PM Skerrit given deadline as legal action looms on West Bridge Project

Controversy has developed over the contract for the West Bridge Project
Controversy has developed over the contract for the West Bridge Project

The Joint Consultative Committee on the Construction Sector (JCCCS), a local construction fraternity, has threatened to take legal action against the government of Dominica by 4:00 pm tomorrow (Wednesday, May 25) if Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Roosevelt Skerrit fails to respond to a pre-action protocol letter addressed to him concerning the contract for the West Bridge Project in Roseau.

President of the Builders and Contractors Association of Dominica (BCAD) and Chairman of JCCCS, Anthony Le Blanc told Dominica News Online on Tuesday that lawyers – two Trinidadians, and one Dominican – are representing the fraternity on the matter.

“We wrote to him, through our lawyers, what is called a pre-action protocol letter saying that you have to meet the following demand or we are going to take the matter to court and we gave him up to tomorrow at 4:00 pm to respond…” he explained.

On Monday, April 25 2016, the JCCCS made public, an open letter it said was to be sent to Skerrit concerning the awarding of the contract to NSG Management and Technical Services Ltd of Barbados, worth approximately EC$18.2 million for a major project in Roseau, which will include demolishing and reconstructing the West Bridge.

In the letter the JCCCS raised several concerns over the contract; one being there are local companies with the experience for taking on such a project and questions were raised over the procurement of the project.

The Prime Minister had defended the contract stating that the NSG has a proven track record and the company has made a commitment to work with local firms in the execution of the project. Furthermore, he stated, more than 70 percent of the contract price, worth EC$18.2, will remain in Dominica.

And recently during a Dominica Labour Party (DLP) Rally held in Scottshead, Skerrit said his ‘intelligence’ has shown that ‘operatives’ of the United Workers’ Party (UWP) were planning to stall the project.

But Le Blanc described the Prime Minister’s accusation as ‘appalling.’

“It is a bit appalling that the Prime Minister cannot indicate what his intelligence is because we wrote him,” he said. “It is amazing that he can turn it into a political thing. It has nothing to do with politics. It is pathetic he can behave like that as Prime Minister. We have written him a strongly worded legal letter giving him a deadline to respond to us…”

Le Blanc revealed that a demand letter was also written on Friday, May 20 and was addressed to the Prime Minister as well as the Minister of Public Works, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Works, the Attorney General, Chief Procurement Officer and the Chairman of the Procurement Board.

“So all of those persons are going to answer at court on this project,” he remarked.

Le Blanc describes the matter as a serious one.

“It is a serious matter and we are going all the way because we have to do things right in this country, and we cannot continue saying that this government has the power to ignore the laws of the country and break the law,” he noted.

Furthermore, he stated that procurement is something significant for every Dominican business.

“That is where they get a chance to grow and if the market is not opened and is not available to the local community, then we might as well fall down and die…as long as we are alive we are not prepared to fall before we die,” Le Blanc said.

The JCCCS consists of the Dominica Association of Professional Engineers (DAPE), Dominica Society of Architects (DSA) and the (BCAD)

The contract for the West Bridge Project was signed on Wednesday, April 13, 2016.

The project, which was to commence on May 2, 2016, is to be completed by April 2017.

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

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

We will delete comments that:

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

See our full comment/user policy/agreement.

148 Comments

  1. Reasoning
    May 26, 2016

    Every time I read the comments of so-called face the facts, it’s seems more idiotic.This person gives the impression that he or she is benefiting from scar it and is concerned about losing it if scar it loses power as he soon will.So-called face the facts is in denial of the truth when it hits in the face and can’t cope.So-called face the facts,my advice to you is be true to yourself, love Yahweh God and live!

  2. Dominican
    May 25, 2016

    D day for Roosevelt Medard Skerrit 16.00 hrs., 25 May 2016. mark this historic date on your calendar.as the beginning of the liberation of Dominica.

  3. 767 i from
    May 25, 2016

    There is nothing wrong the actions of these men. By seeking an injunction there is nothing wrong legally, morally nor ethically.

    The court has the powers to deem the contract either legal or null and void upon examination of the procedures or lack thereof that led to the signing of contract i question. This examination should focus on, but not limited to the questions of:

    Were the proper procedures followed as far as the Procurement Act is concerned?

    Did the project go out for tendering, thereby allowing local and other regional contractors an opportunity to participate in the bidding process?

    What exactly was the intent of the drafters of the bill before having been ascended into law by his excellency the President?

    Is the Prime Minister under that said act, permitted the discretion of handpicking contractors for projects such as the one being challenged?

    The worst that can happen is the court ordering that the present contract vacated and a new tendering…

    • Gary
      May 26, 2016

      To say that nothing is wrong with the actions taken by these men is somewhat misleading and dishonest.There is something called a motive, it precedes action, the motive for this action is political.The questions you raised about the contract is all conjecture, guess work. The last question you raised regarding The PM function under the Procurement Act is ludicrous, there is no such thing in Procurement Act, so why are you asking such question.

      If a contract has not been signed, the court has the power to order the contract awarded to be set aside and the procurement process terminated. If the contract was signed as is the case the court cannot terminate the contract it can criticize the way the contract was given and advise the Government to be watchful with future contracts, now that’s my opinion regarding a worst case scenario. We do not know the facts, so let us just wait and see how this political vendetta plays out.

      • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
        May 27, 2016

        Gary, the one and only motive is that Roosevelt Skerrit violated the legal protocol, by giving a contract to a foreign company to build a bridge in Dominica without including Dominicans, to participate in the bidding for the contract!

        It appears no other company had an opportunity to bid, since hand pick the one he awarded the contract!

        If anybody has a motive it appears to be Skerrit, and I suspect his motive is cynical!

        When will you succeed in removing Skerrit’s pile of Sheep wool from your eye!

  4. gore mark
    May 25, 2016

    Like I said before, it is “another pretty picture” (quoting the tourism minister). I am happy Mr. LeBlanc and his colleagues are finally putting their feet down. I cannot understand for one second how some people do not see how they are being fooled or taken for a ride by this PM and the DLP. I can understand their are those who are singing for their supper but majority of the population who are suffering are still supporting this madness. I know the biggest reason is that 90% of them do not read anything, they just listen to the lies that are being spread by the DLP people and they run away with it without any research done.

    INDEPENDENT THINKER

  5. God save the queen! Comrade Dr. R.M. Skerrit, Phd., when the Baroness mentioned to me, in brief confidence, that she might be a tidbit disappointed in you, I was floored! It seems like your ability to control and manipulate your loyal subjects has become quite slippery within your grasp. One of the greatest attributes of an illusion is it’s ability to convince others that it does not exist. As a learnt and accomplished academician of the highest calibre it pains me to see that your skills in strategic manipulation has brought you into such a rather precarious position. Though I fear that when the fraternity renders its position on the matter the consensus may very well be to distance themselves from you until the matter is decisively settled, I am yet obligated to remind you that settlements of other concerns still require your financial attention. . You will thank us later!

    • Gary
      May 25, 2016

      Why the pretend authority and privy to information, you can be best describe as an imposter. Your comment regarding the matter is not based on intelligence, but simply your partisan political beliefs. Th deposit of 3.7 million EC Dollars which you said was made to The PM, why don’t you report that info. to the lawyers representing The Joint Consultative Committee on the Construction Sector (JCCCS), so long for your intelligence.

  6. Toute Twelle Roy
    May 24, 2016

    Oh I am so relieved and happy. Oh how much I longed for the day when we the people will be able to mobilize genuine support for a cause we can defend to put the Government, ONE MAN, in its place.

  7. latitude e5550
    May 24, 2016

    we the majority that is the labourites approve the bridge those dum bozo’s can come with all the injunctions that will not prevail the bridge will go on no demonstration will stop us because the good god has always being with us. so keep painting your nose in blue like the clown.or a true blue bozo

  8. Face the Facts
    May 24, 2016

    My instinct informs me that JCCCS will lose the case. When you are wrong, you are wrong. You obviously cannot be right.
    They lack respect for authority. I would not encourage you to take the PM to Court. You may end up paying much more than Court costs. Those who encourage you and support you will help you to pay for it.
    They are too wicked, greedy and vindictive. They do not care for Dominica and nationals. They only care for their pockets which some foolish people cannot see through them.
    If they lose the case, the PM should sue them. These people are the cause of disunity and lack of peace in Dominica. Types as these are always on the war path. They do not know to live in peace.
    They will fall flat on their faces. What they sow, they will reap.
    Let us see who is stronger than whom.

    • Anonymous
      May 25, 2016

      Are you so gullible that you actually believe there’s no company in Dominica that can build a bridge, or rather this bridge???

    • Lang Mama
      May 25, 2016

      DNO put a cod mawo Pima on this idiot

    • May 25, 2016

      Aint you tired of embarassing yourself with these stupid comments trying to defend Skerrit, who seems to be in a new scandal every week? :-D :-D

  9. Big Tongue
    May 24, 2016

    I am sooooo happy that finally, has met his match. Thank Jehovah!

    • Face the Facts
      May 24, 2016

      If you view your Jehovah as a good God, why would it be pleased with your wickedness of heart? One day those of you who do will experience that you use the name of God in vain for your wickedness and stupidity. You will not escape from a just punishment for this. Some of you are really not smart, bringing God into your wickedness. This is the height of mortal and spiritual ignorance. You know nothing while trying to project that you know something.

    • indira Ghandi
      May 25, 2016

      Good . It was time that someone or some grour let Skerrit know that it is not donkeys livi g on the island.
      Tired of asking where are the men in Dominica.
      Was wondering if there were no more men with testicles
      Skerrit is tired of doing what he wants,
      Time to let him kniw that the country still has men.
      BRAVO. GOOD LUCK GUYS.
      HE WILL BRING TONY THE DONKEY PHAN BUT HE TOO WILL MEET HIS MATCH

  10. I want D airport
    May 24, 2016

    I doe want to hear about no bridge. I WANT DE AIRPORT…..SACWAY TONEH MAN!!….

    • Again...I want D airport
      May 24, 2016

      Everytime I land in Barbados and Antigua a fing taking me….I would love to land in Dominica straight from the states…ohhh boy that would be so lovely….doe tell me about no bridge…I want de international airport…people we doe need no big airport you know.like Antigua because maintenance is high..but something nice…and the long runway..for JetBlue..British Airways..Delta..Virgin..American…MAAN!! ….

      • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
        May 25, 2016

        People like you are ignorant; you contradict, and make a jackass of yourself. Shut up if you do not know what the heck you are babbling about!

        “Every time you land in Barbados, and Antigua, a thing takes you; because you wish you could land direct from the States to Dominica:” However, in the same breath you said “we doe need no big airport like Antigua.”

        How stupid are you? Had it not been for the size of the Airport in Barbados, Antigua, Grenada, Trinidad & Tobago, St. Kitts, St. Marten, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, and other places in the Caribbean, Aircrafts would not be able to fly from Canada the United States, and Europe, landing at those destinations.

        The are called International Airport built to accommodate passenger Jets. What expensive maintenance you babbling about when you do not know what the hell you are saying!

        How much it takes to maintain Melville Hall as it is! Just shut up!

    • Face the Facts
      May 24, 2016

      In order to get to the airport you will have to travel on the bridge otherwise you will never get to it; likewise from/to Roseau and back. So which comes first, the bridge or the airport or vice versa? :lol: :lol: :lol:

      • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
        May 25, 2016

        Lady Facts, she/he will swim across the river like a wet back!

        I doh talking eh:

        I do not want to say who are the we-backs. But you see that’s how they talk rubbish believing they are smart.

        Many years ago the Labor Party planted in their heads “we doh want no International Airport because Antigua and Barbados have one already; besides it is too expensive to maintain.”

        The reality is the only place on the planet where everybody in the country knows how expensive it is to operate an International Airport is in Dominica! Nevertheless if you ask one, how much will it cost: Answer will be I doh know!

        I have never heard of an International Airport closing down because of high cost in maintenance.

        He/she does not want the to have an easy way in and out of Roseau. when a hundred cars heading South, and a hundreds going North they will have to stop, and in the reverse, hence, traffic will come to a complete stop on both sides, then the fool will blame government…

      • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
        May 25, 2016

        The Bridge is a necessity; as imperative as an International Airport! That is a good thing, which I support, nevertheless, I detest the way in which Skerrit gave out the contract!

        And you that dangerous Facts Machine better don’t get the idea I am in support of that Mountain Chicken Carpaud (Crapo) mentality Sly Eye Indian doctor of nothing half bald-head Roosevelt Skerrit eh!

        Hahahahahahahahahaahahahahahahahah!

      • queen
        May 25, 2016

        Face the Facts…there are 4 bridges into and out of Roseau… No need for another bridge..open your eyes and take your head out of Skerrits butt

      • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
        May 25, 2016

        State the location of the other two.

        You could only be talking about Bath Estate Bridge perhaps, So we know about the New bridge; the old Bridge Bath Estate Bridge, when I was a kid that was the three path one could take to enter Roseau a small one at Point Mitchell, and another in Cane Field close to where the rum distillery was located.

        I do not like Facts, method of lying, making up things to support that Crapo Skerrit, but this time she is right!

  11. UDOHREADYET
    May 24, 2016

    Its like you trying to demand money from the government like as if its you who controls the treasury hahahaha.
    The government doesn’t owe you anything… if you want more jobs the bid on jobs in neighboring Islands! much like companies in neighboring Islands bid on Jobs in DA… Its the OECS padna we are all one… there is no us against them… you just need to step your game up and stop expecting handouts!

    • Big Tongue
      May 25, 2016

      Foolish!

    • Nac Vibes
      May 25, 2016

      But your government only operates one way, by hand out, so leave the man alone because that’s how your government has taught us to live, by hand outs, as they are presently doing in Suofriere. Talk abiut oot calling kettle black.

  12. UDOHREADYET
    May 24, 2016

    Only fools don’t learn from their mistakes… this is not a winning battle the people who are doing this are wasting time and money. Its fueled by greed, jealousy and hatred… you cannot win on that platform.
    Labouoourrrrr Powweeeeerrr!

    • %
      May 24, 2016

      More garbage being spilled by an idiot…Would you as a normal human being be jealous of anyone in this DLP gang?…Man go bury your head in the sand.You lack ethics,morals,you are shameless and roguish in your arrant and almost asinine diatribe…YOU SHUT THE HELL UP!

    • Not a herd follower
      May 24, 2016

      Pure hogwash from you!

    • Bushmaninda
      May 24, 2016

      Hay UDOHREADYET don’t you think that these types of projects should be put out to public tender. so that all can put there best foot forward.

    • viewsexpressed
      May 25, 2016

      Integrity, wipe out corruption is much bigger than just making money. You have to account for the States resources especially its money and limited resources. We doh want to hear that we have systematic voleur in our government.
      So my friend, you doh ready yet. UDOHREADYET. Go read about accountability in public office

  13. May 24, 2016

    Is it the first time a project in Dominica is operated by foreigners. (Just asking)

    • Dominica_Lover
      May 25, 2016

      No, but this is not a grant from a country,, but rather our government taking money sending it offshore deliberately.

    • Dominican
      May 25, 2016

      You are disingenuous as you know very well this is not the case and nor is it the issue. The issue is non compliance of the laws of the land by our very own Prime Minister. Your question is the proverbial red herring.

  14. Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
    May 24, 2016

    “The Joint Consultative Committee on the Construction Sector (JCCCS), a local construction fraternity, has threatened to take legal action against the government of Dominica by 4:00 pm tomorrow “(As Read On DNO)

    That is the ultimate, and most appropriate thing to do, assuming that a law governing the isuance of contracts to foreigners. Local contractors should be given the opportunity to bid on the project, though bidding does not grantee they would get the job.

    In bidding on a contract, the government id not obligated to accept the highest, nor the lowest bidder, however the reputation of the contractor must be taken into consideration. The question here is, do we have experience contractors in the country to undertake such engineering responsibility, if the answer is no then by all means the contract should be given to the contractor most capable.

    Let us not forget if there is a protocol which Skerrit did not follow; by all means the matter should be taken to court, and…

    • Face the Facts
      May 24, 2016

      You will help JCCCS foot the bill and whatever other costs that would be incurred.

      • Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
        May 25, 2016

        Well, Skerrit say he has a bank in his Red Clinic with money Just like President Obama has at the White House, and anytime Obama wish, all he does is simply shove his hands in a draw, and take out money and spend it as he wish!

        So, Skerrit has money to do the same as Obama.

        Well, since we know where Skerrit has his money hidden in the Red Clinic we will go and raid it, thief all his money to cover cost, and other expense.And if we come up short we will hunt down ad rob you of every penny you have to your name eh!

        I wonder how much you have, for me to thief from you.

        Hahahahahahaha!

  15. LINKKK
    May 24, 2016

    Dear lord,take away the selfishness and power hungry spirit which lies in the hearts and minds of those who do not want to see my country move forward.tell call matt in the morning every day to run their mouth,saying that dominica is going nowhere.when development comes to the country they have a problem.these people are just crazy.pm skerrit is strong headed and knows what he is about.SO GO AHEAD AND TRY ALL YOU CRAP HOPING TO RETARD THE PROGRESS OF D.A. WELL SORRY MY PEOPLE GOD IS STRONGER THAN EVIL

    • %
      May 24, 2016

      You are an evil creature.Maybe one of the DLP Greedies…Stop supporting wickedness my friend.Dominica is, and has been misappropriately governed for 16 years…This country is severely broken.Stop making a mockery of yourself.Your evil soul!!!

    • Born Dominican
      May 24, 2016

      Alas your mother must be ashame of you for talking such crap and putting her to shame after she worked hard to send you to school you have Mr fooling you. common am so disappointed in your. Cant you see the project had to stop because it was done illegally and besides where the funds for it

    • AAGabriel
      May 24, 2016

      You do not get it, do you? Progress yes, yes, yes! But at the expense of unlawfulness and corruption no, no, no!

    • viewsexpressed
      May 25, 2016

      Absolute rubbish, wake up from your denial and ignorance. Open you eyes and red well.

      What development can you say has Dominica and Dominicans benefited from in the past 10years. Can you safely say the Red Clinic, an abused system hat benefited one man only through the abuse of states resources. Where is the result of such a system, go to one community and show me.
      What progress, where is it, until you tell us you will continue getting what you deserve , thumbs down.
      This government is a corrupt, inept government, cannot be trusted. they are baaaad.

      • Gary
        May 26, 2016

        What you expressed is your opinion, it does not say you are correct.I can tell you this, saying such thing in the face of evidence does not support your beliefs, it only shows what partisan political beliefs can do to the mind of a person.

  16. Lang Mama
    May 24, 2016

    Blind political party supporters red and blue will spring at me for asking why didn’t the contractors association take offense when government Roosevelt Skerrit gave Kardakan a $30 million untendered contract for the MelleVille Hall wall rehabilitation. I plead ignorant and I am hoping Mr LEblanc provide us with an answer just like he has done before.

    • look forward, not backward
      May 24, 2016

      Lang Mama:
      At this stage this is irrelevant. If they did not do it then, thank God they finally found the guts to do it now.

    • AAGabriel
      May 24, 2016

      Because that was financed by the EU and as such does not fall under Dominica’s procurement laws. The EU was responsible for that tendering process.

      • 1979 is now #stop the fliping hypocrisy!!
        May 25, 2016

        even the EU money they taking technically….the eu funding takes into account cost of material locally etc etc….then they come and take tarish and material from the PWC for free to do the project….WHERE THE MONEY????? wicked mofo pocketing it instead of pay the G.D corporation for it’s materials or labour… but when good men do nothing is all it takes for evil like that to prevail

    • 1979 is now #stop the fliping hypocrisy!!
      May 24, 2016

      to add to your comment, WHY give kardakan the project to supply asphalted concrete and pave almost the entire length of the west coast road(even infront our own asphalt plant…, when we have OUR OWN cabinet approved asphalt plant at colihaut????
      so many millions spent preparing the site for the plant, and to purchase the plant itself….and when this plant should be working to pay back itself….. we BRILLIANTLY outsourcing to a foreign company…that’s like taking a loan to buy a car, then parking it and taking a rental… also…wasn’t part of the MOU with petro caribe to assist with bitumen needed to operate our asphalt plant??? to me it seems the only diesel we get on concessions for is filling up the ministers vehicles and bidon…

    • dee
      May 25, 2016

      Well LM
      The mal practice has to stop at some time and the correct procedures implemented .
      That’s a sign of development .
      Surely we do not want another Kardakan debacle with all the fraud and corruption.
      Irrespective of how, slow but we have to develop .

  17. Erasmus B. Black
    May 24, 2016

    No government is above the people. A wise person once said “government is, because people are”. But it gets better in the past participle when government was because people were. Fingers crossed.

    • LifeandDeath
      May 24, 2016

      Beautiful!!

  18. Peter Karam
    May 24, 2016

    PM We do not need the bridge, who well across in pottersville dapway dem, who in Roseau labou like me, we good,

    • AAGabriel
      May 24, 2016

      I expected a bit more sense from you. Next time I need a new car I definately know now where not to buy.

  19. Fedup #1
    May 24, 2016

    This confirms what I thought all along – there is no current gov’t minister who is willing to stand up for the people of Dominica who put them their to serve. They follow their master blindly and even when wrong is staring them in the face, not one of them are willing to stand and say, “I won’t be a part of it”. Shame on all members of cabinet especially those directly involved in the wrong perpetrated against the hardworking engineers and contractors of Dominica. And please do not come with the flimsy excuse that you did not know of the Procurement Act as if you did not refer to it prior to the signing of this contract, then you are not fit for the job. Each and everyone of you involved should be held accountable for your inaction or deliberate evil action in respect of that West Bridge project.
    JCCCS, I salute you. It was about time that someone let the PM, the rest of his cabinet and his cabal know that they are not above the law of the land. Enough is enough!

  20. Lang Mama
    May 24, 2016

    I heard Clarence Christian on the radio declaring Leblanc as an operative of the UWP. Matt didn’t take the time to ask the firmer accountant general whether or not he is and has been an operative of the Labor Party.
    What is appalling is that Clarence Christian could not separate Clarence the accountant general from Clarence the DLP operative.
    Clarence the company tractors association by the way is made up off red and blue.

    • Not a herd follower
      May 24, 2016

      Clarence Christine has the gall to label people who feel aggrieved by the actions of the Government of Dominica as UWP operatives?!!! Mister must look at himself in the mirror, and if he is afraid to do that, examine his conscience. This man’s sole objective as Director of Audit was to exculpate Roosevelt Skerrit and his government from all shenanigans by prejudicial and selective interpretation of the laws and the twisting of facts.

  21. May 24, 2016

    Knowing the stubbornness of Skerrit and other secret deals he may have given to his balance firm, I don’t expect him to meet this deadline. I now want to see if this group has the courage to take him before the court.

  22. JoJo
    May 24, 2016

    Roosevelt why you say it is the UWP when you know very well it is a professional body of contractors in Dominica that is challenging you and nothing to do with politics. That is plain daft and silly and really mischievous. You know you get found out so why do these things when at the same time you are always talking about unity and loving your people. I just can not believe you anymore and definitely not trust you.

    • viewsexpressed
      May 24, 2016

      Response…..I am an ignoramus?…….I need help, I am overwhelmed with bad advice from bad no good advisors. I am under pressure: they tel me my government is corrupt, I am an illegal PM, I disrespected Dominica`s passport and constitution. I have no regards for those who have been abused and have questionable resigned people in the forefront campaigning for votes rather I campaign to stop child abuse, political abuse, bobol abuse in Dominica.
      I am not a doctor, well so they say, but cannot diagnosed myself to administer medication, I really do not know which to take, or should I take a flight out of Melville Hall, because I hear Douglas Charles is illegal and the family doh like my head. My God I am in trouble, too much corruption around me.
      Pastor Bull Pray for me….my Cabinet roten and all glasses broken and abused.

  23. kranana
    May 24, 2016

    Mi pappi used to say “fly your kite” and “the longest rope have an end” well well well look roe-roe in Domiinica,,

  24. dissident
    May 24, 2016

    skerrit boy you went to far dis time wi.
    you have a letter squeezing your belly.
    de letter demands a letter by Wednesday 4pm otherwise you will be taken to court as PM and Minister of finance………..you trying to make it look like is de opposition dat tomp u in ur stomach!!!!!

    Boy skerrit can lie eh!!!!!

    DE OPPOSITION IS WE DE PEOPLE!!!!
    INCLUDING DE SKILLED WORKERS, ENGINEERS, TECHNICIANS, TRUCK DRIVERS, EQUIPMENT OPERATORS TO!!!
    YOU HAVE SERIOUSLY DISGRACED YOURSELF DI TIME………WHAT A SHAME!
    IF I WAS IN UR CABINET I WOULD DISTANCE MYSELF FROM U!!!!!!

    I DON’T KNOW BUT………U DON’T APPEAR TO BE ALL YOU CLAIM……YOU NOT DAT INTELLIGENT AT ALL!!

    DE HIGHER DE MONKEY CLIMB IS MORE HE EXPOSE HIS BACKSIDE!!!!!

  25. Frank Talker
    May 24, 2016

    Didn’t I say so in a recent post? Its not the UWP taking the class action against Skerrit, but his former boys who are fed up with the utter disrespect and rudeness with which Skerrit deals with everyone who does not share his ideas. A friend of mine working in one of those ministries said the Business Forum wrote Skerrit two weeks ago asking him to handle the NSG matter with more maturity. They asked him to respect the Procurement Act. It seem the Business Forum knew that JCCCS would be taking the matter to Court, and they tried to save the day, but he ignored them again, and again, and again. But what hurts me is how those BIG men and women in Cabinet prostrate themselves before Saint Skerrit and afraid to even scratch their throats when Skerrit speaks. You would swear that Skerrit is their way to heaven. Recently, I saw a picture of Senator Tonge, at the NSG signing ceremony, clapping his hands in joy and agreement. This guy is a former President of the DAIC. What a shame.

    • AAGabriel
      May 24, 2016

      You are so right. But wait and see, as soon as they notice the red boat is sinking you’ll see what they do then… Pretending they never even heard of the DLP let alone admitting that they’ve been on their playlist for years.

  26. Concerned
    May 24, 2016

    my intelligence tell me ..hehe so is the opposition planning protest liar liar…..woop woop its about time we dominicans stand up to this PM our lives matter we Dominicans matters ..I support this legal action 100000000%

  27. cameron
    May 24, 2016

    What Skerrit is doing to all of you is good,he is the supreme leader.

  28. LifeandDeath
    May 24, 2016

    Skerrit finally will answer to the people ..please don’t make this Political..He has been dancing his way above the Law for too long to the demise of the future of any of our reputable institutions..

    Dominicans need to understand that this precedence is bad for ANY country..time Dominicans stop see things as simple blue or red..use your heads!!!

    Just imagine if Dominica was void of strong Dominicans Like Leblanc and Lennox..what would become of this Country..???
    A drowning man will grab at a straw..

  29. Watch Dog
    May 24, 2016

    Dear DNO ADMIN,

    It would be nice if you could inform the readers as to who is Anthony Leblanc.

    This is political and he is only serving his interest.

    Outside of the Employees he pays a small wage, What does he do for Dominica?

    Have he donated to the church?

    Have he donated to the community?

    What is his position on giving back to the community?

    I believe to often persons come out guns blazing , saying they care for Dominica. BUT They only work for self and self alone?

    • RESPONSE
      May 24, 2016

      Tony Le Blanc is a man who when he donates insists that he remains anonymous. Probably we need more people like that who prefer their praises from God.

    • Not a herd follower
      May 24, 2016

      Only small minds attack people rather than deal with the issues. What does Tony’s charitable contributions or lack thereof have to do with the JCCS’ attempt to ensure that the law is administered?

    • dee
      May 25, 2016

      Watch Dog
      I was reading your comment with interest until I got to
      ”have he donated to the church ”
      That’s when I moved on . say no more .

    • viewsexpressed
      May 25, 2016

      Woof…..woof…..come again please, come better than that..

  30. Shaka Zulu
    May 24, 2016

    Dont back down when he start his tirade. He is an elected official that has to answer to us and not the other way around. Look at Brazil president and cabinet ministers. Some in jail for corruption, impeachments going on more to be arrested. PM rules his puppet ministers by fear and intimidation why all of them sit like little robuts playing to his tune. Skeritt dont own the place nor the people.

  31. Marcus Hill
    May 24, 2016

    At last here is some action-oriented opposition to wrongdoing by this administration. You have my full support!

  32. Winston warrington
    May 24, 2016

    If the contract between the Government and NSG is illegal, NSG can’t recover for breach of contract; however, the burden of proof will fall on JCCS to convince the court that they have the means and experience to do the job for the absurdly low cost that they claim. Are there no local legal firms capable of presenting their position to the authorities? Or is Trinidad less foreign than Barbados?

    • Dominican
      May 24, 2016

      Winston, with regard to legal representation, sadly it is a fact that those of the right calibre in Roseau will not want to stick out their necks and and risk their future careers. That is my honest and frank opinion. The entire bar cowers in front of Roosevelt Skerrit.

    • Andy
      May 24, 2016

      Winston there you go again from Phillly!!!!!

    • Some people are amusing
      May 24, 2016

      Winston, then when they choose a local firm you will say that it is an operative of the UWP. They are not using public funds, so what is your concern. I support that move.

    • %
      May 24, 2016

      Are you aware in all your ignorance,that this project was not put to tender? Is Skerit a dictator or a mad man? I AM SO PROUD OF THIS PROFESSIONAL BODY!!!

  33. Fact
    May 24, 2016

    Skeritt supporters are the same as Trump supporters, they are dunce the same way because their leader can do or say anything but they will still support them.

    • Me
      May 25, 2016

      Hear, hear! When Skerrit brings a case for the court is the tax payers footing the bill. That man has no shame.

  34. Zuma
    May 24, 2016

    One bright day in the middle of the night
    2 dead boys woke up to fight
    A deaf policeman heard the noise
    And came to arrest the 2 dead boys
    If u believe this lie is true
    Ask the blind man he saw it to

    Ha ha ha ha ha….

  35. %
    May 24, 2016

    GOOD MOVE MY FRIENDS.Well today is the happiest day of my life..Show the mad man, that everyone of us are not his DLP fools.! This level of garbage being done on island by this DLP gang does not happen in any other country.

  36. Ooook
    May 24, 2016

    What if the Bar association sue them for hiring lawyers from Trinidad?…. just saying…..

    • %
      May 24, 2016

      Is jokers like you that have this doggone country as it is..You care less how Skerrit and his clowns spend your/our money,but you are commenting on how private citizens spend theirs.They can spend their money their way..Its their money.The governments money is OUR money..We have a say.

    • AAGabriel
      May 24, 2016

      OMG!

    • Some people are amusing
      May 24, 2016

      Ooook: are the legal fees being paid for with public funds? Does JCCCS have an act in place that prevents them from choosing a foreign attorney? JCCCS did the smart thing.

    • Possie Massive
      May 24, 2016

      The contractors are not using public money generated from passports sales!!!

  37. Doc. Love
    May 24, 2016

    The letter is well timed. With the by-elections a few weeks away, maybe the JCCCS might get a reply. Pastor Rodney and the UWP are still awaiting their replies. Don’t expect a positive reply, expect a game of playing for time, lets us say in the next month, hoping it will go way. Expect him to say, he has to be out of state on the country’s business and will be concerned with other matters. I am not versed in law, I wonder whether we will hear Skeritt’s famous calypso, judicial review. The JCCCS can put all that stalling to sleep easily. Get the truckers involved. Have approximately forty to fifty big trucks drive from Canefield to the Newtown Savanah and back, very slowly, bumper to bumper, as from noon on Friday. That action should be repeated every Friday until Skeritt listens to you, that is all, that is all, that is all.

    • A Doubting Thomas In Solidarity
      May 25, 2016

      But Doc Love if not political why is it well timed?

  38. Laplaine
    May 24, 2016

    Just the beginning the members of the Dominica Swiss Diaspora Association has sent many letters to Skerit snd Athenia Bejamin coordinator of Diaspora affairs. We have not received one response from Skerit nor from Athenia. The Association has suggested many profitable ways to make Dominica be seen on the international stage and not one of them have responded and these are the people who want to see Dominica progress. the.. Skerit has been seen on social media making mentions of money set aside for the musicians and the music industry. Where is this money for the support of these musicians who want to hi light Dominica’s music worldwide.. All our emails to Skerit and minister of tourism have fell on deaf ears. Not one word.. Tell me how are these people in government wants to see Dominica grow?.. Athenia Benjamin was only too interested to know how many Dominicans are in Swiss in order to seek votes with free flights . These people don’t give one hoot about Dominica and Dominicans.

    • AAGabriel
      May 24, 2016

      That is exactly the point, they don’t want the country to move forward nor do they want the people to prosper. Their agenda is such to keep the people down and feed them with their leftovers. Still they expect gratitude…

  39. engineer
    May 24, 2016

    Tony LeBlanc have buried yourself deeper in the trenches from getting any contracts from this government. Government will and continue to hire whoever they want to hire when it’s comes to project. That is why ace engineering have not been awarded any contracts recently. Bad move Tony.

    • Dominican
      May 24, 2016

      You can only die one time my friend and it is better to go down with honour than forever be branded a coward. Bullies don’t alwayts win, as Skerrit will learn.

    • Ex da lawman
      May 24, 2016

      Do you have to post this garbage. People like you are in the way of constructive progress.While you at it give him your shirt so you could wipe his behind with it before you wear it.Bunch of arses.

  40. Delvin Castro
    May 24, 2016

    Shame on Anthony Le Blanc I remember u little boy riding bicycle afterall our pm do for you,
    Skerrit will never fall.

    • %
      May 24, 2016

      Stop you cesspit of foolishness..It is the responsibility of the government to do things for an on the behalf of the people..This does not mean that you have to support their nonsense,especially this evil government led by mad man Skerrit..I AM SO HAPPY THAT SOME PEOPLE ARE NOW STANDING up to this dictator Skerrit.WELL DONE MY FRIENDS!!

    • My Twopence
      May 24, 2016

      Shame on you………A man must stand on principles at some time in his life…..Would you build your house without first getting estimates from more than one builder? Of course you would because you want the best deal…….The same applies for the resources of the state…..Be a man like Anthony Leblanc and condemn wrong when you see it…….Stop supporting wrong because your friend is doing it. ….Have some integrity man……

    • Some people are amusing
      May 24, 2016

      Delvin: shame on you. Did Skerrit use his salary to do anything for Anthony or anyone else? You Dominicans never cease to amaze me. It is all these personal favours that he is doing with taxpayers money that has caused many of you to remain blindfolded and unable to speak out. Shame on you!

    • Me
      May 24, 2016

      ..oh I thought it was Roosevelt Skerrit riding bicycle till Roosie bought him an old jallopee.

    • Joan
      May 24, 2016

      YOUR SURNAME SAYS IT ALL.

    • Welll
      May 24, 2016

      2 mountains must meet in Dominica at the same time and there will be hell to pay.

  41. ASHAMED
    May 24, 2016

    Dominicans are the worst set of people ever. When it comes to the advancement of one another we tend to put each other down. I am not against any foreign company making money here but my people come first. We live in a crab in a barrel mentality where people are blinded by politics because of fear of losing their jobs, fear of getting handouts, fear of their children not getting scholarships form government and the list could go on and on. Why and what are we afraid of?

    Wrong is wrong it matters not who has done it. Mr. Skerrit had bold barefacedly ignored the procurement act; an act which he himself has placed on the law books. Is is it right that because you are the Prime Minister of the country that you can do as you please ? Are we leaving in a real country? And to the people supporting this who know better I actually feel sorry for you all because time will tell and history will repeat itself. SHAME ON YOU!

  42. Andy
    May 24, 2016

    Wow I am so proud of Mr, LeBlanc and his organization…… Folks let wait and see- lets keep silent for now for our ‘Democracy is on trial’. This may be the downfall of Skerrit….you watch.

  43. Nonsense
    May 24, 2016

    Woooopp Woooop Dominicans finally got a tongue in their mouth. Support this 100 Percent. Time for the Government to realize the power is in the hands of the people.

    • forreal
      May 24, 2016

      by hireing two trini, lawyers!! doing the same thing skerrit is doing,why did they not hire local lawyers,the money in not good for local lawyers!! double standard that,tell le blanc skart his UWP

      • %
        May 24, 2016

        They are private citizens..What they do with their money is not your darn business..What SKERRIT and the rest of the gang do with our money is your business… YOUR IDIOT . GO GET a BRAIN!!

      • John
        May 24, 2016

        Because most of them are in the PM control.

      • Ex da lawman
        May 24, 2016

        Private money fool.Thats the difference.

  44. Just Me
    May 24, 2016

    I support this move 1000000000000%!! The government needs to be held accountable for the peoples money.

  45. May 24, 2016

    Mr. Leblanc, this is a political matter as a matter of fact you sound more political on this matter than the opposition leader. Seeing that nationalities of the lawyers were mentioned and according to your maths 2+1 is 4, are there no competent Dominican lawyers capable of handling this matter? Are we all suffering from a total lack of confidence in our own professionals.

    • Rahlan
      May 24, 2016

      I agree with Mr Leblanc. Most of our lawyers are politically corrupted.

    • brandon joseph
      May 24, 2016

      are there any Dominican company that can do this job.think before you speak dotish.

    • Not a herd follower
      May 24, 2016

      You deliberately ignored the part of the article that says a Dominican lawyer is part of the legal team. Second, how many senior counsels does Dominica have? We have three, and it is public knowledge that at least two are DLP supporters and are retainers for the Roosevelt Skerrit and his government. smh. Some people just refuse to accept the facts and truth even though they are BOLD and GLARING.

    • Mahaut
      May 24, 2016

      I wonder why this got so many dislikes. Explainer just pointing out the obvious. You taking a man to court for hiring a foreign Company to do a Job, which he thinks would better suit that company. You turning around and do the same thing. Let me hire foreign lawyers to better represent me.

      The reason being he have more confidence in them Trini, that they will do a better Job than them Dominica…

      Probably because millions involved…
      Just my two cents

      • Anonymous
        May 24, 2016

        Mahaut, if you read the open letter sent to Skerrit by the JCCCS, the main legal issue mentioned was the project being given without going to tender, in direct contravention of the Procurement Act, not the hiring of a foreign firm. There are no laws on the books in Dominica that makes hiring foreign firms illegal.

        The main issue here is the fact that the law said all government projects must go to tender, which wasn’t done on the West Bridge Project.

        This is the heart of the issue, not the hiring of a foreign firm.

      • wilderness
        May 24, 2016

        Mahaut, I think you should stop spending time in the Lab!

      • The Baptiste
        May 24, 2016

        It is remarkable how some Dominicans continue to wear their ignorance like a badge of honour “The late Pierre Charles”.
        The government of Dominica, One Man, Roosevelt Skerrit is not been taken to court for hiring foreigners! The legal action is about the violation of the “Procurement Act” which was enacted by this same government. Either he is above the law or he is not. In that case anyone who breaks the law, whether it is stealing, murder, sexual attack on children, traffic violation, including failing to pay your vehicle license, your driver’s licence, or any other breach of the law for which the police can charge and subsequently be prosecuted for should not be done, according to the twisted logic of these ignoramouses posting on this blog.

      • Black jack
        May 25, 2016

        Mahaut, this is a very good point i like it.

  46. Kalel
    May 24, 2016

    The bridge contract is 100% illegal. However, a contract has been signed between NSG and the government. Now if Skerrit rescinds the contract, NSG has the legal right to file suit against the government for breach. If JCCCS take Skerrit and co. to court and are victorious in the ruling, the Dominican tax payer suffers for it. In other words, any damages awarded JCCCS will not come out of Skerrit’s pocket, although the laws should be changed to let that happen.

    • Shaka Zulu
      May 24, 2016

      Thats the price we pay for breaking the law. The government has to be put in check irrespective of which party in power. It may cost now but save in long run when they start operations by the rules they set. No one is abovethe law especially those we elect to put law in place.

      • viewsexpressed
        May 24, 2016

        Well said….well said…well put.

        Christ got nails in hands and feet…….a few dollars is worth the price to pay for freedom of corruption

      • Face the Facts
        May 24, 2016

        Christ knows your wicked hearts. Leave Him out of your wickedness. Stop blaspheming His Most Holy Name. There is a price to be paid for blasphemy which entails punishment, using His Most Holy Name in vain and in your wickedness.

    • AAGabriel
      May 24, 2016

      That might well be the case but we the electorate then have to hold Skerrit responsible. In other words we need t throw him out of office.

    • Lang Mama
      May 24, 2016

      This is not necessarily true. Ithe would be absurd if the government set up contracts where the government is unable to withdraw with cause. Besides I dare NSG to sue the government of Dominica. They can’t from what I know. Scratch back deals have no legal recourse

    • cartreats
      May 24, 2016

      Thats why it very important to follow the rules for the Procurement Act

    • Aha
      May 24, 2016

      When we feel the heat we won’t put them back in office! It’s about time we do the right thing. We are the ones who voted this government in. We are the ones to pay the price for their foolishness. When we are tired of paying the price we will learn.

      • Face the Facts
        May 24, 2016

        Do not be misled otherwise you will suffer and pay for it.

    • Not a herd follower
      May 24, 2016

      Skerrit and his government know the law. They have an Attorney General and several State attorneys. The Ministers are sworn to uphold the law. They did not sign the contract ignorant of the law. They passed the law! Any changing of the law at this time to accommodate an illegal act will justifiably undermine confidence of the international community in the integrity and sincerity of the government of Dominica to uphold the rule of law.

    • Anonymous
      May 24, 2016

      Agreed with Shaka Zulu… “Collateral Damage” so it should be at that point the electorate should ask themselves a question or two.

    • TS Erika
      May 24, 2016

      so basically what you saying is to just leave well alone>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>yall just plain wicked

    • Markey
      May 24, 2016

      While I appreciate your comments, I wonder if in law NSG should do their due diligence and to ensure that the government was on good legal grounds to sign the contract, also if NSG had demand from and obtain from government that they the government has the legal authority to sign the contracts and did not violate any Dominican laws, When the government borrow from the banks by way of overdraft, the government has to seek parliament approval, if not the banks cannot take legal action if the government defaults.

      • AAGabriel
        May 24, 2016

        Good point.

    • Face the Facts
      May 24, 2016

      They never want to hear/read the truth. They are not intelligent to know that and also they are the cause of this and the bad atmosphere as disunity and divisions in Dominica. They are a bad influence on those who support them. I foresee that these could suffer immensely. Then they will turn around and blame the PM. They are not smart people.

  47. The truth
    May 24, 2016

    Way papa Skerritte can lie, again he is blaming Linton and UWP. But what happen to this man nor.
    Gentle men you all have all your right to see to it the laws of the country is obeyed by all. The Government need to put their art straight, they are doing too many wrong things.. The people who accept the wrong are as guilty.

  48. Sakway Toneh
    May 24, 2016

    Leblanc everyone knows you blue blue blue! political puppet!

    • Yes I!
      May 24, 2016

      Well, no laws were broken and the government will come out onto. When will we put emotions aside and focus on facts and rule of law? Poor Tony, he wants it all. It’s time for Matt to start the fund raising for the lawyers…. They say panama papers tie up the money for the project and they giving Skerrit reason to stop, weh weh weh….

    • Concern D/can
      May 24, 2016

      What being BLUE have to do with……..lying and breaking the law of Dominica? Sakway Sort!

  49. Floridian Diaspora
    May 24, 2016

    This letter was always going to fall on deaf ears. Skeritt feels safe and protected by the hierarchy he have set up to protect him. He doesn’t give a damn while he harnesses himself in all his glory. He’s just an immobile useless PM whose government have been stationary for the past 16 years. Year in, year out, different methods but same old garbage results. He is a failure and he knows it, the world knows it, his wife knows it, all his disciples know it, and most embarrassingly his children will come to know it; but yet still he persists. Children are hungry, families are starving, people cannot even buy a roll on to pass underneath their arm that is why the whole world could stay in their country and smell our poverty from overseas. It has even been reported that NASA satellites are now picking up our poverty signal from right outer space. Right now Dominica needs a political Exorcism to remove all the red demons that Skeritt has attracted.

  50. informative
    May 24, 2016

    The crumbs are falling, SKERRIT YOUR LIES ARE CATCHING UP TO YOU, you cannot deliver on your promises. To every rope there is an end, the end is near. When you see that DLP come out from there they are going to be worst than the once MIGHTY FREEDOM PARTY.

  51. Dominican
    May 24, 2016

    Time for DLP to put some boots on the ground

    • Dominican
      May 24, 2016

      I do not support this message!

      • Mahaut
        May 24, 2016

        I did

    • Not a herd follower
      May 24, 2016

      Boots on the ground for what? This is a matter of law, and, accordingly, the Court will determine.

  52. Dominican
    May 24, 2016

    Sp the PM was right! :mrgreen:

    • Dominican
      May 24, 2016

      I do not support this message!

  53. Channel 1
    May 24, 2016

    Skerrit & his dunce-cat “intelligence”…

    Whoop, Whoop!!!! It’s about time that Dominica’s most backward government ever ie Roosevelt Skerrit be held accountable for his mismanagement of the country.

Post a Comment

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

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

 characters available