Government signs over $18 million agreement with China

businessPrime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit,  on Friday  July 12th 2013,  on behalf of the Government of Dominica, signed two financial agreements with the People’s Republic of China which will go towards community based projects and the construction of the new Princess Margaret Hospital.

The agreements, amounting to over $18-million, come on the heels of a promise made by Chinese President XI Jing Ping when he met with Prime Minister Skerrit and other Caribbean Leaders in Trinidad in June of this year.

The signing ceremony took place at the Prime Minister’s Office at the Financial centre in Roseau.

“The first agreement is for $50-Million RMB (Renminbi, the official currency of China) as grant aid from the Government of the People’s Republic of China coming out of our meeting with the President of China in Trinidad who offered this assistance to the Government and people of Dominica. This sum will be used largely to assist in addressing some community based projects in various parts of the country” said PM Skerrit.

The Prime Minister explained that the second agreement has to do with plans for the construction of the new Princess Margaret Hospital.

“There is a delegation which will visit Dominica in the next few days that will put forward the designs for the new Princess Margaret Hospital. This assistance will no doubt trigger that process,” PM Skerrit said.

Skerrit expressed gratitude to the People’s Republic of China for their continued friendship and commitment to the development of Dominica and its people.

“This assistance is being granted to us by China at a very difficult time for all of us in the world including China, but because of the extra ordinary friendship between the two countries. China continues to be a very dear and sincere friend to the Government and people of Dominica and we are indeed very grateful for this,” he said.

Charge D’affaires of the People’s Republic of China, Qui Wei Wei signed on behalf of the Chinese Government.

The Chinese official said Friday’s signing of agreements is testimony of the growing cooperation existing between Dominica and China.

“This agreement is another step in the cooperation between our two countries. We are very glad to see that this aid will be put into programmes which will benefit the local people. The Chinese government will continue to provide this type of aid to Dominica and we will continue to work together with your Government”.

The Government of Dominica and the People’s Republic of China established diplomatic relations on March 31st, 2004.

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179 Comments

  1. John
    March 21, 2014

    A down payment on that Chinese Naval Base at Portsmouth.

  2. John
    July 15, 2013

    When are they going to start construction of the PRC Navy base at Portsmouth?

  3. Anonymous
    July 15, 2013

    Wasn’t the 3-PILLAR projects negotiated by the Govt to include a new hospital among others. If that is true so why then do we need an additional grant to get that pillar started. On a same note has the Dominica Grammar School Project been completed… We were under the impression that a Technical/Vocational wing would have been constructed. Is that the case as we write?

  4. Annon
    July 14, 2013

    Great news, but politicians never cease to amaze. Instead of just being up front and say $5 mil dollars or whatever the truth is a politician puts it as $50-Million RMB (Renminbi, the official currency of China). Is this to make us think $50 mil? How much is $50-Million RMB?? lol lol

  5. Gilda-Rae Grell
    July 14, 2013

    Everyone on here is angry at the fact that Dominica is getting this grant. Shouldn’t we be grateful for the money? How else would the improvements be made to PMH? Please someone reply to this with a structured plan of how Dominica could make the necessary improvements to Dominica without outside funds.

    Everybody talking about what the catch? it is a grant-aid. Please google the definition. To receive a grant-aid the receiving country has maintain the agreement on which the money was received. The agreement (according to this article) is for improvements to PMH and other small projects. If allu looking for a catch, there it is. If the improvements and small projects are not completed then there will be consequences.

    • Annon
      July 15, 2013

      If we never see a MOU, and is just politician talking-heads we hearing, no appearance of transparency we must speculate. So keep your shirt on padner, it may just be another loan to add to the almost $1-billion debt for generations to pay.

  6. July 14, 2013

    DNO, I have a hard time understanding why you continuously hold my comments in queue and release later posts and only release mine when that news is in archive or thereabout. Beats me!

    • trolol
      July 15, 2013

      First, I advise you to read the terms of service to see if you’re violating anything. Second, DNO has a very small staff and comment moderation can take 30 mins to 24 hrs. On holidays can take as much as 48 hours.

  7. 4eva tru
    July 14, 2013

    well well why china is helping dominica and not themselves. why you all treat other women better than your own wife? why would you talk bad about your neighbor who is next to you yet talk good about someone thats far away. Dominicans you all are too hypocrite.

  8. Eben Way
    July 13, 2013

    Some Dominican good to sell for true….Nous tros zort……………

  9. On my Knees
    July 13, 2013

    I hope a new hospital means working equipment and machinery necessary to avoid our people from having to incur such vast medical bills in having to leave the island and not just a fancy building.

  10. Frabo
    July 13, 2013

    Me? I just watching and putting my house in order. I’m happy and grateful to have lived in Dominica when Dominica was Dominica. Everything has changed. Never did I see a young boy with a knife or gun. Was never afraid to walk and talk freely. Foe some reason, I believe Satan has planted his feet in Dominica, and his wickedness in the hearts of our “so called” leaders. Dominica, as far as I can see, has not had a good leader in decades. This present one? LORD HAVE MERCY.

  11. IluvmyPm
    July 13, 2013

    We want an international airport stop wasting money on things we already have, skerro u have no vision step down u making us poorer.

    • 4eva tru
      July 14, 2013

      you probably never travel in your life but you want international airport or dont even have money to travel.

    • Gilda-Rae Grell
      July 14, 2013

      A better hospital is definitely necessary for Dominica. At this point in time an international airport is not necessary. Dominica already has a hospital, yes, I agree with you, but is it the best for Dominican people? No. That is why Dominicans travel outside of Dominica. We need to better the hospital so Dominicans can feel secure getting medical needs from their country.

    • prisca
      July 14, 2013

      Everyone seems to be crying foul over Dominica not having an int’l airport. Has anyone ever consider how much it will take to run and upkeep this airport? Becareful what you ask for.
      The most people who come to Da is for carnival and independence. How are they going to fill up the planes the rest of the time?
      Some people need the airport for alterior motives.
      This airport if it does happen will become the drug gateway of the Caribbean because there is no way our custom officers will be able to handle what will follow. They have already sold their souls to the highest bidder. So Dominicans chill out on that airport business make do with what you have. There are countries around the world with cities with a larger population than Da yet they have no airport, have more industries and are making do if the small airports that they have. So why can’t we do the same.

      Is the airport going to bring jobs to Da? Short term maybe,long term don’t think so. Think of something more productive that is going to bring jobs and improve the lives of our fellow citizens.

    • July 14, 2013

      An international airport not going to stop you from being lazy…get up and start working,Haitian finding work to do, you find too.

    • POSITIVE
      July 15, 2013

      I would like to know what is your vision, is people like u if he build international airport and it stay watching us, and tax payers have to pay for it. You will sing another song. The same people that cretizing the condition of the hospital saying the PM doh have vision. Shame on u

  12. dapassie
    July 13, 2013

    Ever wonder why a highly communist/dictatorship country would show so much interest a seemingly insignificant piece of land called Dominica? Ever wonder why they “give” so willingly. Ever wonder why they have given our children scholarships to study in China? Ever heard of brainwashing? The best and most effective way to infiltrate a people and convert them to another mentality is by using their own to influence the others to conform to the new regime. Ever wonder why Venezuela and Japan, countries who share similar backgrounds and would also like to have world dominance are expressing that same type of interest? These are countries who are highly competitive and have over the years kept a close watch on the activities of each other in the hopes of getting the jump on them. And why, O why, would Dominica allow it’s ‘state house’ to be funded and constructed by China? SMH!!! What better way to “spy” on state governing affairs? Wait! This is better than “tivo”. I mean, if there’s a country so packed with resources, known and “undiscovered”, fertile like perhaps the very garden of eden, with hidden treasures unimaginable, and totally ungaurded, why should i not? And its easy, because its one without covering and the security of a mother country. I mean, why “spy” on them when i can simply set a home base as the home base? Hello?

    • IPO
      July 14, 2013

      Is America that have more spies and communist

      • anonymous2
        July 14, 2013

        They have the network worldwide.

    • July 14, 2013

      I think you need a brain,you sound brainless.What you know about communist? you just hear the word but you dont what it mean.

  13. no way
    July 13, 2013

    MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION WITH MEI, CAT SCAN, TRAUMA CENTER, BURN CENTER, NEONATAL UNIT, PRISONER UNIT, ETC, NO MORE TRANSFERRING PATIENTS OVERSEAS FOR ACUTE HEALTH PROBLEMS.
    THESE BUILDINGS ARE OLD WE ARE GOING TO GET RID OF THEM SO THAT

  14. Pedro
    July 13, 2013

    This is just the Chinese contribution towards the re- election of the Labour Party.
    Dominican must never forget the 14 years of misery and poverty under Labour.

    • Gilda-Rae Grell
      July 14, 2013

      I don’t want to seem ignorant, but I’ve been out of Dominica for a while…what misery and poverty?

  15. carrotop
    July 13, 2013

    Just remember who is going to be your next prime minister, a chinaman, who is going to run and rule your hospital, who are going to be your specialist, the same as above.

    • IPO
      July 14, 2013

      As long as he is born in Dominjca its ok….you are an African decent living in the Caribs country

  16. jean t-savanne
    July 13, 2013

    “This assistance is being granted to us by China at a very difficult time for all of us in the world including China, but because of the extra ordinary friendship between the two countries….Lol!!that extraordinary friendship and relationship we the people of Dominica want to know about..just u and your other beneficiaries alone that know the nature of that relationship…doh worry time will tell!!

  17. anonymous2
    July 13, 2013

    So that makes how many million now borrowed from China and at what interest rate and term that needs to be paid back with what?
    How much do they think this island is worth on the open market?

    The government has borrowed a lot of money, however, it remains to be seen that that money has been spent to improve DA. A new white house doesn’t improve DA.

    • Gilda-Rae Grell
      July 14, 2013

      Its grant-aid money. It doesn’t have to be paid back, just certain things have to be done, such as improving PMH.
      A new white house improves the look of Dominica to other countries therefore increasing the chances of better relationships with other countries

  18. trolol
    July 13, 2013

    This is why the world is going down the toilet. You can’t buy education… No country doesn’t just blissfully waste money because they have to much money, especially on black people. In a trade A has to give X something and X has to return something of interest or equal value. “This assistance is being granted to us by China at a very difficult time for all of us in the world including China, but because of the extra ordinary friendship between the two countries.” Extra ordinary relationship is joke, you will fool the sheep but not me. Ask for my imbecile friend below me listing what china wants from Dominica It’s “Water” going to be a key resource in the future. You dumbnicans plan for the present but china plans for the future, I have respect for them for using their witts to take what they want from you all without noticing because It’s a smart move to make. Friends give friends.

    • anonymous2
      July 14, 2013

      There is education that makes you think and then again there is training, which is really what the schools are teaching. They want you to do as you are told…..not to be able to think.

  19. WeNiceMan
    July 13, 2013

    You mean that hospital is STILL in DESIGN phase. UNBELIEVABLE!!

    The amount quoted towards the hospital project is only USD$651,000.00. So that’s definitely NOT construction cost we talking about. At whatever time the “designs” are finalized we then have to negotiate the construction financing. I don’t see construction starting, if at all, before the middle of 2014.

    Remember this is one of the “FOUR PILLAR PROJECTS” that was negotiated as part of the “One China” MOU in 2004. Again…UNBELIEVABLE!!

  20. Proud Catholic
    July 13, 2013

    Could we rename that hospial please, in my humble opinion Princess Margaret has never done anything for us, get rid of all these “British Royal” crap, they don’t give a damn about us why should we keep doing things in their honor.

  21. DOMINICAN CANADIAN.
    July 13, 2013

    Snow white i agree with you.Nothing for nothing,i
    give i want something in return.i think lots of passports will be given,then the next thing i will
    hear is the second language spoken in Dominica is chinese. :lol:

  22. Anonymous
    July 13, 2013

    18 Mil to be divided between community projects and a hospital and 27 mil for a government house. A Hospital not supposed to cost much more than a government house? WAW!!!

  23. BRITISH CITIZEN
    July 13, 2013

    $27,000000 for a State Palace out of $18,000000 we will get a Hospital. Are they really serious about Dominica and the people of Dominica ?

  24. k
    July 13, 2013

    I am so fed up of concrete all over the place with no employment,price of everything going up and salary staying the same.Where is the employment?
    If you see Call Center close its doors,we suck duck in that place.The Government really needs to work on providing us with some avenues that will create employment in DA.
    I applaude the Hospital.

    • POSITIVE
      July 15, 2013

      If call center close its door, it will be the fault of the young people working their. They just taking sick leave to go and party. And those docotrs that giving sick leave like it going out of style and they know the people are well> They will see it (Karma). And the Union representative the supporting those staff with sick leave. Clare Harbour staff please take heed, your job will be at stack if the company move.

  25. Grand Bay
    July 13, 2013

    Well look out! lots of new mini bus, turn ambulance. lets take it to the next level Lets replace the EC$ with Minbi currency :lol: I think it was the Late M Eugenia Charles who said she would not sell her soul to the Devil. Dominicans seems to do that very easily, hat in hand begging.

  26. Marlpardee
    July 12, 2013

    Bwavo coco. If u come to america. U will know who chinese are. I haven’t seen one chinese employ people other than their own kind. My opinion and my experience with chinese, they seem to have issues with black people. I am talking from experience. Don’t mean to seem ignorant but i have witnessed it many times. So all i can say i smell a rat. I just want to know why is it that we do not have regulations in da in reference to who coming to our country. U can’t go to the us how u want ,can’t go to england or canada how u want. Just name all countries but is dominica that is the free port. I am feeling real messed up about that!

  27. July 12, 2013

    We have been behind for decade in fact Dominica is the poorest among the small islands in t he Caribbean,because our previous government refused to excepted help from Country like Cuba and China thought that country like the U S will grant assistance did not happen,What ever China build in Dominica we are the beneficiary they cant take back it counld be loan or a grant.

  28. Anthony P. Ismael
    July 12, 2013

    I am waiting for money for the new airport. It’s about time.

  29. July 12, 2013

    Propaganda,Election is near :-D

  30. As it is
    July 12, 2013

    Is the 1st. country that give Dominica money, grant or loan, nuh? as if China would only give to Dominica only when Skerritt in Govt? Or China love Dominicans so much?

    The bigger bilateral Agreements with China (MOU) still a secret.

    Geo-political manoeuvres. New colonial schemes all over again. The local leaders and house slaves doing the bidding of, the facilitating for MASSA.

    $$$$$, trinkets, Foo-Foo dogs, cultural/economic penetration. Local businesses closing down, swallowed up by those Chinese ones. Major Construction jobs, State House, College, God knows what next, are awarded to Chinese Construction firms and workers, while locals, who could do the job remain unemployed. We ain’t see nothing yet.

    Who are those in the DLP, with the foresight, negotiating skills, diplomacy to manage the China-Dominica relationship in the best interest of Dominica? Poor Third World countries are again being bamboozled by the $$$$$$$$$. the Aid……….

    Dominica is being sold under our feet. Passports selling has and is killing our sovereingty. It is DLP in Govt. doing that to its own people for what? What is worse with those loans, Dominicans have to pay back the loan from China. Mentally enslaved again and again and again? Those without a knowledge of their history is doomed.

  31. MET YO
    July 12, 2013

    ADMIN WHAT MY COMMENT DO YOU???? I pass back whole day it pending. 20 additional comments made it through and as far as I am concerned..some of them is pure mahjee and stupidity being displayed. tired victimize me nuh

  32. Cza
    July 12, 2013

    DNO I think y’all need to remove that comment stuff before d world think Dominicans uneducated because of some small minded people

    • Cza
      July 12, 2013

      Llllllllllooooooooolllll

  33. JUDGE DREDD
    July 12, 2013

    tibet used to be close to china, taking loans like joke. when they could not payback china invaded tibet and placed tibet under communist rule, oh yes they killed thousands of tibetians…
    time will tell..

  34. .
    July 12, 2013

    ELECTION TIME AGAIN. Don’t forget the years of suffering. This is a wicked gang of leaders who need to go.

  35. Looking
    July 12, 2013

    With the new hospital I hope there comes a positive change in the attitude of some of the people who work there.

  36. T
    July 12, 2013

    EVERYTIME ELECTION IS APPROACHING YOU ALWAYS HAVE these community things to do. Think you are smart and we are stupid. Left to me you all would would be voted out long time.

  37. July 12, 2013

    Roosevelt, I applaud you for your stamina. Do what is necessary to IMPROVE the Island, at the same time secure EMPLOYMENT for the UNEMPLOYED Citizens. I hope that you DO NOT ALLOW China to bring in Chinese to build these projects while our/your citizens remain on the sidelines. Remember, EVERY GOOD TURN DESERVES ANOTHER.

  38. bella
    July 12, 2013

    so skerro finally decide to give us better health care (new hospital)… u can tell that elections are near … we have been begging for better health care in this country for more than i can even imagine…there is a saying that goes who feels it knows it ?? everytime i go to that hospital i am utterly disgusted,they created a system which they think is safer for the nurses where people must be swiped in to gain acess to the emergency room but in turn this is causing more chaos/ the nurses and doctors have nothing to work with , all medicine prescribed you are responsible for buying it most times, down to toilet paper that hospital lacking.. the nurses and doctors can only work with what they have/even the children’s ward have broken beds and moldy bathrooms/they dont accomodate mothers who have to sleep with their babies/kids they have to sleep on chairs the entire night if they have a child admitted!doe even talk for it doe space on d ward because is all in the alley way they will put ur bed if you are admitted. if a bus of 10 people get into a major accident and are in critical condition only 3 may survive because only 3 beds in ICU! my list may go on and on… i urge people to open their eyes..not everyone can afford healt care or insurance what do we have in place ….??? we may never know!!

  39. iamhungry
    July 12, 2013

    People are forgetting that even the great United States of America had to borrow $800 billion USD to bailout themselves from economic crash…so this little change we getting from China means nothing more than business for the Chinese….if the great USA needs to take China;s money to survive then we also need it….or else get ready to pay 50 percent taxes like in Germany and some other places…

    p.s. you all are not developing your lands any way…you sit on land and money and say “is for my grand child” so let Skerrit sell the country if he have to…

    China gave Hong Kong to Britain for 99 yrs and only just got it back in 1997….and HK is the absolute boss…so maybe we SHOULD give the country to them and let it thrive under there wallet….

    Let’s face it after DOminicans fought so hard for independance from UK one year later Hurricane David crush the country and guess what? We had no mother country to save us because we were too busy to be on our own….so let the sins of stupidity from the past be sheltered by Skerrit and his China umbrella

  40. July 12, 2013

    Most Dominicaans are ungreatfull for many years Dominica doesn’t have the resources to help its population ,okay folks beside China which other country will give Dominica that loan or assistance.We havent got these help from those country you guys prefer.I just hope new hospital and proper equiments and professional doctors so that neighboring island will be able to airlift to our hospital like some our patience who needs immediate care.

  41. Teacher
    July 12, 2013

    DNO, this may seem trivial, and I’m not trying to be negative, but couldn’t you find a picture of a BLACK hand shaking a White hand?
    Yes, I know that there are “light-skinned” Dominicans, but the Prime Minister is NOT one of them. The story is about the leaders of two Countries making a deal, and one is very obviously BLACK. Just an observation.

    As far as the Chinese deal is concerned, I say take every penny we can get from them – as long as we have strong leadership who can say “NO” if and when the Chinese want something illegal, or outrageous in return. Skerrit hates the USA, so we’re not going to get any financial aid from them as long as he is in power. So if Dominicans don’t want Chinese “buying” our Country, then vote Skerrit out, so that we could improve our relations with the USA, Canada, and the EU.

  42. no wes pay e may
    July 12, 2013

    when u se more chinese store opening in Roseau, shut your mouth people. that is a price we got to pay.

    we thank china for all their help but skerrit how u going to pay back china, you will have to give up Dominica to the chinese just now

  43. %
    July 12, 2013

    You can get the World from China. I think you and your lazy,government need to be sent packing by the electorate. You will come up with plenty more like these before election. We will be sending money to the homeless in America and Europe and other parts of the world.
    You have shielded your incapability to do the job behind “world Financial Crisis” for too long.
    Think we will just forget the neglect of the past several years? We will forget you have questions to answer based on several huge allegations?, we will forget the poor and dispossessed in our own land, Dominica, is a direct cause of your incompetence, arrogance and laziness?. OH NO SKERRO!
    Personally I believe in a democracy two terms is enough for ONE leader.
    My ears are opened to hear of the other tons of money coming to us in this election season.
    By the way PM, how much money was spent by the Skerrit Labour Party at the last general election?
    CHANGE IS NOT AN OPTION, IT’S A MUST!

  44. Disturb Dominican
    July 12, 2013

    He wants election money and he get it from china because Chavez is no longer this boy pm is putting Dominica in too much debts please we need an inquiry into thisoney every cent

  45. July 12, 2013

    Good afternoon my people. Hello by 2016 China will have the largest economy in the World therefore they are spreading their influence. We are a Democratic Country and we conduct business with everyone and China don’t tell any country what type of Government they should have unlike America who always want to tell other Governments how to run their country. Now I hope if they build a new hospital that they will name it for one of our citizen who has made some important contribution to our country.

  46. mammy
    July 12, 2013

    Ok Mr. PM
    now you can set the date for elections, your elections money reach.

  47. mouth of the south
    July 12, 2013

    hold up…. so the State House cost U.S $27 million and a hospital will be covered in U.S $18 million among other community based projects???

    backward gov’t with backward thinking… but rather late than never, i’ve been asking for a state of the art hospital… and if it will be delivered then so be it.. but i’m not putting my X by D.L.P no sah… incompetent group of so called leaders… these guys haven’t put anything that is self-sustaining in this country… everything is a grant/loan from another country, bunch of beggars in cabinet…

  48. I DIE NU
    July 12, 2013

    All YOU UWPites just talking about Skerrit taking LOAN from China.Is there anything wrong with that?America a super power loans money from China and owing them trillions of dollars.What is wrong if China is willing to loan Dominica some monies?Well if you all don’t want loans,pay to the Government the millions you all owe in Taxes.Jealous all you jealous is not all you TOUCHING that kind of monies..

  49. 22 year old.
    July 12, 2013

    Is there some way we as young people can find out how much is being paid back on a monthly bases for these loans/grants/agreements/lendings/borrowing/favors/gifts????

  50. SNOW WHITE
    July 12, 2013

    I give up on DNO bloggers, I think they have replaced their penmanship with keyboard ignorance….everybodyhave a free pass a verbal waste management.

    You mean a country gets a grant from a super power and they are asking what is the catch, what China wants? What they want with DOminica….

    Well let me tell you what the Chinese want from Dominica.

    1. Our very educated and resourceful population
    2. The Montainous terrain
    3.The waterfalls
    4. The Bioling Lake
    5. The Rivers and Stream
    6. The Titi-wii
    7. The Rabbit, Goat, Tiiti-wi Fest etc
    8. Tripple K and WCK and ASA Banton
    9. Our Quadrille…let me see the Chinese come up with a dance for that …Good Luck
    10.Dashhen, Fig, Yams, the crapaud, Zandol and Abollo
    11.Oh yes, they want our Night Landing too
    12. The Tons of Rice we grow in the sea
    13. Our Kubuli Bears
    14. Our Sewo, World Creole Music Festival
    15.Matt in the morining and Blessing are big in China
    16.The tons of stones we produce

    And least but not last, I think they want the Parrots, they say we talk to much in Dominica, maybe if they take the Parrots we will stop talking

    • UDOHREADYET
      July 12, 2013

      U READY!

    • mammy
      July 12, 2013

      damm idiot

    • July 12, 2013

      Kudos to you. I totally agree. You forgot to mention they want what we have and they DO NOT in China – FREEDOM. They can do whatever they feel please on our soil that they could NEVER be able to do on THEIR soil. Can Dominicans say the same for China if and when they go there. NOPE.

    • Concern One
      July 12, 2013

      That is a good way of putting it. Everyone has their opinion and that should be respected. What is anoying is when our people let politics cloud their judgement and can’t have an opinion not influenced by the political party they support. from what I have been reading it seems that people would rather see the country hit bottom rock in order to hust the Govt. This is not only hurting the rulling party but us all. Let us praise what is good and stamp on what is not good.

      Building a new hospital should be something that we all should be greatful for whether we are labour, UWP, Freedom or whatever.

      It may be true that China may be trying to influence the small countries but who cares. America did the same and left us high and dry. Let us get all we can from china so that when they would have left we would be able to stand on our own. For now we surely can’t stand on our own.

    • Cza
      July 12, 2013

      Ay Ay Ay u forget d
      1) pit toilet,
      2) zekak,
      3)d people that criticize d help they give
      4)uwp
      5) d tin they call a highway by d port (looooooooooooooooool)
      6) our very large roads
      7) our jumbie
      8)our justice system
      9)etc…..

    • Justice and Truth
      July 12, 2013

      We know. Some of us can see through this help and what China wants with the world in general. It is world domination under the banner of friendship and later dictatorship. Have you ever seen friends turned enemies and overnight?
      All the same it is helping those islands who are in need of that the US, Canada and Europe, the latter, Great Britain failed to do. Dominica must get the help from somewhere.
      China is assisting every West Indian country including those others in the Caribbean.
      Trinidad and Guyana are also no exception. Those countries are richer than the smaller ones.
      Something is in the offing be it approximately 20 years down the road.
      Just thank God for small/great mercies and ask for his protection of Dominica and nationals. Join the religious to pray unceasingly for Dominica and get others to pray. Spread love and peace in Jesus Name.

    • sphinx
      July 13, 2013

      cool

    • My my
      July 13, 2013

      …and the whales…

      So much poverty in China. I never understand how a woman would feed other people’s children and let her own starve. There’s is a catch…not that I’m complaining about receiving the money but hmmmm…something smells whaley.

    • Just Me
      July 13, 2013

      Well. they say, “Ignorance is bliss”. Your comment typifies this saying perfectly!

    • M-PRESS
      July 13, 2013

      :-D :-D :lol: :lol: U MAKE MY DAY!!!

    • Anonymous
      July 13, 2013

      Boss, we dont have bears in DA, we have Kubuli Beer.

  51. profiler
    July 12, 2013

    18 million US? :?: :?:

    • mouth of the south
      July 12, 2013

      funny how the state house had a budget of 27 mil for it’s construction, but a state of the art hospital together with other community projects has a budget of 18 mil…. smh

  52. Far Away
    July 12, 2013

    “Community based projects” is a coded phrase for Corruption. This clearly means that this money is not going into the consolidated fund and can and will be used for whatever they see fit; electioneering, lining their pockets etc. Truly amazing. The harder they come the harder they fall!

    • 22 year old.
      July 12, 2013

      I am saying the same thing. I am not ignorant of those mini leaders in the village councils, the committees and so on, who don’t prepare a proper presentation of how the funds were used from $5000.00 all the way down to $0.01. Not forgetting the MASSIVE abuse of conflict of interest going on with these community projects. I am seriously doubting the clarity within this current government.

    • cohenval
      July 12, 2013

      This is money for the upcoming campaign. Channel it to supporters of the Labour Party, for projects that will cost much more than they actually cost. The difference is campaign money. Mi bon temp.

    • July 12, 2013

      Why do you not wait to see what this money will be profitable toward, instead of forming an opinion with NO basis?

    • Justice and Truth
      July 12, 2013

      When you cease your negativity, all will be well. You cause a curse to fall on their efforts and on Dominica. Change your heart and manner of thinking.

    • Closer
      July 13, 2013

      Thank you Far Away, you could not have said it better. This is Campaign money, look out Dominica. China has already bought Dominica and is just ensuring that Roosevelt stays there so they can send their people to take over our country. We are finished in this country. Dominica is no longer ours. Community Based Projects, wait and we will all see the bacchanal that going to take place in communities.
      Way me Bowdell. Nous fini bat Dominique. But one thing we cannot change the fact that God is very much alive.

  53. lightbulb
    July 12, 2013

    the agreement is quoted in RMB not USD.. and RMB is appreciating against the USD, our debt is becoming more expensive every year.

    #CurrencyWars 8)

  54. truth
    July 12, 2013

    Health official are already worried, because the Chinese are going to just erect a building without proper consultation with the heads of health in the hospital who should have an input based on what they know our needs are. Like all the health centers it will be a pretty building, but not functional for the day to day runnings

  55. Unknown
    July 12, 2013

    Big up to COUNTRY MAN for his statement u are very right n on point when u state that our country is not making any progress whatsoever to generate its own income. Then something is terribly wrong, all our government is doing is taking but they are not at all enlightining us on what is it that the are giving back to CHINA. My country people it is not a problem to get aid from other countries but we in dominica are being taken for a ride n we need to open our eyes we need ppl that already have their own money that can finance themselves n start something of in our country in order to uplift us not put hungry ppl in politics that have to be digging their hands in the piggy basket and our local ppl still and will be suffering. We need movement upgrading employment being created in all avenues n this government like so many before it only based on making money from payment of license n tax n them stupid tax they have on the port. Find another way government to make money for ur country u all crippling ur own ppl n country that is one of the many reasons why DA not moving forward. So future government whom ever u are I hope u come with a difference and if its the same government in power change your bloody strategy!

  56. Reason
    July 12, 2013

    From $300 million to $18 million. Wow! What a fall off…..

  57. jas
    July 12, 2013

    Close elections,but labour!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  58. July 12, 2013

    There are some people who PRETEND to care about Dominica’s progress; however, when the PM proposes advancement, they attack “progress”. Wonder why? because their revulsion for one man, overrules their love for country/progress/people.

    They would elect to remain poor if it means bringing down one man for self-gratification.
    Many of these people who criticize this move are the same ones who continually throw punches at Skerrit for the “second-rate” health facilities. Nevertheless, their punches are insincere and self-satisfying – country is nowhere on their agenda.

    You are asking for the body to prosper, concurrently destroying the head. The mark of a fool!
    Shall a house stand if it is divided?

  59. Rando
    July 12, 2013

    See their Chinese coming with their own plan and design so be sure that the Chinese are building it themselves. The article says it is a grant aid. Not sure what to believe because they’ve told us that the new hospital project would be included in the loan from China. So now it is a grant aid. hey I have no problem however I know for sure that there is no free launch

  60. Papa Dom
    July 12, 2013

    I’m is a ole man so my memory not dat good! but as if i did hear dem say dat a new hospital was part of the four or was it seven hundred millioon dollar, how many pillar project. So who fooling who now?
    “There is a delegation which will visit Dominica in the next few days that will put forward the designs for the new Princess Margaret Hospital. This assistance will no doubt trigger that process,” PM Skerrit said. So now we cannot even decide what we want and how it is supposed to look, we cannot even design a thing to meet our needs. I guess as the saying goes beggers are no choosers.

  61. Neg Mawon
    July 12, 2013

    I hope with that we would not have to travel to Guada, Antigua o Martinque…then again election is around

  62. MET YO
    July 12, 2013

    ha boy….”community based projects”…that’s a loan to get money to spread cause election coming..lol…

    everybody look out for your nearest parl rep…cash going to be circulating…it started already in C Bruce.

  63. July 12, 2013

    U realy think China givin us that money without getting ‘special’ favors in return?China full of poverty why isn’t the money goin there instead!LABARRRITES!people of Dominica open ur eyes before it is too late!!!!

    • July 12, 2013

      POVERTY is EVERYWHERE. Have you heard of the MILLIONS of people that are living in POVERTY in America? The Nation that we all believe to be the RICHEST Nation on the Universe. Chinese are CONTROLLED, a family living below the poverty level can only have ONE CHILD because the Government is NOT assisting in the support of any child. If you are unable to support yourself and/or one child there is not reason to have more than that ONE CHILD. That said, look around China is not the only Country in poverty, but China is the ONLY Country to CONTROL how many children a family can have.

      • anonymous2
        July 14, 2013

        China has different classes, however, the majority of the people are poor.

    • Concern One
      July 12, 2013

      Wow, you thought of that all by yourself? Congrats.

      If I am not mistaken, China is a super power and America is a super power. China has poor people and America as well. Had America been the one borrowing us that money as in the past would we be saying these things.

      I almost forgot, Isn’t the USA borrowing money from China? Let us all stop politicing and be greatful for what we get. There is no party that is going to form the government and stop that.

      • Nac Vibes
        July 12, 2013

        Be greatful, be greatful? let me stop befor I get rude.

      • Cza
        July 12, 2013

        True america is borrowing money from china. China is buying their debt cause right now if America falls other countries will fall including china cause america is the biggest consumer from them. The U.S is trillions in debt to china. In couple of years china is gonna pass the U.S. So DA might as well just stay on the good side of china

      • missmostdominican
        July 13, 2013

        we really are a bunch of retards in the west indies when we make up our mind, just because america do something we have to follow suite? no wonder the culture we use to boast of is no more. copycat we are…….and this is politics of course there is a catch.

      • Looking in
        July 13, 2013

        The US as you say, is borrowing from China….Is Dominica borrowing or getting grants? The article said…GRANT. Learn the difference.

    • JUDGE DREDD
      July 12, 2013

      what is in the MOU, why is it a secret, how come the other ministers dont know what is in it….
      this is very dangerous, but i know i was not part of it because i cannot vote that labar kosonie

  64. Yes
    July 12, 2013

    Is this a Loan or a grant? It just says “agreement”. What type of agreement is it?

    • octo
      July 12, 2013

      read the article again and do not let you bias cloud your comprehension.

  65. Country Man
    July 12, 2013

    Something has to be said when a government has been in power for almost 15yrs and can’t point to one infrastructure project that it has self finance. We are not making progress. The country is not making money and I can see in the near future we will begin taking loans to maintain these donated infrastructure projects. By all account DA is being mismanaged.

    • DominicanQueen
      July 12, 2013

      So someone gives you a brand new BMW for FREE and you would tell them no thank you. You rather use all your savings to fund your new BMW b/c then you can say now I am broke, but I paid for it myself??

      Why you sooo stupid??? Why?? Why??

    • ON MY OWN
      July 12, 2013

      U make no sense dont u listen to the news or u are just wicked

    • Jejep
      July 12, 2013

      Something must be said about you when you are asking the government to further indebt the nation.

    • john
      July 12, 2013

      Countryman pay your taxes so the government would not have to rely on other countries, you demand the government provide you everything, so where is the money coming from if you do not pay taxes.

      • Country Man
        July 12, 2013

        John – show me the productive sector in Dominica. What is Dominica producing? Taxes alone won’t cut it – although it would help significantly – I would imagine you should know that. The fact is this gov’t is in office for almost 15 years and the unemployment number, especially among the youth, has been increasing every year. When I think of this unemployment situation is by design( institutionalized by the policies of the day). They have made it their priority to go out and beg for money with all sorts of strings attached to meet the country economic needs and for handouts. I am yet to see programs and policy from this administration that will put people to work. Never before in our independent history we have become so dependent on handouts. Have you ever stopped to asked yourself what will happen to us when the donors become exhausted – trust me that time will come.

    • July 12, 2013

      Seriously, where in the World to you see any Country as self-supportive? Africa, America, Asia, Europe, everywhere borrow from each other to improve their Country, and they borrow from each other to repay each other. WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?

      • Country Man
        July 12, 2013

        You are missing the point. What does Dominica have to lend. Don’t you see that DA is literally turning into a financial parasite and soon the donor community will get fed up.

      • Just Me
        July 13, 2013

        So, how will Dominica repay China?

    • well sa
      July 13, 2013

      I wish it had an audio part of these comment so I could exclaim an applause and to shout out ” it is true, it is so true, it is true, well sa; y are nt the Dominicans not seeing that, what have we really done without the Chinese? nothing
      next they will say the country belong to them cause they maintain it

    • Gilda-Rae Grell
      July 14, 2013

      Country Man, come up with a way for the government to self finance a project. Its not as easy as it sounds

  66. Dominican767
    July 12, 2013

    Good news, although I still don’t get why China would basically ‘give’ us money. Is there a catch? And why Dominica nuh ass dem if they can built us an international airport instead, or that plus the hospital etc lol

    • DominicanQueen
      July 12, 2013

      International airport for WHAT?? People don’t go places b/c of international airport. They come b/c of attraction. There is no international flights going into Islip NY, but still they can boasts the number of tourists they have a year.

      Wake up people. Who will fund this new international airport?? Who will pay the increased light bill, water bill, toilet paper, customs officers, immigration officers, cleaners, security, equipment maintenance, and on and on???

      No the 6 people that came on the 8:30 flight this morning, nor the 12 that’s coming on the 7pm.

      So tell me, who will maintain this soooo after international airport??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????

    • john
      July 12, 2013

      Everybody talking about international airport I would like to ask when did you traveled anywhere? if you did you would realize that the planes are mostly empty, so where do you get the money to finance hundreds of millions of dollars.

    • well sa
      July 13, 2013

      no don’t let them cause when build it they will implant weaponry to take over Dominica

  67. Doc. Love
    July 12, 2013

    When will Skerrit stop depending on countries like China for loans, grants and put constructive actions in place to grow the darm ecocomy whereas Dominicans will be put back to work.

    • July 12, 2013

      Since you all worship the U.S., why don’t you ask them why do they owe China $1.2 trillion.

    • July 12, 2013

      When you have it to give to him.

    • Concern One
      July 12, 2013

      That will happen when we all stop politicing and join hands to build our country. This has been from the beginning and it will be there at the end.

      Look around us, there is not one country in the caribbean that isn’t borrowing money from Countries with the finance. For God sake, America we all are running to are borrowing money from China.

      Borrowing money results in projects which creates jobs for our people. Our people get paid, can build their homes, pay out their debts, send their children to school, college, University and have a better life. With the money recieved, our people can now start a small business and those who are employed will help suport that business. Business and those who are employed pay taxes hence civil servants get paid and more projects/jobs are created.

    • john
      July 12, 2013

      How could you grow an economy in Dominica when the majority of Dominicans are so dishonest I know because myself and a lot of other Dominicans living overseas send money to build houses, start businesses, send items to sell, to your friends, and family; but they keep all the money. When you get to Dominica they give you every excuse in the book why they have no money left.
      so what do you do? but forget these people and leave them in their misery. They are now complaining that the Chinese don’t give them jobs how pathetic are these people; because when their own family give them jobs they rob them so what do you think they are going to do to the Chinese?

    • Cza
      July 12, 2013

      Umm I guess u don’t know Skerrit need money to start project to pay workers.

  68. DOMINICAN CANADIAN.
    July 12, 2013

    what is the catch?are the going to get passports for free?

    • Just Me
      July 12, 2013

      The catch is China depends on Skerrit remaining in power. Otherwise, ‘kai pool quasey’. So financing projects in the various communities is only another way of financing an election. Isn’t it OBVIOUS?

      • Lougaoo Mem
        July 12, 2013

        Good observation.

      • July 12, 2013

        Is that so bad? Skerrit remains in power based on voter turnout. The people speak through their votes. Are there enough Chinese in Dominica to VOTE to keep Skerrit in POWER? I do not care, one way or the other, who is in Power. I do not live on the Island, and hopefully I will not be barred from entering the Island because I have committed NO crime against the Island. More POWER to whomever can IMPROVE the Island and able to keep us SAFE.

      • RBX
        July 13, 2013

        China depends on skerrit? Really?
        Doesnt’ matter who in power in dominica it would be the same thing

    • July 12, 2013

      Is there always a catch? Why should it matter anyway? We will find out what the catch is later. We need assistance NOW, we should APPRECIATE and deal with the catch when we get to that point. Free Passports, I do not think so because we are getting funds for improvement. I would think IMPROVEMENT and PASSPORTS go hand in hand, if that is what you are assuming except the hands in the photo is NOT that of Roosevelt Skerrit.

      • Nac Vibes
        July 12, 2013

        The devil came down to DA looking for souls, guess he has yours already.

      • xing pang
        July 12, 2013

        so all you want money without any ties?
        it not our fault your government not negociating for all you.
        we have our deal,it’s up to your PM to tell you what’s going down.
        WE give You MONEY,WE want HONEY.

  69. My 2 Cents
    July 12, 2013

    I ususally stand aside and look dont really take part or comment in politics, but now my eyes is rolling :oops: ! Read d MOU Mr PM! Boy it seems we fini bat! Chinese taking over our lovely country. Let’s see how many Dominicans will be employed in the rebuilding, and much needed hospital. Though this seems like a good gesture, b I hope freeness is not worriness! Let us all read Proverbs 22 verse 7. Wow I just hope we Dominicans do not become slaves to the Chinese!

    • July 12, 2013

      Suggestion, if DOMINICANS are not gainfully employed on any of the projects funded by China, Dominicans, in my opinion, should BOYCOTT the project. The Goal should be to help Dominicans become self-sufficient and not DEPENDENT on any one. Dominicans are MORE THAN QUALIFIED to rebuild its own; however, Chinese do tend to employ ONLY THEIR PEOPLE in ALL their business ventures. Think about this, if in America every Chinese business place the employees are all Chinese, what do you think will happen back home. The people MUST stand up.

  70. Do Not edit
    July 12, 2013

    Skerrit, and the rest of the people who are too daft to understand that there isn’t a particular friendship between china and any country. China is simple using this method in 3rd world countries around the world including the caribbean, africa etc to widen their influence. It is a game developed countries play to show their might. Like a celebrity giving to charity. Its a status statement since Mal don’t give to Mal.

    Because of this Obama is trying to go to these same countries in africa on the heals of Chinas visit to those countries. A bit too late but they’ll all do it.

    Take what we can get while big brother plays his game.

  71. hmmm
    July 12, 2013

    I cant help feel like Dominica is being sold

    • I A NO POLITIAN
      July 12, 2013

      SO COUNTIES LIKE AMERICA DID CHINA BUY THEM YOU LOW MINDED

      • JUDGE DREDD
        July 12, 2013

        if dominica wasnt sold why is skerrit hiding the MOU from his cabinet and dominicans

      • bella
        July 13, 2013

        LEARN TO SPELL!

    • July 12, 2013

      Dominica had been sold. Where were you? If this is how you feel then make sure there are NO IMPROVEMENTS and it will return to its original state. Ms. Charles sold Dominica to China a long time ago. Roosevelt is in NO position to change what Eugenia Charles had established. I think even if he could or wanted to, why should he when he is receiving the assistance he need to keep the Island afloat. That is my opinion.

    • well sa
      July 13, 2013

      feel the same to the core

  72. John
    July 12, 2013

    Skerrit is selling Dominica to China. When they tell him they want to build a Navy Base at Portsmouth he is not going to be able to say NO! That is coming in the near future they are not giving all those millions just for the hell of it they have other stargetic plans.

    • Jejep
      July 12, 2013

      i will be your Drill Sergeant :lol:

  73. Pedro
    July 12, 2013

    Good news but such a priority should have happened over the stadium road and everything else years ago

    • WHO VEX VEX
      July 12, 2013

      Better late than never

  74. smart
    July 12, 2013

    the same amount of lives that will be saved with a new hospital. that the amount of money that will stay in Dominicans pocket.
    I find we Dominican people to like to have of cake and eat it.
    if you living in a leaking house for years and somebody offer to build a new one for you, if they doe give you brother who is a builder the job, what you going to say ah you don’t want it?
    I don’t care who build things here in Dominica cause they going to build it for one year and I will use it for a lifetime.
    wake up Dominicans

    • Rocks
      July 12, 2013

      Wow…Deep analysis… I wonder where you got your economics degrees from?…With an analysis like that you must be Havard graduate.

    • Just Me
      July 12, 2013

      That is why we will remain a BEGGAR country, too lazy to do things for ourselves. Slavery continues, and we don’t seem to notice. Open your eyes, smart a..!

    • July 12, 2013

      Agreed.

    • k
      July 13, 2013

      Yea smart,
      you think we are the luckiest,china always has its benefits,in what way?it seems only the PM knows.
      If a man offers you a house ull just take it,no questions ask?you lie, you would want to know his motive.
      Dont let politics blind you,Wake up!

  75. Patriot
    July 12, 2013

    Great job my PM, that’s why we voting LABOUR!

    • MustLaugh
      July 12, 2013

      More free stuff

    • July 12, 2013

      Great job, yes, but WRONG REASON TO VOTE LABOUR. This is not a PARTY thing. This is a NEEDY thing.

  76. July 12, 2013

    What did china just BUY for 18 million dollars? Details of the “financial agreements” seem to be missing,.. there is no such thing as a free lunch…

  77. DC
    July 12, 2013

    It should read with 24 hours notice, ought to be

  78. Cyco
    July 12, 2013

    I hope the new hospital comes with new staff…

    • Dominica_Lover
      July 12, 2013

      I hope it gets rid of negative people like you!

  79. DC
    July 12, 2013

    The PM continues to demonstrate his leadership skills. He made a bold, good decision when he severed ties with Taiwan, and signed agreement with China. These are the characteristics of a good Leader. His negotiating skills, the ability to make decisions which may not be popular, however, beneficial to country’s development, his stern yet compassionate demeanor. PM, you will never please everyone, however, you have the support of the majority of people, anyone who has the ability to attract a crowd with 24 hours to be commended. Continue on your journey towards Dominica’s development. One Love!

    • Joyce M
      July 12, 2013

      Who do you think Taiwan is?

    • July 12, 2013

      The TWO BEST and MOST PRODUCTIVE Prime Ministers came from Vieille Case. What more can a good citizen ask for? We have BRAINS and POWER. GO VIEILLE CASE.

    • Anonymous
      July 13, 2013

      You mean, His begging skills?

  80. Faceup
    July 12, 2013

    I see pockets being filled here. What kind of hospital you going to build for that amount that has to be shared? chupes !

    • July 12, 2013

      One to house your ailing family member, and maybe yourself. Chupes.

  81. PAC
    July 12, 2013

    DNO that pic look like someone making a deal with the devil papa…

    • July 12, 2013

      DAMNED IF YOU DO, DAMNED IF YOU DO NOT.

  82. pingo
    July 12, 2013

    It is NEW Princess Margret Hospital? Or new hospital?

    • Optimist
      July 13, 2013

      Good question!!! I believe its either a refurbishing of PMH, or if its a new hospital they haven’t decided on a name for it.

  83. Roz
    July 12, 2013

    Would be good to know the currency of the 18 million. XCD or USD. Whats today’s conversion rate of Renminbi to USD or XCD?

    • octo
      July 12, 2013

      About 2.3 RMB to 1EC or 6.25RMB to 1US.

    • July 12, 2013

      Why do you want to know?

  84. Massacre
    July 12, 2013

    How much of that 18M, will remain in the pokets of local Dominicans. ?
    other than ministers.

    • STILLAWANDAFULWOLD
      July 12, 2013

      Do you want the new hospital or not? :mrgreen:

      • octo
        July 12, 2013

        I want it! and like the stadium, people will say lots of negative things but when it is completed they will come to love and enjoy it.
        Have you passed by the state house lately?

      • T
        July 12, 2013

        Time for the electorate to get rid of Skerrit!

    • July 12, 2013

      I think the difference may be spent in MASSACRE. Make sure that is what happens.

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