Our national focus in Dominica needs to change as a matter of urgency. Constructive action is critical to diffuse the political muddle that continues to hover over our once peaceful nation following the 2009 general election. The longer we remain tolerant in this political muddle, the more pernicious and challenging it will be to get back on the road to prosperity.
The premise to such observation is the recent comments made by the Prime Minister dubbed “win lose or draw”. Our focus should be on public discussions that will alert our citizens of the present and pending global economic situation, the threats it poses to our economy as well as the opportunities it presents. The contagious effects of the global financial crisis to our country signals establishing a unified populace.
For no good reason this statement by Roosevelt Skerrit as the Prime Minister of the country and the circumstances that prompted his response brought to the fore the extent of the political tribalism created and existing in Dominica. Not only was the statement distasteful and devoid of the comportment, nobility and class that should so rightfully surround the office of the prime minister, it also showed the magnitude of irresponsibility, recklessness and emptiness of foresight on the part of the leadership of this country.
To find a good indicator to the current political climate one need to read the despicable comments posted on DNO following the PM statement. Our citizens are face to face with the reality of a gangster’s paradise.
The continuing battle and involvement by our government, more so the Prime Minister to defend so many allegations pointed in their direction inevitably takes away the attention given to much more important economic issues. A once trusting people to the present regime are exhausted with the number of events that has raised their ugly heads over the last two years. The most frightening was the vehement discourse by cabinet and non action of the authorities in the GON Emmanuel fire bombing case. Many of us silently ask ourselves what is really going on in our country. The stunning reality of such events cross political boundaries and really scare the citizenry. Why would our cabinet spend so much time in a civil case and sideline the more important task of nation building in such trying economic times?
There is a present economic turmoil in Europe as Greece, Italy, Portugal, Ireland and Spain owe in excess of US $5-trillion in debt to Britain, France and Germany. On the other side of the globe the United States is facing the worse time of its economic history with a humongous national debt of over US $15-trillion. The present financial uncertainty in these big economies makes it very volatile for our small regional states.
The significance of the present global economic circumstance definitely needs the attention of our government. The global contagion effect of the ongoing struggle in these major tourism markets cannot be ignored. The scaling back effect of the European Union on it contribution to the region will have severe consequence to regional economies. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) admitted that the situation in the tourism sector is getting worse. There is a drop in demand from both business and leisure tourists. The crisis will decrease travel and leisure spending. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) the crisis will impact the Caribbean, where tourism industry is a vital part of many economies.
The tourism industry in Dominica is going to endure the greatest adverse contagion impact from the European and American debt crisis. As arrivals from Europe and America is going to decrease tremendously. Unemployment in these two regions is on the steady increase. Governments in these economies are going to take measure to cut back on expenditure and raise revenues to balance their budgets and pay their debts. This will eventually lead to less tourist arrivals and grant contribution from the European Union and other affiliated institutions.
What does that mean for our country?
As a nation we have faulted in abandoning the vital agricultural sector. The question of food security is becoming a very relevant issue in Dominica. On the advice of the ‘dollar minister’ we have place all our eggs in the tourism basket. Presently in Dominica tourism is our main contributor to GDP. This sector has always been and will continue to be a very fragile and volatile sector. The pending Global Financial crisis will further clarify this volatile nature of the tourism sector. A significant drop in our tourism revenue will have severe effect on the overall economy. In many areas we will feel the squeeze. We will be called upon to make tremendous sacrifice. There will be need to cut salary, increase taxation, face layoff among many others. The evidence of things to come is now materializing in Barbados. The IMF recently recommended a wage freeze for our sister country. Such times need tolerance and understanding on the part of the population. We will need to unite to return to the days of community service to maintain public good.
How can a nation accomplish unity in purpose when such reckless and damaging utterances are being spat out at the citizens?
The action of a visionary government sensitive to the global state of affairs would be to unite its people. Obviously there will be those with different political views, however, such global economic reality have no political preferences. As such discriminating against their right to object will not do the trick. So we need to exercise temperament and restraint if our intentions are honest and noble. Only then will we have reciprocity.
Our minds should be focused on finding answers to the inevitable consequence of such economic events. Efficiency in the use of limited public resources should guide expenditure. The public discourse should be centered on strategic ways to remodel our education system to readjust to this new economic disposition.
The call for more vocational disciplines in our secondary school system is presently very loud and rightfully so. We should listen. We should be concern with a manpower audit within the education department with a view to extend our secondary school curriculum beyond 5th form level. This would make it cheaper and more accessible to tertiary learning and skill development on the part of students around the country without increasing to the national expenditure. It can be done. This will relieve much needed resources to focus on a more advance college institution. Its focus and concentration should be on career areas pertinent to our economic development. We should get back to rewarding academic excellence and stop exploiting the tertiary education system for political expedience.
Our discussion should be on restructuring the agricultural sector to firstly, be self sufficient in the production of meat, fish, vegetables and ground provision. Secondly, to invest in strategies that will add value to these products for export within the regional markets. There are opportunities available in this new economic disposition. This should stimulate discussion on bringing back the Caribbean Single Market and Economy to the table. Figures from the Caribbean Tourism organization show that regional tourism is increasing since the 2008 financial crisis in the US. This presents opportunities for the tourism sector. Scientific data should guide our marketing strategies in tourism. It is therefore crucial that the issue of inter-regional travel becomes the discussion of regional governments. The objective should be to make regional travel cheaper and more efficient.
In Dominica the discussion should be renegotiating with China. Our position with the Chinese should be one of more mutual benefit. Presently we are nothing more than a dumping market place for their goods. The balance of trade is tilting heavily to their side and deserves more robust checks and balances. The truth to the memorandum of understanding with the Chinese has expired. The leadership of this country should reconcile their flaws in this agreement and get back to the negotiating table.
The global economic pendulum is shifting and as such our position around the table of friendship is also shifting. The time is right for modification of our foreign policies that will advance our country as a whole and not individual welfare.
The list of pertinent issues in lovely Dominica is far from exhausted in this article. I am merely hoping to start the discussion. I refuse to accept that our political biasness has become so impervious in this country that we will be forced to see wrong, know wrong, accept wrong and do wrong against our better judgment.
I am adamant that there are honest and noble men and women in this country who are sensitive to our real economic issues. The pertinent issues needing urgent attention are the effect of a definite pending global recession. The focus of our government should not be captivated solely by the issues of the Mano fire, dual citizenship, villas, spying on its citizens, putting stops to freedom of expression, the romance of CLICO CEO to the woe of its clients and so much more. If that is the state of affair of our country’s leadership we are definitely going down the wrong road.
It is our duty and responsibility as a people to demand service from our elected parliamentarians, more so from an 18-3 government.
Come ye forward sons and daughter, do the right, be firm be fair.
Opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of Dominica News Online.
Interesting yes.
Everyone in the UWP outshines or seems to outshine the leader of the UWP.
Alas, poor Da I feeling bad for my country. I read this article before there were any comments and waited to see the outcome. I’m not encouraged at all. the problems facing Da right now politics can’t solve that will require leadership.Where is it going to come from? Mr. skerrit had a window but look who he ended up being being aligned with (savarin). someone reading this contribution please give me a name, It is my opinion that the leadership is now reduced to the least of many poor choices. Full disclosure I am from Itassi, I dont live in Da. I cannot even begin to approach the solution in this submission. The only person articulating any plan the last election believe it or not was pappy. After the limousine ride and all the comedy, there were instances where substantive arguments were presented. where was the opposition (uwp)better yet send me a copy of their manifesto. The biggest problem facing Da right now as it relates to development is it’s population or lack thereof. I have yet to see this recognized much less addressed.I go home twice a year once for carnival and in the summer with my family on the way I pass through Trinidad, St. lucia, Barbados, Antigua, St. maarteen, fella, we have a way to go. Last time I was home I took my family to a snackette and the beautiful young lady attending told me ” food finsh ” imagine that.
Hope you remain united with UWP and give advise in raising the $40,000 to pay the SPEAKER.Furthurmore you should concentrate on your studies
Boy, I like the new Claudius Sanford already. He is a quick study. He, all of a sudden, knows about the impending global financial crisis and its consequences for developing economies like ours that are heavily dependent on tourism and agriculture.
But like politicians of his ilk he tends to believe that we forget easily (lespwi poule). In his September 5th 2011 “Commentary:It’s the economy people, not politics”, he criticized the PM for presenting a $432.5 million budget to parliament. He lambasted the Cabinet, 3/4 of which “lack an academic background in business or economics’ and “less than 30 % of (whom)….lack a college degree”.
In that commentary he statede, “Each one of them (Ministers) accepted THE LAME EXCUSES read by the Prime Minister as to the causes for the reduction in the budget amount:
1. Global financial crisis but what is the value of government investment portfolio in the international financial markets Mr. PM?
2. Slow pace in the US and Western economies but what is our volume of trade with the US and Western economies Mr. PM?
3. Rising fuel and energy costs but what role is Petro Caribe playing to cushion the effect Mr. PM?”
So Mr. Sanford was ridiculing “the lame excuses given by the PM for a reduction in the budget amount”, a figure which is still wayn above our gross domestic product, (GDP). Now he seems to be regurgitating the very same reasons and impending threat of the global financial crisis. Welcome aboard, Mr. Sanford, you have finally seen the light.The PM and his Cabinet were steps ahead of you.
The last IMF report gave Dominica a fair score and now you are warning us of theabout the drastic IMF measures recommended for Barbados. With your increased budget deficit proposal, we would be in a worst budgetary crisis.
Before people post their irrational comments and thumbs down, take a look at Mr. Sanford’s September 5th, 2011 “Commentary: It’s the economy people, not politics”. You may want to take a look at my comments, then. I pinpointed Mr. Sanford’s lack of understanding of the global economy and the financial crisis affecting the West and its consequences for developing economies like ours.
Mr. Sanford used his stealth tactics to throw some jabs at the PM and finished his diatribe pretending to be the grown up and true patriot. He states, “I am adamant that there are honest and noble men and women in this country who are sensitive to our real economic issues. The pertinent issues needing urgent attention are the effect of a definite pending global recession. The focus of our government should not be captivated solelyby the issues of the Mano fire, dual citizenship, villas, spying, ….and so much more. If that is the state of affair of our country’s leadership we are definitely going down the wrong road”.
Bravo, Mr. Sanford, I hope you are preaching to the choir.Better late than never sir. The global crisis is not “pending” anymore. THE WORLD IS ON FIRE!!!! Thank God you had to visit the United States to notice!!!
NICE .. I like this very much
Well Articulated!
IN DAYS GONE BY ,DOMINICANS REFERED TO THE CARIB PEOPLE AS SAVAGES, UNDER EDUCATED, AND FOOLISH PEOPLE,ALAS THE DAY HAS COME WHEN A CARIB HAS SHOWN MORE INTELIGENCE, MORE UNDERSTANDING OF WORLD’S AFFAIRS, MORE LEADERSHIP QUALITIES THEN THE MAN THAT PRESENTLY HOLDS THE POSITION OF PRIME MINISTER. I SALUTE YOU MR. SANFORD,AT THIS POINT IN TIME, DOMINICA NEEDS PEOPLE LIKE YOU WITH LEADERSHIP CAPABILITIES.
This is interesting article with good points for economic focus. However it is politically bias in blaming the current issue of “allegedly” lack of unity squarely on the shoulder of the prime minister. Many of the problems that we have in Dominica today stem from the opposition UWP whose sole purpose and agenda is on trying to degrade and discredit the current prime minister by any means necessary. The opposition have neglected their responsibilities to their constituents and Dominica on a whole with all this negative press without any evidence of wrong doing. This type of negativity and propaganda is similar to what Obama is facing with the republicans. As is evident in the US such negativity can impact and hold economic advancement hostage. The prime minister’s leadership is being hindered with such issues as the citizenship hearing when time and money could be better served focusing on some of the issues for economic development mentioned in the article. Dominica is not immune to the present economic downturn but the government time can be better served to build and foster diplomatic relation (particularly with China which is still thriving in these difficult times) for assistance for projects and to attract potential investors in times of such uncertainty. Having to stop and answer to trivial allegations and negative press can only be an impediment! The people have spoken 18 to 3 give the government their time to lead! If people are not happy with the leadership at the end of the term then they can use their freedom to vote to invoke change!
Today many people want to write articles for the media on issues facing Dominica. Have any of them honestly and diplomatically collaborated with the present government to address such issues? If not such articles can only be seen for what they are politically driven and self-serving! You writers if you truly care for Dominica try the diplomatic process with the government before crying foul and going to the media! Such behaviour by you only brings negative attention to Dominica.
“Having to stop and answer to trivial allegations and negative press can only be an impediment! The people have spoken 18 to 3 give the government their time to lead! If people are not happy with the leadership at the end of the term then they can use their freedom to vote to invoke change!”
Is cleaning up the voters list and voter IDs to ensure FREE and FAIR elections a POLITICAL ISSUE???
Is spending 27 million on a state house priority??? Dont you think that our children would be better off paying back a 27 million dollar loan for a hospital or something that would be of better use to them than A STATE HOUSE??
and oh do you find the constitutional debate at present to be a TRIVIAL???? don’t you have any reverence for our sovereignty??
This is certainly a crtical piece of analysis. This discussion is alien to the readership. Expect the critics. Dominican society devoured of Books.
Am a shame of u Sanford,thats hypocrisy in Dominica is dont do it and let me do it.For Dominica sake leave our PM alone thanks we must clean our heart before we clean others.
and we must clean the voters list too!!
The voters list but ALL HIPOCRITES FOR SURE.
This is a problem we will always have in Dominica. I citizen of this country take his time and neutrally i might add speak about the issues that nay blind man or woman can see and not only speak of the issues but give solution and some people thing its partisan.
eg:WIKILEAKS. Yes i call your name.
This just affirm the point he was making. we need to stop being a bunch of blind supporters and start using our head. Its time that the people that have true concern about this country speak up. We have been allowing the empty vessels to make the most noise long enough.
As a people we need to open our eyes. See whats happening to Barbados who had so much a greater economy then ours and yet we still doing this politics crap when we should focus not on the man but on what he is saying. cause any one with brains see that he has a a solid point. Is his statement perfect no far from it. But he is on the right path and that’s a start.
Can you believe the gull (and bold-face hypocracy) of this man to attack supporters of the PM who comment on DNO, YET makes NO MENTION of the constant HATE-FILLED garbage talk going on on Q95, including the calls for assasinations of government officials? And then you guys really expect right-thinking individuals in this country to take you seriously?? You must be joking mate?? JUST WHEEL AND COME AGAIN!!!!
Now would it not have been more constructive if these sentiments had been expressed in Parliament? I cannot help but remind the Senator that opportunities lost can never be regained.
YES AH
Intellectual garbage continued to be sprewed unto the mindset of our unsuspecting populace. Absolutely no respect has been advanced for the ofiice of PM for everyday the agents of propaganda continue to be so irresponsible and show flagrant hatred for the beloved PM…..The Prime Minister has a right to defend him self thrugh words and actions as long as there is respect for the Law. This constant linching of Mr Skerrit has to stop.When people show absoulutely no respect for the rule of law, hate the church, slaps the courts , abuses democracy and fails to appreciate the fact that their party is losing tremendous support nationally then what else must this deluded must write about ?
I AM SO HAPPPY TO HAVE DISTANCED MYSELF FROM (*FEAR NO MORE) AM NOW PART OF ” I AM DOMINICA ARE YOU : !!!!
I would have to agree that this was a very well written article, but would have to fall short on saying that the substance in the article leaves much to be desired. My first concern was that he mentioned that, “The premise to such observation is the recent comments made by the Prime Minister dubbed “win lose or draw””. I have no idea where that comment was made or in what context it was made. To me it felt like this particular phrase was cherry-picked out of a address.
You keep mentioning IMF and Debt in the western countries. If you take a look at history and see what the EU and IMF has done to the Caribbean, then I would think twice even bringing them up in conversation. What happened to the Banana industry in the Caribbean, what role did the EU play in that; Jamaica, was completely ruined by the IMF, through policies that went with borrowing from them.
So if all the countries that you mentioned are in so much debt, isn’t looking for alternative lending partners, such as China be in the best interest of Dominica?
You also mentioned agriculture, are you serious about the agriculture industry being an important part of the economy in this day and age. You really think that the EU and US will open markets to our agricultural produce. I do not think so, when so much big cooperation will fight against it. For best when it comes to agriculture is for local and regional consumption at best.
This article was very well written; Mr. Sanford’s points were clearly laid out and it is obvious that he is able to express himself eloquently and professionally.
I think Mr. Sanford made a few good points about where Dominica’s focus needs to be. More specifically, I agree that we need more focus on agriculture, vocational skills at the secondary school level and regional tourism.
In addition to his observations, I believe that we need to do more to encourage members of the Diaspora to return home; this should be a long-term goal.
Our intermediate goals should include the expansion of our service industries (financial, health, technology and specialized hospitality), revitalization of our manufacturing industry and further exploration of our natural resource reserves (geothermal and hydroelectric energy and water exportation).
In the short term I believe that there’s a lot more we should do to provide a clean and pristine destination for cruise ship arrivals. Let’s be honest, the vagrants and stray dogs need to go. Also, I think our craft vendors on the Bayfront need a permanent structure to house their goods and to conduct business.
However, I’m not in total agreement with Mr. Sanford’s argument the Prime Minister’s efforts are focused on defending personal attacks. Further, I think these attacks are part of larger effort to distract the PM’s attention and provoke negative reactions toward said PM.
So to the citizenry, listen to Mr. Sanford; do not be brainwashed. But please, beware of brainwashing attempts on both sides of the political fence.
Well stated Mr. Sanford. The progressive will of the Dominican people coulpled by competent, visionary and noble leadership is whats required to lift Dominica from this present Quagmire. JAH BLESS!!!
I am pleased that so many of us are still passionate about our lovely island. I am trying to stay positive, and do my share to help promote Dominica. Check out my blog: I just started yesterday http://destinationnatureisland.blogspot.com/
I think this is one of the most noble speeches I have read in a long time regarding Dominica. If Roosevelt Skerrit was smart, he would have taken a cue from the tone of your speech Mr. Sandford for his independence day address, because I think statemanship is written all over this piece of writing, well done!!
I think, this speech also presented a foundation as he rightly stated that can be built on.
Remember the saying, America sneezes and the world catches the cold, well, I think we were the first to begin feeling the effects of this economic global downturn, and we are going to be the last to actually get rid of these symptoms because, as the super powers get ready to straighten up their financial woes, they will do it with little consideration for out side nations. America is now seeking to retain all its valuable trained persons, and to capitalize on everything that they have failed to in the past. Their jobs will be coming back home, and the list continues.
Therefore, when these nations financial status will be turning up hill, we will be made to suffer a bit longer.
We have to be ready as a nation to be self sufficient. The importance of our agriculture sector cannot be over-emphasized. It is still absurd to think that a prime minister from Vieille Case would allow the dollar minister to influence him so much against agriculture. This is just very absurd.
I think the ideas presented in this article can be embraced from all political spectrum, it really can.
I think finally that Sanford has presented himself as prime minister material. Something to really think about.
Mr. Sandford on another date and tiem I mightbe pursuaded to bel;eive that you are seriuos about themany pertinenet issues yuou raised. If however we have to scrutinize your submissions, soem of them are unable to stand thetest of time. Waht do we have that can be traded on the Chinese market for example at a reasonable price? Mentionone commodity. Water? China has more of thast resource than Dominica. On top of that expoertting water to China can be a very costly affair for the average Chinese. Water is a very expensive commodity to trade. Can it be bananas? China is a producer of bananas for its own market. Perhaps we might eb able to divisive some ways to send clean air to Bejeing. If that technology exists, China is able to produceits own frsh air form the billion of acres of forested areas.
Your ideas are worth reviewing,but you attempted to present the same without any mentionof WTo realities and how can Dominica take action globally to protect itself from the the animal called WTO.
Finally, the tribalism you spoke about did not chance upon Dominica by some other power. It is planned executed and festooned by the UWP of which you are a Senator in the present House of Assembly. Did you hear one of your suporters refer tot eh Prime Minister as a “little Boy” and asking him to move his “arse” out of there? Whastis your opinion, Sir. Will that endear the type of development you referred to when your party is encouraging people to disrespect those in authority. Again, here we go. The very important message is lost with the messenger behaving and encouraging anti-development.
English Please!!! Please proofread prior to submission. This is appalling.
I am very much in agreement with the contents of this article as it is my firm belief that the DLP administration has spent the better part of the last 11 years fighting on the ropes – just like a hopeless fighter without a plan of action. In fact and as inferred in the article the DLP administration has spent most of out limited resources running fire drills all in an effort to cover up misconduct, inefficiencies and generally bad judgments. I have never seen a government spend so much time fighting allegations while the country has fallen behind in almost all facets- crime has gone up, poverty , unemployment, moral decay, the disenfranchisement of farmers , entrepreneurism on a massive down slide – the list goes on. If only the government had spent half the discussing and engaging the population in the areas of concern Dominica would have made some strides.
I don’t condone corruption by any means , I am most certainly not a WIKILEAK like supplicant. However I always refer to the Vierre Bird administration. An administration plagued by corruption and abuse of power however amidst this corruption there was significant advancement on the island of Antigua. The then opposition in Antigua would play the part of opposition but then most Antiguans were more than willing to role with the punches and embrace the economic success – they accepted the thorns that came with the roses. In Dominica the masses have yet to experience the economic success that has fallen upon the DLP ministers and cabals.
I am a bit disappointed that the article did not touch on the inefficiencies of the opposition. The failure of the opposing parties to prove that their organizations are ready to pickup this country from the existing maladies. I am ready to hit the streets to get rid of the bad eggs in our government however I need to be assured that the replacement administration is worth the effort.
Dominica is going through the most darkest moment ever and we need movers not thieves, dishonest lawyers, despicable AG, deceitful and untrustworthy ministers and PM’s and certainly not a Paper doll police commissioner. We need to rebuild the confidence of the farmers and to work with them with earnest to streamline our production sector. We need to allow our local businesses to compete and not be priced out of the market because foreign businesses are able to take advantage of corrupt under table deals and ultimately duty free privileges (I can back that up).
Mr. Sanford Sir, my hats off to you!! This commentary is the best that has even graced the pages on DNO. Right on target Sir!! Well put together, I love it.
I wonder after win , lose or draw what else did the prime Mininster say.
The case could only have three outcomes, win a lost or a draw, so what is t about those three word that s causing a problem.
Misinterpreting a person to create a false impression is wrong, and that is the cause of the tribalism, everything the PM says is misconstrued to make him look bad, when he did not mean it the way the opposition is saying it. What I read the PM said was that he would respect the courts decision win lose or draw, what else should he have. said.
the case could draw? some of you are so stupid in ur blind support.
this is indicative that you have no sense of JUSTICE…. DRAW where???? in your coloring book????
Very well written article which brings into sharp focus the problem in this country. And when these dotish people who are singing for their supper makes these dotish statements makes me wonder where the hell is this country going.
Keep on putting forward these informitive articles and hopefully some of these dotish political parasites will get the picture.
Aren’t you singing for your supper too? Only difference is that your supper not even on fire yet and the others’ done cook.
Im glad you pointed that out, it just goes to show that some shall eat alllllll…. go ahead man eat! I like allu kind of politics….
Mr. Sanford well said, everyone who says they are patriotic, they should read this article and reflect. Everyone should want whats best for their country and dont think about the present alone because future will be the present at a point, and we want whats best for ourselves,family,friends and country.
@Critically critical: I believe Mr. Sanford is correct with his statement that PMs statements were out of line. He should, during his national address for Independence, apologize to the people of Dominica. The Office of the Prime Minister should not be commenting to that level. There is should be a level of class held by anyone in that office. Have you ever heard Obama comment in such a manner and he’s seen and heard worst.
Yes, you are right that DNO is a form for us to discuss issues, but not at the tone at which some of the folks have posted. The typical “I will say what I want is my mouth” is not always the best route. In this case, it was very deplorable to read what Dominicans were saying to each other.
@Progres: I believe what Mr. Sanford is saying from his article is The your party, my party thing is not helping. He is trying to say there are bigger issues we face today than what colour to wear. On the other hand, I do agree 100% that the opposition needs to do the right thing and engage the Govt.
Again, I have to commend Mr. Sanford for at least making an effort, as a Dominican, to open dialog about the bigger issues Dominica faces. Regardless of what party he is or isn’t affliated with he has brought forward valid points, which both parties and supporters can take ques from.
I think u misread my comment, please read it again if u get the chance. Have a great day!
I think u may have misread my comment, please read it again if u get the chance. Have a great day!
Election was in 2009…Why are we still talking about election? When are we going to move to the next page? I was in Dominica last month and i saw new roads, a different airport, and a very nice stadium. The PM might have his faults but tell me one peson on this planet that don’t have faults. Like him or hate him we need to say thanks to the lord for him.
well enough already, you mean to tell me you read this brilliant piece of work and that was all you derived from it. If after over 30 years of independence you believe that a construction of a road is sufficient developement I am sorry for you. We all have our faults but this is not about the primeminister or any one man this is about our further development as a nation. Like every other government this one has done some work but this is insufficient to take us to the next level they boast so much about. This article has sought to highlight the challenges we currently face, our present conditions and suggestions on what we should do next, he did not lambaste the government but sought to educate them, wake up, stop seeing colours and be open minded, Dominica first, politics after.
i can tell u come out oversea u not in d/a to know wat we dealing with all the highprices . that airport not anything to boast about we cant even get flights from america. the roads are still not good they mess up so fast so u should not talk cause u dont know!
why do people always come with this nonsense about I was in Dominica and I saw roads?
Are you for real with this crap? Roads and stadiums do NOT constitute real development.
It amazes me that people still put forth that argument and in all seriousness. It only makes you look dumb!
All the arguing and disagreeing will get you what we have here in the US , no where . There has to be give and take , and level heads . In my opinion Dominica could get through this world crisis just fine by doing more to promote your Eco-tourism . The people with money will still be spending and traveling . Why not get them to Dominica . I for one am making plans now .
Thank you Mr. Wright for you comment.
He is right; market directly to more wealthy prospects. Also, we should look to brand new markets. China has a population of young to middle aged affluent people. We should do more work in that region, not just China, but also Japan, Malaysia, etc.
Sanford, WIN..DRAW..OR LOSE….you have a problem with these three little words…well you have issues my brodda.
Well WIN…DRAW..OR LOSE…this will be our country to build and I hope at some point all this political tribalism will stop and you and your UWP will go to the Parliament to represent the lost and destitute ones in DOminica. The one who want a differing opinion, the one one who one alternative strategic policy, the one who want thier voice heard in parliament.
The ones who want their tax money that is paying these half grown men to mean somethin to them.
So Mr Sandford, you can start by writing to your uwp colleagues by saying
“Dear UWP Colleagues, let’s be men about this last election, we miht have our grieviances and while thiese rieviances are being played out in court, we have a country to build and let’s start by being the shadow governement adn let’s attend parliament. Isn’t this we are fighting for? How would we feel if we the UWP were to win the next election and the oppsition does the same…think about it my dear colleagues.
And to my uwp media houses, lets stop using incendiary languages that only creates hatred, mistrust and anger. Let’s stop this war of words that fuels the PM’s backlash. Because if we are civil in our discourse there is no room for annamosity. My fellow media houses, let’s stop and think of what we say. We can’t be over the top with our language and expect unity”.
Now is a time to focus on the economy, we have seen a near collapse of major world economies and we need all hands on deck to assist us. I saw that the IMF gave Barbados a stern warning. Cut spending and slash wages. What does that mean for the wider Carribbean? What are the implications? What are our plans to mitigate the a worsening Dominica and Caribbean Economy.
Sanford, you and the UWP need to show more substance than just mere we will get Skerrit by whatever mean necessary. You guys remind me of the Republicans vs Barack Obama with their mentality of we will get rid of Obama at the expense of America. But the American Electorate are smarter than that and are seeing right through the schism and the same is true for Dominica.
I make no apologies about it, I am a labourite to the core and fabric, but I could well be a UWP because there is not ideologies that seperates us. The very same policies that the DLP have embraced, the UWP would be forced to do the same in a ever changing geo-political and technolgy change.
So take this as an advise..and you will do well.
JAHHH my boy!!! i say today I giving it a rest but mannnnn WHY CANT YOU LET SOMEONE HAVE THEIR SAY MY BROTHER!!! STOP ATTACKING EVERYTHING THAT IS CRITICAL OF YOUR MASTERS AND ALLOW MY FELLOW DOMINICANS TO HAVE OOOOOOONNNNNNEEEEEE DAYYYY WITHOUT YOU BASHING UWP THIS AND THAT, MY BOY NOT EVERYTHING IS ABOUT PARTY MY BOY,
YOU MAKING PEOPLE SICK MAN WIKILEAKS GIVE IT A REST JAHHH MAN!!
IF YOU CATCH A COLD IS UWP THAT GIVE IT TO YOU TOO SHAYTE MAN… GO AND EAT A GRAPEFRUIT OR A BANANA AND GIVE PEOPLE A BREAK MAN
I DONT KNOW FOR THE REST OF THE POSTERS ON DNO, BUT I PERSONALLY FED UP WITH YOU, FOR YOUR SAKE I WILL LEAVE DNO SO YOU ALLLOOONNEEE WILL COMMENT OK ROTWEILER, PWAYSAY TO BITE EVERY AND ANYBODY!
The problem with you and your many different handles, is that you can’t handle the truth…even if it is staring at you.
As I said, there is more that unites us than what seperates us…so keep baning your seperatest drum…
I laid my facts…now dispute it…please tell me what I siad that is wrong. If you do, I will leave DNO for you.
Like I said a millions time before you deaf what I will not say, I am not political. Admin please make a collection of my comments and email to wikileaks attention so that he can rest his partisan heart that I AM NOT POLITICAL!!!! One thing I can say about my CORE and FIBRE is that I am DOMINICAN…are you wikileaks???????????????????
ADMIN: How can we make a collection of your comments when you keep changing your name??
I have to use as many handles as I can, because pariah like you target individuals and relentlessly stifle their opinions, much less if there is any truth to what is being said. That is why most people will label you as “singing for your supper” because anything that is critical of your leader is UWP or part of some conspiracy… A little advice, FACT if you would. If your leader was more smart than cunning he would see DNO as pool of endless suggestions that he could use to implement the changes that are needed, and beat the opposition to any punch that they might have, but instead you and him assume the position of the victim and see constructive criticisms as attacks against you and your party….SMH, you both need to GROW UP and start to act like MEN!
CRITICALLY CRITICAL…it was just a matter of time before the ADMIN catch up with you. As I said, you and your many handles..1979 Lives…Executive Commanmd…and we can add a few more…lol.
And I will state it again…
Sanford, you and the UWP need to show more substance than just mere we will get Skerrit by whatever mean necessary. You guys remind me of the Republicans vs Barack Obama with their mentality of we will get rid of Obama at the expense of America. But the American Electorate are smarter than that and are seeing right through the schism and the same is true for Dominica.
I make no apologies about it, I am a labourite to the core and fabric, but I could well be, a UWP because there is not many ideologies that seperates us. The very same policies that the DLP have embraced, the UWP would be forced to do the same in a ever changing geo-political and technolgy change.
So take this as an advise..and you will do well.
catch up with what??? I must say you have a knack for evading the ISSUES, You playing hopscotch avoiding what you asked for, Isn’t it a FACT that THE pms energies would be much better spent using the criticisms he is facing to create the kind of changes that is being sought??? THEREBY BEATING THE “UWP” TO THE PUNCH…..
answer the relevant question
I think your government is quite embarrassed in the house by themselves. You see, the house of assembly is now an extension of cabinet and I know they are feeling extremely embarrassed and lonely. Also for a democracy, the international community is watching our parliament with keen eyes. Alot of questions are being asked, even our fellow caribbean colleagues are raising their eye brow…something must have been terrible wrong for the opposition to have stood their ground that long.
Sometimes I really wish it was different, but now more than ever I think the opposition to continue to stay away from parliament, because this thing hurting and burning DLP supporters rass.
You all keep singing 18-3, so why are you crying now, go on, have a big bash in the house of assembly. You all should be so busy enjoying your 18-3 majority, that you should feel happy, satisfied and have no need to be crying over UWP and their absence.
Something tells me you all are very uncomfortable.
You know this reminds me of the story of the thief who went to steal the a persons whole sluttered cow. He was concentrated so much on stealing and was so greedy, he took the entire cow. When he got home, this one would think would make him happy. However, when he packed his freezer, filled all his pots and pans with picked meat, he still had almost the entire cow left, he became embarrassed. The house began taking up the stench of the decaying meat, he could no longer stay in the house….
This is just an analogy of DLP in the house. One would have thought that the more the merrier, well they were dead wrong.
Enjoy the house that you all did all sorts of things to get in, and leave UWP alone.
This WIKILEAK person is sickening and shameful. people like WIKIlEAK destroys pride in nationalism. How can someone be so bias,arrogant and remain so childish.
The UWP or opposition is not the reason why the DLP has performed so very poorly. If you love the party so much it would serve both you and your party folks if you WIKILEAK would tell them your true feeling. It seems that the DLP supporters , tony in particular are doing more harm than good.
Off Spring of what…a Monkey. Hey watch, I sending a banana up for you ,,you on the tree.
The off Spring of monkey uwp wants to shut me up for talking.
Can you imagine uwp forms government and off spring of monkey patrolling DA and DNO…they would just shut us up.
Is a good thin I don’t believe in evolution, so you will never be human.
Bye, I leave DNO for you. Don’t forget to grab the entire bunch of bananas before you go up the tree.
Wiki
Are you a paid propagandist. Whether someone right or wrong as long as they don’t bow and say thank you to labour you got a problem with it.
It sucks to be you. No words can explain your train of thought. But trust me the words ‘total idiot’ comes to mind..
C/bean Genius isn’t that we fighting for..people like you and the uwp say there is no Democracy. But you and your ilk can write and talk whenever. But as long there is an opposing view to your little hatred group, you call us boblist/propogandist/apologist.
So I should just shut up and say nothing..ok I will do this to please you lennox/sandford/your beloved leader hector/the dude with the drying dreads..Groovy Bat..
You all win..bye
good ridance!
I would love for you to learn something, but seeing you are so biased and blinded i wont mind you not commenting.
By the way idiot i dont support uwp, labour or freedom. I have never voted in dominica election because i was overseas seeking employment that dominica couldnt provide.
But you so caught up in your political cabal you have lost all your sense of what right or wrong, beneficial or non-beneficial.
I am just sick of seeing my country at the back in terms of employment and opportunities for its citizens, infrastructure, and overall standards. Where are your ambitions, your desire for better, jobs for your kids, where are the opportunities for dominicans to flourish in their own country and not have to always migrate for better??????
People like you are the worst thing for any country’s development, sad to say you are a majority….
If is one thing I can say, I am proud of my people….ALL of us. no matter what party!!!!
Today I am Proud to be DOMINICAN!!! despite the challenges ahead I can see that we have what it takes to be GREAT!!!
We are truly a great nation, We have Grabbed the ear of an administration which REFUSED to give ear to its people and have MADE them hear our voices, even against threats of action the world has heard our dissent and we are now beginning to clear a way forward regardless of our differences in opinions….
god bless Dominica and all of its people!
i can’t understand how people of the carib territory will not vote this guy into office…. i surely can’t understand… this is the caliber of discussions we need going on… the question of whether his party was in house or not is irrelevant since mr pm would still do as he chooses… our focus as dominicans isn’t on the real issues affecting us…
YEAH!
THEY PREFER RO RO AND FETE FETE FETE
…AND PEOPLE WHO PRESENT RO RO AND FETE FETE FETE
I’m sorry but you absolutely cannot confuse making ignorant statements with making rebuttals to statements. Making a rebuttal requires proof to contradict statements made, and/or an alternative logic. The contents of DNO comments hardly displays this.
Too many times Dominicans cry out and continue to despair as they wait on Govt or other entities to help. Too many times these opinions of despair end up on DNO and shows our selfish nature instead of the concern for others. In my opinion it is truly a gangster’s paradise. When will we, as a people or as a nation realize, that it is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness?
It is good to give a helping hand to a suffering soul than to say good luck.
That’s what I mean. This is the open and honest discussion needed, and not the type of back and forth, which has been going on for the while. Love this article.
Our country was doing very well until you and your party refuse to accept the results of the 2009 elections. You all refused to enter the house of assembly. You all continued to try to incite civil unrest. you all took two members of the ruling party to court for sins you all were also guilty of. Was this part of the strategy to unseat a democratically elected government? Now you are here talking about the distractions. The very same distractions you and your party created. You want to start discussions; go through the proper channels.Start by going to the house of assembly and then we will discuss the issues.
I am not saying that this government is perfect and all is well, but you all are seeking to mislead the masses. There is a lot that we can disagree on when it comes to development of the country, but one thing I know for sure, with all the great ideas you have, when your party was in power things in Dominica were at their worst. Anyone who wants to admit the truth will agree with me. Dominica has made great strides under this Government.
You seek to project this government in a negative light by claiming, corruption, human rights violation and many more arbitrary allegations but Mr. Sanford your party is guilty of everyone of these allegations you are claiming against the DLP. If you love Dominica you all need to stop what you doing and do the right thing. Go through the proper channels to get things right for the sake of Dominica because, what you all have started will not stop there. You all may succeed in getting rid of Roosevelt Skerritt and eventually getting into power but you all have set a bad precedence which is going to continue to plague Dominica for the rest of our history very much to our detriment.
Wasn’t it the same Sanford that got into a political fight in his constituency…Sanford must have repented. Because I have seen his UWP done more to divide the country at the expense of being the governement.
What sheer utter hypocrisy…its like Matt and Lennox asking to shut down Kairi FM because they are sidig too much with the government.
talk about divisive! I think if they look for division in a dictionary wikileaks your picture must be right there next to the definition —– SMH today is flag day my brother, ease up and let us have a good day!
pull string la ca paytay, mourn ca playweh!!! say sa ki bon!
things were not at their worst under UWP…that is a myth and nobody believes you either so you can stop saying it!
It’s true.
used to get my money 10 days after the month ends. Remember? REMEMBER.
and now worker at public works getting paid on the 43rd of september, didn’t you hear??? or are you just hearing what you want to hear???
You make no sense Progres. Stop playing politics and open your eyes. Dominica would be so much better without people like you. All you doing is making useless noise. Shutup!
Progress…shaking your BIG TOE comes to mind on a very good point you made above.
I remember when the UWP was in Office (1995-2000), Edison Chenfield James complain to the S.M.A.- Christian Brothers and the Principal that a Teacher at that school was putting on a play that featured a character called Eddie and that this teacher should be fired for this, as he Edison Chenfield James, felt it was an attack on him personally.
When people support their political parties they forget the past ills (All Parties).
The UWP will never win another election in Dominica in its constituted format.
It is a gathering place for Disillusioned and Disgruntled people who either ran afoul of the DLP or sought some personal favor and were rebuffed. There is no direction or goals that benefit the general populace. The only discernible objective is to oppose and depose the DLP and Skerrit in particular.
That is no winning mandate and the voters know it.
Thank GOD, for once a politcian hit the nail dead on its head. I applaud your efforts Mr Sanford. Be steadfast in your studies and return to politics, not for the gain of power, but to build a bright future for all Dominicans.
Well said Mr. Sanford! What we need now is for more of the “honest and noble men and women in this country” to take a stance against all the wrong that is presently dominating the political scene of our lovely Dominica.
Nice Article bro. Keep striving for the best.
Sandford, your article does more to divide than unite, so what is your point of your commentary.
oh wikileaks… u know that u couldn’t come and post a ‘despicable’ comment cause u’d prove mr sanford right… so u tryna act dumb like u didn’t understand… how did his article do more to divide??? please explain… if we as dominicans have to take in this article it does more to unite and to put us the table and think of what’s best for dominica
Finally we have an intelligent editorial about our government. Well stated and clear intent. Dominica has been chasing other countrys in securing “things” Black Berries, Flat Screen TVs, all sorts of things that are not life necessities. Before we accumulate these things we mush build a solid foundation to house them. when you see the world economies crumbling you must go back to the drawing board and figure out how you will keep your people and country alive. All must eat. Agriculture should be first and foremost. Dominica is not a country that is accumulating wealth it is living day to day, pay check to paycheck. Start at the beginning and build up. Once you have your house well built, only then can you think of furnishing it. Dominica has the ability to be self sustaining if only it will stop looking outward, soon, no other country will have the ability to give they will also need to take steps back and rebuild their own countries. Claudius you are a positive influence in Dominica, keep up the good work.
“To find a good indicator to the current political climate one need to read the despicable comments posted on DNO following the PM statement. Our citizens are face to face with the reality of a gangster’s paradise.”
Mr. Sanford, when making your statements please give due diligence. DNO has been instrumental in making people aware of the opinions of others around them. Including you! It is a platform where Dominicans Globally come to discourse and make rebuttals to the statements that are made by our statesmen and others. it is a forum of public opinion, and naturally we may find those who are less eloquent than others, as well as those who abuse the privilege and make vile and atrocious comments. Nevertheless this is needed so that we may hear and understand each others concerns. because no man is an island and none of us live in isolation from each other. We must realize that just as the colors of the rainbow so are there many different kinds of people and varying opinions and levels of education. with this said. I appreciate your contribution and live with the hope that more of our educated people place themselves in the positions to make a difference…
Thank you.
I didn’t find that comment to be an issue. There are plenty dispicable comments on DNO. It is totally subjective. One person might find my comments dispicable while find another persons comments terrible. I didn’t think that his comments were a slam to DNO. I love DNO the only forum out there to put your feelings. Thanks DNO.
Okay I can see where you are coming from. have a great day brother!
Sanford shut up, las parlais betise, pour esseyer fais nous effrayer
SEE this person comment is despicable to me. insulting and not a bit intelligent. If you are not part of the solution you are part of the problem.
Indeed!
deplorable and atrocious, definitely part of the problem!
definitely the kind of ‘quass’ comment mr sanford was talking about… u just proved him right
Well-written article. Didn’t focus too much on bashing the gov’t but instead highlighted the problems facing the country now and those around the corner.
I remember when Hector John was elevated to opposition leader (due to Sanford not winning his seat) I commented on DNO that it must have been hard for Sanford to swallow since Hector John is nowhere near his level of intellect.
HOWEVER, I can’t resist the urge to yet again point out to people that they need to stop being BRAINWASHED by the Western media. The Eurozone is struggling to stay afloat. The US recently had its credit rating historically down-graded due to their overwhelming debt.
Meanwhile, prior to NATO overthrowing Gadhafi so they could install a puppet gov’t and steal their oil, Libya had ZERO debt. China has the largest cash reserves in the world.
These are the countries which have (had in the case of Libya) the financial resources to try to spread their wings and expand their influence by investing in developing countries like our own.
Gadhafi was planning on creating a Development Bank in the Caribbean, and another in Africa so that developing countries could get development funds without going to the IMF.
So when the IMF comes knocking on the door of D/a again, and demands lay-offs and salary freezes, cuts in social spending..y’all might finally realize that maybe you supported the wrong side in the NATO oil theft war.
Save the long diatribe Sanford. You speak of political tribalism. Are you serious?? Who is really behind the political tribalism?? When you, your party and its followers REFUSE to accept the democratic WILL of the MAJORITY and instead seek to botcott parliament and engage in day to day violent rhetoric on the airwaves trying to instill public disorder, what do you expect?? It is really sickening when the likes of you come on DNO to write a bunch of crap, giving the impression that you guys care so much for the country. If this was the case, you should begin by advising your party to go back to the drawing board and analysing why you lost the elections and propose sound plans for Dominica that the electorate could buy into. Writing a bunch of crap on DNO is simply not going to make the fit.