Attorney wants more demands made on political leaders

Shillingford said more demand must be made on leaders
Shillingford said more demands must be made on leaders

Attorney-at-Law, Cara Shillingford, has said Caribbean people are very passive in terms of what they expect from their leaders and is of the opinion that more demands must be made on them.

She said blind allegiance to party is crippling the country, discrimination against political colors is creating a lackadaisical society and the acceptance of bribes is negatively affecting the development of the country and its citizens.

She wants the populace to demand more from leaders and make those at fault face the consequences.

“In my opinion, sadly in the Caribbean, the notion of good governance is almost a foreign concept. We do not expect it from our leaders and we do not demand it. This generation, in my opinion again, can safely be described as a very passive generation in terms of what we tolerate from our leaders,” she said during a panel discussion organized by the Citizen’s Forum on Good Governance at the Garraway Hotel.

Her topic was “Principles of Good Governance.”

According to Shillingford, we allow our leaders to “get away with murder” and as such we in the region are “drowning in a sea of hopelessness as it relates to politics.”

She is hopeful that engagements, like the panel discussion, could “perhaps help persons to realize that good governance is possible.”

“It is a possibility,” Shillingford noted, adding that transparency, responsibility, accountability, participation and responsiveness are some key attributes to good governance.

She also argued that citizens should not only make demands on political leaders but all those who are in public office.

“We have in this country a big problem of discrimination on the basis of political opinion,” she opined, stating that everybody must be treated on the same level or a laid back society is created.

“The reason for that is when you start to discriminate against persons and you judge persons not on the basis of merit, but on the basis of political opinion, you are going to create a very lackadaisical society,” Shillingford said.

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129 Comments

  1. Concerned Dominican
    November 23, 2014

    Well said! I agree 100%. Small island mentality cripples us, and will cause us to sink! Dominicans tend me be very gullible, and need to wake up. Regardless of the fact that you support someone politically doesn’t mean they can’t do no wrong. People need to understand why they vote. It shouldn’t be because someone gives you hand outs when u beg; there should be leaders who believe in self motivation. Provide jobs, skills training. Give the people tools to work with and in turn they can be independent, and be contributing members of society. If our leaders have such blatant flaws, that reflects on their judgments, and their ability to lead. Clearly, when someone speaks, u can usually tell if they’re educated/ not! The ignorance is alarming on here. I’m glad to hear Ms. shillingford speak.

  2. Hope
    November 23, 2014

    “If the negro in the ghetto must eternally be fed by the hand that pushes him into the ghetto, he will never become strong enough to get out of the ghetto” Carter G Woodson.

  3. DANZIGER
    November 22, 2014

    Tell us the other side of the story because the puzzle is missing 5 pièces ok Miss. We want to hear the TRUTH.

  4. November 22, 2014

    Lady your are certainly the faint light of hope in this dark land of IGNORANCE. Our forefathers may not have attained the level of education that some of us have attained; but they at least displayed a great degree of commonsense and understanding which makes us the laughing stock of the 21st century. In today’s enlightened world where cyberspace has dominated our educational curriculum, Is this the level of discus some of us are able to offer? The older folks spoke of the “MOUTON BATALIE SYNDROME” which still affects most of us POLITICALLY in this country. Mess: Shillingford i wish that more CLEAVER persons like you would continue to educate the FOOLISH which, by the way is possible; but alas the IGNORANT cannot and will never be educated; SORRYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!

  5. Bushmaninad
    November 22, 2014

    The Bushmaninda has a different take in this issue. I do not believe it is simply about the people holding leaders accountable or demanding more from them. The law and its enforcement, or should I say lack there of, that is at the root of this issue.

    Periodically, usually every 60 months, people in the Caribbean go to the polls to exercise their right to put in or take out political leaders. Now here is the big news, that right to choose who will represent you in the parliament does nothing to ensure that your chosen one will behave in a way that is respectful to the position or to the public at large. Usually once the pal rep is in he/she is in until the next election. That is how it is and I believe that is how it should be. The people choose a representative to exercise his/her opinion of what is in the best interest of the voter. During the 50+ years of independence the people of the Caribbean have done their best in this regard.

    So folks it is not about democracy, it about good governance. The people are responsible for the exercise of democracy. It is the law, and the morality of the leadership that ensures good governance. In the absence of a strong sense of morality on the part of leadership good governance will not be in practice. We must therefore have laws to ensure the practice of good governance.

    Here is where I differ with Ms Shillingford, it is not about the people, it about the law, its enforcement and the structure of our governments. Who in the apparatus of out present governmental structure can bring a Prime Minister to task for conducting the affairs of the country outside the bounds of good governance. Is it the Attorney General, it think not, they serve at the pleasure of the Prime Minister. Is the DPP able to take on a Prime Minister? An integrity commission chosen by politicians and other special interest has proven to more administrative that proactive. Certainly it is not the people rioting in the streets. The quality of governance can be enhanced if the law makers were to establish codes of good governance that are binding in law on all elected officials. In addition to these codes there has to be enforcement by a truly independent body.

    This is all about the development of the sociopolitical infrastructure of a political state. Now that we in Dominica are in this season of heighten political awareness this is the time to contemplate such matters.

    What are the candidates saying about the development of the sociopolitical infrastructure of out country. Are they saying any thing. I know what the current Prime Minister thinks of the ombudsman, but is the would be Prime Minister thinks of the ombudsman. Too often political leaders spout the benefits physical development while taken advantage of the immature sociopolitical development and infrastructure much to the detriment of the long term growth of the nation

  6. J John-Charles
    November 21, 2014

    Well said ,you are my girl.

  7. oppression
    November 21, 2014

    some one commented that there is no oppression in Dominica….. when the president have to be put in office and there must be snipers on roof tops what do you call the action?

  8. playboy
    November 21, 2014

    You go girl!
    Great way to get some publicity for your young career.

  9. looking
    November 21, 2014

    Well said! Its sad that we have to operate in that level of politics. No decent debate, Pure propaganda. We ought to hold our leaders accountable because they are our LEADERS! We hear of leaders who have wives concubines, that is so wrong! In developed countries you are to resign because you have been voted to run the affairs of the state not women. We worship what is bad and condemn what is good! There have been too many instances where our leaders have been caught with their hands in the cookie jar! and they hide behind the technicalities of the law. In developed countries you would have to do the honorable thing and resign. Sadly the Anti Christ will be the same, very lovable, caring for the elderly for the kids and will be seen as the messiah. All a show to fool the poor and vulnerable. Please people hold our leaders accountable whether you blue, red, green or yellow.

    • 1979
      November 21, 2014

      im comforted to know there are others out there who carry the mantle and spread the light…keep on spreading the world brother…one day the world will hear and understand

  10. November 21, 2014

    it got to be you know something bout construction girl cause you hit the nail right on the head. these people of ours don’t look forward to having a leader that excels. they accept petty bribes with petty cash, galvanize and plywood. lol what a joke I don’t believe guys like me out there in the diaspora can return except for vacation.

  11. too late
    November 21, 2014

    any one knows what Skeritt said about Monelle Williams?

  12. November 21, 2014

    Miss/Mrs Shillingford…
    Most of the men and women who find themselves in the political arena in Dominica are not politicians to start with..They most time comes from diverse occupations that have nothing to do with policy making and leadership…
    Even if the masses dose not hold their feet to the fire but they were truly politicians,they would bring forth great results…
    Haven’t you noticed that, some do more talking and that’s as far as they go…
    You’re expecting alot…

  13. Truth and Justice
    November 21, 2014

    Ask yourself the question, where are all Dominicas educated people, they are overseas, what happened in Dominica to Dominica and its people, those who were educated and talented were shipped to the USA after they brought about the fall of the PJ government, it was done in the name of better opportunities but basically it was done to create the vacuum which now exist . Do not blame the caribbean people,with the small populations the people have learned survival.

  14. RastarMarn
    November 21, 2014

    WAW this is probably the only Lawyer (Barrister) on Dominica respect is due!!!

    Well said sister we need more minds like yours to start an arena of educated discussions,,,

    Good on you, for the words well presented,,,

  15. tell
    November 20, 2014

    You all are cursing the country one day God must teeach you all a lesson.

  16. Anonymous
    November 20, 2014

    ONLY GOD knews what is best for Dominica. In the name of Jesus Christ of narzareth do your will you know them more than they know themselves. Let the good one in.

  17. November 20, 2014

    To Ronnie.

    Hello and good evening my people. Hello you are so disrespectful and unprofessional to our people. This is an educated woman of our soil who has the heart to speak the truth about what’s going on the Dominica. You should be ashamed of yourself. A thumbs down is to good for you.

    • November 21, 2014

      Ms. Shillingford is a boldface brave lady. She entered the arena and fully aware of what goes on, on DNO. Remember the ‘BLUE’ mantra “If you can’t take the heat stay out of the kitchen. Tell them I say so”. So Tony to your Ronnie, stop crying here.

  18. Tommy Hill
    November 20, 2014

    I totally agree with everything that Ms Shillingford said, she’s young but oh so intelligent Good work.

  19. The Facts
    November 20, 2014

    Would this be the Ronnie I know? I hope not but then again with your jokes, it sounds like you. :lol: When I meet you I will ask you.

  20. anonymous2
    November 20, 2014

    The people need to come to grips with the fact that THEY ARE THE GOVERNMENT. This concept appears to be foreign to the majority of Dominicans. It is the responsibility of every citizen to hold the politicians accountable and to kick them out if they do things that are counterproductive to the country.

  21. really clayton
    November 20, 2014

    who was victimized when and where?who was bribed when and where and how mush was paid to the person. Any evidence of nepotism anyone? Why do we use such big words and we cannot present a little proof to support such serious allegations.

  22. really clayton
    November 20, 2014

    ms shilingford i am certain that as the brilliant attorney you are, you must appreciate the value of proof against the issue of allegation.

  23. November 20, 2014

    Yes, you may sound sincere, but, can you honestly say that some of the people who are vying for political office in the UWP are stable enough and could be trusted. I totally agree with your perception, but do you think the leader of the party is a qualified leader at this present time? We will be sending a negative message to the younger generation. The message is in life you don’t need an education or trade because our PM doesn’t have none and he is leading a nation? Would you let a bush doctor operate or remove your appendix? There are lots of people you are representing, it is not because they are literate, but you attended a center of higher learning, that make you qualify to defend the person. As an educated person why would you choose a person who doesn’t have a formal education to represent you? Show the young gerneration education counts not colours.

    • Educated
      November 21, 2014

      What degree does the current PM have? Is it a degree in governance? No. He says he has a degree in psychology. Tell me, how does having a degree in psychology help you in running a country? In making decisions to better the economy?? I have a degree in Law. Trust me , this degree CANNOT make me qualified to run a country. To do this, you need advisers who a qualified in various areas. But above all, you need honesty and integrity. That is the most important asset. That is what Mr. Linton has. That is what Dominica needs. Take this as advice from an educated person…. ALSO the message you are sending to our youth with you comment is that once you don’t have a university degree, your life is over. That is untrue and wrong. A University degree is not necessary for success. Look at Mark Zuckerberg for example.

      • watcher
        November 21, 2014

        Educated so you doe see di man have the right degree to run di country?A good set of mad people that there so he just using di degree on them.After all man i thought you saw that. :wink:

      • Shameless
        November 22, 2014

        :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen: The PM studied Psychology but does NOT have a degree . He never completed his studies and therefore did not graduate. You can call the University and they will tell you he did NOT graduate but studied there for a period of time. Change Is A Must!

        Assertive, NOT Aggressive! :twisted:

    • watcher
      November 21, 2014

      Thanks respect di PM he have di best,a psychology degree to move them mad marble heads around.Those that not mad good for them but all he seeing is a mad set of people to help.

    • Hope
      November 22, 2014

      In Dominica we have many an educated fool. In Dominica there is a belief that obtaining a degree will miraculously transform you into this person of high intellect and wisdom. Noooo! It doh go like dat. My prime minster, first and foremost must be able to inspire hope and change. he or she must have the ability to lead from the front.

      Given enough time you can train a monkey to drive a car that does mean that he’s smart.

  24. hmmmmm
    November 20, 2014

    All these people commenting about “Rosa Parks” make me laugh…..Their were so many different people who tried what Rosa Parks did and were put in jail or fined. The only reason Rosa Parks is famous is because she was chosen by the NAACP because she had the right (lighter) skin tone and nice hair or looks to be the poster child for their campaign…..at the end of the day is still some other people in the shadows that make or break you…..Rosa didn’t start a movement….the NAACP started it and put her face on it…..

    So although I like this lady’s message, it is worthless unless the masses agree with her and step up and be brave or she has some powerful backers to help her from the shadows like Olivia Pope (or her fada)

    http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=101719889

  25. November 20, 2014

    Most dom_in_a_cans will not understand what the young said.I would never waste my time trying to educate Dominican,These people heads are in the dirt and will remain there. :lol:

  26. Teacher
    November 20, 2014

    So proud of you, my dear 4Her. Once a 4Her always a 4Her! Great work my dear……do not be distracted!

  27. Truth
    November 20, 2014

    Well said miss Shillingford. You could not have said it any better than this. I applaud you.

  28. Eyeballs
    November 20, 2014

    I can’t wait for this election to be over and for people to start working with each other to help in the development of Dominica…that is if they will ever get over it. I have read so many things about this party and that party that my eyes are weary.

    • watcher
      November 21, 2014

      You should see di eye doctor before you come and read politics.You lost now go see di eye doctor.

  29. Red Red Red
    November 20, 2014

    pervert :mrgreen:

  30. watcher
    November 20, 2014

    I agree with her so much.Dominica is like a sheep farm being run by wolves.If one sheep dare to baa the wolves will show their teeth and claws to scare the sheep.If our people were so educated as some people claim,Dominica would be very different in a good way.Yes people survive here but on the limit of their pocket and for the leaders who have it so,they want it to stay so.

  31. Gary
    November 20, 2014

    The Phrase “Principles of Good Governance” has now become a household name.The phrase is being used like a mantra and a very convenient Political tool to arouse people especially now at an election time. I wonder if the messengers preaching of such a phrase truly understand the meaning and are they practicing what they preach.Why is it they get to define the principles associated with good governance, is it because it’s suits their political agenda.

    It is sad when Attorney-at-Law, Cara Shillingford makes statements which are cliche, twisted with her political partisan beliefs to established principles pertaining to good governance. As someone who is a trained Attorney, why facts are obscured why precedence is given to hearsay. One such silly statement quote “In my opinion, sadly in the Caribbean, the notion of good governance is almost a foreign concept.” then how comes Dominica has an Integrity Commission, isn’t that not an integral part in administering good governance, is this proof of a foreign concept, do not be naive and misinformed. Let us be honest when using the phrase “Principles of Good Governance” using such phrase as political tool only fosters propaganda supporting a political agenda.

    ,

  32. rosa parks
    November 20, 2014

    There are corrupt persons who don’t like the truth but speak on Ms. Shillingford we need more person like. Our politics has taken a drastic turn… Our people no longer believe in voting for good representation and integrity but for hopefully can give them hand outs. It all started with the serif administration,they believe in a begging nation rather than an independent nation.

  33. AdultED
    November 20, 2014

    Cara Shillingford you want to honestly engage in a discussion about good governance yet you do so on a UWP platform. All that came from the forum is what have been going on Q95fm radio for the longest while people spewing allegations, which they cannot substantiate! Most glaring of this nonsense under guise of “political good governance” is the panel members were made up of a group of disgruntle and vindictive ex-laborites. You have to be kidding to think that this gives any merit or credence to the discussion. It was a terrible effort on your part and if anything it demonstrates dishonesty!

  34. TRUTH
    November 20, 2014

    of course Dominicans are still going to vote skeritt again,
    this is the last supper before their crucifiction,
    They are walking into their graves,
    Good luck Dominica

    REMEMBER <<<YOU WERE WARNED

    • Is this reallyChange
      November 20, 2014

      This is not about Skeritte. It is about all our leaders only if you aren’t counting Linton as one. UWP is just as guilty.

    • The Facts
      November 20, 2014

      You are too presumptuous. What makes you think it will not be the same for you if you vote otherwise? :Can you see the future? twisted: :mrgreen: :twisted:

    • Gary
      November 22, 2014

      Why those silly religious narratives, What a poisonous and arrogant warning, which is all based on your partisan political beliefs.

  35. stupes
    November 20, 2014

    Time for next election u will be on uwp platform and singing a different song…

  36. Anonymous
    November 20, 2014

    Finally a brave lone soldier has ventured into the ring baring her soul. Proclaiming to all what I and others like me have been saying for far too long.

    At the risk of repeating myself, and it pains me to say so. Dominicans are selfish, greedy, easily bought, easily sold, easily pleased, easily fooled, easily led, and to compound the situation, those elected to provide good governance are very well aware of that fact…

    • Red Red Red
      November 20, 2014

      Well said Bro, these people have been robbed of their pride and integrity. By the time they realize their mistake it will be to late.

    • Anonymous
      November 20, 2014

      Dominicans you say?
      Does that include you?

      • Anonymous
        November 21, 2014

        Well of course. Speaking from experience

    • November 20, 2014

      And why not mention, ‘easily raped’ by many coming forth right now. Tell the truth Dominican Men coming from the Diaspora and talking on these platforms for the Blue. I see many returning to Dominica in the name of ‘Politics’ and should be in the news like ‘Bill Cosby’ right now. Many young girls have been raped by many of the faces that I see showing up on this blue platform and I am praying to the Lord to ‘Guard’ our young girls in Dominica at this election time.

      • Anonymous
        November 21, 2014

        Power curupts, absolute power curupts absolutely

    • femmedominique
      November 20, 2014

      I sat with this young lady for 30 minutes consultation and she impressed me. I sincerely wish she continues to be heard.

    • The Facts
      November 20, 2014

      You are generalizing. Broadmindedness should inform you that not all Dominicans are the same, expect the same and act the same. You need to develop your common sense.

    • no name
      November 21, 2014

      Well said

  37. UK Dominican
    November 20, 2014

    Rosa spaks was a black woman that refuse to sit at the back of the bus,…..for those that dont know the history.

    • my views
      November 20, 2014

      Now Rosa can buy Landrover she eh need bus again

    • bawi
      November 21, 2014

      Rosa SPAKS?? Nice try… But Go read a book?

  38. Just Observing
    November 20, 2014

    Many of our intellectuals and professional always sing form the same hymn sheet until they are pulled into the political arena. Then they ask their supporters to stand by “me”. The other side is “poison”.

    What a utopian state we would be living in. But is it practical. Politics in the Caribbean is a practical thing. Our society is not yet intellectually sophisticated to behave like other more developed societies where you can disagree with your party and openly side with another party and still maintain the friendship of your party. Democrats have disagreed with President Obama and sided with Republicans and vice versa. There is such acrimony as exists in Caribbean politics. President Obama appointed a Republican to be his Defense Secretary when he took over form George Bush. Can you imagine any such behavior on our part?

    • The Facts
      November 20, 2014

      They must learn from those politicians If we were to act indifferently with those who disagree with us and vice versa we would have no one to communicate with. People in general must learn that even though they disagree and politically so, they do not have to be enemies.

      • looking
        November 21, 2014

        Thank you “The Facts”.

  39. Nevevson st jean
    November 20, 2014

    i could not agree more. here is a prime minister who runs the country like its his plantation. he leaves the island, the citizens have no idea . when he returns they dont know .what he does while he is away no one knows . the press cannot ask him a question. there are so many scandals that need to be addressed but he wont have a open press conference.

    • Is this reallyChange
      November 20, 2014

      Well that is your bias opinion. This is the same political party that has accepted UWP politicians and Freedom politicians and gave them responsibilities. Julius Timothy is now with the DLP.

    • The Facts
      November 20, 2014

      Some people are vindictive and they are not sincere. Their attitude is, “I will catch you, prove you wrong and make you feel small.” They try.
      Knowing that their intention is to attack him, why should he agree to a press conference? I would do likewise.

      • 1979
        November 21, 2014

        BECAUSE UNTIL SUCH TIME WHEN HE IS NOT PM… he is politely answerable to the state!! can you fathom that????????????????????????????????????

    • .
      November 21, 2014

      Stop your crying. The opposition are involved in so many scandals even before they get into office. The debate is in parliament. Unless the opposition show representation in parliament they are not ready for discussion. They have formed their own parliament and want to dictate the terms of the discussion. We cannot allow that. Like the US government always say, ” we do not negotiate with terrorists.” The discussion should start in parliament then we will take it from there.
      At least, we can see the fruits of the Prime Minister’s LABOUR.

  40. UK Dominican
    November 20, 2014

    female voice matters. women can make a difference woman like ROSA SPAR SPAKS black American freedom fighter was instrument in ending black oppression in 1960s u s a. we want to hear from more educated Dominican.

    • I'm Just Saying
      November 20, 2014

      Her name was ROSA PARKS! Please get the name right! Thank you :-D

    • Red Red Red
      November 20, 2014

      All of them hiding, they are afraid one man.

    • my views
      November 20, 2014

      Dominica have no oppression

    • Francisco Telemaque
      November 20, 2014

      Correction, I think you got the name wrong: Her name was “Rosa Parks” not Rosa Sparks!

      Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

  41. Shameless
    November 20, 2014

    “A society of sheep will in time beget a government of wolves”…author unknown

    We as a people are finally beginning to awake from our slumber. However, it is going to take time but with the emergence of Team Dominica, no one can deny that “change” is surely, thought slowly fighting its way through. Only time will tell what the lasting impact will be but we definitely need to arise and emancipate ourselves from political slavery. Hence, Change Is A Must!

    Assertive, NOT Aggressive!

    • The Facts
      November 20, 2014

      Solely your opinion. You only heard and read what slavery is. You do not know what it is. I visualize if there is a change in government, nationals will experience it.

    • .
      November 21, 2014

      We need a change for the better not a change that is going to set us back twenty years.

  42. Commentry
    November 20, 2014

    AMEN to that… Well said

  43. Francisco Telemaque
    November 20, 2014

    “According to Shillingford, we allow our leaders to “get away with murder” and as such we in the region are “drowning in a sea of hopelessness as it relates to politics.”(Shillingford).

    Gara, you are so right, your ideology has touched, or shall I say has impacted in a way that I fell like crying!

    Yours is a highly dynamic way of thinking; others in your occupation should be open as you are, and have the guts to break the chains, which binds them hand and feet to the politicians in our country. There should be more people like you out there speaking the truth, educating our nation, that the colors Red and Blue, is only a colored uniform which represents two different political party’s.

    Professionals like you should be willing to teach our youths, and the older citizens of our country, a name such as Labor Party has nothing to do with their actual life, and personal development. Many of them think because they labor on their farm and may be referred to as ” laborers:” in a better term farmers they are obligated to support the Labor Party, though the party is not doing anything in the peoples interest.

    Here is an example, one should explain to the farmers, that in England, there are two major political parties: the Conservative, and the Labor Party, nevertheless no one in England associate themselves with the British Labor Party simply because they work on a farm, or happens to be employed elsewhere as an ordinary laborer. Everyone in England look forward to what the party in power does in order to keep the economy of Britain strong, hence, they the people could be constantly employed.

    In our country, the Labor Party, dating back to the days of Edward Oliver Leblanc, Wills Stratums Stevens, and others has done a very good job of brainwashing the people that at all cost they must support the labor party, because they the people are “labor.” Very foolish sentiments indeed, this sort of brainwashing seems like a curse inherited by children, handed down from generation, to the next for the last sixty of our nations history. Our people are shackled with this idea.

    This may sound silly, but way back in 1964, I heard a story about a man from St. Joseph, a farmer, who walked to his garden (farm) every day, it so happens that an election was held, and the labor party won, thus the man this true story is about declared in patios: “labor win, I am not walking again.”

    That translate into the Labor Party won an election, hence he refused to walk to his farm; what sort of mentality is that? There are labor party supporters who are so satisfied with the crap they suffer at the hands of the labor party they believe it is normal, and so they have become complacent. That is indeed a sad way for practically half the population to live.

    Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

    • Anonymous
      November 20, 2014

      FET, I think you have lost it. Who in this day and age associate the Labour Party with being a labourer or farmer?

      Get off the medical marijuana my friend.

      • Francisco Telemaque
        November 20, 2014

        Are you crazy Anonymous?

        I never touched a marijuana joint in my entire life: just incase you do not know, let me tell you I am too bloody smart and ambitious to screw up my mind, and brain with any substance which alters the mind. The mind of a person is the psyche, even mine.

        It is my faculty which makes me aware of my surroundings, and by which I am able to experience emotions, remember, reason, and make decisions. If I indulge in mind altering substances like you may have, I would not be as successful as I am. Do not try to insult my intelligence okay.

        I was born poor in the village of Wesley, on Hunt Road; left when I was fourteen years old, I quickly matured, I traveled the world, when I lived in Europe Germany to be precise, I was exposed to every illegal substance on earth that could alter ones mind and make them feel high.

        Francisco Telemaque never got interested in such filth, if you need to say something funny to me, chose another subject, because your comments are not funny: I am not dumb as you may wish to believeI I love beautiful women, and very fast cars, not illegal drugs. I used to drink alcohol, however, finding out it is also a mind altering substance, and also capable of triggering arterial fibrillation, these days I keep my distance from alcohol. I am still addicted to beautiful women, and fast cars!

        Come again!

        Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

      • November 22, 2014

        I think he should continue to use medical
        marijuana his inferiority complex worsens.

      • November 22, 2014

        I think he should continue using medical marihuana it would greatly help him with his inferiority complex.

  44. shart
    November 20, 2014

    its so nice to know poor people children from penville, vielle case and thibaud can become lawyers like u, some have become doctors, engineers etc, though there family couldn’t afford if that’s not treating everyone equal I want to know wat it is miss shillingford

    • Francisco Telemaque
      November 20, 2014

      Are you insinuating that because she may have come from a poor family, had it not been for Skerrit and the Labor Party she would not have become a lawyer?

      Nonsense if that is you belief: because of her ambition, and the efforts she made, studying from the time she was little girl, and her hope that is what made her a lawyer. Even if she got a scholarship paid for by the government in power, which may be or not.

      The money which paid for her education, belongs to the taxpayers of Dominica, and not Skerrit, nor the labor party, none of the students who was sent to Cuba, or elsewhere to study, when they graduate, they owe no loyalty to any government; their purpose is to serve the people of Dominica, without pledging allegiance to any politician in Dominica.

      Past government has educated many of our people, the only condition which was agree to was that the student’s on graduation would return to Dominica and serve in the capacity of which they were trained for a period of five years, after they met their obligation, if they wish to leave the country for greener pastures they were free to do so. Giving someone a scholarship is no big deal. The government of Dominica is duty bound to pay for the education of people who has the potential to succeed in the disciplines they pursue.

      I have a Nephew who went to Cuba, he studied Computer technology, and became a computer engineer. (man could not use his talent in Dominica) because of the lack of jobs in the country, however he is permanently employed at a certain place in Antigua, and (I doh calling the name of de place er), because ah farid Karl Skerrit will flex his muscle, bribe somebody to have him fired!

      So, I know but I doh talking:

      Hahahahahahahahahahahaahaahahahahahahaha!

      Anyway seriously your make no sense, I came to the United States, I wonted to collect a few degrees, I enrolled in college, the State of California paid for my education, it did not cost me one single dime from my pocket, and I do not want anybody to ask me how did that happen:I know but I still doh talking eh.)In any event the system has changed. So to argue which is what you are doing, is suggesting because Labor Government paid for her to study out of the country, she must kiss Skerrit, fat butt; she does not have to take herself down to that level!

      Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

      • deal
        November 20, 2014

        who want to know of your selfish self.

      • Read and comprehend
        November 21, 2014

        Stupes, though you made some good points you clearly have a comprehension problem. Read the person’s comment again…poor people’s children also have an opportunity to become lawyers.

      • November 22, 2014

        Francisco Etienne-Dodds Telemacque, just call yourself Fetish or Dude. You taking up too much space on DNO. They did not invent DNO for all this mess.

    • Anonymous
      November 20, 2014

      This is exactly what is wrong with Dominica. Partition politics. It’s all about self….

    • Red Red Red
      November 20, 2014

      Go ask some of the law students who did not graduate.

    • hmmm
      November 20, 2014

      I’m sure all those “poor people” are labourites

    • Anonymous
      November 21, 2014

      When professionals are replaced in the workplace by chronic jacks this is discrimination. Shillingford parents worked hard to send her to UWI . she did not go there on handouts.or sit in a university with a foreign language she could not understand and come back and say she is a lawyer.

  45. Lawrence Ettienne
    November 20, 2014

    Hi Miss Shillingford, I wonder when you address leaders were you exempting yourself or were you only looking at political leaders? Because in my mind, you are a leader and everyone else that has join the noble profession of Attorney in this Country, are Leaders and you all are the first to be faced with murder charges for allowing those who have done wrong, to get away.
    So if we are addressing issues and situations, then we must first examine ourselves to see just where we fit in the whole equation.
    I am sorry but that is my interpretation maybe you can enlighten me further.

    • Wait
      November 20, 2014

      So lawyers should shut up and not talk in this country? Stop attacking the messenger and look at the message Lawrence.

    • Be Informed
      November 20, 2014

      Mr Ettiene, the purpose of the justice system is to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to be heard and the chance at a fair trial, which includes the right to proper representation. Just because allegations are brought against an individual does not mean that he or she is guilty. In fact, there is a presumption of innocence on the accused. Therefore, merely being an attorney and representing someone who has been accused of any crime, be it murder or theft, does not mean that you have neglected your duty to be honest, just and accountable for your actions. As Miss Shillingford aptly states, we must all act within the confines of good governance. After all, a society without integrity will only produce the same caliber of political leaders. Good governance is possible, but it will only be attained when our people wake up and demand it!

    • The Facts
      November 20, 2014

      Excellent points. I thought the same. The public should want more demands made on them for acquitting criminals/murderers, allowing them to walk the streets of Dominica and to re-offend.

    • November 22, 2014

      To Lawrence Attienne.

      Hello and good evening my people. Mr Attienne you don’t understand the role of a defense Attorney within our Criminal justice system. So if you purchased a home or a piece of land won’t you hire an Attorney that specialized in real estate to make sure there isn’t any lien against the property and to file your paperwork with the Government. She is talking about reality of what’s happening in our country and many professionals are aware of this but they won’t say anything because they are profiting from the corruption. I hope you never get arrested but if you do please represent yourself or thrown yourself at the mercy of the court.

  46. Straight
    November 20, 2014

    True story! We are very passive society. We accept every and anything as long as our party in power. It doesn’t matter all the wrongs they do . Also, I think the moral values of persons seeking office should be deeply evaluated. If you have good morals then transparency, responsibility, accountability, participation and responsiveness will be part of you. Hence, good governance.

  47. So True
    November 20, 2014

    It is a breath of fresh air to hear such a brave young lawyer taking such a strong stand….Keep it up and don’t let money shut you up..

  48. Shaka zulu
    November 20, 2014

    It starts in the schools. Civics is no longer taught. The constitution of Dominica as far as I know is not taught in schools. Heck, even the president of our college who is supposed to be the one to encourage free thinking and a different mindset is stiffeling political debate. He simple could have help by setting an agenda and ensuring debate is balance and of high standards. It is our culture and mindset which has to be changed from young.

  49. PantyMan
    November 20, 2014

    My girl (Mrs. Shillingford) mind they cut you down for your statement.

    Labourrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr

  50. Anonymous
    November 20, 2014

    as I see it

    gir you are so right lecture these people
    if I were close to you I would of hug and kiss you
    the country need lawyers like you .

  51. Peanut Brain
    November 20, 2014

    Please Ms Shillingford could you shed any light on the five policemen who are suspected of causing the death of a person in their custody in Portsmouth?????? What is happening are they being charged? It seems to have gone very quiet with all the hysteria building for the election. Please do tell us all that justice will be served this crime cannot be tucked away under the carpet!! If a person can be as was reported beaten to death under police care this means that no one is safe in police custody?? Are those policemen and woman still working as police?? The public need to know that this will be addressed? A very concerned Citizen.

    • True Rastaman
      November 20, 2014

      you really a peanut brain the thing that make you should drink gramaxone all now… retard! that is not the topic doomdoom.

      • Red Red Red
        November 20, 2014

        Still a very bad advice!

    • Wait
      November 20, 2014

      Those police men have a right to legal representation like any other citizen. Five police men are charged with killing 1 man. You have to go through the correct legal procedures before you can find these 5 lives guilty. What if 1 is innocent? The right procedure has to be followed. Focus on her message. She speaks the truth.

  52. DaRealTrouble
    November 20, 2014

    GIRL I WISH I HAD TWO MORE HANDS TO GIVE YOU FOUR THUMBS UP :lol: :lol:

  53. grell
    November 20, 2014

    Shillingford your all right but the ignorant voters we have in dominica will never get it,once they get the few dollars for there vote all is good,many of our people still live in the slavery era and are so poor they will never figure it out.

    • Anonymous
      November 20, 2014

      Grell, it starts at the top. If the head of the snake is rotten, so will the body.

  54. November 20, 2014

    I can already tell from your speech which leader you going with this election.

  55. Ms. Educator
    November 20, 2014

    Tell me about it.

  56. change is a must!
    November 20, 2014

    True

  57. November 20, 2014

    This is so true! This problem of “color” and partisan politics without consideration of the issues or the actions of our leaders is one that permeates throughout the Caribbean! It makes the people of the Caribbean look so backwards and naive when it comes to politics. As a person who has traveled and lived in the United States for a number of years I had the privilege of understanding Democracy and politics on a more sophisticated level. Thus, I’ve been able to return home and listen to both sides of the political spectrum here in Dominica without being a loyal member of ANY party.
    In so doing, I have been able to see a vast difference between both parties with regards to rhetoric, plans and of course mud slinging. I have made no bones in expressing my opinion that the United Workers Party, Team Dominica appear to be the better Candidates to provide Dominica with proper representation and good governance. The fact that the DLP is essentially a “one man show” and that man at this point is slowly unraveling before the public with his utterances, misinformation, threats, disrespect and outright lies.
    The decision should be fairly easy for Dominicans!!!!

    • November 20, 2014

      That’s a lie. Unless you are not reading, following the campaigns and going through the communities. Bitterness towards an individual in this case Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit is not the way to influence and educate Dominican to move the country. Come with facts, reasoning, solutions, logics and alternatives to the issues plaguing the Country. St

  58. Jon Carson
    November 20, 2014

    Citizen’s Forum on Good Governance how can people like me get on your panel list? Also, how often do you have these forums and perhaps you all should consider holding these forums around several times a year and decentralized it. For example, keep it once a quarter and have it in Portsmouth, Marigot, Castle Bruce, etc. In addition, hold them around key times of the year when the country has activities and there will be visiting and returning Dominicans (like Carnival, WCMF/Independence, and Christmas). What is the website?

  59. November 20, 2014

    Hello and good morning my people. Thanks Ms/Shillingford for your insightful comments because I just can’t understand our people for the way they are so blindly following political parties. I was just home for the fest and Independence and I was so sadden to learn that my aunt in Grand Bay isn’t speaking to my uncle because he belong to a different party. It seems like people views are based on their political affiliation rather than being honest and looking at ones qualifications. This kind of thinking isn’t helping in the development of our country because even if someone is qualify for a position but they aren’t a member of the party in power then they can’t get a job.

    • Hope
      November 23, 2014

      Sadly the majority of Dominicans are not interested in nation building….

  60. November 20, 2014

    Cara, do you know, or have you ever researched redundant political education, redundant knowledge of something, derelicts? “Vision is in the art of seeing things invisible” (Swift) One cannot play hide and seek, back and forth across the waters and on the 11th hour return to tell the masses what, where, how and when they should and can do the needfull to uplift their country.

  61. Abitrator
    November 20, 2014

    Well said young lady, you are a future leader. I see it in you

  62. Clayton Shilingford
    November 20, 2014

    Cara Shillingford is correct..It cannot be to the benefit of the country if citizens are not engaged more actively in politics and the economy for themselves and their children and more importantly to have an acute sense of the difference of right and wrong from their leaders, this business of bribing to peopel to vote for the DLP is serious and wrong..

    • really clayton
      November 20, 2014

      Ms Shillingford thanks for your insights I agree with them. But Clayton REALLY? you dare to comment and speak of right and wrong Clayton. I cannot believe this is the real Clayton Shillingford living at Check Hall Valley, Impossible, not him. Sir, you are not to use this young ladies honesty for your political comments as you are the LAST person to tell anyone about intergrity and we all know why that is so. When you explain the DASS fiasco honestly to us then you can walk the same road with this beautiful intelligent young lady, but please do yourself a favor stay out of honest discussions Clayton.

    • Anonymous
      November 21, 2014

      Team Dominica who scared of calling them selves United Workers Party bribe voters. I know of paro they $20 to vote for them.

    • .
      November 21, 2014

      My dear Mr. shilling ford, how are you going to prove bribery and who is involved in it? You need to let it rest because there is enough evidence to prove that both political parties are bringing in overseas voters to vote but here is the thing Mr. Shillingford, when they get in the booth they can vote for whoever they feel like. You and your party are very hypocritical they want to do it but have a problem if the other side does it.

  63. gwatelle
    November 20, 2014

    ….and still Dominicans are going to vote Skerrit. I just can’t understand that!

    • Anonymous
      November 21, 2014

      It’s the right thing to do for Dominica.

  64. Anonymous
    November 20, 2014

    When all you lawyers (LIARS) providing the murders, drug dealers, etc. with legal representation knowing full well that they are guilty.. What do you call it?

    • Hmmmm
      November 20, 2014

      And that is your excuse for accepting corruption, bribery, nepotism, and victimization from your politicians? SMH

      • really clayton
        November 20, 2014

        she was speaking generally dont make her comments partisan please.

      • DANZIGER
        November 20, 2014

        I will answere in time to come cuz he who fight and run away lives to fight another day.

    • ....
      November 20, 2014

      -.- Really tho… You do know that a state assigns a lawyer to represent “criminals” when they can’t afford it, right? Are you now questioning justice systems on a whole? Criminals are still humans and they still have rights. It’s only in our eyes we see sins as at different levels.. Murder/fornication, all the same in God’s eyes. So keep calm fada.

    • November 20, 2014

      To Anonymous .

      Hello and good evening my people. You don’t understand the Criminal Justice System and the role of a defense Attorney. The prosecutor is the one who has to prove that the defendant is guilty of the crime as charged. I hope you never get arrested but if you get arrested I hope you will represent yourself. I love the ACLU(American Civil Liberties Union).

    • looking
      November 21, 2014

      All criminals have a right to an attorney. Its the law. I agree that many murderers have gotten away some with slaps on their wrists. There are many cases that have been discarded because of a lack of evidence. But what the lady is saying is exactly where we are as a society.

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