hotel rooms,an island which goes to be bed at 7 pm what do you expect. you spoke about visiting venezuela, i am sure you had something to do in the night, when you were no longer trekking the jungle or riding the tram. Dominica needs to wake up and we need to admit that we dont have the best team running the country and start from there.

      • awa wi
        May 31, 2012

        wen things go bad is always a worldwide issue and when they good is dominica alone that not suffering from the global crisis? is it ok enough to say i poor wi but everybody poor so is not a problem? well sorry to tell you it is a problem for some of us. creative solutions and enterprise abound thats why we need a higher level of education in our government as well as practical know-how which is sadly lacking in this administration.

  94. ROSEAU VALLEY
    May 30, 2012

    This is a serious and sad development. This matter needs the immediate intervention of central government similar to the intervention of Obama to save the auto industry in the United States. These are not Chinese who are now unemployed because of the closure of a road project. These are indigenous struggling Dominicans, who are now being laid off adding to our growing unemployment situation. The Rain Forest Tram is a major tourist attraction and is core to our future economic development.

    We may recall that in September 2010, an alarm was raised that the Aerial tram would lose significant business due to the pull out of Carnival. About that same time, the company launched a new product – the Gorge Zip Challenge zip line. Management of the company has tried to remain afloat but alas they can only do so much.

    We have heard of the pending pull out of the American Eagle- yet we do not see a need for an international airport while we continue to waste time and money on expansion of Melville Hall and dreaming of true night landing operation. The tourism minister must take this seriously as its potential impact is far-reaching. It goes way beyond the lost of 66 jobs.

    I urge our Parl Rep (Mc. Intyre) and the Minister of Tourism to engage the company to see how government could assist. This is a direct result of the lack of government’s investment in the promotion of the Island as an eco-tourism destination and the rapid decline in visitors’ arrival due to government’s policies (or lack thereof). The Rain Forest Aerial Tram is closing now- who is next?

  95. ????????
    May 30, 2012

    A country in crisis. Where there is no vision the people shall perish.

    • AFAN
      May 31, 2012

      you could not have said it better!!, all of the posts i see talking about praying just make me more angry. prayer will not help unless you are praying for strength to do what must be done. for how much longer will we as a people just sit and accept mediocrity from the political directorate. this falls squarely at their laps

  96. lulz
    May 30, 2012

    As if things weren’t as bad enough already. I will pray for those affected by this, and I ask what will our govt do to ensure that job security and jobs on a whole remain in our country. Rich getting richer, poor getting poorer, and the frustrated going mad…

  97. Oh No
    May 30, 2012

    I am so happy I got the opportunity to visit there before this unfortunate thing happened.Very beautiful site.That is very sad.

  98. Anonymous
    May 30, 2012

    sigh that’s very sad…. then what are we going to do? now…. maybe Dominica should learn now to stop doing thing and do other things too… expand their abilities

  99. Little Fish
    May 30, 2012

    What a shame. The ministry of tourism should be a key stake holder at that share holders meeting to make a positive input into trying to solve the financial crisis of this company.

  100. care
    May 30, 2012

    how sad well that is what happen when people in the country decide to go bad dominica we pary for u . so u will come as the milk and honey

  101. the truth
    May 30, 2012

    for those who has suffered the lost of there job hold strong and to all friends and love ones, don’t forget to be there for them ,when they had they gave you so now is your time to give back untill they are on there feet

  102. GN Va
    May 30, 2012

    So Sorry to read about the loss of job for 66 dominicans What A shame; What is the minister for Tourism input in this matter?
    After hearing off increasing crimes committed against tourists,what is the expected out come when community leaders and law enforcement officers allow politics to intervene in arrest and prosecution of the culprits?
    Dominica is unique but small and news spread so quickly with he advent of social media.No tourists wants to visit any country where privacy and freedoms are being restricted by some unscrupulous thugs who create a dirty image of theland of my birth.,thus contibuting to the decrease in tourists arrivals,hence loss of revenue for all dominicans.
    I pray that we all come together to formulate plans to keep industries such as aerial tram alive . Come on business sectors and goverment,PRACTICE WHAT YOU PREACH.

    • AFAN
      May 31, 2012

      what we really need is better political management and the current crop has failed for the last 10 years and we will continue to get poorer and poorer and less relevant once we are managed by people who are better known for their smiles than for solving any real problems.

  103. linky
    May 30, 2012

    them lebarites will still tellu that the dominica is doing well.

  104. May 30, 2012

    what a shame, instead of skerrit giving handouts and hundreds of thousands of dollars to people for vote, this is an area where he should be investing money, closing down the aerial tram is a great lost not only for tourist industry but also a great lost for us in Dominica

    • So sad
      May 31, 2012

      U all fail to realize the decision did not come from skerrit or Dominica because aerial tram is a costa rican company that expanded to Dominica and 2 other caribbean countries. yes they are failing financially but the final decision to close down came from their head office. more money could have been put it by the company however because of the slow tourism they stated that it isn’t profiting them to keep the Dominica branch open

  105. Anonymous
    May 30, 2012

    oh no pls

  106. shatta
    May 30, 2012

    funny but the government got money to build a multi million state house ah magwa sa

    • So sad
      May 31, 2012

      yes u right however aerial tram does not belong to Dominica. this is a company from costa rica with expansions in Dominica, jamaica, st lucia.for a long time I knew that aerial tram was having financial difficulty, they were barely floating.

  107. no name
    May 30, 2012

    wow thats such sad news.. does that also reflect our failing tourism industry?

  108. dwiz
    May 30, 2012

    . whoever the organizers are…. you cannot tell me you open a business “just for tourists”. what happened to the local people?

    • AFAN
      May 31, 2012

      you really think our tiny population alone would have allowed them to keep operating and make a profit, these are just signs of the state of Dominica in general, though some like to bury their heads in the sand we are in serious trouble. our population is more than 20 thousand lower than when we got independence, when locals cant be convinced to stay why will foreigners come and invest?

    • Teresa
      May 31, 2012

      Well, in some countries there are entertainment centers and packages designed only for tourists, but those are countries that go all out to bring tourists to their shores. Once there, the host countries try to keep their guests by catering to their tastes. When I lived in the Bahamas I learned that locals were not allowed in the casinos to gamble. Government didn’t want them losing their pay checks there. But the same government encouraged and assisted 24 hour air junkets from Florida to Freeport, for the sole purpose of gambling. My Florida neighbour used to fly there after work, gamble all night, and fly back to Fort Lauderdale early morning in time for work.

  109. Sakway Gas
    May 30, 2012

    Shocks Man!! I there saving for me to go on that for summer wi boy. PM Skerrit!! tell them keep it open till after summer so I can take my family there.

  110. Satelite
    May 30, 2012

    Certainly not good news

  111. CIA on the watch
    May 30, 2012

    just a couple more bodies for the red clinic

  112. Anonymous
    May 30, 2012

    Wow, that is not good news at all. Let’s pray that a something can be done to prevent an indefinite closure.

  113. hmmm
    May 30, 2012

    damn! that’s messed up.

  114. Persha
    May 30, 2012

    Alasss

Post a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

:) :-D :wink: :( 8-O :lol: :-| :cry: 8) :-? :-P :-x :?: :oops: :twisted: :mrgreen: more »

 characters available