NEW YEAR’S MESSAGE – Opposition Leader, Lennox Linton

Linton

TOWARDS A TRULY RESILIENT DOMINICA

My Fellow Dominicans at home and abroad:

As we leave behind a year in which the killer winds and flood waters of a category five Hurricane battered us beyond recognition, we are no doubt more mindful now than ever before of the necessity for unity of purpose behind the inescapable responsibility of fixing Dominica.

In this steep, long and painful climb to a more resilient state of affairs we have been assured of the assistance of the world community to the extent that we are prepared to be guided by the disciplines of good, democratic governance that have become standard in the civilized world

We thank our brothers and sisters at home and abroad, the international aid agencies and disaster relief organizations, the development cooperation partners and the entire global family of countries, people and governments represented by the United Nations. We thank them not just for rallying with empathy, purpose and commitment to assist us in this time of severe humanitarian crisis, but very importantly for demonstrating through their service on the ground the value of caring, transparent, accountable, professional conduct and procedure.

Nonetheless, as the Government of Dominica turns the volume up on the buzzwords – “resilience” and “climate resilient development” – let us keep it real and avoid getting carried away with fancy plasters for old wounds left to fester by corrupt, incompetent leadership. For make absolutely no mistake about it, there will be no climate resilient Dominica in the absence of government of the people, by the people, for the people that is resilient to the destructive forces of corruption and incompetence.

In our 2015 Christmas Message, based on the lessons the nation needed to learn from the dismal leadership failures in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Erika, we urged Dominicans from all walks of life to unite around the most pressing national responsibility of our time:

“We need to fix Dominica… we need to fix the governance of Dominica…

“Let us therefore accept the responsibility to lead ourselves into the disciplined lives of truth, righteousness and justice that will allow us to demand and secure from those who govern us achievement of the human development goals that characterize meaningful advancement of global civilization.

“Let us accept the responsibility to ensure that we live in harmony with our natural environment. (In other words, let’s become climate resilient the only right and sensible way)

“Let us accept the responsibility to make Dominica an exemplary God fearing, rule of law society. Let us rethink and renew health care, education and other social services…

“Let us accept the responsibility to use our healthy land to feed our nation and the entire region… Let us not drag our feet any further on giving our magnificently green country the support of a model green economy growing at no less than five percent per year and delivering thousands of sustainable jobs”.

Even so, 2016 was a business as usual year – government of one man, by one man for one man, mercilessly abusing the resources of the state and cynically trying to unite people with hate. There was no resilience. Rule of law, transparency, accountability, inclusion, participation, fairness, equity – all the foundation principles of good governance – were cruelly set aside by a government emboldened with the proclamation of its leader that “no law including the Constitution” (our supreme law) can stop him from doing as he pleases. There was no resilience. Diplomatic passports and diplomatic immunity were sold to international criminals in flagrant violation of international law. There was no resilience. Hundreds of millions of dollars from the sale of passports unavailable to fund crucial aspects of Dominica’s 2012 Low Carbon Climate Resilient Strategy were spent willy-nilly for the private benefit of friends and supporters. There was no resilience. In the abundance of millions, poverty rose and joblessness climbed higher and higher. There was no resilience. A ruling party’s obsession with stealing elections deformed the backbone of our democracy. There was no resilience.

Yet, with Dominica’s resilience enemy number one continuing to dictate the course of governance we seemed to expect resilience in 2017.

Then came Hurricane Maria. Our lack of resilience was exposed and the head of government concluded it was all about and just about climate change. Consequently, even from the ground zero state of hurricane devastation- with lives to mend; people to shelter; bodies to feed; a broken society to heal; farms to replant; an economy to fix; roadways and bridges to rebuild; health, education and utility services to restore and so much, so much more – a new round of anti-resilience business as usual took center stage:

  • Parliament – the country’s highest decision-making body – was completely shut out of the relief, recovery and reconstruction process to facilitate the partisan political antics of a one man show by an I-man who told leaders at the United Nations he cannot do it alone, but insisted in Dominica it is all about him and him alone;
  • No accountability for the more than 400 million dollars of passport money that was sitting in the bank account of Government when Maria struck;
  • No accountability for the funds pledged and/or received from the World Community for post disaster relief, recovery and reconstruction;
  • No accountability for the 100 million US dollars debt forgiven by Venezuela to assist with post disaster financing;
  • No accountability for the break down in law and order and the widespread looting that seriously affected the business community immediately following Maria;
  • In full view of the international aid agencies and development cooperation partners, the distribution of food aid and other forms of post disaster assistance was disgracefully politicised;
  • Contracts were awarded for housing construction and other post disaster rehabilitation work without tender or competitive bidding to friends and supporters of the government overseas totally denying competent local contractors the economic opportunity to participate in nation building;
  • Ministers of Government were excused from their portfolios (some of them dealing with critical portfolios like health, housing and livelihood restoration) so they could take on the partisan sharing of relief supplies. Even ambassadors posted in important capitals who could serve as envoys securing assistance around the world were recalled to be involved in sharing relief;
  • Thousands of tons of relief supplies are backed up at the main port of entry, while needy citizens struggle to find food.
  • No transparent, publicized selection criteria for beneficiaries of post disaster assistance programs intended to reach persons in need wherever they are starting with the most vulnerable

Our system of governance continues to be bent way out of shape to suit the dictatorship fancies of a one-man government. It cannot withstand the persistent attacks of incompetence and corruption. And it seems unable to bounce back from the injuries inflicted by those two partners in crime. There is no resilience.

We cannot continue like this. We need to stop it right now in the transition from 2017 to 2018. If we don’t, we risk losing vital national development support from key donors in the global community who are protecting the resources of their people from corruption and incompetence and will not allow such resources to be abused by these two evils in Dominica.

If therefore, we have one single New Year resolution, it should be to ensure unity of purpose to build the structures and systems of a truly resilient Dominica capable of withstanding the savagery of corrupt, incompetent government and the disasters of our changing climate by extension.

From our hearts to yours – best wishes for a happy, healthy, productive, prosperous and resilient New Year.

 

LENNOX LINTON

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125 Comments

  1. To one Phariee from another
    January 4, 2018

    Paul Rossnof don’t let me declaway you. You seeing Dr. Benji who is being seen by Dr. Sharma lol You go to see him under the cloak of/ @ night. Can we call U Nicodemus? U mentioned the Red Clinic. I wonder if ur trips to the diaspora are financed by Skerrit’s red Clinic & you come here pretending.

    • BBA
      January 4, 2018

      Once again, you are among the many who can’t or won’t see the damage this “political division” is doing to Dominica. Quite frankly, I don’t give a hoot about your red/blue nonsense! Restoration for the hearts and minds of the people will elevate restoration of the country. Take a closer look, inside yourself and in your community.

  2. BBA
    January 3, 2018

    Peolpe of Dominica, may God once again have mercy on our beautiful island. Someone once wrote that Dominica is the next best thing to the garden of eden. I believe that. While Dominica was ravaged by hurricane Maria, there’s no doubt that it’s beauty will return; however, I cant say the same for it’s people. This is where religion come in, by turning away from politics and turning to God. Yes, God. The God that kept Dominica from being a “grave yard” just 3 months ago. Dominicans are so DIVIDED – a constant nonsense about red & blue. As for the food, it depends on who one talks to; about the responsibility for the chaos and looting, it isn’t that of the PM, it’s of the people. Again, depending on who you talk to, the viscious looting and damaging of property was personal/political. Dominica is NOT red or blue, it’s GREEN, AND FERTILE, AND BEAUTIFUL! What can we do to restore it? Oh, resilient simply means to make stronger as to not incur much damage with the next…

    • The Alphabet
      January 4, 2018

      Amen ! blessed be BBA hahahahaha u make me laugh BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

  3. One and only
    January 3, 2018

    So many ppl dislike skeritt
    So many ppl dislike Lenox
    So many ppl complain….
    Which one of you will actually step and do something about it? Try to take a walk in the shoes of a PM or opposition leader….not one single person will try…but I know this is a typical Dominican “thing”. Let’s sit back, complain and do nothing.

    • Anonymous
      January 3, 2018

      Are you trying to convince us that Roosevelt Skerrit became Primre Minister, a job he wants t hang on to at all cost, purely for love of country? You make him sound almost like a martyr. Maybe we should erect a statue of him to pray to?

      • One and only
        January 4, 2018

        Wow!!
        Mr.Anonymous, Mr.Man or Madam whatever you are, I never said or implied that we must pray to a human, or worship a human.
        Now if you want a statue then that’s up to you, many good people in history have a statue to represent them.
        Do I think skeritt deserves a statue? Hell no, he is not a Dominican hero at least not yet. Do I believe he’s doing an “okay” job, yes now most here may not agree but who cares. Do I believe the the 2017 clown Mr.Linton deserves to be heard, hell yes. Why? Because he is the only one in Dominica brave enough to lead a party to challenge the red. I believe in a fair contest. But again all we do here is complain.
        Now to answer a question that many ppl asked me. Who I vote for?
        Last election I voted the red, right now I really could care less…both have Good and bad. However all we do
        Is complain! Skeritt needs to go! Linton is bad! Skeritt this Linton that. If u don’t like the red or blue get your own party and take action
        Not one of you will…

      • 2my girl Bards& her resolutions
        January 4, 2018

        Barbs! that’s like a new years resolution to go to the gym then woo here comes the crab backs those they confiscated from LL sometime ago lol Then Pearl’s cusine’s broth/Brathe then Ahfouahwee bread & cakes by Franz(not the same or that famous blood pudding and Frachine let’s not forget Fry chicken on the roadside near Wykee’s and all the drinks. The weight remains or goes up. That’s DA peeps & all their talk.

    • Barbara Saunders
      January 4, 2018

      Happy new year all. I pray that 2018 is a better year in all respects than 2017.

      I have read some of the comments here and I have developed a deeper respect for our constitution which gives every man the right to free thought so I won’t join those who make derogatory comments about other people’s thoughts, but here is my take on the address.

      Firstly, I’m not a big fan of Christmas or new year addresses but that is our tradition, so if someone in leadership has to be practically shamed into addressing the nation after comments and questions as to the reason for not doing so, the address to my mind, has lost its flavour.

      Secondly, even babies learn to change their strategies if they are not successful in their objectives first time around, so if cooing and bubbling saliva does not get mommy’s attention, they turn to screaming and throwing tantrums. I guess even babes and sucklings can lead the way in strategic planning and thinking. All this to say, same rhetoric in…

      • Barbara Saunders
        January 4, 2018

        …same rhetoric in 2018? this has been flogged locally, regionally and internationally with the help of social media; traditional communication; other Dominicans in the disaspora; black men; white men; you name it. Dominica has been dragged through the mud in the process and we are still standing and the chief villain, the object of all of this ferocity is also still standing.

        Erika and Maria have passed by and battered and decimated us, same rhetoric. In one breath we are told about building our country and in the next we hear the same age-old negativity. Maria has meant nothing. In fact, while we are being told of the broken society to be healed and all of the misery to be alleviated, the same sufferers with tarpaulins over their heads, no insurance in some cases and other discomforts, are being asked to contribute money to assist a leader in meeting his legal obligations.

        How do we heal the society when more salt is being rubbed into the wounds?

      • Barbara Saunders
        January 4, 2018

        same rhetoric in 2018?

        How can we be told about healing the society when fresh salt is being rubbed into the wounds? How can a message after an event like Maria continue to flog the same rhetoric which was fed locally, regionally and internationally with the assistance of some opportunistic Dominicans in the diaspora; destructive social media; white men(themselves rogues and thieves); black men; CBS 60 minutes; you name it.

        I love the call for truth and righteousness. I believe we can start by resisting the temptation to mislead the shallow minded and trusting individuals who hang on every word some of us speak.

        I believe Mr. Skerrit’s ill advised statement “no law…” was in the context of his nomination….

        Dominica was dragged through the mud in the process but happens to be still standing by the grace of God. The chief villain Skerrit against whom this groundswell of attacks was aimed is also miraculously still standing. So we start off 2018 in the same vein?

      • Barbara Saunders
        January 4, 2018

        as a candidate in an election. I do not think I heard him say “no law…..” to “prevent him from doing what he wants.” Let’s be truthful. In terms of inciting lawlessness, how would that compare with the other leader’s call to people on February 07 2017 to ignore the instructions of the Police to clear the meeting location at the time agreed? How would that also compare with his call to Salisbury residents to ensure that if the Police interfered with an event being planned “cool wosh would fall down like rain”?

        Time will not permit any further analysis, but for those of us who think the address is brilliant, every man to his own order. My admonition in 2018 to party supporters on both sides of the divide is you are not helping your leaders when you help to embolden them into thinking that they are right in whatever they do and say.

        Finally, how righteous can one be when one asks tarpaulin-covered food recipients to help him pay his self-inflicted legal bills?

      • Anonymous
        January 4, 2018

        It is a stark assertion to make ms. Saunders that this leader was practically shamed into addressing the nation and freedom of expression permits me to challenge you to say on what evidence your statement is based. If there is concrete evidence I shall be happy to hear it and consider it.

  4. Skerrit I Voting
    January 3, 2018

    We are resilient you and your cohorts continue to bombard our ears with negative day and night who can live through this ….. if we are fed up with anything is you Lennox and your negativism you have caused this island to be a very ugly place because you are breeding so much anger and violence in peoples mind. Every good plan you oppose and your opposition does not stop projects neither plans I am so fed up of this nonsense… we reject this bitterness and anger we reject that kind of leadership. AMENNNNNNNNNNN

    • One and only
      January 3, 2018

      What bitterness????? C’mon give the guy a break….so he was a joke last year and the prior years…let’s see what the clown has to offer….let’s not forgot the current isn’t perfect and has made to silly decisions….
      Let Lenox do his stuff….if he’s a clown again, let’s all hold hands and laugh hahahh

    • Maggie I voting
      January 4, 2018

      I voting not 4 the Reds ,Psuedo Reds, Blue or Sky Blue nor Green vedetables but 4 yellow. OJ during his mentioning his boat to huckster in the VIs wore a yellow tie. I thought it was the beginning of a new party.
      But am voting yellow in character in Roseau

      • To Maggie I voting
        January 4, 2018

        All of them is one comes so you voting Maggie then? All of them are maggie

    • Barbara Saunders
      January 4, 2018

      Anonymous
      This assertion is based on the fact that Christmas came and went with messages from other societal leaders even including Trade Unionists. I think you will agree that a New Year message is a bit unusual, although that is the individual’s right to give one and my right to express my view on it.

      Several people on radio and through other media were asking why no message from this leader, particularly after an event like Maria when Dominicans needed some word of hope and cheer. Not sure if this was a word of hope and cheer but that was the basis for my assertion Sir/Madam Anonymous.

  5. Skerrit I Voting
    January 3, 2018

    Transparency, accountability, inclusion, participation, fairness, equity – all the foundation principles of good governance. Is good governance riot???? is good governance rebellion? is good governance speaking bad over a nation constantly and encouraging negative in the airwaves? Is good governance anger and bitterness. Fairness your both children got scholarships and whilst the poor children of Marigot were deprived. HMMMMMM i as so disguised with our speech, Dominicans wake up.

    • Paul Rossnof
      January 3, 2018

      You are a very ignorant individual. If it was not for people like you Skerrit would have never managed to gain control of Dominica and bring it to its knees. How much does the Red Clinic pay nowadays?? Shame on you!

      • Gary
        January 4, 2018

        Why is someone arrogant for asking questions about the things Linton said. Do you know what it means to bring a Country on its knees, is this what The PM is doing to Dominica. Do you think that if the PM was bringing Dominica to its knees he would be Governing Dominica. Dominicans know what it is when their Country is being brought to its knees.They have done this by removing The UWP from office in 2005, they bankrupt the Country, there are evidence and facts to show what they did to the Country. Have you any facts and evidence to support your statement that the PM is bringing Dominica to its knees, you just saying so does not make it true. Why write such things.

      • Man bite dogs
        January 4, 2018

        Who is that idiot above call Paul Rossnof that calling other people ignorant you lots workers supporters along with goat head Linton are all parrots that keep repeating the same crap day after day year after year, because you all cannot think of anything to come up with :twisted:

  6. Skerrit I Voting
    January 3, 2018

    Gosh, speech written by the Honorable Athie Martin, I am sure. Lennox who wrote this speech. It clearly sounded like a download of Athie Martin. As far as most Dominicans are aware, this Labour Party Government has proven itself to be a government of great foresight, action and a government who thinks outside of the box. Did we see what is CARICOM focus “Climate Change” humm. Lennox my advise to you today try and make your own mark in Dominica for as far as we see and know….. is anger violence and negative energy is all that come from you. What have you done to assist this nation to normalcy since Maria. I guess you had no contacts no influence on the outside world and you want a chance to represent me? or Dominica? you have proven yourself case close. Your words of corruption and integrity, transparency, accountability, inclusion, participation, fairness, equity – all the foundation principles of good governance ……. alas you have violated the true meaning of…

  7. 1 John 3:15
    January 3, 2018

    I’ve been following events on DNO and DA Vibes for a while without participation, until now.

    The reason is because the level of discourse therein characterises the psyche of Labour Party followers/supporters’ intense dislike for The Rt Hon Lennox Linton. Such feeling of hate and revenge lacks substance and speaks volumes, as to why we are going nowhere as a people (a nation).

    Intense hostility and aversion usually derives from fear, anger or a sense of injury… is that what stopping these people from making a meaningful contribution to take Dominica to the next level?

    • Gary
      January 4, 2018

      You are entitled to your opinion but the question I will pose to you, are you giving an informed and truthful opinion, you not. When someone is hated you should investigate as to why, same as is when someone is loved. Why are you chastising the psyche of DLP and its followers as the reason for the intense dislike for Lennox Linton and not questioning Linton’s behavior. Don’t you think that Linton should be held accountable for his behavior and antics before you point fingers at The DLP and its supporters Most of the ills we suffer from are directly traceable to our own behavior, a lesson Linton never seems to learn.
      By the way, I read 1 John 3:15. Is this how you get your solace, such wishful thinking.

  8. Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
    January 3, 2018

    Lennox, do not join the crowd and become over fascinated with the word resilient! How can there be a resilient Dominica or a resilient Caribbean as some said they are going to build a resilient Caribbean.

    That is nothing more than nonsensical terminology, people are simply playing with words. How can anyone build a resilient Caribbean or Dominica, that is simply saying we are going to build a place that cannot bend out of shape. How can anyone build anything that is resilient to the elements?

    “Rain Wind (Hurricane) Fire and Earthquakes? 

    How resilient can a country be to a magnitude seven earthquake, or to a hurricane of the magnitude of Maria? On
    “CARICOM moving to create the World’s first Climate Resilient Region in the year ahead:”
    That is nothing more than useless garbage talk; how can one accomplish that? In order for that to be accomplish that guy would have to create a new planet!

    Resiliency;  “resilient”  implies  capable of withstanding shock without…

    • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
      January 3, 2018

      Resiliency;  “resilient”  implies  capable of withstanding shock without permanent deformation or rupture, there are no known material known to man on this planet that are not subject to decay naturally, and rapidly, some elements takes thousands of years but they still decay.

      Nothing built, or constructed, or invented by human hands and brain can be resilient!

    • Vincent Rolle
      January 3, 2018

      Francisco,

      It appears to me that you are divinely gifted with wisdom and intelligence. Give God the praise and thanks for this dual gift. I love that piece from you ” How resilient can a country be to a magnitude 7 earthquake, or a hurricane of the magnitude of Maria?”

      You are absolutely correct! I salute you! I honor you! I have been reading your comments for some time and take great pleasure in doing so. You always capture my attention.

      Don’t forget when commenting to use a little more tact and diplomacy toward those in authority! You will succeed in political arena. Rest assure, I WILL VOTE FOR YOU, anytime.

      • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
        January 4, 2018

        You know I do give glory and praises to God Almighty for every successful thing that I accomplish in this life; for without my firm belief in God Jehovah; Jesus Christ, and indeed the Trinity: The Father The Son; and the Holy Spirit (Ghost) I would not have lived for long as I am on this planet.

        In regards to politics, I think I am too aged for that, not that I am an old man, but some things should be left to the younger generation. I would hope that the things I write might help to show a path towards development in the country: Investments in small industries could be a key to our nation development.

        I resides in the United States, in Los Angeles, but in my travels across America, Canada, and Europe for that matter, I experience the majority of businesses employing the most people, are small business operators, perhaps we need to try a series of locally owned business, in the manufacturing business for export.

        Not opening rum-shop!

    • Gary
      January 4, 2018

      Why do you imprison your self with your perceptions and limited five senses and believe you correct. When you say quote, “How can anyone build anything that is resilient to the elements” How did we venture into space and send probes into distant planets, overcoming elements and environments much more hostile than what we got on Earth. When you use the word impossible, always remember it is not you who decide such thing, such decision is no left in your hands to decide, it is the divine intelligence who has the final say to decide such thing, wallow in nonsensical beliefs.

      • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
        January 4, 2018

        ” How did we venture into space and send probes into distant planets,”

        Gary, I do not intend to insult anybody at this point and time of my life; I am getting  weary of that,  nevertheless, that in the  quote, is an indication that you are ignorant about a lot of things: you talk about things that you do not know anything about!

        Sir, in the first place professionally, I am an Electronic/Electrical Engineer.  The only form of employment I engaged into since coming to the United States was in the defense and military industry.

        I worked on things sent into space; if they were stored in certain areas and you went there unauthorized, you might have got yourself shot!  No matter,  what is sent into space, their service is always limited, they do not last l forever, hence they are not resilient: some do breakdown, failing to perform as they were intended. Perhaps if you comprehend the meaning of word resilient you would not indulged in talking  such nonsense!

      • Gary
        January 5, 2018

        To Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

        Your accomplishments does not remove your arrogance, humility does. You must stop being lead on a leash by your ego.

      • Silver fox
        January 5, 2018

        Hi Gary Mr Francisco will soon be telling he was a captain on star trek, wait for it!

  9. My name
    January 2, 2018

    Well done Hon. LINTON a true Diplomat. Very proud of you, you make the haters read. God is great

    • Gary
      January 5, 2018

      Do you know how silly you sound saying Linton is a true Diplomat. Do you know what a true Diplomat is – a person who is good at dealing with people in a way that avoids bad feelings, can you honestly say this is true about Linton.Look at Linton’s Public life as a Politician, Radio personality, and Investigative Journalist doesn’t the evidence speaks for itself.You may say God is great but I will also tell you God is just.

  10. Me
    January 2, 2018

    Interesting, the P.M.’s christmas message attracted only 44 comments against mr. Linton’s 55 thus far! What does this tell us?

    • One and only
      January 3, 2018

      It tells me that a lot more people are wasting time on mr Linton’s post lol

      • Anonymous
        January 3, 2018

        You must be one of them in that case, no?

      • One and only
        January 3, 2018

        Yes I am…I’ll admit it lol..I need something to make me laugh

    • UKDominican
      January 3, 2018

      Wow! Meanwhile it has risen to 81 comments. Clearly mr. Linton’ new year address getting more attention than Roosevelt Skerrit’s Christmas wishes.

      • One and only
        January 3, 2018

        Yes I am one of them…I’m on holidays and I need something to make time go by

  11. Man bite dogs
    January 2, 2018

    This so-called opposition leader, does not understand proper English language and how will he engage in a sensesible high profile talks with head of states????

    • All Saint!
      January 3, 2018

      Only a ‘nincompoop’ will agree that Hon Lennox Linton isn’t a gifted orator. One who constantly raises excellent points, sensitising the D/can public to the ills of this nation. Why he stands out above the rest in this land is because of adherence to protocol, which imperceptibly becomes the face of a country’s diplomacy, culture and etiquette that stays with foreign visitors long after joint statements are signed and deals are struck.

      He believes in collaborative working toward a nation where citizens are informed and empowered; governments are open and responsive; and collective action advances the public good.

    • Man bites Dogs
      January 3, 2018

      @ ONE and only, as i have said you sound like a beautiful person and intelligent it gives me the impression you from the UK anyway enjoy yourself and stay sweet, Feliz ano Nuevo bueno.

  12. Rebecca Musgrave
    January 2, 2018

    I will be Prime Minister God Willing
    Rebecca V Musgrave
    Soft gentle kind
    Love kindness compassion
    Every day I must put on the whole armor of God
    Every day I must practice the fruit of the Spirit
    I know the truth. HE HAS SET ME FREE
    TRUE WORSHIPPERS WORSHIP IN SPIRIT AND IN TRUTH

    • Mother
      January 3, 2018

      Rebecca please, unless you can multiply fish and bread religious zealots are not helpful in our time of need. Stop the prattle, roll up your sleeves and do some real work instead. Turn ore into labore. Thank you.

    • One and only
      January 3, 2018

      You can pray from now till whenever, prayer will not help until you actually take action, leave religion out of it…no disrespect..

  13. Illuminator
    January 2, 2018

    This message is quite troubling to me – not because I support any party or the labour party but simply because ALL of the message is about one (1) man. From start to Finish. Un sel hombre. My God.
    The PM does not have to promote himself as the Leader of the opposition does it for him free of charge….
    Mr. Linton you are the alternate government in waiting, stop focusing on one man, that man is not the sum total of Dominica. Stop being focused just on him. You need to focus and be obsessed with much more than the PM if Dominica is to be blessed with your leadership someday. Get it. Your advisers old and new alike must get you off that tangent man.

    • Anonymous
      January 3, 2018

      Sorry illumination, your tactic won’t work. This year the focus will intensify even more on Skerrit and his band to make their live a misery and get rid of that contamination that has blighted our country for too long.

    • All Saint!
      January 3, 2018

      Why should Hon Lennox Linton not focus on the PM – isn’t he head of the Dominican Government? If so, then he is ultimately responsible for the policy and decisions of the government. As head of the Dominican government doesn’t he also:
      • oversees the Civil Service operation and government agencies
      • appoints members of the government
      • is the principal government figure in the House of Assembly

      As PM, the bucks stops with him on lack of Dominica’s political, economic, socio-cultural and technological development.

      • Gary
        January 4, 2018

        The PM does not oversee the Civil Service, this is done by the Public Service Commission http://psc.gov.dm/. Wow, your understanding regarding the role of the PM is somewhat misleading.

  14. One and only
    January 2, 2018

    So much negativity here! My people of Dominica! It’s 2018! Let Mr. Linton have his say, you treat him like an old worm piece of meat! He’s a human with feelings, let us all pray that Linton becomes a better man, let us all come together as 1!!!!
    Linton needs to stay, we need someone to challenge the red, competition is good. If Linton becomes a joke as he was last year, let’s all laugh in the end….but give the guy break!

    The One and Only

    • January 2, 2018

      So only Mr. Linton and his clan can be negative? Remember you reap what you sew.

      • One and only
        January 2, 2018

        Anon, no I didn’t say only Linton and his clan can be negative, in fact skerrit has done some pretty s***** stuff and made some stupid decisions…I think both need to go and get some fresh blood!
        But that will never happen, all I’m saying is that let’s see what the blue has to offer and let’s see how the red will respond and have them go at it…we (the ppl) have a front row seat to enjoy it.

      • Me
        January 3, 2018

        The word is sow.

    • Man bite dogs
      January 2, 2018

      @ one and only one, you sound like a lovely beautiful person so i am going to be nice and respectful to you, please don’t wait for that guy Linton to bring you milk and honey you will never get it, this guy is useless and a nasty bit of work only looking out for his self the rest is up to you bye.

      • One and only
        January 2, 2018

        Man bite dogs, I don’t wait…last year I had a good laugh with anything regarding Linton, in fact I hope he continues his role, because one of 2 things will happen.

        1. He will either become a better man and do right by the people OR

        2. He will repeat 2017 and I will have another year of laughter.

  15. Deeyeshaveit
    January 2, 2018

    Lennox have heart to mention2015 Christmas message??we still waiting for the 2017 one. Man move your irrelevant self from there tan

    • One and only
      January 2, 2018

      Tan??? What the hell is a tan?

  16. Man bite dogs
    January 2, 2018

    All rubbish talking Linton, and you know you might as well talk to the hand and not real intelligent people in other words talk to your coocoo supporters. You are not talking to real Dominican people.

    • Do you want me.4 ur leader
      January 2, 2018

      Who would be the real DA people our Dog? hahahahahah never heard or seen a dog bite itself lol U are one ……………………………. sartie sort!

      • Man bite dogs
        January 2, 2018

        @ Comments above, please excuse my language, The words man bite dogs, meanings in English i will always be bitting at dogs like you ok. So now you know what’s the meaning of man bits dogs.

    • Ibo France
      January 2, 2018

      I try as much as humanly possible to refrain from making derogatory comments about ordinary citizens. This Dog Lice Man is the only exception. He uses the most obnoxious language to describe people who oppose the government time and time again. It’s obvious that he has a severe learning deficit disorder. His chronological age may be 40+ but his mental age is that if a toddler. He has to be a wretched, parasitic vagabond, with his only purpose for living is to unleash his foul smelling , sickening garbage on people who are opposed to the misguided policies of his idol, Mr. Skerrit. Dog Man, the one-tenth of hour brain that is presently in use, use it for something purposeful.

      • Man bite dogs
        January 4, 2018

        @ Ebola go way you smell like old cabbage water… :lol:

      • Gary
        January 4, 2018

        Wow, someone really got on your nerves and piss you off. I wonder if you ever read comments from someone calling themselves “Florida Diaspora” with his appalling language to those who support the Government and degrading words used to describe The PM.

  17. Me
    January 2, 2018

    This man appears very resilient.

  18. zandoli
    January 2, 2018

    I thought he had gone into hibernation over the winter.

    • HAVING AN ANGELO AND ARONDEL GROS PWEL
      January 2, 2018

      ou kay las haw haw

    • I read a lot
      January 2, 2018

      In the mid 90’s he went into hibernation when he chigonee kaka He attacked the Roseau central candidate in the news paper after interviewing him the on what about nights before. It was the joke for several months.
      The candidate a Doctor responded to LL’s attack with all guns blazing with prose. If memory serves me right the doc told him he made a mistake a monkey would not -attempting to climb a guglue tree. He stayed away for almost 3 months. News was that he was in nearby B/dos.
      What he did not take into consideration was that the doctor was taught by both his parents in primary school hence procured the basic of writing as well as he did even if he LL had mom & dad at home.

  19. indira Ghandi
    January 1, 2018

    Thanks for this message.
    No wonder they do not like you.
    You bring out the facts
    May God strengthen and favour you.
    Blessings my brother

    • Silver fox
      January 2, 2018

      Ghandi, can you please let us know what are the facts you on about??? If you want facts about that guy i know all about him as a young boy from marigot to Winston lane goodwill and to steber Street with us guys and i can open tin of worms but dispirited not liking the guy for what he is that tin of worms will not be open.

    • One and only
      January 3, 2018

      What facts are you talking about?

  20. Expat
    January 1, 2018

    Why is it now he realizes that we have a lot of work to do ? The man has been on the sideline for almost four months. What an inept leader who has failed his supporters and Dominica by extension. I hope that he is transparent with where he is going to get the money he owes Pinard-Byrne.

    • All Saint!
      January 2, 2018

      Expat – your ignorance is beyond comprehension.

      Didn’t Hon Lennox Linton say clearly that in their 2015 Christmas Message they expressed concerns about the enormity of the task ahead post Tropical Storm Erika! Here you are deliberately ignoring or disregarding such important information / facts.

      In your memoirs you’ll admonished yourself as a “NINCOMPOOP” for living a life of ignorance, with a hope of dying a life of ignorance.

      • Expat
        January 2, 2018

        All Saints, it is your ignorance that is beyond comprehension. Linton mentioned a Christmas message of 2015. I guess you failed to understand that last Christmas was in 2017. Let me state it to you one more time in layman’s terms : several political party leaders and some other people in leadership roles gave Christmas messages in 2017 to the Dominican people with the exception of Linton. I hope you understand that; it is not difficult.

    • viewsexpressed
      January 2, 2018

      Are you an expat, if not you response is one of an expatriate who just arrived in Dominica on Fight 0900 on Air Disaster Maria with your seatbelt wide open despite the calls of the flight attendants. That is where you are, a failing citizen who fails to be open to the poverty and corruption of this Failed Labour government.
      Hon Linton is what he is, a very honest, intelligent pen transparent dedicated Dominican and politician. Your issue is an easy one, you and your bind followers know that your inept Skerrit just cannot come into the footsteps of Hon. Linton not your corrupt Labour Government can stand up to the might of the UWP.
      Thanks Hon. Linton, God continues to guide you in 2018 that we will be informed.

      Skerrit must Go

      • One and only
        January 2, 2018

        Both needs to go…Dominica needs fresh blood

      • Expat
        January 2, 2018

        To you viewsexpressed. Election is next year. Tell me with confidence which political party is going to rule Dominica. I, for sure, know who it will be and l would imagine you know too. I have an inclination that certain individuals will not be in their present capacity.

      • Me
        January 3, 2018

        Watch that one and only. He speaks with forked tongue.

  21. One and only
    January 1, 2018

    Thank you Mr.Linton. God knows that you have made 2017 a good year for me. Times when I was down, I just had to watch or read something about you and i would end up laughing.
    I pray that you keep it up and keep making Dominica laugh. Please don’t leave the politics, we all need someone to make us laugh.

    HNY Mr.Linton

  22. January 1, 2018

    More of the same from the opposition leader, nothing new from him for the new year. Same old worn out story.

    • viewsexpressed
      January 2, 2018

      That is consistency as who where we are and where we ought to be. The message of Hon Linton is consistent and reminding we the people like you where we ought to be heading, that is away from your corrupt government and inept failed leader.

  23. Wa Papa
    January 1, 2018

    LOL. Man all of you politicians are the same. Any idiot reading this sees the sarcasm here ant the attempt to keep the nation politically divided. One day, just one day, you politicians will see and think of the people other than yourselves and egos. Happy new year to all Dominicans whether you are red, blue, green, yellow or orange. Lets demand more from all these selfish, egoistic, power seeking and hugging politicians. Lets embrace the lesson to us, taught by mother nature and work together with our Caricom and International Partners to make Dominica one of the safest place to live. Together we can do it.

    • viewsexpressed
      January 2, 2018

      Well said, Hon Linton, well put together. I am hoping that the blind followers of Skerrit will be able to see the bigger picture.

      • Wa Papa
        January 2, 2018

        And why wouldn’t the blind followers of Linton see the bigger picture as well? Can’t you see right through these speeches? How uplifting, encouraging and meaningful are they? How are they helping our people in these time of need?

  24. mine
    January 1, 2018

    Here you come again. What did you do to help? Did you put your shoulders to the wheel to assist? Good luck lennox.

  25. NabesandI
    January 1, 2018

    Well well welcome back to Dominica sir. Your supporters have missed you.

  26. Cathy tavernier
    January 1, 2018

    Lovely speech. GOD BLESS YOU AND ALL DOMINICANS

  27. da will be back
    January 1, 2018

    fake news get trump to pay your bills hungry for power god don’t sleep Dominicans come together do it for all of us don’t wait for people who only looking for there self

  28. AP
    January 1, 2018

    Very Well Said. The victimization/abuse of Dominica needs to stop.

  29. Vincent Rolle
    January 1, 2018

    Mr. Lennox Linton is truly brilliant and writes well and without a doubt he must have been an “A” student in English. He is gifted in writing and I honor and respect Mr. Linton. However, let it be known that we are still traumatized by by this demonic hurricane Maria devastation and frankly speaking it is altogether inappropriate, at this stage of recovery, for spewing negativity in the atmosphere.

    Let’s forgive and forget, if there is need to, and let’s, with Respect, Integrity, Service and Excellence, Truth and Courage, and sound judgment, communicate and collaborate at rebuilding and meeting our basis needs.

    May the Almighty God and Lord of Lords, unite the DLP & UWP. United we stand, especially in such crisis.

    • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
      January 2, 2018

      Lennox writing ability seems to be a gift from a higher power; I will not mention any names, but one of the persons endeavoring to destroy Lennox at one time they both were very good friends, and worked on certain programs, while the other person took care of the legal matters, Lennox was the dictator and writer:

      And when I noted dictator; that is in reference to dictating a letter or documents of that nature, and not as in political dictatorship.

      I don’t like trouble so I will not disclosed the name of the other person I sighted, because in spite of that person turn evil mentality, I still have a bit of respect for the person (s). 

      • Man bite dogs
        January 2, 2018

        @ Francisco, Feliz ano nuevo this is happy new year to you :Now let us get to the bottom of that joke. Whenever did God gave Linton that gift and ability to write that ridiculous rubbish that guy did not write a single word of that crap we are reading you are in LaLa land am in Dominica, please do not insult our intelligence ok? You can fool your backwards friends wherever they are in the world but we labour supporters are far from stupid adios amigo.

      • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
        January 3, 2018

        Well, I’ll tell what my friend, if Linton did not write his message, I assure you he must have a very good speech writer, much better than Dr. Punjab Mr. Ali Baba Roosevelt Skerrit speech writer!

        Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah! I would chose Lennox writer any day over Ali Baba writer!

        Give credit to Lennox where it is due, the same as I give credit to Dr. Punjab Ali Baba Roosevelt Skerrit when he deserves it.

        One of them is me biological cousin, the other is Me  Almost Nearly Cousin: guess which one is de Almost Nearly Cousin; I doh want to tell you is that Mountain Chicken Carpaud  (crapo) Mentality Sir Knight Dr. Punjab Ali Baba Indian doctor of nothing Roosevelt Skerrit oui!

        Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah!

        Have a happy new year Man eat Dog, remember I  told you if you are still in England be sure to ware some very warm cloths: remain alive to fight for Skerrit another day; as I fight for Lennox: my relatives in London told me the cold is…

    • January 2, 2018

      Vincent Rolle my comrade there is no wrong time to expose the wrongs of govt.

      • Man bites Dogs
        January 3, 2018

        @ Mr Francisco, above thank you stay safe just like having a little banta with you nothing personal.

  30. Dry crix
    January 1, 2018

    Seriously. NO.ONE.CARES. your words have no weight. Words words words from you. We’re fed up. Neeeeeexxxt!

    • viewsexpressed
      January 2, 2018

      Your knowledge is dry and lost,, we why people like you are unable to see the bigger picture. People like you are there to generalise and not address the message and bigger picture.
      Well done Honourable Linton

      Skerrit Must Go

  31. Titiwi
    January 1, 2018

    Like,dislike or be indifferent to the man but his timing is strategically impeccable. Those of us who thought he was browbeaten are mistaken. We did not see the commonplace Christmas message, garnished with platitudes and cliches.Here he is in full swing, putting the cat amongst the pigeons. What is more, he clearly does not employ a script writer and brings a hard- hitting message crafted by his own hand.

  32. Florida Diaspora
    January 1, 2018

    Dear mr. Linton, while you may viewed by some not to be the best choice for Dominica it is certainly obvious that you are miles ahead of Dr fowl brain skeritt. The gulf in class between you and Dr bird brain punjab is so big that not even time could measure it. You seem to have come from a different realm in comparison to him. ………………………………… Your ideas a clear as the crystal waters of the river Nile while those thugs in office executes without transparency. As Dominicans we have said our best wishes to each other for the new year but deep down inside we know that as long as king skeritt remains in power we have nothing more than suckling salt to look forward to. God watch over us with our high blood pressure levels. Dam you baroness Scott land

    • Me
      January 3, 2018

      Be careful now and don’t go overboard.The waters of the Nile are muddied in Cairo and not as crystal clear as at its source.

    • One and only
      January 3, 2018

      Lol…Dr.fowl brain skeritt wow

      • Me
        January 4, 2018

        You said it!!!!!!

  33. Tony
    January 1, 2018

    Hello and good morning my people. Happy New Year to every Dominican where ever you are and may our people come together and do what’s best for all our citizens and country.

  34. January 1, 2018

    Nothing is said that have not been said at some point, this message comes across from a leader , a revolutionary one at that, willing to take up ARMS to change the status quo, a lot of talk , actions , limited to none. What are the plans of the UWP 2018? what vision, do you have for Dominica? the ancient Africans told us, that when one has a finger pointing at someone, four is pointing at his/her self, we want less talk , more action.

    • Anonymous
      January 2, 2018

      Bob, this is Dominica, not Africa. Yes, history is important but only if we learn from it to do better.

    • Is Ur name Robert bob?
      January 2, 2018

      Does BoB Tennis smoke weed? Garcon stay off the computer if U know what good for U.

    • Bob Black power is like DA-finir bat
      January 2, 2018

      Bob fou con Lucifer Bob garcon the Black power ting not even working in Africa. if it were U tink all dem Nigerian even Tanzanian etc man in the Caribbean using us as launching Pad for the USA; Look at South Africa and the ANC your boy in Zimbabwee lol Bob Tennis where have U been under a stone in T&T? Even Jesus rose from under stone ,come on BoB it’s 2018 not 1970 nearing 50 yrs U still a black power > SMH man!

  35. Ibo France
    January 1, 2018

    One would have hoped for a more optimistic message going into a new year, but this is not to be because of the lackadaisical mitigation policy, by the government, on very important national issues. The PM uses flowery words and terms to woo support, it’s only our deeds that reveal who we are, not our words. By not convening parliament to deliberate pertinent issues about the restoration of the country, by single-mindedly thinking that he has a monopoly on ideas and intelligence, it’s a fallacy to think of Mr. Skerrit as a prudent leader. And those of you who perpetrate the illusion that under Mr. Skerrit’s stewardship the country can make a full recovery are sadly deluding yourselves. Only collectively, with steel-like determination, unfaltering efforts, and unselfish and prudent leadership can Dominica hope to overcome its gargantuan obstacles to progress.

  36. All Saints!
    January 1, 2018

    Thank you Hon Lennox Linton… thanks for this profound Political and Economic evaluation of Dominica’s social effects and and externalities, following the aftermaths of Tropical Storm Erika (2015) and Hurricane Maria (2017).

    In your New Year’s message, you nicely followed the process by which a sequence of stimuli that we’re individually inadequate to produce a response were cumulatively able to induce a nerve impulse.

    Only such mastery in transcription and written composition from you, your Honoural Lennox Linton.

  37. Tamas rogers
    January 1, 2018

    Wow!Wow!Wow!

    What a powerful, articulate, compelling and so relevant commentary!

    Happy New Year

  38. Expat
    January 1, 2018

    Lennox realized the train has left him so he is trying to do catch up. It is almost four months since hurricane Maria devastated Dominica. Where were you ? Initially, you came out with a statement suggesting that you and the UWP were concerned only with the constituents that voted for you and your party and now you are coming with this hypocritical message ! A true leader does not have to be called to serve; he should automatically be in serving mode, instead hate for Dominica was on display. All the other political parties and some others in leadership roles gave Christmas messages to the Dominican public. Where was Linton’s ? He realized that he made an error so he decided to run in front in order to make himself look good. It is already too late. Dominica is rebounding at an exemplary rate without Linton. The international community has demonstrated their confidence in Dominica and no matter what Linton tries he cannot stop it.

    • UKDominican
      January 3, 2018

      That’s right my man, you stay on your train until it inevitably hits the buffers.

  39. Dowad
    January 1, 2018

    We really need to fix Dominica,but to do so we must get rid of those old ply wood,those old galvanized nails and use New srews,those old 2× 4s,get rid of this old ,greedy,inept,corrupt, and most of all evil government. Unless we do that ,Dominica and Dominicans will continue to suck salt.
    I am ready to participate in building a ” New Dominica”.

  40. PP Agent
    January 1, 2018

    Skerrit, we want answers from you on all the bullet points that Lennox raised.

    • Man bite dogs
      January 2, 2018

      @ PP Agent what ever crap this is, you don’t have enough intelligent to question my prime minister please do go away and come back in twenty years time :bye Spanish, Feliz ano nuevo.

      • PP Agent
        January 2, 2018

        I’m not questioning your Prime Minister. Soon there will be other people who will be questioning your Prime Minister though i.e. what happened to all the passport money, what happened to the PetroCaribe Money to Name but a few. As for you I can only say: ignorance is bliss! FOOL!
        As far as my name is concerned, that’s for me to know and for you to find out. Ask your Prime Minister, he might know me.

      • Man bite dogs
        January 2, 2018

        @ PP Agent, I could speak to you at 4 Deference languages including creole and you amigo would not know what am talking about. Apart from that crap u talking about have you got anyone in mind to investigate my prime minister Skerrit or will it be kgb i know fbi or cia ….off stupid.

      • Paul Rossnof
        January 3, 2018

        Are you sure it’s Spanish you talking. I think it’s more likely a case of rabbis you having. Your symptoms are pretty conclusive. Now be a good boy and see Dr. Benji because you are stark raving bonkers.

      • Me
        January 3, 2018

        Don’t underestimate yourself my friend. I’d say you speak at least a fifth language, the last one being “rubbish”.

      • UKDominican
        January 4, 2018

        The day of reckoning for Roosevelt Skerrit may be very near. Yesterday a Federal jury in New York convicted one of Alireza Monfared on five charges, incl. money laundering conspiracy and bank fraud. WIll zither Turkish banker Mehmet Antilla spill the beans in return for a more lenient sentence and will Dominican players in this plot be fingered? Will Roosevelt Skerrit offer one of his closest azsszociates as a sacrificial lamb in order to try and safe his own skin? Watch this space.

      • Gary
        January 5, 2018

        To make the claim “soon there will be other people who will be questioning your PM” well who are the other people, don’t they have a name, what is mysterious of these other people, you can not name them, this just means one thing, you are creating an illusion.

  41. Kermit
    January 1, 2018

    Papa gadddddd. That message was filled with only negativity. Not a good way to start the new year.

    • Anonymous
      January 2, 2018

      Need I remind you that all this negativity represents actions or non-actions by Roosevelt Skerrit?

  42. UK Dominican
    January 1, 2018

    Wow Lennox! WE got a lot of work to do bro. Let’s do it. Tout moun ansamb.

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