Calls for a violent free and peaceful carnival 2013 dominated messages from Government officials when they addressed patrons following the 2013 Carnival opening parade at the Pottersville Savannah last Saturday.
Minister for Culture, Justina Charles, emphasized that a peaceful and enjoyable Real Mas celebration is what everyone should aspire for.
“Let us focus on the positive aspects of Carnival, its contribution to our culture and development. Let us have clean fun and by all means avoid any acts of criminality or violence. As we get into the final preparations of the various events over the next three weeks let me offer my personal encouragement to everyone involved and best wishes for a fun filled, peaceful inspiring and enjoyable carnival 2013,” Charles said.
Echoing similar sentiments was Tourism Minister Ian Douglas.
“We must be mindful of the absolute need to keep our carnival free from violence, from drug use and from mischief. Everyone must make a conscious decision to refrain from violence or any form of criminal behavior and encourage each and everyone to do the same,” he stated.
The Tourism Minister said that “carnival should not be viewed as a time to settle old scores or seek revenge for past hurts”, but he called on Dominicans “to adhere to the carnival regulations and traffic directions to ensure smooth operation of the entire carnival season.”
Douglas, who is an avid supporter of carnival, congratulated the many groups and individuals who made this year’s carnival opening parade a success.
“I must commend all of the carnival and musical bands, the private sector companies, the pageant contestants and the groups and individuals who participated in the opening parade. You have once again ensured that the grand spectacle of the opening of carnival has been filled with beauty, pageantry, color, excitement and fun and you have set the pace for the rest of the carnival season,” he said.
Worst opening ever
that is a lie carnival had no colour, no beauty, no fun, no excitement, and worst no organization Mr Douglas that is all a lie
I wish you all a peaceful, safe and wonderful carnival.
I am against violence but i find our original tradition is dieing
a little band beating in my village and a police that living in a village rite behind God back find he have to come and stop it.
Thats our tradition for yrs but all of a sudden they want to stop it.
i understand if there was violence they have a reason to stop it but young and old enjoying there selves and police coming n stop the vibes
And the asking people to invite someone to Dominica for carnival well i for one will not invite anyone, when friends call from abroad asking how it looking for carnival i telling dem doe waste there time and money to come DA
i secound the motion!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
idiot