Dr. Severin under fire from Astaphan

The lecture by Dr. Severin (left) was described as an intellectual fraud by Astaphan
The lecture by Dr. Severin (left) was described as an intellectual fraud by Astaphan

Dr. Francis Severin has come under fire from Senior Counsel Tony Astaphan following his presentation at the Eleventh Annual Dame Eugenia Charles Memorial Lecture recently.

Astaphan described the lecture as an intellectual fraud, which reeked of dishonesty, misrepresentation, was shameful, disgraceful and was based on the propaganda of the United Workers Party.

The lecture entitled, “Dem belly full, but we hungry: Insights into autocratic rule,” was a wide-ranging one, touching on numerous topics. In one area he spoke of democracy and Parliament, saying Parliament is an agency of the country’s democracy belonging to the people and no one else. He said it was backward for anyone, especially the Speaker of the House of Assembly to frustrate elected members.

Many in Dominica felt the lecture was a good one, but Astaphan did not share such feelings.

“I think it was an intellectual fraud executed on the minds of the people of this country,” he told state-owned DBS Radio. “It reeked with dishonesty, it reeked with misrepresentation.

He believed the lecture was a disgraceful one delivered by someone who should display intellectual honesty at all times.

“I think it was a shameful and a disgraceful speech by somebody who holds a position in society where intellectual honesty must be demanded at all and absolutely all times …” Astaphan noted.

He said Dr. Severin was pandering “to a political crowd” and the lecture was calculated and a dishonest, political and intellectual act “by someone of his standing that I have witnessed in a long time.”

“Because so much of it was based on misrepresentation, so much of it was based on lies and so much of it was based on the propaganda of the United Workers Party,” the Senior Counsel said. “So I say all of this without in any way trying to denigrate the person, but the speech from that person, to me, was an intellectual disgrace, a fraud and something that should be condemned.”

Dr. Severin is the Director of Open Campus Country Sites at the UWI Open Campus.

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO FULL SPEECH BY DR. SEVERIN

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111 Comments

  1. Tell it Like it is
    December 11, 2016

    I think Dr. Francis Severin and Mr. Francis Joseph should team up and form a new political party to lead Dominica out of this crisis. I consider these two gentlemen as the most upright and most suitable to lead our country. I would love to read other comments on this idea.

  2. Durand Durand
    December 11, 2016

    More of persons like Dr Severin needs to come out and talk against the ignoranceis of Tony Astaphan and the like’s of tony’s opinion. I firmly believe, people like Tony needs to stand aside and let just mind and progressive thinking people do the best for Dominica.

  3. Anthony P. Ismael
    December 9, 2016

    I would be surprised if the response was any different. One of the most important tenants of Democracy is freedom of speech, without retribution. Anyone can disagree with Dr. Severin’s speech for any number of reasons. It is their right to do so in a democracy. What’s concerning here is the blatant attempt to silence perceived dissent in any way shape or form by an elected government. Tony is an established member of a Tin-Pot Dictatorship in Dominica,. One would be pleasantly surprised if his response was intelligent and coherent.

  4. Malgraysa
    December 9, 2016

    The words spoken by Tony Astaphan were “ab irato” and irrational. As a S.C. he should be familiar with the expression.

  5. Optimist
    December 9, 2016

    But Wait.. look at the pic again.. one has on red whilst the other really blue.. hmmmmm..

  6. Bystander
    December 9, 2016

    In other words, it is not a democracy; Dominican’s should not take a stand and have an opinion; and speeches should not be made to awaken the people. Dominicans… you need to be awaken from your slumber – seniors, elders, and youth. Time is moving by and something needs to be done.

  7. Massacre
    December 9, 2016

    It seems like Tony is taking up the position of chief litmus tester for who can lecture Dominicans on how to be good citizens! This guy Tony should already been chased out of Dominica.

  8. Marcus Hill
    December 9, 2016

    I wonder if Tony even listened to the lecture?

  9. TS Erika
    December 9, 2016

    but who that think he is nah. man go prep yourself. hollywood going to be filming ‘batman 4….Tony versus skerrit….The Dominican truth. you will have your say there

  10. cold hard truth
    December 9, 2016

    Tony you are so correct the U.W.P will come in any form necessary to mislead Dominicans but you’ll never win an election trust me on that

  11. Jaded
    December 9, 2016

    Severin did a fine cut-and-paste job. He appropriated words of many other people and put then together in a manner that allows all who hear it to blame the current government on all the problems of previously enslaved people. Now that he outed himself as a strong UWP supporter he should go on to say how his party can solve the problems that he articulated. He may have forgotten that UWP was in power for 5 years during which they filled their pockets by preventing Dominicans from purchasing generators. The truth is that most Dominicans are aware that the UWP are waiting in their slips for their chance to gain power to continue their corrupt ways.

    • PROFESSOR
      December 10, 2016

      Before giving someone a piece of your mind make sure that you have enough to go around! what you refer to as ‘fine cut and paste’ is what you exhibited!

    • PROFESSOR
      December 10, 2016

      Before giving someone a piece of your mind make sure that you have enough to go around! what you refer to as \’fine cut and paste\’ is what you exhibited!

  12. PROFESSOR
    December 9, 2016

    Dr.Severin words definitely struck a nerve for Tony Astaphan to be getting his Knickers in such a twist! First: Dr. Severin did not address anyone directly nor did he mention any names. He simply stated the facts backed up by references which he could substantiate. Therefore, in the words of Bob Marley, ‘Who the Cap fit, let them wear it.’ Furthermore, continuing in the same vein, again citing Bob Marley. “I throw me corn me no call no fowl! So tell Tony to get over himself! Tony is injecting himself in the mix to be relevant. No one cares what Tony says anymore. You are irrelevant and your ‘bullying tactics’ will not work. You can denigrate Dr. Severin all you want it only makes you look desperate and pathetic. You are simply describing yourself with all the derogatory remarks! Everything you accuse Dr. Severin of, you are guilty of. You are projecting: According to Psychology…you are defending yourself against your own faults by denying their existence & putting them on…

  13. latitude e5550
    December 9, 2016

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  14. latitude e5550
    December 8, 2016

    latitude is a very independent person, who works for the private sector, i do not kiss up to any one, right is right and wrong is wrong.under the uwp members were suspended for far less, president savarin was laughed at during a ground braking ceremony , his speeches were edited at dbs , the states car was repainted in blue to suit the uwp colour. the bar election is mahaut under uwp reign was thrown into turmoil when the parties both applied for the same venue. uwp went on to hold its rally first and then impose a staate of emergengy in other to deny the freedom party the opportunity of a rally. so tell me good doctor what kind of rules were that.it was there time and so they ruled as they please. every where have rules and i agree with the speaker of the house and tony astaphans those who break it must be discipline.
    HERE IS HOW THE HOME OF THE BRAVE LAND OF THE FREE IS GOING TO DEAL WITH A MATTER , IN THERE OWN WRITTING.

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  15. local palance
    December 8, 2016

    @ real possie This is one of the reason why Possie and Dominica will not develop because of the mediocre mentality which is ” its better nothing’. A scholar gave a speech you take it a political speech. This mediocre mentality that has possie still looking like shanty town even millions has been invested by a University. Small mind people who fail to ponder on the words spoken instead they quick to repeat what what masa say . I am the street by Benjamin park has been closed over the past year to no improvement has being done yet every one in possie is afraid to speak because possie put politics before their own development. Possie wont develop until the mindset of these people change.

  16. December 8, 2016

    Dr. Severin gave a lecture that was in no way directed at any particular Country or Government but rather on a subject matter having to do with Autocratic rule and the consequences of the same. The fact that the current Government in Dominica has been under the autocratic rule of the Prime Minister and Supreme Leader, Roosevelt Skerrit, is the ONLY reason why so much of Dr. Severin’s lecture seems to apply to that particular Island! For Tony Astaphan to imply that the lecture was in some way political and directed at the Government of Dominica is dishonest, misleading and reeks of a guilty conscience!!! It appears that anytime an independent mind speaks about the true principles of Democracy and against Communism, Autocracy or CORRUPTION it deeply offends this Government and its chosen mouthpiece Anthony Astaphan. The question here is WHY????? When Dominicans begin to remove those red handkerchiefs from around their eyes and ears that question will be answered for SURE!

    • Tjebe fort
      December 9, 2016

      Kermit, you actually did receive an Hon. Doctorate (not a PhD.) in Amphibian Letters from Southampton College in New York in 1996. I am surprised but not bad for a coldblooded creature like you. Beats an Hon. Doctorate from that happy and friendly university in the Punjab anytime and you did not have to dress up in a funny robe but could come in your own costume. Well done Kermit! This is no joke everybody, look it up!

    • viewsexpressed
      December 11, 2016

      Yes, and the this inept Astaphan must be aware of this. Tony spews utter rubbish and fear on the peple of Dominica just to amass blind support from struggling poverty Dominicans.

      We welcome Dr, Francis` lecture. again well done. we will fight the corrupt Labour Party PM and his false disciples.

  17. Laplaine Observer
    December 8, 2016

    Tony has hit rock bottom. When someone engages in political dishonesty on a regular basis, they don’t reserve the right cast judgement on anyone. Look at the mirror Tony!

  18. LB
    December 8, 2016

    D.N.O here’s a suggestion. Do an online polling requesting readers to state or vote on who they think is the most truthful person or personality in Dominica. You staff can make the choices of individuals from politicians to those on opinion radio or private citizens like Dr. Severin who just quoted other intellectuals.

  19. December 8, 2016

    the lecture seems to have touced a political nerve. tony if the cap then wear it.

  20. Just Passing Through
    December 8, 2016

    My Observation:

    1. No one clapped at what the Dr. was saying until halfway through the presentation, even he wondered when the audience would appreciate his talk.

    2. Apparently although the name of the lecture is based on the Late PM Dame Eugenia Charles, the audience was tepid while he seemed to be praising the Dame.

    3. The audience only got excited when it appeared he had started to take aim at our Government. Makes it look as an opposition audience and lecture.

    4. I believe Pope Francis analysis of the media for the last half of the presentation on a very cleverly and articulated presentation resurrected in my mind.

    5. The clip posted does not seemed to have reached the end of the Dr. presentation, and I have no reason why that is so.

    I noticed that the recording stopped, so we did not hear all of the lecture.

    • Tjebe fort
      December 10, 2016

      If you were not at the presentation and only listened to part of a recording how can you know that no one clapped till halfway through Dr. Severin’s presentation? That would be an impossibility my friend wouldn’t it?

    • viewsexpressed
      December 11, 2016

      !. The audience was in deep though and awe listening to a lecture of truth, honesty and the recognising the fear this corrupt Labour Party government , lead by inept Skerrit and his clowns. We listened attentively.

      Have you got anything to say of the mass corruption and poverty of Dominica under this Skerrit man.??

  21. Berthold
    December 8, 2016

    It’s called freedom of speech, Tony. Something you seem to do your best to quell.

  22. lightbulb
    December 8, 2016

    lemme quote another Bob Marley song…

    Who the cap fit…

  23. committed
    December 8, 2016

    Tony,stop embarrassing the yourself, the law profession and the country. It seems as if you got your degree from Punjab,just like the other idiot.
    What a waste.

  24. CIA Agent
    December 8, 2016

    Wikipedia: “In Internet slang, a troll (/ˈtroʊl/, /ˈtrɒl/) is a person who sows discord on the Internet by starting arguments or upsetting people, by posting inflammatory,[1] extraneous, or off-topic messages in an online community (such as a newsgroup, forum, chat room, or blog) with the intent of provoking readers into an emotional response[2] or of otherwise disrupting normal, on-topic discussion,[3] often for the troll’s amusement.”

    …awaiting emotional responses….

  25. bigger
    December 8, 2016

    I know this might not be published but I can’t help noticing the vitriol that has leveled against Tony. You have this renegade from the USA calling Tony stupid well I ask you why would Honourable Linton employ Tony to represent him ………….? Honourable Linton is perceive to be an intelegent man WHY TONY? Answer, because he is the first among equals

    The government of Dominica employs SC the opposition party employs foreigners which invariably comes second best.This is why SC will never be short of work

  26. Truth is stubborn
    December 8, 2016

    The DLP operatives are ranting and raving. They are foaming on both sides of their mouths. The dentist, had so much to say about Dr. Severin, it’s not funny. Truth is like a thorn in their sides. Is like devil afraid of Glo beni. Bent on defending corruption and the enrichment of a few of their friends, they jump at every opportunity to expose their partisan tomfoolery, in their quest to continue with their autocratic rule.

    Lies and more lies, beamed to the masses by the cabal, distort all reality.
    Skeriitt DLP operatives, are relentless in their defence of untruths. Dominica is being sold to the highest bidder. How could any patriotic Dominican support the grabbing of 15 acres of our land from the Cabrits National Park and hand that to foreigner?

    While the standards of living of the majority have declined significantly, a few are making millions, selling our Sovereignty, selling our passports to all and sundry. Criminals have our diplomatic passport

  27. December 8, 2016

    It was the same Dr Saverin who some time ago quoted from a Jamaican pawol which say’s “if you throw a stone into a Pig sty is the pig that bawl the stone hit”. Tony looks like the stone hit you real hard nah man; the good Dr did mention some politicians and countries by name so why al dem DLP political yard fowls whom he did not mention so up in arms nah? Tony i believe that is the best description you have ever given of yourself, and just in case you were suffering from Verbal Diarrhea let me remind you; shameful; disgraceful; dishonest; intellectual disgrace and a fraud; propaganda and misrepresentation. It’s like a one size fits all; and guess what my boy it takes one to know one, and i’m sure you know plenty like you.
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  28. Deb
    December 8, 2016

    Dr. Severin please don’t pay this guy a minute of your time. His scotched earth opposition to you is because you are messing with his business plan- Roosevelt Skerrit–that is all. We are very proud of you as a Dominican leader – not this loud and big mouth or his pal Skerrit– because dem belly full and we hungry–Let this man keep on talking – when he is tired he will stop!!!End of story.

    Merry Christmas to you and and your family all the best for 2017 Sir-

  29. Hamil
    December 8, 2016

    Let us learn to agree and disagree without all the name calling. We are all brothers and sisters. Let us live in peace and be an example to our kids. Life is just too short for all this political slander.

  30. The Gov't: One Man
    December 8, 2016

    My concern with Tony Astaphan is that he deliberately did not mention Dr. Severin by name in his comment. To me meaning, Dr. Severin is beneath him and does not deserve the mentioning of his name.. That to me is a way of telling the thinking Dominicans, that persons who have a different point of view to his and their’s will not see the light of day while they are in control. The onus is now on the ordinary Dominican to do like the Americans did. While I agree it will be more difficult, other influential Dominicans thinking like Dr. Severin, please speak out so the masses will hear.

  31. guest of honor
    December 8, 2016

    Cap fit you?? Dominicans dat too soft you know Tony. I sure if this was Jamaica or somewhere with serious people you could NEVER set foot back here again. But Dominicans will just geegeegee for you and say yes sir mister assstaphans sir. but just you wait man…. your turn will reach.

  32. anonymous
    December 8, 2016

    A lot of truth to that lecture. Should be required listening.

  33. AA
    December 8, 2016

    It clearly shows that the lecture touch a nerve. It clearly refers to you and the leadership of the labour party. You have consistently lied to the people of DOM to protect your money stream and you get your cut of the economic citizenship so you want to come spew your lies once again to the people of DOM. This lecture strikes to the core of the labour party mischief and diabolical hatred of the citizens of the country. but dont worry allyou time coming, all the laundering that is going on will come to an end soon.

  34. December 8, 2016

    If Tony disagrees, why dont he come with something intellectuel, academical or philosfical to contra the Dr?
    The Dr didnt call anybody’s name, so he must hit Tony’s weakpoint :-D :-D

  35. recollect
    December 8, 2016

    Astaphan has no right or authority to disclaim by innuendo and by pure dirty talk which he used against political antagonists at Labour party campaigns .
    Indeed if he is a labourite what is the insane desire to get apoplectic on someone like Eugenia who spent a life time denigrating the Leaders of the labour Party .
    Dr.Severin has the erudite qualification and indeed as a very young man was a very active follower of the politics of Eugenia which seem to have eluded Tony Astaphan.
    Quite frankly her 15 years as a leader was a dismal failure .She counteracted all that Labour did for the common man which included the slowing down of the of the cooperative movement -the closure of the Land Management Authority which managed the lands acquired by the states -The return of lands from the Geest Industries at Picard which she allowed to be returned to her freinds -she attempted to return the lands at Wotten Waven and Morne Prioosper as well as Layou acquired by the OJ SERAPHIN…

  36. Vaffanculo_PM
    December 8, 2016

    Message to Dr.Severin, don’t worry with Colin, he is using words to intimidate any independent thinking Dominicans, Colin is trying to discredit you so that other intellectuals will be afraid to speak out but remember in a democracy the people have alot of say.

  37. Peter Smith
    December 8, 2016

    Tony Astaphans is foreign to truth. One day his tongue will give him a serious beating. All Tony is interesting in is reaping the country from its limited finance through court proceedings, one day that will stop. What start must stop. Dr. Severin is not the problem. Tony search your conscious.

  38. R. Linton
    December 8, 2016

    The further a society drifts from TRUTH, the more it will HATE those who speak it. I am against any form of injustice…Be it LABOUR, UWP, FREEDOM. I A SLAVE TO NO POLITICIAN

  39. Me
    December 8, 2016

    And another thing Senior Counsel, I did not hear one curse word or denigration of individuals in Dr. Severin’s speech. You should be ashamed of yourself besmirching your family’s respected name.

    • The Truth Be Told
      December 8, 2016

      You did not hear a curse word. You should have checked the word denigrate, it smeaning before making a comment. However read on:
      Denigrate: Disparage and belittle
      To disparage or criticize somebody or something, or make something seem unimportant; to refer disapprovingly or contemptuously to somebody or something.
      To defame: to attack somebody’s character or reputation.

    • Me
      December 9, 2016

      Truth, thank you but I my lexicon is extensive enough to know the meaning of denigration.
      I therefore assume that your comments are directed at the Senior Counsel because his post- lecture remarks certainly fall within the definition of that word.

  40. Titiwi
    December 8, 2016

    Was Dr. Severin’s lecture a political, address, delivered on behalf of a political party or movement? I can only surmise that Anthony Waddy Astaphan feels spoken to?

    • Durand Durand
      December 11, 2016

      People who understands the Dr’s lecture has fully appreciated the truth as to what is going on in Dominica, those of us who fail to understand; have no foresight for Dominica’s development, don’t understand the oppression committed by the government on the citizens of Dominica, and stand on the grounds of ignorance and therefore don’t know that they don’t know. with respect to educated people who aid the Government to the current situation take a page from Dr Severin lecture.

  41. forreal
    December 8, 2016

    tony I totally agree,linton need to grow up when executing the business of the people at the house of assembly,you are100% right the issues and actions he is remarking on is UWP motivated/now freedom rights are supporting UWP now!!! what a bunch opportunist,that is the same strategy they used to bring down the blinded Patrick john ignorance,a man who one time fought for the labour movement through the waterfront and allied workers union,turned his back on the grass roots movement,the freedom party seized on that opportunity and aligned themselves with the grass roots for their political and economical ascent, thry gained power at a weak point of Dominican history/and did what?a Eugenia Charles boulevard & and the canefield runaway that that almost rid dominica of the ……..earlier, a much needed riddance.

  42. Yung Musician
    December 8, 2016

    That was a disappointing lecture. He should have saved it for the 2020 general election. Is that the best our intellectuals have to offer?

    • Tjebe fort
      December 8, 2016

      You don’t get it do you young man. Dr. Severin was not speaking on behalf of any political party. If you do not like his observations I can understand and that is up to you but this was addressed to everyone and not just in Dominica. Just keep observing your navel my boy and believe that Dominica is the center of the universe.

      • December 8, 2016

        He was in a subtle way. I read the speech and it smacked of UWP politics. He had no right to allude to the speaker in a negative way during his speech. It was all politics. He should have kept to the essence of his lecture and not deviate into politics and the speaker and frustrating opposite floor members.

      • The Truth Be Told
        December 8, 2016

        It depends whose side you are on and how you interpret it. The message was evident who it was directed at/to.

    • CRIME STOPPERZ
      December 9, 2016

      you must suck a music because your thoughts to words are those of ignorance…

  43. JoJo
    December 8, 2016

    Mr. Astaphan, I don’t mind telling you that I am a supporter of true labour principles and must tell you that Dr. Severin’s lecture applies to everyone who believes in democracy and help for the common people. that is all I have to say.

    • The Truth Be Told
      December 8, 2016

      Do you know the primary people it was addressed to? Are you a politician? Common sense should tell us who it was directed to. Or are you evading it?

      • Viewsexpressed
        December 10, 2016

        Who the cap fit….letvthem wear it.

  44. jonathan st jean
    December 8, 2016

    Tony Astaphan,i know that you attended a tertiary education institution,and as such you know sense when you see it.You are trying to tell us by repeating yourself that Dr Severin’s lecture was dishonest and a mouthpiece of the UWP.However you have failed to prove your point.Dr Severin,on the other hand quoted notable educated intellectuals in his piece,yet you are just blowing hot air saying it was dishonest.Where are your facts Tony.You have not sited one line or paragraph or subheading to show where Dr Severin mislead or misquoted any of his sources.Shame on you Tony for a learned man I expect better from you especially since your profession is all about reading law and quoting form previously settled cases.Where is your proof Tony? I expected better than you trying to disparage Dr Severin,a brilliant son of the soil without proving anything.There is a saying that when you spit in the sky it will fall in your eye.Go wash your eyes Tony,some spittle fell in them

  45. viewsexpressed
    December 8, 2016

    LOL…LOL…LOL.. I mean, look at the two faces> Who seems to be confident, great big confident smile as against the other who looks worried, confused, lost, a bit deviant, not sure where he is going, let alone where he came from?
    Dr. Severin looks academic, scholastic, confident
    Astaphan, seeking direction, adult political illiteracy adopted behaviour, champion of failed and corrupt leaders, spokesperson for selflessly promoting autocracy and corruption in government.
    His tasks must be a tough and rough one as with all these names calling, he has realised now that he has been off queue and in strange company.
    Astaphan, you cannot compete with Dr. Severin He has educated us of decency in government and how it has not been done under Skerrit’s leadership, meaning that he Skerrit has been a failure under your watch.. So your stewardship has failed and you have done a did-service to us Dominicans. It appears that is the only way Skerrit survived, wearing political diapers. We are…

  46. Mike Portsmouth
    December 8, 2016

    What comes from Tony Astaphan mouth is worse than my former school mate. Smh

  47. Jahchild
    December 8, 2016

    Mr Severin’s words must have stroke a cord with Mr Astaphans hence the reason why he is ranting and raging.

    Mr Severin is totally correct in his presentation. Hats off to him for saying exactly how it is.

    Regards
    Tarisha

  48. Jon Jones
    December 8, 2016

    Dear Tony ‘Cry Baby’ Astaphan,

    Specially requested for you:

    https://youtu.be/zOMMWeExwh4

    Enjoy!!

  49. Tander
    December 8, 2016

    You Mr Tony Astaphan are an intellectual fraud. A poor representation of Senior Counsel in Dominica and the Caribbean region. You lack class and polish and your speech is that of a high school drop out.

  50. December 8, 2016

    Tony and his family have gain from the sweat and brow of DA people, now he cannot accept the fact other black Dominicans intellectuals like Dr. Severin. Get over it Tony we are here to stay.

    • The Truth Be Told
      December 8, 2016

      Be careful of stones that you throw.
      Did you know Tony’s grandfather? I really did not know him but as I was informed, he would go about selling items from a suitcase all over Dominica. This is how he commenced making his money. He worked hard, much harder than most Dominicans, if not all of them. It is through his hard work and dollars that Astaphan store is what it is today. Then his son Waddy took over.
      Please be careful and do not hurt people by your words. It is a sin. Furthermore stick to the issue. If you can’t, say nothing.

  51. dayandnightvision
    December 8, 2016

    ‘Many in Dominica thought the lecture was a good one’. Really DNO????
    On what scientific data is your statement based?
    Inquiring minds want to know

    • viewsexpressed
      December 8, 2016

      Our vision dictated to u the level of appreciation this lecture received all over where Dominicans listened. The lecture has gone viral, I urge you to listen again in the peace and quiet of your room, home. You will learn something. If not have a tutor sit with you to help you analyse and comprehend the lecture, a very good one, affecting our entire Caribbean governance. Good luck…and hope in day and night your vision will be restored.

    • TS Erika
      December 9, 2016

      if you were in tunned with whats happening in DA you wouldnt have to question DNO

    • Tjebe fort
      December 9, 2016

      All I hear at that lecture at Fort Young was spontaneous applause several times from the audience. Next thing you try and tell us that these people who attended were all selected from the opposition ranks, which clearly they were not. Anyone could attend, regardless of their political thinking, and they did.

  52. It's MissAlie
    December 8, 2016

    I would like to read, or listen to the Dr’s lecture, but I must say that the caption carries a lot of truth. I’m also elated that this doctor took on the average man and woman dilemma of providing for their families in a country where inflation is high and jobs are scarce. Conversations like that always upset the rich ones, because they choose to detach themselves from the poor and working class. Rich people are so evil; they bathe in their wealth with no regard for humanity. The rich ones are the biggest leechers on the planet, and they’re so audacious about it; they even go as far to convince others that being rich is admirable.

  53. December 8, 2016

    I listen to the lecture on q95 but it wasn’t a Dame Eugenia Charles lecture it was more about a Political party in power lecture

    • viewsexpressed
      December 8, 2016

      Who the cap fit let them wear it…………party in power corrupt

    • TS Erika
      December 9, 2016

      WELL THEN IT WAS A LABOUR PARTY LECTURE

  54. KID ON THE BLOCK
    December 8, 2016

    All comments I, a KID, have read so far regarding Tony’s response to Dr. Servin’s lecture are coming from the UWP supporters. What else one expects when they know damn well the lecture was based on the PROPAGANDA OF THE UNITED WORKERS PARTY. Why do you think Mr. Ro Ro kept playing it over and aver again on his show? I’m almost sure if it dealt with anything to praise the present administration you would not have heard this lecture repeated on Q95. I maybe not so very smart but I am clever. We the KIDS ON THE BLOCK can put one and one together and know is TWO. That lecture was too bias and one sided seeking to cause damage to a set of people and the present administration.

    • ??????????????????
      December 8, 2016

      Can you please point out the aspects of the speech that were bias? I am patiently awaiting your response!!

    • viewsexpressed
      December 8, 2016

      how you arrive at that. I am not ,….but my choice is to and have been to reject Skerrit and his corrupt government. UWP is a credible party………Labour is corrupt to the bones.

    • LabourOfLove 2.1
      December 8, 2016

      Indeed you belong on the block.

    • December 8, 2016

      That is why you are the “kid on the block” because you are hook on phonics.
      I have no steak in neither political parties, but Dr. Sevarin was far from been the mouth piece of the UWP.
      His lecture was based on facts-GDP, economics and the statistical report that he had access to.
      And the conduct of those rascals-sale of passport, University Portsmouth with no building, an empty lot with a Mano tree.
      In this century, where technology in health care is better than fifty years ago,
      out hospital is a mortuary.

    • coyote
      December 9, 2016

      kid on the block, are you satisfied with the direction the country is heading at present?

    • Anansi
      December 11, 2016

      They must have blocked your growth as a kid.

  55. Doc. Love
    December 8, 2016

    On several occasions, Dominicans have heard Mr. Edison James publicly say that Tony does not like Dominicans. When one listens to his description of Dominicans, in particular the educated ones, we must agree with Mr. James. Mr.Severin earned his doctorate, it was not given to him because he made a financial contribution to a college and for Tony to refer to him as an intellectual fraud and is intellectually dishonest, is garbage, but again, that is where Tony does whenever anyone disagrees with Skeritt. It is unfortunate, the press and radio give Tony opportunities to insult Dominicans. Those of us who listened to Kairi at approximately 8.40 am this morning, again heard Tony, after he dived into the garbage bin to get more description as to how he feels about Dominicans. He referred to members of the opposition as political scavengers with rattish, gutter intensions, they behave like wild pigs in the bush looking for rotten things to eat. God bless you Dr. Severin.

  56. john wallace
    December 8, 2016

    Tony the truth shall set you free. Mr Severin is saying it as he sees it, being truthful unlike you Tony

  57. well well
    December 8, 2016

    Why is this news? Hot air is not news.

  58. Concern citizen
    December 8, 2016

    Well I don’t blame Tony As taphan too much for the RUBBISH which came from his person, but the blame should go to the people of D/ca both those who resides here and over seas, to be tolerating As Taphan toney, Lawrence Alick and Skerrit Roosevelt to sit there and impoverish the country like that, and when all is said and done SKERRIT is the best thing that their ETERNAL GOD has ever send to the Nature Isle,
    the churches and the Evangelist should be blamed equally too Pay the public works people for their LABOUR

  59. Gorvernance
    December 8, 2016

    Dominicans. We should not give Mr Astaphans praise for his utterance by responding in kind. As Mrs Michelle Obama said, “When they go low, we go high”.

    Let us be civil and then Mr Astaphans’ colleagues and supporters will be awaken and realise that there are a more morale, humane, respectful and civilised people in Dominica.

    • viewsexpressed
      December 8, 2016

      Well said, I concur, decency in politics. We know better not to stoop to their dirty level. We shall rise.

    • ??????????????????
      December 8, 2016

      I disagree. We must fight fire with fire when Tony utters such rubbish and try to denigrade our brilliant son of the soil. As Dr. Severin said, Autocratic leaders lie to the poor everyday and the poor believe their lies. That is TONY’s strategy. Repeat the lies everyday and the poor fools will believe it.
      We MUST condemn such behavior in order to educate the less fortunate among us.

  60. TRUEMAN
    December 8, 2016

    ***Dominica would be a better place without you*******

    So…..

    TONY!!!!! PLEASE ……GO……..AWAY!!!!!

    -BAH-BYE!!!!

  61. latitude e5550
    December 8, 2016

    i for one support what tony astaphans has said in if dr severin was in the usa. president elect trump would have called on him to apologize. these guys come in all shape and forms. the same university he is the head of, has rules and regulation. for instance for any programme at that university payments must be made at first caribbean to a uwi account. there is noway i can pay monies to that university by the secretary. one also have to follow the guideline set by the tutor such as a specific way of sending your work which is done on line failure to do so would end in your work being ungraded,Dr severin YOU SEEM TO HAVE SEEM POLITICAL GRIPE AND YOU ARE USING THAT MEDIUM TO BELCH WHICH IS TOTAL WRONG.IF YOU WERE IN THE USA PRESIDENT ELECT TRUMP WOULD HAVE TWITTED OUT WHAT S SHAME WHAT A SHAME.

    • viewsexpressed
      December 8, 2016

      My friend, your attitude has so far extended to unbelievable thoughts that I hope you will not argue an essay or participate in a debate because you will no only fail but would read, without any merit and research. What on earth have you written there. I bet you if you re read, the latitude of this ignorance is so out od line that you will be ashamed to attempt a retry without doing some lessons in comprehension, assessment, knowledge of our constitution and good governance also some decency in politics, also political science. Also read our Constitution. You an Tony are unable to step into Dr. Severin’s foot let alone his steps.

    • I do not wish to give an opinion in regards to what I read; but to you some latitude, I must confess I an convinced that you are a fool; and your very comments, the way you write is an indication of your stupidity!

      The problem with “things” like you is that as long as someone speaks the truth, and not sing praises to
      Skerrit, and kiss up to him and hiss rusty Butt. Nothing truthful an independent mind convey makes sense to idiots like you!

      • By the way, I am apologizing for referring to you as “things” okay; I should not have reduced you to the status of a thing: You are human too, so I take that insult back!

    • ??????????????????
      December 8, 2016

      When you learn to write proper English and spell, I will read your post. So many colleges and universities in the USA go educate yourself. Is fools like you that come home every year to vote and then leave us in . A lot of us down here are highly educate and know nonesense when we see it.

  62. NKRUMAH KWAME
    December 8, 2016

    Tony, please tickle me again!! Boy, look laughter! Can one imagine Tony talking about “honesty” and “misrepresentation”? When I lived in Ghana many years ago, there was this saying: “when a stone is pelted in a pig sty, only the pig that was hit, squeals”. Were you hit so hard, Tony?
    And for your upliftment, Tony and the other pseudos, this is what C L R James, in his epic essay published in Modern Politics, had to say to the Caribbean people: “Anyone who tries to prevent you from knowing, from learning anything, is an enemy, an enemy of freedom, of equality, of democracy”.
    Happy reading and merry Xmas!! :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen:
    HOTEP!

  63. Shaka Zulu
    December 8, 2016

    Skerrit must have called him to cry on his shoulder telling him how his feelings were hurt. Mr. Astaphan thats up to the people to decide

  64. Real possie
    December 8, 2016

    Who were the many people who thought that was a great speech? For sure it was not me , this came to speak on the dame but he ended up looking like a person running for UWP leadership. To speak of Parliament and not advice people on how to represent themselves there is troubling to me.

    • jonathan st jean
      December 8, 2016

      @Real possible,this was titled the Same Eugenia Charles lecture series,it was not a lecture about Dame Eugenia Charles.You have people laughing at you because you don’t understand what it is you are talking about.Shame on you,man.The lecture series is in honor of our past Prime minister but does not have to be about her,it is in her honor but can be on any topic under the sun.You make me laugh at you man

  65. hope
    December 8, 2016

    i listened my self i believe it was one sided.

    • MWEN
      December 8, 2016

      There are no 2 sides the truth. There is only 1 truth.

    • The Thinker
      December 8, 2016

      Yes it pointed out how far we have gone from being a caring,honest government.No two sides I’m afraid

    • Lang Mama
      December 8, 2016

      When Tony lies it is people like you that he appeals to. There was no side in the presentation. The only reason you feel that way is because what was said nibbled on your conscience and when a matter toggle your conscience you either accept or deny and you are in denial.

    • LabourOfLove 2.1
      December 8, 2016

      Front or back side…..idiot !

    • ” i listened my self i believe it was one sided.”

      Try writing it this way: “I listened my self I believe it was one sided.”

      Perhaps it would make more sense if you wrote: ” I listened, and found what he said to be one sided.”

      And by the way sentences are commenced with capital letters, and where you wrote my self i believe, when you are using a type writer, or a computer, keyboard, or letters on your smart phone that “I” must be capitalized!

      If you are not capable of writing a proper sentence, I question your ability to understand anything Savarin spoke about!

  66. EnfantDiable
    December 8, 2016

    Can the same be said of Dr Lennox Honneychurch’s “CRAB IN THE BARREL” lecture??

  67. Optimist
    December 8, 2016

    Boss tony the truth is usually a tough pill to swallow especially when people like you get comfortable taking it as a suppository. We need more people like Dr. Severin who holds positions in society where intellectual honesty must be demanded at all and absolutely all times to come out and speak.. Too many of them get caught up in the chronic group think and myopia which exist within this regime

  68. Anansi
    December 8, 2016

    Tony who the hell cares about your feelings? You think you ruling in absentia, but when the time comes to met out rightful justice, you will be in court presentia. Man start looking for clients where you are because your days are over as counsel, not just in Dominica but the wider Caribbean. There was nothing there that Francis stated which was not the truth – must be burning allu behind. If the cap fits…

  69. viewsexpressed
    December 8, 2016

    ………………………….Again Tony Astaphan, we the Dominican people applaud Dr. Francis Severin, a reputable, well earned son of the soil. His reputation and esteem you and your cronies, in high office is unable, and cannot match. That, you and Skerrit etc. have to live with. I Challenge you and Skerrit, or more so Skerrit to present a paper on “Autocracy rule, Democracy lost” to the people of Dominica. Try it nuh…..you all are experts in its application, deceitful in its hidden agenda and corrupt in its concept. All you do is protect Skerrit. He just is not ductored enough to even attempt to comprehend this topic let alone present it with any honesty and integrity. We have risen to the high level, you, Skerrit and your political cronies have degraded yourselves to the level of no return and continue to hurt the Dominican people. So whatever you whisper, say, rant and rave about, we are not disturbed. Soo your reign and cronies will come to an end.

    • forreal
      December 8, 2016

      who we?

      • forreal
        December 8, 2016

        linton need to grow up when executing the business of the people in parliament,severin should know that also,read and overstand the issue and events that severin is referring to.

  70. viewsexpressed
    December 8, 2016

    No. 1 it is nice to know that Astaphan and his supporting clowns listened attentively to the quality lecture from Right Hon. Dr Francis Severin, a credible match that he, “Senor Counsel” is unable to match. I take it that he & cronies took their precious time to digest, read, listened over before they became mischievously in their response. That appears to be their Christmas gift to themselves. Idiots. These are the guys who skilfully presented to the state on behalf of inept Skerrit the denial of French citizenship and of the Bin and Fertilizer Bobols until another credible son of the soil Hon. Lennox Linton unveil their hypocrisy and political lies, deception .

    Mr Astaphan let me summarise who you are in relation to this response, using your own words, I refer to as a self inflicted wound on y9urself, her goes: …”to me, Astaphan.”, your response Severin, “…is an intellectual disgrace, a fraud and something that should be condemned. I hereby condemn you Tony…

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