The weather changed from warm to pouring rain as the first new roof, followed closely by plywood, came tumbling down as six prisoners ripped apart the first unoccupied squatter’s house in Canefield East.
Officials from the Division of Lands and Surveys and Housing, backed by four police officers dressed in combat fatigue, prison officers and the prisoners came well prepared for the task at hand.
A crow bar was used and the metal door to the house was kicked open giving the signal for the demolition to begin at around 9:30 am.
There was no turning back as officials made it clear that they intend to remove squatters who have illegally occupied state land in the area.
As the demolition continued and apprehension built some men, who lived in the area, came closer to take a look at what was going on.
One man could not remain silent and allowed the authorities to hear his view of the scene that was unfolding before his eyes.
According to him, the house is owned by a woman who is living in Guadeloupe.
He wanted to know what was going to eventually happen to her family.
Despite his concerns, work on destroying the house continued unabated.
Another squatter, who claimed he has been in that area for at least six years now, said although the residents of Canefield East do not encourage squatting, they did not have any problem with some of the squatters who took over the land.
He, however, alleged that there are other squatters who are ‘drug dealers and troublemakers’ and although he is not happy their houses are being destroyed, he is of the opinion they should leave the area.
Officials on the site refused to comment to reporters.
In recent times, there were reports of a surge of squatters in the area and this has created some level of concern among nearby residents and authorities alike.
At least two houses, DNO understands, will be destroyed on Friday.
Police also said that between three to four squatters will be taken to court on Friday (today).
Both prime minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, and housing minister, Reginald Austrie have made it clear that the squatters will not be allowed to remain on state land.
This is just another situation created for the PM to come like a “knight in Shining armor.”This is why all squatters where not targeted. Dislike this comment all you want but wait and you’ll see.
omg I just cant stand Dominicans.there was always squatters in the canefield east area.they have been squatting for years.due to an influx of NEW squatters in the area.the lands and surveys dpt was forced to remove them.there is a design and plan for the area and ppl come all willy nilly doing what they please building in any and every direction with no regards for the demarcated boundaries.there are rules and procedures for the poor in dominica .they can go to the housing dpt find out how they too can own lands in d.a.govt charge very little for land and u can pay in monthly instalments.we are all Dominicans and if I can follow the rules u can too and I am by no means rich.follow proper procedures and the housing and survey dpt will work with u. they were given notices and due time to vacate the area.they chose to stay. Dominicans stop thinkn negatively. imagine just think for a few lets say 10 lots are surveyed in that area and ppl start squattin they don’t kno where the boundaries are they don’t kno where the roads are thy don’t kno what design the planning dpt organized .some ppl build on the road ,some build on two lots ,one house back is towards the road its just total chaos can u imagine a scheme like that. I just cant stand my ppl sometimes .even I kno when I am wrong ,my gosh wrong is wrong and be bold enough to admit ur wrong .y ddnt thy inquire about the lots to see if they can purchase .the dpts involved don’t discriminate.
and by demolish it means the houses weren’t broken down in a manner that it cant be rebuilt elsewhere.lets just say it was taken apart.i feel for these ppl I really feel for them.but their are procedures in place some are even given free housing , free materials .my god get up and do things on ur own sometimes do things legally!
I think the proper word would be “dismantled”. I saw it. The houses were dismantled and the materials reclaimed. The bigger had all new wood, prefabricated windows and brand new galvanised roofing. The people who built it must have spent quite a bit of money. Makes you wonder if they are really representative of a “poor” squatter.
What is this obsession with land for building one’s home? The world is not Utopia and certainly not Dominica. There is nothing wrong in not being able, or not wishing to own land or a house of your own. The same as there is nothing wrong in renting accommodation. We do accept that in the commercial sector without a murmur – does the NBD own the building they use in Canefield for example or do the Chinese merchants own all the stores they operate in Roseau – so why not in housing? You think in Paris, London or new York most people own the property they occupy? Certainly in London more than half of the population lives in rented accommodation be it private or public, with a lot of the rents subsidised for people, who can not afford to pay the open-market rate. Why can’t we move in that direction Dominica also instead of condoning a wild-west approach? At least, in this way, housing development could be properly planned and executed to an acceptable standard.
I see. Thank to the labour party for such a wonderful idea fot giving out $20.00, and at the same time breaking poor people houses down.
why was land being over to possie squatter and not the canefield resident double stand i believe in fairness possie people not better than us i want to hear some one refute this statements
o shut up
lord have mercy on those people cause the ruling government had no mercy on them. the man have his million dollar mansion in vieille case that he only passing there to sleep once a blue and poor people children have no place to sleep. denying his people a basic need to shelter
This is a sign. The sun was shinning then it begin to rain. Look out my friends God is in heaven looking. Give them a second chance. God give second chances. Please why don’t you let them pay a small monthly fee.
If the squatters have money to build big houses as I see; they should also have money to buy land. The prisoners need no training to break this houses – part of their trade.
that shoe is far to tight please remove it
Kelly the ghost still wearing his.when you get paid to do a job even if the shoe hurting you you must wear it!
according to the bible, the Creator said to be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and occupy, have dominion over the flying creatures and those on land and water………..no one was supposed to be dictating to another where he/she is supposed to reside, the earth was made for mankind and the fullness thereof……………Come down Father, put a hand and deliver your oppressed people from the hand of those who rule in a wrathful way and those who laud their powers over the less fortunate and downtrodden………..Revelation 21:1-4 and Isaiah 62, 63 and 65 must be fulfilled…………
I am sorry to see this is happening to these people, did the powers that be offer to relocate the people? What are they going to use the area for? The same things is happening on the old Melville Hall estate, it’s a terrible eye sore. First thing that greets a person upon arrival in Dominica is a a bunch of shanties. How many of them were built with a plan. The same thing should be done to those people as well. Everyone in DA wants to do as they please; someone is finally standing up to them.
I hope that the change that is a must is not a change from bad to worse. And one more thing there should be building codes for different areas, and if I buy land in Canefield and build a nice house I don’t want any squatters in my area to bring down the value of my property.
i cant believe the government would do such a thing to its people. In this hard times u mean to tell me the government actually breaking down the people little shelter to cover the heads of families. well, well, well. couldn’t they at least sell the people the land at 5.00 a square foot?
Hmm – the housing revolution Gov’t is now making people homeless!
That is what happens when you have a revolution,you have casualties arising from friendly fire!.
Some of that galvanize and plywood came from the same party and they were advised Togo there and build!The left corrupt arm does not even know what the right corrupt arm is going to do!
Wickedness at the highest level. So many laws that are being broken in that Dominica and actions are not taken against those who willfully do so. Yet the poor is made to suffer because they have no defense. At least the people made an effort to build their own homes.
The government has been giving materials left right and center sometimes to people who own no land. These materials are made to stay out and waste. Cement getting hard.
By the way, what is this land going to be used for anyway? Why weren’t these people made to pay for the land? So you mean to tell me that these people were made homeless just to have an empty piece of land starring at us.
But then again you never know. With the way things are going in Dominica this land may well belong to one of those who mafias who bought a passport, Chinese etc.
There is a cancer in Dominica call “take” always somebody complaining ,they take my dasheen,plantain,bananas,coco jelly and so,the grief,sorrow and heart felt the owners suffer. now they move to bigger take and get caught. out of 305 square Miles the population about 50,0000 so there are enough land for everybody to own a lot, why take the reserves.Trespass and take without permission so what is the excuse. reading comments,no one reads the bible
OK smart Alick. If you so sure there was a better way what would that be?
They say what is good for the goose good for the gander. I would like to know the difference between Canefield east and benard wavine. Many people began squatting in benard ravine the same way the people did on the east. No body served them papers no body broke down their homes. In fact every year after a hurricane Blackmore come and giving money and supplies for them to rebuild. What Blackmore knows is that he cannot fool the people of the east cause they appear more educated than the jackasses in benard ravine he fooling every year. It broke my heart as a Dominican on vacation to see thus happening on the news last night. The least you all could do was give them help to move their dwelling homes to Bernard ravine too. Think how it would feel if your family was being put out of what they call home.
Come on people, let’s be reasonable. So because a piece of land is vacant, you should just go and occupy it without permission? It is not yours. And even after you have been warned, and ask to vacate, you are still there. It is not yours. Let us not be biased.
Labour Ka Twavay
They were warned of that unlawful activity and was asked to stop it and get out. They took no heed now you ALL UWPies are blaming Skerrit. One is left to wonder what would be your reaction if one of the squatters would come and erect a shark in your yard? …..Would your comments be the same?
Get rid of all the squatters in Canefield East, not only some. The same law should apply to all.
..shame shame ..This is what my sweet Dominica coming to…it’s sad …why didn’t you’ll find some other way …where are these people going to take a rest tonight …In the pic I notice it was raining …In the event rain destroy their asset what are they going to do ….I believed these peole wasn’t voting for Labour ….why did you do that ….no law ..no constitution cannot stop me …and is none of your damn business .(.Woo Toot)…Dominican ..There’s more to come …..CHANGE Is AMUST….
The thumbs botton only works for those who live on Island? i am trying for some time now to like or dislike and i cannot get through.
If the lands belongs to the Government, # 1 who is the Government? (Answer) The people of Dominica are the government. #2 did those in authority offer them the opportunity to perchase or lease the land for an affordable price? #3 whats going to happen to the people belongings? #4 what are those in authority about to do on said land?
in my opinion, they should be given the opportunity to purchase or lease the land, things are already to rough in this place for this to be happening to fellow human being. the land wasn’t bought by this present administration, so it is not skerrit land, IT IS STATE OWNED>> THE PEOPLE OF DOMINICA LAND. Yes i agree they should be PERMITTED, which they did not bother to do, But destroying their property is not right either.
Alas alas alas Mr skerite u have to pay for what u do us in that country!!!!! Wooooy! !!!!!!!
we poor we doe have job and a little land we go on u and your people embarrassing us so.u take 27 million dollars and build a state house and we crying we doe have job 
oh god. People rise up and let us take out this monster of a minister from power.peopleeeeee??????
It appears to me that the Government is now willing to enforce the laws of the land. This is a good place to start and I look forward to the continuation.
That’s good. The shoes you all voted for kicking you all now. Get out or else we will remove you by force. Good. Is the volcano that erupting now. The ash gone up now the lava falling down. That’s very good your honorable Roosevelt skerit. Teach them a lesson so that they can learn. They must learn the hard way
I hope the incoming Prime Minister Lennox Linton, will have a clear policy on squatting, and under his reign as PM, this will not happen. All of us deserve a piece of Dominica, especially as the country is almost entirely composed of poor and very poor people, who are in a state of joblessness because of MISMANAGEMENT OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS, GREEDINESS and ineptness of our leaders as far as vision is concerned.
Prime Minister Linton will put the rule of law in place and enforce it. His Govt. will stimulate the economy so that that people, who want to buy their own home can do so legally and without the exorbitant fees and taxes that apply today. For those, unable or not wishing to own a home, housing will be made available , built to a decent standard and with infrastructure in place at affordable rents that will be means-tested, based on the ability to pay. For the most vulnerable amongst us sheltered accommodation will be provided. There is a bright new dawn awaiting us. Investors are waiting on the sidelines, both Dominican and foreign, to commit heir money to Dominica once we have a change of regime.
it is ALLEGED that a certain minister threaten to call the police if certain people occupy cottenhill but that same ministers went ahead and occupy a whole ace of land in the said cottenhill for his son …tell me if that is fairness
what about the people in Promiseville in Glanvillia they are squatting and they are living. why not give the canefield people the same chance that the people in Glanvillia got. everybody needs a place to sleep. if they are going to break down houses why not offer them somewhere to move their houses to. I wonder if labour wins election will they be going after the people living in Promiseville Glanvillia next??????????????????????.hmmmmmmm.
they are choosing who to victimize, if it not go for occupiers of canefield it not good for any occupier around dominica…..
If anybody knows this man just tell him he needs a good lawyer because if the Government breaks down one they must break down all… Get your lawyer.
As much as I am fo fairness I do hope that these people have a place to rest tonight.
Dno I wonder why my comment still awaiting moderation ???????
Don’t feel bad, I am in the same boat like you.
DNO will pint whatever they want.
Me too.
Well because the government of Dominica, does not want to look bad , every body should just go ahead and choose a spot where they feel they like, and build , and wa papa de government nice boy,. CHEAP SHOT.
It is sad that the houses have to be taken down. I think that the government should maybe at least charge them more than the normal price for the land as a punishment. Also if taking the houses down is the best way authority sees fit then they should go all around the country doing the same thing
@Ras also think that the genuine land and home owners in the area are to demand their 30-40K they paid for their lands and then, what, squat also.
Are you intimating that every Dominicans should squat. Why should squatters be allowed to squat in the very area that others pay 30-40K for land, is it because you don’t live there. Is it because you do not have a 300K house there.
Let’s be honest there are other areas that they can attempt to squat, not Canefield East. Why don’t they go to land at Melville Hall, Rosalie Estate, Pte. Mulate Estate, Castle Estate or Morne Diablotin, sugar loaf estate, Pte Round not among us where we paid 30-40 and even 60K. what of Thompson Fontaine land at Rosalie estate. Just go there and squat.
Over 30 houses were built in this area in recent time, all illegally. Yet the Skeritt govt is choosing only to target about 6 individuals who they deem as non-labourites. In other words breaking the law is only allowed if you support the ruling regime.
So before applauding this bias action, readers should first acknowledge the double-standard approach utilised. In the meanwhile prime land bought for $8-$10 a sq. ft by genuine owners will be sold for peanuts to squatters some of whom appropriated huge tracts of lands for themselves.
You should inform yourself of the entire process before making a public statement. I do not believe we should comment or express opinions before we have all the facts.
Boy, you see that tongue in all you mouth!
To Chow Mein…… I tend to share your concerns that some of the persons seem to be targets of the government as persons who WILL be moved from these locations whereas others are being allowed to remain. The Pm in his statement said something to the effect that those whom have ‘moved there RECENTLY’ OR WORDS TO THAT EFFECT, HAD BETTER MOVE THEMSELVES FROM THAT LOCATION LEST THEY BE REMOVED. That is the most worrying statement in my view as it indicates that all the others who had moved there some time ago have been allowed or possibly encouraged to set up there or to remain there after having set up. It suggests that the government has preference for persons involved in this activity as opposed to others and as such are acting unfairly in relation to some folks……. This situation was left for too long apparently and as a result the solution is going to be more divisive. I wait and listen……Change is necessary!!!
I really agree no one is above the law but it seems the law is for certain act and for others its ok. I wonder whether the people were informed from day one especially the first few and what was done about it Let us think it over what would Jesus do in such a situation? though wrong is wrong. We have several examples in the bible for our answer to the question. What soever you do to the lest of my brother you do to me.
Stop wondering. The were warned from the beginning when the was very little construction . They CONTINUED despite several warnings.
glanvillia land is a different case ,
The land was left for the glanvillia people by GEEST ,and dont worry with the exchange ,thats a trick ,
the glanvillia people seem to be very foolish to have skeritt fooling them ,
From he start skeritt told them ,THE LAND IS SOLD,They forget too quickly and this is why skeritt is using them like that
indeed the portsmouth people are so blinded by red it makes them foolish, those chinese skerrit promise must get those lands
a lass
I understand the claims in both ends and politics aside. How were these people allowed to build in land that’s does not belong to them? Worse yet allowed to live there for many years? I have a house and also own the land outright in the Roseau area and plan to rebuild and the amount of rules and regulations Land and Survey put me through in addition to hiring engineer etc. I don’t understand how the people were allowed and even have the nerve to build on property that does not belong to them. It’s a habit because I have an aunt whose property has been fenced up and taken care if but a neighbor decided to plant crops on it and refuse to stop.
Wrong is wrong no matter who does it. If they were told to evacuate the area then they should have done just that. However I must ask these pertinent questions. Who gave the squatters permission to set up shop there? After all isn’t some form of ownership of land needed to be presented when one applies for utilities such as water, electricity or cable?
I believe that some sort of investigation into this matter should have been pursued because I am not convinced that all of these squatters set up shop without someone giving them permission to do so. The question is who gave them permission to do so?
That’s the POWER OF LABOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOR
Hmmm, labour firing on one piston these days and it need a new head gasket. Bad fumes all over the place, using a lot of fuel and “lubrication” but not going anywhere fast.
I think that something should be done for these people in terms of relocating them elsewhere. Where are they going to go, seeing that these people do not own any lands.
Change is a must, workerrss
Why not give them the option of paying for the land they have occupied. Where will they live ?
Sad, it is that very practise that you suggested that has created this squatting problem in the country. Numerous squatters have been given the opportunity to purchase land at 50 cents per sq ft in the past, so obviously others expect to do the same and enjoy the same benefit. It is time to bring it to an end. We are becoming too much of a lawless society.
Once again Skeritt has created history in Dominica. Since Dominica was a little nation in 1978, Dominicans have never suffered that kind of treatment. Definitely, change must come to Dominica or not only will our public workers not receive a fair pay for a day’s work but Dominicans will have to be very careful whether they can eat what they want, where they sleep and who they put to govern them.
let me correct you @ doc. love this has been done under Eugenia in the period 1990-1995 in the Yampiece, Tarish pit area and ALSO by WORKERS IN THE 1995-1999 PERIOD AT the same YAMPIECE AND TARISHPIT AREA below the hospital it just was not publicized like now because smart internet phones, internet access and the likes were not as prevalent as they are now but houses were broken down without court action and all that fanfare
Hello people let’s get this right we all know that these people didn’t just go there to squat on their own they must have received the information on the availability of the lands in Canefield by someone in government and to all of you saying they could have applied for the lands and so on don’t know anything about the process nor do you all know whether they applied or not . My sister applied for a lot over 10 years ago and over this period she has been walking to the Land/Housing Division awaiting the availability of a lot . The only information she was given is the location of the vacant lots in the community and she was asked to go to her parl-rep . Every time she goes to the parl-rep the parl-rep keeps saying there are no more lots available but when she returns to housing the vacant lots are showed to her on the map and she’s being told that unless her parl-rep can give approval the lot can’t be sold to her . But these same lots are being reserved for people of the upper class and foreigners to build mansions and you that’s there for years trying to get a lot can’t get none . SOMEONE PLEASE TELL ME HOW THIS IS FAIR ????? Not everyone will be as fortunate as others but because you are not rich doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be given the opportunity to own a piece of land when you are willing to pay for it . And I know that many people can relate to this story . How can politicians decide who lots are sold to and who don’t get in a “DEMOCRATIC COUNTRY “?????? Some people are rejoicing today at the calamity of the canefield squatters but most of them don’t even own a piece of land . For a government to decide that on a rainy day like today they’re going to make some families homeless at the start of the hurricane season I say this government is heartless and has no consideration for humanity. They could have gone to cabinet and arrange to relocate these people or make them an offer that’s just not right coming from the government less than 1 year before elections . IT’S A SHAME !!!!!
You have no concept of the application of rules and regulations. Your proposal would only create chaos.
U alone to have state palace?????? MayChanStay
Skerrit will suffer for what he do poor people.
shame on skercro……. shae shame shame… but you are actually doing we the blue team a big favour so we just wana say thank you.
The law is for everyone. It is time for Dominicans to obey the law. Most of us must take a loan o buy land and build our homes and others should just go and take what they want even if they never paid one cent of tax? Squatting is AGAINST the law>. These people know that and they were given enough time to leave. We are not living in the “wild, wild west’.
You said it right: “The law is for everyone.” So I hope EVERYONE who is squatting in Dominica, on Government land, whether they have a big house, or a shack will be treated the same, because wrong is wrong, and whoever squats is classified as wrong.
I agree 100%. If I have not got the money to buy a lot I have to rent a place. That’s the way it is. Dominicans just like to take what does not belong to them. The law is the law and that is the end of it!!!
HELLO skerrit is not in charge on the lands and surveys dpt nor the housing or planning.skerrit is not god that’s why theres local govt and other sectors of govt to deal with other things in govt and in the country .let skerrit live my gosh .
Ifeel for those ppl but am sure they were notify , its about time we as Dominican follow laws .
ok lets forget politics for a moment skerro or any other government may have fault but the people was warned and yet they still went ahead and build how the devil you dont have land and u building why not go and find out about the land this is what land and survey is for am sorry but they were totally wrong and wrong is wrong
that’s just how I see it to lets get things right
i understand some pple point of view, about they paying for land and all that, but it breaks my heart all the same. these are people we are dealing with, not animals, some of these people took small loans, scraped all their pennies in the bank, family members assisted them…and to just throw all their hard work away, it is just sad…
something should be done to help these people, they are poor people well some of them and are just trying to make it. some are not even working …. just some thing to consider
You should be considering the whole issue. They should practice respect for property. Get permission before you occupy other people’s property and there will be no embarrassment.
I hope canefield is the beginning and i hope they go and do the same thing everywhere in dominica including them that not paying for the land their houses on all round the country. this government is bias and dirty and now they know they going they doing that… let it go down in history LABOR government is the only and first government to break down a Dominican house….. to please people….
Hope tey go back to land for Baron too, in the old days that government pay them for and they still own it. What is good for one is goof for all.
Wickedness in high places shame on the Government of Dominica woe be unto those carrying out the Demolition act life is a cycle you can laugh now but he who has the last laugh will have the best joyfull laugh of them all .I applied for a plot of land and spoke to my parl rep he told me I can get a lot but it depends on how far I am willing to go with the responsible minister so those of you evil hearts talking about you have to pay your loan stop and be human for a second before you cast judgement
Action is being taken to get these people out .OK but what happen to the glanvilla people now everything is quiet were they satisfied with their exchange or were they given some FORM OF COMPENSATION you know what I mean. and have the chinese been given the land cause I see the land has been left alone somebody enlighten me
Good move set an example, they were warned. We need to have law and order in this country. Good move Ministry of Housing, good move Honorable Reginald Austrie. They cannot say no one told them, it will set a p residence for other on lookers and those planning to squat in the future.
There is a fine line between setting a PRECEDENCE and targeting just one set of squatters on an island chock-full of them. Good governance to me would be more along the lines of insisting that ALL squatters, not just those in one area, either evacuate or begin paying for the land where their houses are located. Demolition ought to have been a last resort and only after measures were taken to make sure that they had somewhere else to go or some kind of alternative. I wonder, if the government gave ME one month to get the hell out of my own house….would that be enough time to find somewhere else to go permanently? Just some food for thought.
I applied for a piece of land and had to wait my turn cause there were others before me and you don’t see me being greedy and take what is not mine! Some of us need to have patience, after all patience is a virtue. In America this people would have been charged and jailed. I really feel sorry for these people. I do, but not because others getting and you becoming impatient that does not make it right to take what is not yours to take.
You blaming white Americans- get over it-
You standing there with your hand out- go to work-
we work for what we have- you sell the land – buy a car- buy drugs and have nothing left in your pocket-
who’s the fool???
get a life…..
I do not appreciate you using the name of my village … Additionally, I find that you sound extremely angry Caucasian woman! get your anger in check; you have no RIGHT to be angry here.
It looks like ,No law ,No constiyution is for some ,and not for all,
But dont worry ,some day dgnity,Justic will once more raise its head,and respect for law and order will be restored ,/and DOMINICA will once more smile,
Wrong will once more be wrong ,inspite of who commits it,
SOME DAY, for GOD is still on the throne
It breaks my heart to see this happening to poor people. Now I will not support lawlessness of any kind and that includes squatting. Neither will I ever support corruption and injustice from ANY SET of politicians – BLUE, RED OR GREEN.
It is just down right wrong to use poor people as a political pawn. When you start breaking down one house then justice dictates that you break down all the houses built by squatters. It cannot be right that some are allowed to squat and build and others are not; so much so that their houses are demo-ed. Why some people have the privilege to squat on the very same site and others don’t. I am not an attorney but I would like to think that there are legal support for the ” political pawns” – the poor people.
As much as I would like to spend time on the reasons for escalated squatting and point fingers at the authorities I would rather dwell on the mistreatment of the poor people. There are countless stories of building violations to include KFC in Portsmouth and in Roseau for example – no parking provided. Krazy T sometime last year felt that he had the right to compromise a water shed designated area. Even the government /authority has violated the laws at the Geothermal construction project. There is injustice everywhere and we can use that as a foolish excuse but when injustice is so blatant and rampant in a small society like ours an ant magnified on a big screen TV becomes a giant in the concept portrayed.
I do hope that a kind and concern lawyer take up the cause of the poor and disadvantaged people. After all we had those lawyers jumping out to “protect” the advantaged ministers minister and cabinet personnel on a statement made by Lennox Linton. Lawyers rallying to defend a ministers who lie about their foreign passports, those who lie to the IPO about their assets. Who is going to bat for the poor people who simply need a roof to protect them from the sun, rain, hurricane.
As an aside – we have allowed lawlessness to prevail – we sat back and find ways to justify lawlessness by some. Now the chickens are coming home to roost. Mark my word the same way we condone sexual abuse in high places the behavior of sexual abuse will entice the chickens to come roost at the farm of sexual abuse and aggression and when the results hit close to home those who are silent will have no choice but to suffer in silence as well.
Tears , Tears Tears
That is a lesson to teh governmen Ministers….STOP SENDING PEOPLE TO SQUAT AND THEN SELLING THE LAND FOR $1 A SQ FOOT…
This is ridiculous they shouldn’t put them people out of the land make them payfor it give them some kind of assistance to help them pay the land but putting them on the street is just not right.this government need to care for their people. I hope people seeing what kind of government that there.
“make them pay for it”…”give them some kind of assistance to help them pay the land”…
that’s like me selling a bread for you and still giving you de dollar to buy de bread….smh…..you not making any sense.
This is sad as much as I think they were wrong to build on the land but some of the houses seems to be well built could some of them be cordoned of and when the land issue is done who ever gets that land wont have to build a house, well then there’s the issue of paying the squatter boy this is a real bad situation no matter how you turn it. Wow and although they were warned the still kept on building when will some realize there’s laws in the country they have to follow and respect in the land.
U all cannot be wrong and strong at the same time. I know some people will have all kinds of things to say but the thing is they was being warned and they a;;ow it to fall on death ears. So now they see action they will learn. Who do not want to give Skerro their vote too bad he is untouchable.
Only God is UNTOUCHABLE my friend …………
Kill them all and let them die. God bless dominica. Firstly it’s government land then people saying it’s there’s. What’s really going on? Is it possible that the one of or all the leaders are up to something dirty?
So I hope they have a better plan for it.
A plan that can bring wealth to our country.
they need to follow the process and apply for the land like every other person. They cannot just come and build all little shacks in a residential area on land they do not own.
so why is land being offered to resident of portsmouth who are also squatter double standard if you give land to possie people offer alternate land to squatter
People politics aside, when something wrong say its wrong. Too many of us have to make our payments on our loans every month for others to be thinking they can just move on a piece of land for free and think its ok. I live in canefield and I’m happy this is being done. Go work hard and struggle like the rest of us. Every body wanna live comfortable yes I agree but this is not the way to do it by squatting. Good move PM. I will agree with you on this decision.
Were they given an opportunity to buy the land?
Some of the lands that they occupied are already purchased by other persons.
If you want to buy land in Dominica there is plenty for sale. Banks, credit unions holding titles for plenty of land that borrowers not paying their loan for. They even have auctions and few people are bidding. Go and talk to them and make your deal. No need to grab what is not yours unless you are a thief.
i hope they find place to sleep to night.Goverment ask them to get out all had to do move off goverment land. things are so hard for some people …
I’m tired of that for true.Iit is ok to help genuine people who can not help themselves but these people did help themselves -to what did not belong to them! About time they realise they have to live with the consequences of their actions and stop blaming others for what they don’t have.
For some reason this pic breaks my heart. Why did they move there in the first place? That is the question I need answered. There are affordable housing projects all over the country, I hope these displaced people can find another location.
@gwaj Please lead me to the “affordable housing projects” in Dominica. May please inform you that it is not affordable. They want your salary slip, where you work, and when you fill out an application it’s who you know at the top that will get your application approved. So people like the ones who move up there “wrong or not”, who have hand to mouth jobs, scrap and put things aside to get a two by four shack, tell me where they going to fit in on the “affordable housing projects”. Working people just above the $1000 mark can’t even get a look if they are not one of the Housing Ministers supporters and I am speaking from first hand knowledge. The government should set aside a portion of land, divide it up and let the locals and I mean the serious down trodden pay even a little as a $300 a year if possible to own some land. Where’s the incentive? And they should NOT give to those SOB’s who already have house, land, car and people in high places to help them those blasted land. Some come boasting what they already have and still got…now peter paying for paul greedyarse ways.
So true!!!
A squatter is a squatter is a squatter, whether they are there 20 yrs or 20 days. so if you are moving one move all. or leave the people alone, survey the land they are occupying and make them pay for it. period!
i agree
A squatter is like a flea on a dog.
I get what u are saying … a squatter is a squatter .but those that have been there 20 years ago will be given an opportunity to purchase and the planning division took them into account when designing new schemes. they will be given first priority to purchase all that is in the works but sadly this cant be done for 20 minute squatters ,who squat on already owned lands or lands set out for new schemes and roads.come on my ppl don’t u kno wrong when u see wrong stop playing politics
Thats not fair 2 d people, Skeritt tekin our la d n jus gv away everybody dat come like d crickerter Skeritt gv him land jus so n us Dominicans av 2 strugle 2 buy ah piece of land n wen people squart land dwy tekin it away from dem…. Wrath of God 2 fall o Skeritt n reginal deh time comin
look is now some votes going down
The government have not policies in place to protect the Dominica’s land. Foreigners come in and buy for next to nothing compared to what they would pay in their countries. as a result land prices are sent way up and the average Dominican cannot afford land. The inside of Belles is filled with foreigners, there is an entire village of foreigners there, black Dominicans cannot go in there, because once these people buy land they put signs and gates and change the local neighbour landcape. Seee what happened in Jamaica. Jamaica cannot access certain local beaches because foreigners and rich foreign-Jamaicans bought land and took over. St Thomas and St John has been purchased white Americans especially St John. Tortola has laws to prevent foreigners from owning local land..these is what planning, Skerrit and Austrie need to doing, protecting Dominican lands for Dominican and make our land available to us. distribute the lands to the squatters they are willing to pay.
Yes we have foreigners buying land but:
– it are Dominicans selling that land. Are you going to tell them they cannot do that, especially if they can get a better price than from a fellow Domninican?
– foreigners are paying 10% extra in tax to Govt. for that land so could argue there is discrimination. In the U.S.A.,or England or even Barbados they do not make Dominicans pay extra tax to buy land or houses. A Badian buying land here also has to pay that extra 10%, regardless of the colour of their skin, (because Barbados is not a member of the OECS)
– foreigners are also restricted by law as to how much land they can buy, a restriction not applicable to Dominicans.
I am a Dominican myself and if we truly resent foreigners buying land tell the Govt. we voted for to introduce laws prohibiting the sale of our land to foreigners. Simple. Our people moan too much.
If you want to talk about Jamaica also mention the fact that for years people were squatting on good land in Jamaica and now they are so entrenched in is an almost insurmountable task to get them out. In the case of Dominica its good to take action bow before it gets like it is over there.
point example. Breaking down the houses is not helping no one. I am saying, subdivide the land and offer it to the people for purchase….this land has been subdivided for many years, maybe air marked since freedom party days, but no, the minister, the same ones who told people to go there, won’t do that cause they saving it for their “friends” or for exchange for favours…..
China has realy left an impression on us. We using prison labour now. Things must be tight we cannot afford to employ contractors to break down structures. Skerrit and Austrie created that problem with their Chavisto policy. They should go do the work themselves. Squatting on all gov land is illegal and removal cannot be selective.
Also may i add using political position to gain business advantage (equipment an rent) and use of grants and loans issued on behalf of the state for personal adgendas is also illegal. Is anyone suprise such open lawlessness has increased in Dominica over the past decade. If no law or constitution can touch you then followers take same principle.
The man never said no law or constitution can stop him. He said that he cannot be stopped UNDER no law or the constitution. Understood to mean no existing legislation. It was a factual statement. Only idiots failed to understand him.
Sweetie it comes to the same thing…smh
His exact words were no law not even the constitution can prevent him from being nominated.
Well, I’m one of those idiots then and proud of it.
But Shaka, they are our prisoners you know. We pay to keep and feed them. The labour used by Chinese contractors are Chinese prisoners and the contractor pays the Chinese govt. a fee to employ them. That is so cheap they cannot afford to hire our own workers and pay them in hard currency at a rate that is higher than the average in China. I don’t see that we can not use our prisoners to carry out work for public purposes unless of course, the work they are asked to do is illegal.
One thing Mr Skerro, DO YOU HAVE CENTERS WHERE THE HOMELESS MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN THAT YOU PUT OUT TO THE STREETS CAN BE SHELTERD AND FED? Has the Red Cross been notified?? i dont think so!! LABOUR GOVERNMENT YOU GUYS REALLY AND TRULLY HAVE TO GO… Dont wait for election, pack up and go…LABOUR MUST GO! ALLEEEEEEEEEEE SOTTI LA
you double you pwee
Sorry but I not pweeing for anyone, not even you double you.
I would hope they were living somewhere before they decided to build their homes at canefield. If it was your private land would you be happy to have some one just take it over. They were asked to move for a while now this stage did not happen overnight.
DNO is something wrong? My post is not even set for moderation.
I hope the SAME COURTESY will be afforded to PERSONAL PROPERTY.
Good
I cannot be paying big loan for my land after I buy it for so much money and others think they entitled to just move in and build for free. That cannot be right.
I agree some people cannot afford but all of us struggling.
hahhaa..Labour ka twavay! we are not struggling! Things SWEET!
all of this is a change time to respect the law
all of this is a change time to respect the law.
Good for you if things sweet. The rest of us will continue to eat our dry bread and sugar water. Greedy greedy selfish people. Skerrit and his ministers getting their big fat salary whilst the rest of us continue to get our small pay checks. wicked greedy people!! Only one set that getting help when they seek assistance
Ok I under
Ok I understand that the people was notified but there was a better of getting them out than the way they did today.
Yow! Understand government agencies are not parents and will never take up the duties of parents. All that touchy sensitive expressions is not relevant ; stealing is wrong and there are consequences