Government’s Environmental Focus
The Government of Dominica in collaboration with Regional Councils of Guadeloupe and Martinique and the various energy and environmental agencies of the neighbouring French Territories of Guadeloupe and Martinique under the Caribbean Geothermal Initiative in 2009 undertook surface investigation study for determining Dominica’s geothermal potential.
A component of the 2009 Study was a regulatory and environmental feasibility study which established the framework and roadmap for the resources exploration and commercial exploitation.
It was based upon Government’s plan for undertaking the Exploratory Drilling Project in November of 2011 which was intended to locate the geothermal reservoir and to determine the size and quality of the resource. A Drilling Environmental Assessment was launched in March 2011. In partnership with the French Environment and Energy Management Agency (ADEME) the consulting firm, CARAÏBES ENVIRONNEMENT of Guadeloupe was commissioned by the Government of Dominica to carry out the Environmental Impact Study (EIA) linked to this project.
The main purpose the EIA was to assist in setting up the organization and controls regarding the environmental prevention and risk mitigating measures before and during the execution of the Exploratory Drilling Project. The EIA firm, CARAÏBES ENVIRONNEMENT presented the First Draft report on July 28, 2011 and the Final version was submitted on January 22, 2012.
During the conduct of the EIA the villagers of the communities of Fond Canie, Trafalgar, Wotten Waven and Laudat all assisted CARAÏBES ENVIRONNEMENT in one way or another in carrying out the assessment and with data gathering. CARAIBES ENVIRONEMENT was also assisted in conducting of the Study by the following Government agencies:
• Geothermal Project Management Unit;
• Forestry, Wildlife and Parks Division;
• Land and Surveys Division;
• Two students from the Dominica State College.
As part of ensuring that we got it right the first time the Government took the necessary measures by engaging and consulting with the best in the geothermal development practice as well as learning from other developers’ experiences.
In keeping with the Government’s strategy we made certain that during the actual drilling of the three (3) test wells under the Exploratory Drilling Project which began in December 2011 and ended in June 2012 that the best technical and environmental practices were followed and enforced. For this reason, one contracting firm, Iceland Geosurvey (ISOR) was hired solely for the testing and environmental monitoring of the drilling and geothermal wells. In addition the consulting firm, Geothermal Resource Group (GRG) of United States of America was contracted by the Government to supervise the operations and activities of both ISOR and the drilling contractor, Iceland Drilling Company (IDC).
Besides, the field work of the drilling contractor, well testing and environmental monitoring contractor and drilling supervision consultant was overseen by the Geothermal Project Management Unit who were supported by the Technical Assistant consultant, Electroconsultant (ELC) of Italy which provided a cadre of Drilling Engineers, Geologist, Reservoir Engineer, Environmental Geologist, Mining Engineer, Economist. ELC actually carried out the compliance and verification of the drilling and environmental monitoring and was satisfied with the sound standards and practices adopted in the execution of the project.
Furthermore, having undertaken the successful execution of the exploratory geothermal wells drilling without any harm to the physical, natural and human environment it is indeed a practical demonstration of Government’s profound interest and commitment to the adoption of sound standards and best practices in harnessing our geothermal resource potential. The proposed production and reinjection wells and the construction of the small geothermal power plant (15 – 20 MW) due for commencement from June 2013 shall be undertaken in the same stringent and professional manner.
This is in fact the hallmark of Government’s decision going forward in which the policy position has been taken that the condition precedent to any geothermal resource development proposal is that it must have a positive EIA rating. This policy position is consistent with the country’s nature isle and ‘green’ ecotourism branding strategy as well as advancing the best practice of sustainable development.
Community Consultation/Public Awareness Drive
It is also worthy to mention that before and during the Exploratory Drilling Project a series of community consultations and public awareness meetings concerning the geothermal well drilling and power generation were convened by the PMU in the villages of Trafalgar, Wotten Waven and Laudat.
During those community consultations and public awareness sessions a number of comments, suggestions and concerns were raised and the Government has taken note of them and will ensure all of those concerns are addressed. These sessions were attended by the Parliamentary Representative, official from the Ministry of Public Works, Energy and Ports, community leaders, spas owners, shop-keepers and restaurateurs and other villagers. Some persons have shown much interest and in full support of the project, while others have expressed varying comments of a detrimental nature. Notwithstanding the Government is mindful of the various elements for whatever political reasons are seeking to derail the Project.
Generally the first round and subsequent town hall meetings were well attended and the feedbacks were positive. The first rounds of meetings were held accordingly:
• Trafalgar – Wednesday, January 12, 2011
• Wotten Waven – Sunday, January 16, 2011
• Laudat – Thursday, January 20, 2011
The active involvement of the schools within the Roseau Valley both in terms students and teachers have been very much part of the consultation and awareness building process. Before the start of the exploratory drilling the PMU visited all the schools within the Valley and engaged the students and teachers on the various aspects of geothermal resources development. Some of the other participatory activity with the schools included the design of LOGO for the PMU which appeared on all documents and material pertaining to the project such as brochures, posters and banners.
Meanwhile community consultation and public awareness sessions are scheduled for continuation and town-hall style discussions shall convene within the third week of January 2013 during which time officials of the consulting firm, CARAÏBES ENVIRONNEMENT who undertook the EIA Study, members of the ISOR firm who did the well testing and environmental monitoring, officials of the GRG team who executed the supervision of the drilling and environmental monitoring and members of the Technical Assistance consultant, ELC who performed the compliance and verification shall be in attendance at this next session.
Further Environmental Initiatives
A. Drafting of a Guide to Environmental Excellence
Publication of a guide of recommendations to ensure the successful environmental integration of geothermal energy projects in an insular and/or tropical context. This guide will cover all aspects of the environmental evaluation of a project (from physical impacts on the environments to discussions with neighbouring populations).
This baseline study will include several tasks:
– wildlife, plants: census of species and evaluation of the stakes
– acoustic: measure sound levels and modelise the characteristics of acoustic propagation generated by future activities,
– hydrography and hydrobiology: hydraulic studies and evaluation of biological quality of waters and the biotope,
– meteorology: collection of meteorological data and modelisation of flows in the Roseau valley, including mobilization of measurement means,
– social and economic: define the stakes in respect of the existing economic, social and cultural context,
– landscape: complete identification of landscape and patrimonial characteristics,
– natural risks: flood, seismic and volcanic risks, risk of hurricane and landslides,
– discussion: hold meetings to inform, discuss and monitor various audiences (neighbours, authorities, agricultural world, tourism professionals, ….).
The Geothermal Resources Development Bill proposes strict adherence to the Physical Planning laws and regulations, the Environmental laws, and the Electricity Supplies Act or 2006.
In that regard I, as the Minister responsible for Energy visited the Geothermal Power Plant in Bouillant, Guadeloupe in October, 2012 for first-hand familiarization regarding the construction, operations and maintenance of such a facility. Coming out of the Minister’s visit to the plant in Bouillant arrangement was made between the Regional Council of Guadeloupe and Government for organizing of exchange visits by Dominicans especially the persons from the local communities within the Roseau Valley to get first-hand experience of the actual operation of such generation plant.
However, it should be noted that a separation must be made between the genuine concern of the beautiful people of Laudat and a few persons who have made it their vocation to derail anything that is good for the country.
Let me remind them that their efforts will not WASH AWAY the determination and commitment of the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica.
Just a few years ago (2009), a now-infamous geothermal project in Basel, Switzerland, which drilled three miles (4.8 kilometers) into Earth’s crust, set off a magnitude 3.4 earthquake, rocking the town and shutting the operation down entirely.
Is Disaster Preparedness prepared for this?
New York Times discusses: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/24/business/energy-environment/24geotherm.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=altarock&st=cse
Dominicans talk so much rubbish and in the process contradicts, and confuse themselves. If we carefully read DNO, somewhere here in their recent uploading of news; we will find where someone states they (some so called government minister) is about to lead a delegation to Guadeloupe to view some geothermal plant in Guadeloupe.
There is even a photograph on DNO showing an aerial view of what they claim to be the plant in Guadeloupe!
If Guadeloupe produces thermal energy, why would they have the need to depend on backward Dominica to meet the geothermal energy needs?
Look at it this way: in the event somebody in Dominica; and I assume the government is going to sell energy to the French islands of Guadeloupe, and Martinique: which would be cheaper?
Building an International Airport, or finding a way to pipe geothermal energy under the rough seas between Dominica, Guadeloupe, and Martinique?
Does Dominica Government have that sort of resource to undertake such an project?
I think not!
Even if that was feasible, I don’t see wow a government which said they cannot afford an International Airport would become so ridiculous and make such foolish statements; anyone of our people who believes that rubbish, operate as chickens laying their first egg!
It seems to me that all our people are in a circus, operating in Realm Sleep; fixated on an impossible dream fighting hard to release ourselves from that ridiculous dream.
I mean our people talk so much crap, that I wonder if we are not all crazy, mentally ill, lost it, maybe we have all flipped a hundred-eighty degrees; perhaps all of us exists in a delusional state!
I know plenty about geothermal energy, and I state here categorically it is not all that critical, nonetheless this thing about exporting this energy is simply a bloody myth designed to mesmerized the mind of Dominicans and distract them from other important matters!
I can give lessons on Nuclear, Geothermal, Solar energy and Tidal Power, and I can safely say all I have learnt from a physics point of view, is nothing like the nonsense I am reading here.
Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
I am trying to work out if your are just playing the fool or if your are serious. In your lastest posting you stated that Dominicans speak rubbish and then confuse and contradict themselves. The statement should of read as follows. I Francisco. Eitenne -dods Telemaque speak and write rubbish and in so doing confuse and contradict myself in all my postings.
After carefully reading mr blackmore statements I must admit that all the bases were covered.
One must ask himself are these just now comments more political than any genuine concern?
Why do we keep shooting our goals down people for some quick political points?
Blackmoore u and collins DON’T care about people!!!u and collins are not d one dat will suffer!!!is d people dat will suffer!!!!
Geothermal is very, very toxic to the environment. Please view this site bigislandvideonews.com
In a recent post, a blogger suggested that everything about Roseau Valley is politics and he got many thumps up.
Well having listened to the government officials over the last few months on the potential of geothermal exploration in Dominica, one cannot help but recognize the political exploits of the topic by politicians. And why not!. If the project is successfully implemented, this will boost the political fortunes of those responsible and if the project fails they will suffer the consequences.
The Minister of Energy and Public Works must be applauded. Whenever there is an issue, he allows come forward with information –whatever one may think of the value, timing and relevance of the information. He is jowever better off speaking and sharing information before concerns are raised and not only when there is a crisis as is evident in the instance case. The statement by the Minister is welcome but it is rather vague and non-specific.
Having read the statement by the Minister, I wish to ask the following questions, some of which have already been posed by other commentators, recognizing the genuine concerns of the people of Ladaut and by extension the Roseau Valley.
– Herein lies the problem that we are faced with today- the untimely dissemination of crucial information and the constant engaging of active dialogue. with the people. For instance, if the discussion of geothermal has been ongoing since 2008 and before, why was the first and only series of meeting with the people in January 2011?
– You claim that the people of the Valley were contacted before and during the exploratory drilling but went on to say that the people were only consulted only on one occasion?
– Why is geothermal not explored in Guadeloupe and Martinique on the scale that it is being pushed in Dominica by Martinique and Guadeloupe? Is this linked to the PM statement that the resource is not ours and we are supposed to share it with our French neighbours?
– Specifically how the people of the Valley “assisted” in conceptualizing the EIA?
– What is the Government energy strategy that you have referenced?
– Would the government release/post the EIA and the draft report of July 2011?
In general, my questions are meant to urge the government to engage the people more frequently in addressing all our genuine concerns. Tell us the truth that there are some real risks and potential negative consequences but by no means is geothermal the worst thing that has or will happen to Dominica as some have lamented. By the way sir, there is no need to be rude and personal in WASHING and BURNING people when speaking on such important national issues as a Minister of Government. There is really no need for that. Sometimes you need to take the high road.
Respectfully
Roseau Valley
Roseau Valley, Nuff respect to you patner. You keeping them honest. Where do you get the time, energy and info.
Thanks for keeping them honest patner..you are political be fair and balance like fox.
Respect!
@Roseau Valley: I didn’t know that you, unlike some non-Laborites, were capable of being impartial. But you show here that you can be apolitical when it comes to such an issue, in the national interest.
Some may even thing you were crossing over to the other side but you simply seem to be putting pollitics aside, with a few words of wisdom & encouragement to a seemingly rookie countryman or naive politician, in the interest of your country. Big-up!
Blackmore could not do without the final satement which still amounts to “Go to hell, we will do what we want to”
that staement is genuinely his and not the rest of the article.
UTTER ARROGANCE
Geothermal energy is the energy obtained from the earth(geo) from the hot rocks present inside the earth. It is produced due to the fission of radioactive materials in the earth’s core and some places inside the earth become very hot. These are called hot spots. They cause water deep inside the earth to form steam. As more steam is formed, it gets compressed at high pressure and comes out in the form of hot springs which produces geothermal power.
To harness this geothermal energy, two holes are dug deep into the earth and cold water is pumped through the first one and steam comes out through the second long pipe which helps in generating electricity. The holes dug for harnessing geothermal energy result in lesser emission of greenhouse gases than due to burning of fossil fuels. Thus if used at a larger scale and more efficiently, it gives a hope to reduce global warming.
Geo-thermal energy is one of the rare forms of energy which is not directly or indirectly from solar energy. In areas where hot springs are found, hot springs baths are very common and enjoyable form of recreation. However, they need to be in a controlled environment since they cannot be accessed without proper supervision. We have earlier seen how it is harnessed, the process involved is a long and expensive one and not feasible in some areas.
Construction of geothermal energy plants can affect the seismic stability to a large extent. Even though there are lesser emissions, digging deep holes causes seismic disturbances which have led to earthquakes.
Now lets discuss advantages and disadvantages of Geothermal Energy.
Advantages of Geothermal Energy
1) It is a renewable source of energy.
2) By far, it is non-polluting and environment friendly.
3) There is no wastage or generation of by-products.
4) Geothermal energy can be used directly. In ancient times, people used this source of energy for heating homes, cooking, etc.
5) Maintenance cost of geothermal power plants is very less.
6) Geothermal power plants don’t occupy too much space and thus help in protecting natural environment.
7) Unlike solar energy, it is not dependent on the weather conditions.
Disadvantages of Geothermal Energy
1) Only few sites have the potential of Geothermal Energy.
2) Most of the sites, where geothermal energy is produced, are far from markets or cities, where it needs to be consumed.
3) Total generation potential of this source is too small.
4) There is always a danger of eruption of volcano.
5) Installation cost of steam power plant is very high.
6) There is no guarantee that the amount of energy which is produced will justify the capital expenditure and operations costs.
7) It may release some harmful, poisonous gases that can escape through the holes drilled during construction.
Educator, before you start disseminating false information, playing smart you need to know what you are talking about, I do not know where you get this information that there is no pollution involved in the production of geothermal energy.
Do you know anything at all about hydrogen sulfide?
Whoever you are, you need to stop!
Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque
I too was confused, but thanks to “Joe” for the post below, (do click on the link please, I too didn’t know this is 10% of Guada’s power) and I quote:
“Check this out … http://businesses.edf.com/generation/hydropower-and-renewable-energy/geothermal-energy/our-strategy-85567.html
I never heard Guadeloupians complain, so is it us?”
Dominicans must remember certain things as it relates to that Geothermal Project.
— Wasn’t it revealed to all of us about the alledged millions of $$$$$$$$$ that went to the coffers of a certain “Met Domnik” for legal fees? Nobody has refuted that yet? Isn’t that person before the courts, but stalling tactics on?
— Who is the Chairman of West Indies Power Co.? Govt. awarded WPC the contract to explore geothermal resource?
— Was that Chairman the former Manager of our National Bank? Why was his contract as Manager not renewed? Why?
Dominica is a Small Island State, just 289 Sq. mls. in area. In 1995, the Morne Trois Pitons Nation Park was enshrined as a World Heritage Site. Certainly there must be careful considerations, policies/guidelines about the implementation of any project within such sites.
Vast acres of land are required for such projects. Not only for the physical plant, but for affluents, poisonous pollutants, run-offs etc. No joking, our Water Table must be negatively affected. Large expanses of land will be laid bare.
Do Dominicans really care about our unique, prestine, but fragile environment? Think about it? actions speak louder than words.
Many natural sites, lakes, sulphur springs, rich biodiversity, exist in the Heritage Site. So no effect on those sites, flora, fauna, soil, rivers, streams within that area of operation and beyond? Dominica is just 289.9 Sq. mls.
— But who cares? Asphalt Plant was built close to the Layou Village. viollagers begged Govt. to consider their health. Such a plant belches cancer-causing poisons. They protested. The Minister of the Environment, a medical doctor, sided with the Big business man and agreed to build the asphalt plant anyway. Planning Division gave permission to build.
An entire village had absolutely no power, even if their health is at risk, for their Govt. to hear their genuine cries. Nothing different will happen in that case.
According to the song, ” You could fool some people some time, but you could not fool all of the people, all of the time.”
Oh Lord Mindful resurrected on another forum…lordie lordie…more politics…fire
In March 2010 the chief planning officer said that the asphalt plant in Layou was only granted a temporary license for two years. Well, it is Jan. 2013 now and that plant still operating there! The other one at Colihaut, the Govt. own was started without planning permission and EIA only made and village meeting held after it was already built. So this geothermal different then?
Mr. Blackmore mentions the meetings in January 2011 as being the first of a series of meetings held with the public. Why do I get the impression however, that these were the first, but possibly the only meetings? Can Mr. Blackmore tell us the dates on which the other meetings were held? I get the impression that the meetings which he seems to be suggesting were planned previously to take place in the third week of January this year, TWO years after the ones in January 2011, were hurriedly planned in response to the actions of the villagers of Laudat. The government, I think, held an emergency meeting of cabinet the minute they heard of the concerns expressed in Laudat, simply because they are panicking that this whole thing will unravel as persons realize that they have been duped and respond accordingly! I believe that there are many questions to come in relation to agreements negotiated on Mr. Blackmore’s watch, including the road project from Pond Casse to Melvillehall! I do not believe that all has been told with regard to the expenditures being incurred to pull in companies which were outside of the original agreement signed, in order to be able to finish this particular project. I believe that we are going to see court battles in the future in relation to that deal…….We watch and wonder…….and wait!!!!! Peace and love
Wow! Well constructed letter Mr. Blackmore! But yet again it has been tainted with short bursts of contempt and distasteful comments targeted at Dominicans who are expressing legitimate concerns about decisions which are taken in haste and without sufficient consultation with or consideration for the general population. Once again, anyone who does not tow the line and KEEP THEIR MOUTH SHUT on decisions taken, is considered ‘a FEW persons who have made it their vocation to
derail ANYTHING THAT IS GOOD FOR THE COUNTRY.’ Why is it that when one asks the questions of the government, one must always be LABELLED as a troublemaker or an enemy to the state? The very same persons who cry you down when you question the government because of their blind allegiance to it, would be some of the first in line to bite off the head of the ministers responsible for initiating these projects if there were to be, God forbid, some major accident. Not only that!! They would also pretend that they had never supported the project in the first place!!
Now someone tell me, for goodness sake, what does the following statement seek to convey on the part of the minister? ‘Government is mindful of the various elements for whatever political reasons are seeking to derail the Project.’ This statement
in my mind, is yet another attempt to box persons in as being EITHER FOR US (THE GOVERNMENT) OR AGAINST US! To me it is a strategy aimed at alienating the sector of society which has concerns, from the rest of the population in an effort to make them be seen to be ENEMIES OF THE STATE!! This is a serious matter of concern as, yet again, the government seems to be saying WE KNOW THEM!!! WE KNOW WHO THEY ARE!! This attempt at dividing the people is extremely malicious and irresponsible on the part of the government. One should be able to exercise one’s democratic right without being deliberately marginalized by one’s government. However, it should be noted that a separation must be made between the genuine concern of the beautiful people of Laudat and a few persons who have made it their vocation to derail anything that is good for the country. Mr. Blackmore’s statement,it should be noted that a separation must be made between the genuine concern of the beautiful people of Laudat and a few persons who have made it their vocation to derail anything that is good for the country’, is yet another example of this government’s obvious attempts at that sort of divisive strategy. He then goes on to say ‘Let me remind them that their efforts will not WASH AWAY the determination and commitment of the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica.’
This government should be ashamed of the way in which they continuously denigrate and insult the people of Dominica and Dominicans need to recognize that these references to individuals or groups are actually meant to address them collectively and that it is simply dependent on whether or not they appear to be supportive of the ruling party or not, at any particular time.
DOMINICA, REMEMBER THAT YOU GET THE GOVERNMENT THAT YOU PERMIT AND THEY WILL TREAT YOU IN THE WAY IN WHICH YOU PERMIT THEM TO UNTIL YOU TAKE ACTIONS TO CHANGE THE SITUATION.
Peace and love my brothers……….
Do you really believe he wrote it all by himself.?
I back you 100%
I my self sidung and read dat whoke thinng. While reading I checkin it really well written then I reach de ennd and just strupz. I mean where that come in.
Leaves mme to wonder now if that report is true
Colihaut people suffering under dust from three quarries for the development of Dominica including laudat.
So tell laudat people development comes with pros and cons I’m just sorry but someone have to take the fall in order for us to get low electricity bills
i smell politics and the scent coming from the opposition. this project is something other countries wish they had .imagine Dominica selling clean energy. wow
Mr Blackmore is on the right track. One third of electricity and 95% of home heating in Iceland is geothermal in origin.
I thpught the Minister would once more tell us to put our hand between our legs, but the power is in the hands of the people not these elements of corruption governing our country
i made numerous postings on that subject,copy and pasting links about the disadvantages of geothermal…
dumbinicans dont read instead they responded with negative comments claiming that i was political and negative.
the ministers are also clueless because i know they never researched about geothermal, if they did we would never be in that situation..
WE ARE BLESSED WITH WIND, SUN AND WATER, why do you cluelss ministers are not educating yourselves about the things you may cause to negatively impact the citizens life.
Post a negative and a positive advantange, let us decide
go and research and read, dont depend on what people shove down your ear all the time…
positive, we will have energy and our bill maybe reduced, i say maybe because we were told petro caribe would do that.
negative, people in the affected arears would suffer and die of diseases that could have been avoided
Curious if Blackmore understands anything in his press release other than the political commess he inserted
Anyway, it’s all well and good to name the firms used and the activties for which they were used but who exactly are these firms? Once they are globally recognized as capable and expert in the fields for which they were hired to consult and, their verdicts sound and above board, then so far so good. The government seems to be on track.
This is the ONE AND ONLY project thus far, that these scoundrels have gotten right which of course leads me to believe thats there alot in it for them personally, but anyway at least the country will benefit with much lower electricty bills. HOPEFULLY.
It is unfortunate and typical, however, that this government is unable to respect genuine concern. Are there detractors in the midst? obviously they are but not all concern is political. People have a right to be concerned but as expected, no respect shown by officials but at least Blackmore didnt tell anyone to go lock themselves in a toilet
If you want to believe the government, go ahead. Play deaf, dumb, and blind, because that’s what you are doing. ALL GOVERNMENTS LIE TO THEIR PEOPLE. Period. The end. The truth lies in the evidence of damages that have been done by previous geothermal drilling in other parts of the world, both environmental & health related. You think their government told THEM the truth. Read up, people. Don’t just listen to what your government is saying. Dominica will suffer, YOU will suffer the consequences. Why not make better use of our hydro systems already in place? This is clean, this is green. Geothermal is far from clean or green. And how dare Blackmoore play the race card!! Shame on him. That is what he is doing in his last statement. This is NOT an issue of black, white, red, or anything in between. It’s a People’s issue. We are the People of Dominica. Every one of us.
DNO: “The feedbacks were?” Really? Come on man! There is no plural form for this word. It is always “feedback” ok?
ADMIN: Geez, is this our original article? Write to Mr. Blackmoore and his staff.
I’m sorry
“However, it should be noted that a separation must be made between the genuine concern of the beautiful people of Laudat and a few persons who have made it their vocation to derail anything that is good for the country.”
This has no place in the statement.
By the way. Don’t we have Minister for the Environment? Where is his voice in all this? I’m sure pople would be very interested in his opinion since this is an issue that conerns his Dept. directly.
If anything, this demonstrates that a Freedom of Information Act is long overdue, regardless which party is in power. It would save the Govt. having to fight rearguard actions like this one and restore confidence in our public administration. As it is everything is secon-guessed, not trusted, ridiculed and subject of speculation. If Govt. decisions and actions are really in the intest of the the people they govern let’s be tranparent and open so we are not wasting so much precious time on backstabbing and politicizing issues.
This guy is outside of the country…lol
Maybe you can get Pland Parenthood also
i just think the government has educated members but they lack common sense. why would you go geothermal before trying solar or wind or even hydro. ask yourself, Why are the french countries using us to benefit from geothermal, and we know Martinique and Guadeloupe are very volcanic countries. because they know the risk involved. people need to do the research for them self to see the heavy dangers of geothermal. that’s what the internet and Google is for.
boyyy i doh know what to say about black and tim nah! i wish they didnt have to show their faces on my computer
With that statement I actually believe everything that could have been done has been done. People playing politics and could care less about the overall benefit of the country. The companies involved in the project are respected worldwide for the laws they follow and attention to detail in relation to nature so I am confident that they will be cautious. I thought there was no dialogue between the govt and the residents. From the initial statement, the complaints certainly portrayed that was the case. This project is probably the best thing to happen to dominica since the very first road constructions. I for one will embrace it. Is my kids it will benefit. I givin jack his jacket.
Mr. Blackmoore you always shocks me. I was reading the article above and was honestly appreciating it until you had to go and bring politics into it. That is sad that you can take people’s genuine concerns and deal with it like that. Well now we will see what Dominicans are made of. POLITICS POLITICS POLITICS.
He is a politician, what do you expect.
I thought geothermal was clean & green until our fellow Dominicans from Laudat educated me.
http://www.bigislandvideonews.com/2012/04/25/video-a-case-against-geothermal-part-one/
As for dem fellas who never listen to people, u all can take the gamble on people lives, but if our people start getting sick & dying like Hawaii, i can assure u, u will get vigilante justice rambo style!
Wow. Strong message. everyone needs to see this.
Try that site then let us be objective……
http://www.our-energy.com/geothermal_energy.html
Many such things are clean and green when done properly with all the scientific safeguards and not compromised by cutting corners because of financial constraints.
There are many many places where these energy sources have been implemented successfully.
Where I would be worried is if the plant in Dominica is built on the cheap without re-injection. Re-injection goes a long way to eliminate toxic wastes from a plant.
Great ‘Positive’ thats why the Government, as the article proves, is taking their time with this project and is ensuring only the best firms are engaged.
It is really sad how gullible some of my people has become…… Playing foolish politics in everything, i mean come on people, this is the world of Information Technology!!!
Where is Gabu and Washway to explain to the people? They curse the government when they were not awarded the contract, they should now explain the safety to the people….
Gabbage
Sometimes we have to lose to gain. IF we had to consider environmental destruction in our everyday life. Then we would be infrastructure-less and running around in leaves as garments and eating raw and dried foods everyday and no alcohol and minimum sugar intake to not harm our bodies. A simple thing as combustion yields fumes that are offensive no matter what the combustible material is. Moderation is the key to it all. Put in place the necessary precautions that will allow minimum damage if its inevitable. It is alright to be concerned but we really have to sit and think of the benefits that could possibly come from such a project. Quite frankly, a lot of individuals who live in Dominica have the desire to see better infrastructural development on the Island. We cannot sit back and be behind in every area. We say we are the Nature Island yet we prefer to stick to fossil fuel. A resource that does a lot more harm to our environment than geothermal and at the same time damages our pockets. If we desire to increase our rankings in the green destination arena, why don’t we add Green energy to our portfolio. The government just needs to inform the people of the harmful effects as well as the steps that are and will be taken towards their protection and the protection of the environment.
However, it should be noted that a separation must be made between the genuine concern of the beautiful people of Laudat and a few persons who have made it their vocation to derail anything that is good for the country.
Let me remind them that their efforts will not WASH AWAY the determination and commitment of the Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica.
THE PEOPLE OF LAUDAT ARE THE PEOPLE OF DOMINICA. WHAT DO THEY GET FROM IT…WHAT? WHAT COMMITMENT DO YOU HAVE TO THE PEOPLE OF DOMINICA/ LAUDAT, DO YOU CARE FOR THEIR SAFETY, HEALTH, THEIR FUTURE, THEIR CHILDREN?
Do you care about them until you all start bringing galvanized sheeting and coffee cus fr election
There is no honesty in these guys. The EIA. Was done for mitigation purposes. question 1 – can you make the EIA documents available? Mitigation is part of the document and an EIA is not done just to formulate mitigation measures and recommendations. So question # 2 – can we see copies of the EIA? Question 3 – is the EIA the people’s document or the trump card of the administration?
Question 4 where is the entire document? And why you all are now jumping through hoops to bring in experts to talk to the people.
Why does Blackmore always believe whenever Dominicans show concern about anything which, in their opinion will affect their lives, derailment or destabilising of the Labor Government is what we always hear.What the people are saying is that, proper consultation and understanding of this major project did not take place.When you read his statement,you wiil observe that only three meetings had taken place,one in each of the three villages.He refers to further environmental initiatives,shouldn’t these initiatives be put in place before work had commenced. We have seen on so many occasions the lack of respect for Dominicans by this administration when it comes to communicating,consultating with the people, this project is no different.
When the government does something wrong I call them out but we cannot oppose everything the government is doing for the sake of politics. I don’t live in the Laudat area so I cannot say if their complaint is genuine or triggered by malicious political intent – but if this report is true I must commend the government for covering all its basis as regards to the environment.
I think this project is good for Dominica. I am an independent who just love my country. I hate this blindsided partisan support where to the opposition the government can do no good and to the supporters the government can do no wrong
Before you posted your comment shouldnt you first do some investigation yourself before making such a loose comment so to you without knowing if the people are justified in their concern you think the GOVT is on the right track and you believe keeping back information from them is the right thing to do if so the folks in LAUDAT wouldnt want your support because what they dont need in the mix are political attitudes.
I agree with your statement here. Too many people are quick to disregard the genuine concerns of the people of this country. Laudat, Wotten Waven and Trafalgar have real concerns about this project. It is true that there were consultations in each of these areas but how many consultations were there? Basically after maybe just one meeting with the villagers you mean to tell me that this constitutes a go ahead with a project that may negatively impact the people living in close proximity to this project? Many people who do not reside around the areas designated for the project can easily say that they are in total support for it but it is the people who will be most affected that will be having the issues to deal with. For example I am a resident of Wotten Waven and to tell the truth, when the drilling was going on here, the air was very, very bad to breathe. While you might say that we breath the sulphur air everyday on a daily basis, during the exploration, the air was maybe a hundred times worst than normal, it was intolerable. This is not about politics because we have been supporting this government through the show of our votes. This is about the livlihoods of people in this area being affected. This is about the people not being able to breathe properly at nights when this project recommences. This is about the general negative impact on our villages so please do not just attribute our speaking out to playing politics because it is not. The government of this country was put in place by the people and it is high time that they get of their high horses and listen to the people.We have a voice and we demand to be heard!
Just man advise. Concentrate on the issues raised by the people, belated as it may. provide the right information on either side of the discussion. whilst one must not ignore the not so subtle influence of certain individuals, very little reference should be made about them when official responses are given. The last two parapgraph for example have n place in what was a long and inciteful official comment tot he ongoing debate. Leave that for another forum. The people of Laudat who clealy have been misled ought not to be lumped among the detractors of government.
One question! Why then don’t Guadaloupe and/or Martinique develop their own geothermal sources instead of relying on Dominica???
And if they do, you will ask why can’t we do it too…lol
I wonder how much money goes in your pocket.
I posed the question only because both Guadeloupe and Martinique have volcanic-active areas and if the process is that safe and environmentally friendly why would they not develop their own resources and not depend on a foreign country with the additonal heavy cost of undersea cables? I have no problem we developing such a source for our own use provided it is safe and does not impact on the environment.
Rachel ask that very same question to all the other opposing voices…be balanced
Jay, your question is well noted, but having active volcano is not enough for Geothermic Resources…Nevis is ahead of Dominica and Nevis is as flat as Salisbury.
But we must not try to belittle ourselves and let others leap frog us…point in case …Hieneken Beer Factory…we coulda have it…but we said our morality was more important than a few drunk men…It’s now in St Lucia.
I say let’s shoot for the heavens and if we fall short , we can discover mars…what say you?
it was mamo that didnt want heineken beer here so it go st lucia and mamo that didnt want vet school here so it go st kitts…lol
IPO, you still have not answered the question. Why doesn’t Guadeloupe and Martinique developed their own geothermal resources? It is a very reasonable question, so why knock someone for asking it?
I guess Blackmoore and his GOVT just got a shock from the people around and from those in other villages it was time Dominicans speak out on things not on a political level, it’s much more a people issue a community matter and if we dont look out for ourselves the ministers as well as the others will not because greed have been good business for them and the people are second place, These guys should realize information on the matter are out there and the folks let their fingers did the walking educating one self is so important . D’icans are thinking about their families and their enviroment and how dangerous the project will be for them they are not against development but not at human cost thse men were not up front with the Residence they lied.
Blackmoore I would suggest you put your bull pit attitude aside and listen to the people because the days of just shoving things down their throata are over and the fact that lots of money is already spent cannot compare to the lives that will be affected.
Why is it that the GOVT wouldnt think of people first instead of greed why cant they do things right We need as a people to take a stand for justice People of D’ica continue to educate yourselves the internet have a lot of good write up regarding thoe issues big up to the LAUDAT folks and to the others that are concerned.
Dominicans press Blackmoore, McIntyer, Skerrit and their engineers for answeres till you get the truth.
Sounds to me like agitation and politricks going on here, so what would the agitators prefer, for Dominica to remain backward, in the dark and poor?
I’m sure there are enough people in government that truly love their country to not court mindless pursuits that could destroy it and it’s people.
Well Jay apparently there is one in Bouillant Guadeloupe, research it.
Geothermal Power Plant in Bouillant, Guadeloupe
Thanks Joe. Clearly IPO didn’t know of its existence and neither did I. Thanks again.
Thanks Joe, I know about this plant. It is relatively small and only reinforces the question why the French don’t expand this facility, or build an additional one to meet their entire electricity requirements instead of relying on a foreign source which they do not control and could easily be interrupted, for whatever reason..!
Check this out … http://businesses.edf.com/generation/hydropower-and-renewable-energy/geothermal-energy/our-strategy-85567.html
I never heard Guadeloupians complain, so is it us?