Former Government press secretary, Sean Douglas, says there is a culture of secrecy in the public service which needs to be addressed with urgency.
Douglas was addressing a panel discussion organized by the Citizen’s Forum on Good Governance at the Garraway Hotel earlier this week.
“We have to some extent a culture of secrecy in the public service,” he said. “And even as government’s press secretary, I had difficulties sometimes in getting the information from senior public officers. My job essentially is to get information to the public about what government is doing and very often I had difficulty in getting that information.”
He revealed that as press secretary he would receive stumbling blocks on simple requests such as the minutes of cabinet meetings and the whereabouts of the prime minister and very often had to find news about Dominica from foreign websites and not on the government of Dominica’s website.
According to him, the culture of secrecy are being reflected in many areas in Dominica.
He pointed out the Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) between Dominica and the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the sale of Dominican passports, the country’s pull from the people of Western Sahara and the new allegiance to Morocco, among others.
“That culture of secrecy allows the government to sign agreements with other countries on our behalf and we are not aware of the contents of those agreements,” he said.
He also pondered on the amount of Dominican passports which have been sold to date, who the sale agents are and their commissions and where is the money.
“We don’t know how many passports have been sold, we don’t know what the commission is,” Douglas stressed. “It’s just too shady and I think we need to address that. We cannot have a situation where our passports are being sold and we don’t know whether all of the money, or some of the money is reaching the treasury. That’s a matter of grave concern and I think that going forward we need to look into that very seriously.”
Douglas also questioned whether there is a free and independent media in Dominica and whether there are mechanisms in place to limit a ruling party of their control or influence over the press.
He pointed to several media houses which is government-owned or operated and alleged that many times senior government ministers call state-owned DBS Radio to complain why are they hearing more of the opposition than they hear about themselves.
“You have the news editor and the other staff members under siege because they are afraid. Is that an example of good governance? Is that really fair?” he asked.
Douglas was speaking on the topic “Good governance from a cabinet/civil service point of view.”
so when he was eating his bug breakfast at 5 star hotels all over the world and boasting about it he didn’t know there was a culture of secrecy??? STUPES Oh please Sean..give me and the rest of us a break.
First and foremost Sean Douglas did not get the position based on merit but rather nepotism! It is clear that the PM never trusted Sean so gave him no or little information on a need to know basis. His divulging of what is common practice of government shows that he does not understand confidentiality! He is no doubt being disgruntle and vindictive having been unceremoniously dismissed! He claim to be a man of integrity yet he also claim that a government which he serve for years is corrupt yet he did not take action to remove himself from being part of the corruption or exposing it. Now he has been terminated he makes unsubstantiated claims no doubt with egging from UWP party! This forum was a sham and did not enlighten anyone about what is “good governance”. It was UWP bashing of the DLP leadership making baseless allegations! That approach by the UWP to mislead and misrepresent the truth to people is a strong indication that they lack integrity and does not adhere to standards of ‘good governance”!
It is high time we have a freedom of information act. If we elect someone to manage our country on our behalf it is only fair and just that they should consult and advise us what they are committing us to. Secrecy should only be reserved for matters of state security.
Imagine a company (we, the citizens of Dominica) that appoints a general manger and that general manager (the P.M.) does not tell the shareholders what he spends the company’s money on and does not tell them of his whereabouts or decisions taken on behalf of the company that pays him. That would be ridiculous and the company would be right to fire such an individual. We, the citizens of Dominica have an equal right to dismiss our general manager and appoint a new one in an election.
Sean I don’t think uwp should trust you either cause they will be making a big mistake.
Sean Douglas you mean you too cannot see all di money injection medicine the PM giving people.Di PM have a psychology degree you forget.Mad people alone he seeing in front him that like to get and beg.
The pm does not hold a psychology degree. Please get your facts straight before responding to people’s post.
Sean you should talk little more, tell us about bin bobol, fertilizer bobol, firebombing the home of G O N Emanuel, using S S U to protect Isidore from answering criminal charges in the courts, lilac cottages in Savanne Pyle, the status of bird island, 7 diplomat in Monaco, Dominicans Ambassador to the F A O most wanted criminal , Loans taken from private companies in China valued over 1 billion $, Chinese getting all the project contract like Windsor park stadium, state college, Roseau to Portsmouth road, state malice,
business in D A now only Chinese – no local employment no social security contribution hence employees contribution moved from 3 to 5 %, so much more to talk about Sean, hope you can tell us a little more next time
Its so obvious the trololols want t know where Skerro getting his funding, they yanking at every string on all their poloquettes!
Allu Skeritt using the fig money to pay for election okay so the more fig allu plant the more money he get… too late, just like Lennox newsletter!
Sean your ponts are valid… except the Western Sahara thing, they are a bunch of slave driving Arabs that still enslave blacks along with their neighbor Mauritania which enslaves 80% of the population which are black.
Yes the government should be transparent with how many passports they sold, to whom, from where and for how much yet its similar to the Swiss bank where they are able to remain buoyant due to their laws that protect the privacy of foreigners who do business with them. The issue of ministers calling radio stations owned by the government … that’s expected, If you own a fried chicken place and your workers keep giving free chicken to your competition… it would piss you off too. If they said nothing people would think dey tehbey!
Concerning the free and independent media… I’m reading your article online… there’s your proof in the pudding man! I don’t even know you, now I do because Dominica has free and independent media, plus you need to take a serious look at your shirt its not for public use… wear a shirt and tie so I can take you seriously… at least I would have know you tried.
A place where ignorance is bliss it is foolish to try to be wise.
Whether or not Sean is disgruntled the truth does not change. Thousands of passports sold and the money dud not get into our treasury and part of this is why the Labor Party must do every and or anything to remain in government. It is the passport scandal that led to the fire bombing.
instead of listening to the message Laborites will try to destroy the messenger. Others have spoken about the passport scandal and werecommendations crucified. But ti m e will tell. All that passport money will hang all of them. The lawyers,the convicted money launderers.
For me, Mr. Douglas is not the issue. If the information he presented is in doubt, then discerning the value of the information would require some insight into his motive. This is not the case. I do not think he is lying. The question for me is, “is what he describe acceptable” ? Should all Dominicans know what is in the ” MOU”? Should the Prime Minister’s income and its sources be public information? Should the public know when the Prime Minister is out of the country? Can the Government of Dominica make secret policy decisions? How about secret commercial contracts? I believe these are the things we should be talking about in this time of increased political awareness.
I too commend effort of Citizen’s Forum on Good Governance.
I think we should have these discussions with an eye towards adjusting the Constitution. If not the Constitution, at least the administrative laws and procedural requirements with which we run our country. We are a young country, unique in its nature , small in population and land mass. So maybe after 30 years of “independence” and 4/5 political regimes its time for a change in the rules and expectations of governance in Dominica. This is where there needs to be a change. Being able, every so often, to switch out one party for another, or one character for another does nothing to increase the chance of good governance. If we want good governance there has to to be knowledge and an expectation of good governance on the part of the citizen and institutions. There has to be that dedicated watch dog guarding over good governance. Do we expect the media to preform this watch dog function? Relying on the morality of the party or the party leadership for good governance is, I believe, a major hole in way our system operates.
Very well stated. Though to your point concerning the political parties over the years… Dominicans on a whole are used to changing governments its a sign that our democracy is working. They have become worried since we’ve had the same party in power for 3 terms. That is the underlying issue. It does not mean that Skeritt is doing a bad job they are uncomfortable with his tenure. I understand that discomfort but we must realize the circumstances with which he came to power and what he has accomplished during that time. Also we must all realize that it takes years to right wrongs in a country. I believe this term when he is re-elected will be better than the last two, I also believe it will be his legacy and last.
Ask the posse Sr.Counsel
Roosie had a different dream for us a better Dominica a peoples Dominica not a sold out Dominica this is not the Labour i supported this may be the last chance for CHANGE OR MAYBE (MARSHAL LAW ) ITS TIME
Sean has a right to speak like every one else. That is the thing with you all D/can do not know how to respect other people views.
Sean Douglas you are a courageous and outstanding Dominican Citizen. It does not matter how late you come out with truth as long as you expose corruption and wrong-doing you are doing the RIGHT THING!!!
Someone mentioned a code of secrecy as if that is the way Democracy works. He/She is so wrong!
Here we have a Government who speaks publicly about transparency and accountability and is privately shrouded in a manner of secrecy that may well be detrimental to the freedom and sovereignty of our Country.
Yet, supporters of this Government could care less of their own demise as long as the party they support are the ones in power. The very party where the Prime Minister and others are gaining great wealth on their very backs.
Sean please do not be discouraged by the naysayers as they do not realize that this is about Country FIRST and not about Party and Politics. Many will not understand the importance of your contribution until maybe it’s too late! God Forbid!!!
Sean because Skerrit did not give you what you asked for you turned around and Bite him..So don’t come like you care about the people…You are only looking out for yourself…You are now seeing an opening with UWP so you trying to play saint now and pretend like Skerrit is the bad man..SMH
So come on then man. If you know so much tell us what it was that Sean Douglas wanted from Skerrit but did not get? I hope it is not another secret, so tell us please.
Where Ignorance is bliss it’s just pointless being wise.No more comment on your ignorant mind.I guess you have not heard about ” rather late than never.Atleast he has a concience.
It is really difficult for Dominicans to understand that their country is on the verge of being a failed state because of the corruption and incompetency of the Skerrit administration. It is difficult for Dominicans to understand that their national security is threatened because criminals are parading their passports around the globe and proceeds of passport sales are sitting in the offshore accounts of prominent government attorneys and not in the Dominica treasury. But how can you blame them when there is no press freedom on the island and all they are forced to believe is the propaganda of the DLP?
Dominicans will not believe that its government is using drug money to fund its campaign even if evidence were presented to them in large 45pts font. Whatever happened to the drug murder investigations on the Caribbean island of Antigua? Did Skerrit put a lid on it? How ignorant must one be to understand that the island of Dominica now emulate Venezuela? After the DLP wins the election, the shortages on basic household requirements will begin….
But my dear Sean, ideas like yours don’t determine who is right. It is power that determines who is right. At the bitter end, the power belongs to the people and history documents that the only way to get rid of tyrants and dictators is through the power of the people, yet that power will not be manifested at the ballot boxes as will be seen on Dec 8. Sometimes power is not the given. You have to take it as Che Guevara said:’ …..through a peaceful revolution….”
You say..” yet that power will not be manifested at the ballot boxes as will be seen on Dec 8. Sometimes power is not the given. You have to take it as Che Guevara said:’ …..through a peaceful revolution….” I ASK …do you know something that the people of Dominica do not know? Are you encouraging the culture of secrecy? Will you save the country by making sure you disclose this eminent danger…..that democracy is at stake on December 8th and that the people of Waitukubuli will not have proper elections?
Well Sean
It is a good thing, isn’t it that the professionals in the public service were not too forthcoming, otherwise they could have had their names and what they didn’t even tell you plastered all over the media now. Perhaps they were not convinced of your own professionalism at the time? Just perhaps?
It’s amazing how we see things differently from different windows eh?
U dumb Barbs? He named them without doing in it LMAO it hit a nerve right!
Observer’s news,
I’m far from dumb, I assure you. I tend to better understand direct language, not codes so I’m not sure what LMAO means, but Sean and many others on all sides of the fence (and I mean all sides) can thank their lucky stars that real professionals in the public service maintain their code of silence during and after their tenure.
Mr. Douglas, although I applaud the Citizen’s Forum on Good Governance for these kinds of dialogues, I also must say, that I respectfully resent some members of the panel viewpoint. Mr. Douglas the reality is there are “Code of Secrecy” everywhere and the nasty word “Good Ole Boy” systems as well. The truth is, as Press Secretary isn’t that a political position or appointment? After all, your position as Press Secretary was a senior DLP Government official whose primary responsibility is to act as Spokesperson for the Commonwealth of Dominica government administration, especially with regards to the Prime Minister, senior public officials and their polices? It is imperative to note, in your official capacity you were not there to promote your policies but that if the Government and the Prime Minister.
I do concur with you that the Press Secretary is responsible for collecting information about actions and events within the administration, but it is also, and was your responsibility to interact with the media, and provide information (accurate) to the general public? Though, I may concur with you, I find it disturbing that you would only now come out right before the election. What happen to the previous elections why didn’t you come out, are you inferring that there were no “culture of secrecy” then and it only became prevalence within the last couple years or months post your tenure? I have a problem with that, also were you not the same person who wanted your contract renewed? If so, and if I am to give credence to your presentation why did you want your contract renewed or why didn’t the government renewed your contract?
I do like the idea of the Citizen’s Forum on Good Governance and what they are doing, but my only apprehension is, why only be visible during election time? This is something that should be year round and the group should be acting as a “watch dog” and not wait until election time to raise all these issues. Douglas quoted “You have the news editor and the other staff members under siege because they are afraid. Is that an example of good governance? Is that really fair?” Mr. Douglas you were part of that culture and what if you were still Press Secretary would you have remained and condone the culture for which you are bashing now, so what’s your point?
In sum, I welcome Griffin and Cara’s presentation with a few indifferences but I can’t accept Sean presentation. Also, Citizen’s Forum on Good Governance needs to actively seek more balance people and Independent thinkers to its panel. We need diversity of views and opinions from people who have no bone in the fight. All in all it is an excellent effort by Citizen’s Forum on Good Governance and for that I must commend them.
For me, Mr. Douglas is not the issue. If the information he presented is in doubt, then discerning the value of the information would require some insight into his motive. This is not the case. I do not think he is lying. The question for me is, “is what he describe acceptable “. Should all Dominicans know what is in the ” MOU” Should the Prime Minister’s income and its source be public information. Can the government of Dominica make secret policy decisions. How about secret commercial contracts. I believe these are the things we should be talking about in this time of increased political awareness.
I too commend effort of Citizen’s Forum on Good Governance.
I think we should have these discussions with an eye towards adjusting the Constitution or at least the administrative laws and procedural requirements with which we run our country. We are a young country, unique in its nature , small in population and land mass So maybe after 30 years of “independence” and 4/5 political regimes its time for a change in the rules and expectations of governance in Dominica
I have said it before and I will reiterate, Sean, you are a sellout. You can huff and puff, however, you won’t be able to survive the might of the DLP. You will be defeated, you are fighting a losing battle! Long live PM Skerrit. DLP, all the way!
Does a dying DLP have any might left in it. I fully endorse everything that Sean said. This DLP is the worst thing that has happened to Dominica.Are you not ashamed associating yourself with this Skerrit brand of DLP? I am, and I was more Labour than you.
You should endorse him when he was eating our tax money in expensive breakfast
Very true Sean, but I think you could have spoke about it while you were in office as the Press Secretary. Anyway, better late than never.
If you were a true abitrator heaven help Sean if he had chose to do so as you would have loved him too
Hypocrite you, you know better.
Well,Sean them labourites gwan skin u now.. Look out for the insults and sour grape talk…
moreso his other unknown(to the public) cousin before SKRIT himself this week if he has not done so lol
Your hypocrite..Now you can talk…Too late…
You never fail to open ur stinking trap NONI like a beff/maco! lol
Sean you really missing that big money..you knew about this years ago..to late brother.
Sour Grapes.
And a PUBLIC OFFICER – (yes paid from the GOVT. Coffers) in the personality of UN Ambassador finds every reason to justify his role as campaign manager for the DLP in this upcoming general election. Is this legal under the constitution or has the slogan “no rule, no constitution shall…..”!!!! Can we agree that this is extremely dangerous and an example of bad governance.
more dictatorship actions being demonstrated boldly and we are still in denial .
some denied PJ sale of the north until June 79,
I ask, what is in the MOU between Dominica and the Republic of China that will negatively affect the political and economic independence of our homeland? I cannot help but speculate that our sovereignty is at stake if our Government is unable to meet the SECRET reciprocal demands from China.
Could Dominica become another Tibet? It’s time Skerrit comes clean before the elections. Or else??????
Hi Sean,
you spoke about the “culture of secrecy” in your presentation, but you never realize it was your much talking that caused you the position of PRESS SECRETARY. You spoke badly of a team you were part and parcel off, all your attempt had overthrowing properties so the PM THRUSTED out instead and the worst person one can ever deal with is one that has been disgruntled.
Often times you find disgruntled people going all out to paint a negative picture about the same values they once upheld and you are one of those persons. Someone will go all the way to malign a system they once built, and this put you in the category of a back stabber, come to the table bro, turn from all that you are attempted to do, and see yourself as a once upon a time a crook, and seek help and restore yourself to the values you supported in times past. take heart and be counted!!!
There are those who are disgruntled and there are those whose consciences continuously condemned them which made them say enough is enough. If Sean is disgruntled then God will judge him accordingly. But if as he says was too much and eventually put a stop to it. Then its very commendable. He should be applauded
MY brother you should have left the labour party if these things were troubling you not when you got fired you speak about these things it shows that you plight is not genuine All along you could deal with the secrecy
DeR Sean I have one question,.. Are you concerned about the total mount of these monies and it’s whereabouts. Or the moral standing of the passport issue/s….
Bla bla bla same old boring rubbish from a disgruntled individual.
oh Sean Douglas stop being so bitter…. they got rid of you ages ago stop crying already… its so pathetic!! you were unable to get info because they all saw right through you; SMH… don’t you have a job now? selling ice cream? so relax and enjoy life… jeeeez
Well Sean Their has to be a level of secrecy especially from people like you ,cause if you had known the contents of the mou right now it would be out in open, so its good that it wasn’t available to you cause you wasn’t trust worthy my fren…we always knew you was a traitor !
GOOD LUCK FOR THE FUTURE MY FREN
Regards
your fren
As a citizen why isn’t Sean entited to the MOU?
Sean they didnt give you cabinet minutes because they didnt trust you! and that was good because you were always an undercover uwp. When you were press secretary, cabinet business was all on the road and people wondered who was leaking confidential information. Now we know! we havent forgotten you and that breakfast story
I endorse this message.