Venezuela has donated 300 houses, known as ‘petrocasas,’ to Dominica to go towards those affected by Tropical Storm Erika and the President of that country, Nicholas Maduro, is expected to visit Dominica to symbolically hand one over.
Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, said on Tuesday that one the weekend the structure for one of the houses was brought to Dominica.
“We expect the President of Venezuela to come to Dominica on Saturday where we will have the symbolic handing over of this one home, but of course, making a pronouncement on the 300 hundred homes that will be built for those affected by Tropical Storm Erika,” he stated.
He said the first fifty houses are expected to be in the country in the next couple of weeks and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Housing will advise cabinet how and where they will be erected.
“So we trying to move as quickly as possible,” Skerrit said.
Petrocasas are Venezuelan family houses built in mass production and are largely used in rural areas under the South American country’s public housing program. They are made from PVC materials produced by the country’s oil industry, hence the name Petrocasa (Oil House). They can be built in ten to 12 days.
I was surprised by the number of comments on this housing issue. If Venezuela is helping with housing they ought to be commending for the effort.
Facts, we live in California, year to year on target with these reoccurring firs; especially in Northern California. Some of these fire’s are caused mostly by lightens, and there is nothing we can do about it. And so I must question the thoughts of that Dominica man who made the claim that God, is trying to get the attention of Dominicans by sending a flood to kill our people. If that is the case God might be at the time trying to get the attention of the people where there is flooding right now.
This week there was heavy flooding in the State of Utah a few miles North of Las Vegas Nevada, it also flood in the State of Nevada, not forgetting you drew to my attention the fire up North of Southern California; last week there was destructive flooding in Japan; the following in the quote below is just a sample of the damage that is likely to happen each and every year:
“An elderly, disabled woman’s body was found Monday in the ruins of her destroyed Lake County home, and…
“An elderly, disabled woman’s body was found Monday in the ruins of her destroyed Lake County home, and authorities were searching nearby for a 69-year-old man reported missing by his family. His burned-out car was found on the route he would have used to escape.
“We’ve already had a confirmed loss of one life,” Lake County Sheriff Brian Martin said while on a tour of the disaster zone with state emergency officials. “We have reports of several others that may have perished in the fire.”
Lots of events are occurring throw out the world Fact, it is not in Dominica alone: the following is what took place last night. Los Angeles is five thousand miles away, yet the earthquake is causing some high waves here in the sea in areas of Los Angeles: I do not believe that God is doing that to get the attention of any country or nation. He uses his word in the Bible to get the attention those who seek him!
ILLAPEL, Chile (AP) — Thousands of residents of this small city in northern…
ILLAPEL, Chile (AP) — Thousands of residents of this small city in northern Chile were sleeping outside Thursday after a powerful earthquake destroyed their homes, a tremor that also forced more than 1 million to evacuate and killed eight people in the quake-prone South American nation.
Several coastal towns were flooded from small tsunami waves set off by the late Wednesday quake, which shook the Earth so strongly that rumbles were felt across South America.
In God’s eyes we are all little children. Our Lord Jesus Christ said, “Unless you become as little children, you will not enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” This means to be as loving and humble as an innocent child.
Aside from other prayers as Psalms, here is a little prayer which I learned as a child:
A Little Child’s Prayer
Now I lay me down to sleep
I pray the Lord my soul to keep
If I should die before I wake
I pray the Lord my soul to take.
In my little bed I lie
Heavenly Father hear my cry
Lord protect me through the night
Bring me safe to morning light, Amen!
Aside from the Our Father, etc., Catholics have other prayers. They also have the Holy Water.
As I read: In 1984 The Mother of God, our Spiritual Mother said to a visionary in Croatia, “Restore the use of Holy Water in your home.” This is, to bless our home, ourselves, family, others and our country. God knows some Catholics have ceased using it. It gives much calm, peace, tranquility and…
For the Holy Water, I usually make a joke but respectfully, it is like the American Express Credit Card: “Don’t leave home without it.”
It makes good sense.
Those who are not of the Catholic Faith may not be familiar with it. They may even scoff at it. However, I am telling you, it helps. I am never without it in my home. It also protects from evil and certain illnesses.
Read about it. One must believe in its godly efficaciousness. There is much more to state about it.
Disasters will always happen. We know not where and when. We must pray to God for protection, to preserve us from them. Should they occur to us, we still have to call on God during the process. If God who is the author of life and death chooses that we will lose our life, so be it but we will not go without calling on His Holy Name to either protect us or save us. As it is said, “We do not curse the darkness. We light a lamp.”
These days, the world has become more godless; some people unkind. I do not need to elaborate on this. Those who are enlightened will know and do not have to be told.
We are told to pray to God for protection. Our Lord said, “Ask and you shall receive…”
Many turned away from the faith and criticize it in a worst manner. Many live according to their own ways with no regard for God or for others. They scoff at the mention of His Holy Name. This and more. What do you expect? God who loves us wants our attention, to save us.
I know beggars are not choosers but PVC homes seems like a short term solution with long term problems.
The Gov’t needs to put some quality control in place.
http://www.nachi.org/pvc-health-hazards.htm
http://www.vanguardngr.com/2012/11/expert-warns-on-dangers-of-pvc-building-materials/
I pray for everyone In Dominica. To my mother-in-law and my wife’s other family members, I do wish I can do more for them but I’m doing my best. My wife and I are trying to send some help to her family in Dominica, but its going to take some time. We are not rich we are just making it right now, but want stop us from trying. We will leave it Gods hand. I hope every one in Dominica get the help they need, no matter where it comes from. I am a American but fell in love with a Dominican Queen, that’s what I call her, so Dominica is my second home away from home. Hope everyone get the help they need and stay blessed.
Keep ya head up everything is going to be alright. Help is coming, might not be a lot but its something.
thank u so much venz thank u again may my god go bless your country thank u again
Papa Chaves did say on his visit to Dominica that Venezuela is the new Mother country
RIO, Brazil, Wednesday June 27, 2012 – Dominica, Cuba and Venezuela have joined the foreign ministers of Bolivia, Ecuador and Nicaragua in requesting that the heads of government of the Bolivarian Alternative for the Americas (ALBA) effect the immediate expulsion of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) from the countries of the ALBA bloc.
The resolution was passed following an ALBA foreign ministers meeting in Rio, Brazil last Thursday. The statement was subsequently published in Spanish in the Cuban ‘Grandma’ newspaper.
Apart from Dominica, the two other English speaking countries in the ALBA bloc, Antigua and Barbuda and St Vincent and the Grenadines, did not sign on to the declaration.
An English language version of the statement said in part: “To request the Heads of State and Government of the States Parties to the Bolivarian Alternative for the Americas for the immediate expulsion to their countries of USAID, its delegates or representatives,…
God Bless America. All these folks who keep bashing America, why don’t you all use your real names. You can’t because you know what all of all you running for visas to run to the same America. Why not go to Venezuela. Hypocrites.
Or they are running to have their children there, especially the members of the DLP government
Trust me, there are people in the US who are living in worst housing stituations snf would be so greatful to have this new home.
People do not believe the hype, after hurricane Katrina the people of New Orleans had to leave and were displaced. Some have never returned to the NO and had to start over in other states.
Katrina was devastating. There is still much re-building to do in New Orleans.
A year or more ago New York City had bad weather and flooding in winter.
So you see, every country.city/province gets its share sooner or later.
A few years ago Montreal had an ice storm. Most people lost electricity, some for a long time.
Approximately two winters ago Toronto and the rest of Ontario had their share, an ice storm. This is the first time since residing in Canada I experienced something like that I hope never again.
The summer before, some parts of Toronto had a summer storm with rain, thunder, lightning and flooding. Trees fell on houses and vehicles and more. . . Some people had no power for days.
Some years ago in summer, all of Ontario, some parts of the US had a power blackout. It occurred late afternoon. The power returned at my home the following morning at about 4:30 am. In other areas, it was some days.
This is life. The weather is getting worst.
Well, you see – Politics is a SIN. It was George Bush who was the president during Katrina – A Republican/Publican president. They are for the rich white folks. Same as in a dictatorial regime; these “leaders” do not serve the citizens equally. If you are on their side, it’s a different ball game. Louisiana vote democratic and the Republican President was going to make them pay. And paid they did.
Keep a close eye on all the aid and assistance we are getting from all over, and see unfair the distribution of such goods and services are going to be. This is nothing new. In such disasters the only winners are the ruling Government party. They want to see you come to them on your knees for a little help.
Thank you to the Government and the people of Venezuela.
I am so impressed at how all the other islands in the Caribbean came to offer their help to our tiny Island Nation. This says a lot. My heart is so full of gratitude, my eyes are full of joyful tears.
It’s one to help the other. Thanks to all who got involved
People say thank you NUH>>>>>papa papa met boy…..why all de other islands are staying safe and Dominica keep getting all those disasters? EH? WHY? Look we under an earthquake watch…..!! I love my country but day by day its getting to be so difficult living here.. So much quarreling and complaining. Just say thank you….. .I wonder what is God saying…..
They need to read Psalm 78. God be with us
You wondering what the creator is saying.
Well remember he told us of all the things that will befall us, untill we turn our face back to him, oh children of Israel.
The Lord will open the heavens, the storehouse of his bounty, to send rain on your land in season and to bless all the work of your hands. You will lend to many nations but will borrow from none. 13 The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom. 14 Do not turn aside from any of the commands I give you today, to the right or to the left, following other gods and serving them.
However, if you do not obey the Lord your God and do not carefully follow all his commands and decrees I am giving you today, all these curses will come on you and overtake you:
You will be cursed when you come in and cursed when you go out.
20 The Lord will send on you curses, confusion and rebuke in everything you put your hand to, until you are destroyed and come to sudden ruin because of the evil you have done in forsaking him.[a] 21 The Lord will plague you with diseases until he has destroyed you from the land you are entering to possess. 22 The Lord will strike you with wasting disease, with fever and inflammation, with scorching heat and drought, with blight and mildew, which will plague you until you perish. 23 The sky over your head will be bronze, the ground beneath you iron. 24 The Lord will turn the rain of your country into dust and powder; it will come down from the skies until you are destroyed.
I have been following the news and everything happening at home since all this happened and it amazes me the negativity coming through on the comments placed here given what has happened to the country. Why cant we stop all the politics and look towards rebuilding the island home. I mean seriously…cant we just be grateful and happy for all those who were left homeless and are certainly looking forward to having a place of their own again? Jeez…What a shame.
I was proud of Obama for being the first black president of America,but now I consider him another house slave that has made it big as a puppet,our people were so proud of the man, the man has yet to even make a statement concerning dominica,obama can scat he behind we as a people should show love where we getting love from
This is why Obama hasn’t said a statement about Dominica (read and educate yourself)
http://www.caribbean360.com/news/dominica-cuba-and-venezuela-want-usaid-thrown-out
u asking me to educate myself,and u so dam educated that u did not read or understand the part where it says,besides dominica two other English speaking countries did not sign the resolution,i do not know what’s wrong with u all people
Read and educate yourself:
http://www.caribbeannewsnow.com/topstory-Dominica-joins-other-ALBA-countries-in-requesting-immediate-expulsion-of-USAID-11464.html
Forreal you cannot read or what. The headline of the article from Caribbean News Now clears says Dominica join with other ALBA countries to expel USAID. That was reinforced in the first paragraph. At that time there were three English speaking countries of ALBA, Antigua, St. Vincent and Dominica. APART from Dominica, the other two did not sign, the article never said BESIDES. Don’t twist the thing around man. Dorival John is actually right.
Obama is a huge disappointment, beginning with the HHS Mandate. If you listen and/or read the News you should know that.
Go to the website: http://www.ewtn.com
and search their News section. This is where you will read “The Facts” which you may not hear or read and as accurate through the US Media.
Two more years for Obama. US election is in the air.
Nonsense that! In the last election Skerrit put himself right next to Obama larger than life, saying “leadership is everything” after he signed and Alba agreement to throw out U.S. aid two year before. What you want Obama to do? Beg Skerrit to to allow the U.S. to let them take some credit for for helping him? Why you think the U.S. help so far going through the Red Cross, a neutral body?
President Obama is no house slave, you Dominican are Skerrit’s house slaves and beggers, clean you all front yard before casting any stones, President Obama and The Great USA hates Dictators, thieves, money laundering, con artist ect. President Obama bib not go behind President Bush back and betrayed him, Skerrit did to Prime Minister Pierre Charles, President Obama is not becoming rich on the backs of American Taxpayers, nor is he selling America to international criminals and terrorist, he call American global citizens, your Skerrit do not want his kids to be global citizens that’s why his wife is giving birth
to American Babies, the same America your skerrit hate and standing side to side with ALBA and all the Middle Eastern Terrorist money launderers selling
Dominica’s passports, you need to ask your skerrit where is the billions of
dollars from the sales of your country passports hiding , President Obama is not
the one discriminating, victimizing, disrespecting…
A Very BI.G Thank You, Venezuela. We appreciate your friendship.
“A model of a petrocasa:” That is better than nothing right now; however, it appears like a backyard workshop, hobbyist used to store tools, and lawnmowers and other storage use.
The rod iron over the windows are discouraging; the people who are going to be stock in something like that perhaps for the rest of their life are not going to be very happy. If those are the best the dictator of Venezuela has to offer to his people, considering that Venezuela, has the largest oil reserve in the world, that tell us that something is very wrong with Venezuela, no wonder the Venezuelans are Skerrit’s closest allies!
What do they say about Birds, of a feather?
We flocked together!
@ Francisco Telemaque…. Why don’t you just provide the people with better homes since you are so quick to criticize. At least they are getting something to get them out of the shelter where thy have little to no privacy
Skerrit, have plenty more than I do; let him give them: he is the richest prime minister in the Caribbean (they say!).
Remember last election, the amount of free house, and building materials he gave away to young people who are able to work, and never hold a job in their life, never contribute a dime to the economy of Dominica, while he ignored old people in their 80’s who need that sort of help!
Let Skerrit give to them, he has a bank in his office at the red clinic, filled with money, he said it contains the amount as Obama has at the White House to give away to people, especially those who ask God for something, and when God takes long to give it to the people, when they asks he god Skerrit for something he gives it to them right way
I doh can compete wid that man eh! Hahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha; I broke, boosted, aint gat no money oui!
Telemaque, I heard on the News California is burning. So far 700 homes destroyed by bush fire. Do you reside near there?
It appears houses are always burning in California, in some rich areas.
We go through that every year. I gave you a better response at the top, I hope you read it.
Venezuela has the world largest oil reserve, the petrocasas are made from petroleum products, which is made from oil. there fore they are able to provide 300 petrocasas. with proper management and a less harassment from the oil hungry USA Venezuela has the potential to be just as wealthy as any of the Arab oil nations, or even richer. list of countries with oil https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_countries_by_proven_oil_reserves
Good point, venezuela not only has the potential, it should be as wealthy, as any the arab oil nations. But since 1998 leftist, socialist comrade chavez and maduro wants to lead some crazy socialist movement. ALBA, petrocasas, free housing, free schooling, free medical care, free roads, instead of developing the private sector, to provide good job for the people. And also since the housing revolution started in dominica, have you or anyone seen any DLP parl. rep. of high government official residing in one of the houses. And do you think any one of them, will reside in a petrocasas. But they will tell the people how wonderful it is. and be thankful that you get a free house. While they built nice expensive American style houses for themselves, and some with swimming pool
Just Blaze, where have you been? You resurrected and with a new name.
Welcome back! 
Venezuela probably has money in reserve and not as poor as some people think. This government cannot spend it all. They must save some for rainy days as also helping our poor Dominica which became poorer due to TS Erika. In time, Dominica will rise again. God is good!. Venezuela is a good friend of Dominica.
Hey Medard!
A former P.M in Hungary has opened up his home to Syrian refugees did U and your mansion dwelling ministers offer a 6 weeks stay in ur mansion to any of the victims of ERIKA?
Try that nah! As a physcologist( ( they say) you could have received many votes which would facilitate ur plan of being in power longer than any other D/can P.M.
U could have asked Ayatolla to house a dozen at the State house and shown you are so much of a socialist like Maduro. and ur papa Chavez etc.
wolves in sheep clothing cannot think of positive things.All they do is just ea\”t flesh\”/ get foolishly rich.
Dictators lack empathy. It\’s something they cannot control.
If U were smart you\’d have opened up urhome to a few along with ur enablers then offer the Venezuean oil houses to thos you gave shelter.that would have been a n easy vote catching mechanism.
Where are all your smart advisors ,Phds ambassadors lawyer who could help with the land transfer skipped payments etc,etc.
Lead by example, how many of the Erika victims have you accommodated in your mansion.
Wow such great initiatives and gift, yet some people talk so much rubbish? Say thank and stop politicizing disaster, the rain, floods, slides never looked to see who is DLP or who UWP and the government is doing same in rebuilding. Skerrit us one of the ambitious, well love and respected, smartest leaders in Caribbean and this is why Dominica is in good hands and we in the other islands will continue to pray for him and Dominica, we will continue to help in the rebuilding of Dominica despite the handful of ungrateful political fools. Bravo Venezuela! Send Skerrit to St. Lucia. We love him!
Psalm 33:12
Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance.
In these tough times God continues to bless his people. THANK YOU!!
When Venezuela was hit by bad flooding in november 0f 2010 Hugo Chavez put up 25 homeless families in his Presidential palace in Caracas Maybe our President could do the same, is only one man living in that big place, after all.
We now await visit from President of the GREAT AND MIGHTY USA bearing gifts. But wait I forgot we do not have oil, and anyway they are far to busy elsewhere bringing ‘peace’ to the middle east and other far flung regions.
Bull….Skerrit is running all over ALBA denouncing the Americans as imperialists, so you expect the US president to come running after all that bad mouthing.
And by the way After Hurricane David the Americans were here with ships and helicopters dropping food all over Dominica. And we did not have oil then. So you don’t know what the heck you talking about.
And guess what? After all the bad mouth, where is Skerrit sending his Madam to have their children? Not Venezuela, I can assure you but the same country he calling imperialists.
The mighty USA will not come unless ur PM declare a state of emergency.They will send their donation but ur PM need to declare a state of emergency for the might USA to show their face
For every negative comment i read about Ven. To those of you who thought thats the best thing you could easte your time and type.
Basic m-fers- this is disaster, keep your political b.s to yourself.
Shoot yourself!
For some of you Dominican skerrit is sinless, skerrit came out loud and clear and denounced America also displayed his anti American sentiments for all to see and hear tonyou boyle when Skerrit flexed his muscles with the rest of his ALBA comrades where all of them had their jacket and tie saying that Dominica will stand side to sise with Venezuela against America, wasn’t that a negative comments since skerrit was saying that for his own interests and not in the interest of Dominica, when he signed the treaty banning USAID in Dominica was that in the interest of Dominican?, skerrit hates the vine yet he likes the wine, America is a good country for his wife to give birth, buy properties, get good health care, raise his children to be American etc,skerrit is a traitor to America, the USA immigration should deny him entry to USA period, I guarantee that many of you in Dominica saying all the bad things about the USA, have relatives residing there, also residing there
Simply put — Thank you Venezuela!
Would like to know at what cost, Dominican if this is a gift as skerrit making it to be, knowing the situation in Venezuela, how the people are being treat, the lack of foods and the people’s basic needs and for your PM to be helping Maduro with victimizing the poeple of Venezuela, if such is the case only God knows what next, Dominican take note, Chavez daughters are billionaires and the people of Venezuela have to line up for everything, skerrit is following in all the dictators footsteps just a matter of time for you all global citizens continue grooming the snake head, continue adoring and worshipping the snake for time will tell,Dominica is already being on the verge of becoming like Venezuela, skerrit if you are a man of God as you tend to make Dominican believe you should have
tell maduro that unless he stop victimizing Venezuelans and falsely putting
people in prison you cannot accept gifts from him, skerrit show me your company I’ll tell you who you are
Again history repeats itself ..Venezuela was one of the first countires to respond to Dominica during hurricane David planeloads of assistance was distrbuted in food and housing materials –a diplomatic cooperation treaty was sgned then..the Simon Bolivar scheme was approved and houses later built at Stock farm .
An international airport was approved by the then Venezuela government for the hills of grand savannah..Salisbury, which the new administration rejected for strange reasons .
Venezuela has been a freind of Dominica since then by sucessive regimes
Now USAID who too donated tons of housing materials after David should step up and help rebuild houses or give material wherever for the people of Petite Savanne and Dubique!
This is the reason why USAID is not helping us this time around as they did after Hurricane David:
http://www.caribbean360.com/news/dominica-cuba-and-venezuela-want-usaid-thrown-out
Mr Dorival John you are so out of touch, uninformed and a bit of a tebai when it comes to America in 2015. Broaden your horizon, seek information, and most importantly read,or are you so seduced by the american dream, sorry I meant nightmare that you are totally oblivious to what is happening around the world. We are not all about the american dollar, kfc, wallmart and GM food which spells obesity to many. I would advise you to be grateful to Venuezela for being there for us in our hour of need. The proof of true friendship and compassion for their fellow human being.
Why? They are the imperialist, Skerritt criticized when singing for crumbs.
He should wait for ALBA?
i was hoping we would get some cash instead. even i voler some pvc panels. what i going do with it. tell venezuela we want cash so we can get to voler some
We need to thank all countries, businesses and individuals who have contributed to the recovery and rebuilding process post Tropical Storm Erika.
We need to especially thank the Government and people of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela for their contribution and commitment to this rebuilding process by offering to construct 300 Petrocasas Family Homes for those families displaced by flooding and landslides caused by Tropical Storm Erika.
THANK YOU VENEZUELA
So the venezuelan’s are coming the the rescue, how odd. So about 3 week ago Maduro demolish the homes of the colombian people inside of venezuela on the border. With Manduro stating colombia is a “net exporter of poor people” about 2 months ago he took over the warehouse rented by nestle and pepsi, stating they have to used the warehouse to turn it into low income housing. I guess the “petrocasas” was not good enough for the people. but they good for us. Ah the crazy world of leftist, socialist, progressive governments
PVC housing in a flood, hurricane prone country-lol
Lord, rescue the perishing!
The DLP and the supremo always talked about the “housing revolutions” I see its here. Chavez must a big grin on his face down there
The houses are welcome, but not the Dictator !
Do u know that Venezuela gives free heating oil to thousands of families in the US during winter. America don’t let u know that. Also u need to check out a weapon called Harrp that the US military has that can alter weather climate and cause serious changes to other countries.
And that the upside down thinking of leftist, socialist. the feel god policies to the help people. Its not only america they give free oil to, also too cuba. So after so many years of free heating oil, free obama medical care, and free school by comrade de balasio in new york, we have more poverty, homeless, and unemployment, maybe development of the private sector would be better. but for the socialist, if its not free, its not good
I think the PM will have to squeeze out blood from stone just now because no matter what he do to help his country and the people, alot is being said…..lord have mercy what do the people really want
What if no one/ country would give a helping hand 
What would you people say 
When this fight is going to end
Just say thank you and move on. Stop make this so hard and help build DOMINICA ……
“Add to that there are approximately 50 million Americans living in poverty…….”(Point).
If only you could have shown some statistics so that one can see how you arrived at that comment in the quote you might appear to be saying something, so how do you arrive at your conclusion. Poverty in Dominica, and Poverty in America are two totally different situation.
First of all there are people who are millionaires here who are considered living in poverty. Take some time and read the following,, perhaps only then you will understand how people decides who lives in poverety.
Poverty is a state of deprivation, or a lack of the usual or socially acceptable amount of money or material possessions.The most common measure of poverty in the U.S. is the “poverty threshold” set by the U.S. government. This measure recognizes poverty as a lack of those goods and services commonly taken for granted by members of mainstream society. The official threshold is adjusted for inflation using the consumer price index. The government’s definition of poverty is based on total income received and does not include non-cash supplements such as food stamps or public housing. For example, the poverty level for 2014 was set at $23,850 (total yearly income) for a family of four.
Most Americans will spend at least one year below the poverty line at some point between ages 25 and 75. Poverty rates are persistently higher in rural and inner city parts of the country as compared to suburban areas.[6][7]
In November 2013 the U.S. Census Bureau said more than 16% of the…
In November 2013 the U.S. Census Bureau said more than 16% of the population lived in poverty. up from 14.3% (approximately 43.6 million) in 2009 and to its highest level since 1993. In 2008, 13.2% (39.8 million) Americans lived in poverty. Starting in the 1980s, relative poverty rates have consistently exceeded those of other wealthy nations. California has a poverty rate of 23.8%, the highest of any state in the country. This is updated from the November 2012 estimate of 23.6.
I reside in California, and I am telling you it is very hard to detect someone living in poverty, unless they confide their situation to you.
So, whereas the population of California is approximately 36,756, 666 people, if twenty-three (23.6%) of the people are poor, or living below the poverty level, that means there are approximately 280,809 plus a few people living in poverty in the State of California!
Whereas more than 95% of the population of Dominica is living below the poverty level, thirty-six plus million people is a far cry from a population of less than fifty thousand people, so if one take the poverty level from State, the argument is flawed.
If we look at India, and most other places even China poverty in America cannot compare to any of those places.
u seem to reply to your own comment,what type of common sense is this,that u will state that millionaires in America are considered living in poverty,the conclusion here is,with the first black president of the number one racist country in the world and not even making a statement on a Caribbean island devastated stated by an increment weather condition,an island where the people were so proud to have witnessed this historical event and you would not lend an assistance,wish I could use the words on this media to describe Obama,but it would not be posted
One important lesson my late father taught me, and I learnt very, very well, is that I should never argue with a fool, because a fool understands only the rubbish which originates in his mind, and no matter how much time someone takes the time to explain to the fool different to what the fool knows, the fool will always win the argument, since he/she understands their thoughts only.
If you were not an idiot, and a dumb uneducated individual, you would have seen, I am not responding to my comments, I simply continue, my submissions in segments since the amount of space allowed for a single comment is limited. I keep telling fools like you a computer, or a smart phone cannot educate an ignorant uneducated person, because with a computer: garbage in garbage out.
The way it operates it has an input, and an output; so if you the idiot put some rubbish in as you have done, the output will be rubbish!
I will tell you this, I would not live in a PVC house. In the industry that I work, there are moves afoot to remove PVC products from homes because of off-gassing. PVC releases gases that are not good for the human body.
FINALLY, SOMEONE hit on the point of why these oilhouses ( = petrocasas) are so bad.
how much cancer, birth defects, respiratory and other diseases will be had in the coming years from the dangerous fumes from these structures?
everything free is not good for you.
Have you ever seen an American house being constructed it’s very similar. Fiber board sandwiched between a plastic exterior and a sheet rock interior. So be thankful that someone is offering some form of housing relief. We Dominicans are quick to denounce everything but never have viable solutions or be willing to do anything to change things.
Can these houses withstand hurricane force winds?????
GRACIAS, VENEZUELA
Give thanks! Is pvc safe though?
It’s the material is strengthened pvc. Can withstand bullet impacts with little to no damage, Fire resistant and the structure is secured and reinforced by pouring concrete in holes and columns pre-made for such.
The Petrocasas appear to be safe and secure. There are a few of the build in Chance, Portsmouth, and they look pretty stable to me… and the families living in them appear to be quite comfortable…
its temporary !
God bless Venezuela, and may you be blessed abundantly in this Jubilee Year
The haters on this blog are definitely Godless!
Being Godless is neither illegal nr a sin. Under democracy people are are free to follow their beliefs, or none at all. Don’t condemn people just because they do not believe in God. To force people to believe in a deity would be tyranny.
We’ve got to be thankful to Venezuela for assisting us in such needy times.
PEACE
This is indeed an excellent gift and a welcome one, providing D/ca with 300 houses for those who were affected by TS Erika.
The house look beautiful and suitable. It appears to have outside iron bars which will assist to keep out and deter criminals.
Thank you, President Maduro, for your additional assistance. You are a Godsend and indeed a real, generous and compassionate friend of Dominica.
God bless you, your country and your nationals.
U think he is doing this for free? Time will tell and be prepared for the outcome I will tell u this Pay day is in the near future. The guy has a plan.
You are another negative person. I do not think as you do. What about the others who donated US funds and other material? Would you make the same comment about them?
If not, why not? They all donated to Dominica. Cease being negative and accept a gift, as a gift from whomever and say Thank You!
Thank you Venezuela. God Bless . The persons who have lost there houses can peaceful obtain a house where they can rest there head comfortable.
Dominica needs all the help we can get at this time and therefore we say a BIG THANK YOU to Venezuela for such kindness .
The government of Dominica now needs to do the following:
1. Ensure that they are built according to our local standard and a safe to withstand hurricane force wind and flooding.
2. Government MUST ensure that the areas they will be erected at are inspected and approved by the Housing Department. We cannot afford to have more houses erected just about anywhere, whether on river beds, sea shore, or on lots in dispute. I have seen too many of these things in those “election built houses. Government Must lead by example!
3. Government MUST ensure that they are distributed to persons in need instead of those that support and wear RED, as is the common trend these days.
Once again thanks Venezuela
Some of you love to offer unwanted and unwarranted advice as if you are experts, know more than the Dominican government, are experts and those who are involved in constructing homes, inspecting them and to ensure that the houses are properly built and up to standard.
You also lack confidence. Do you not think that the Venezuela government will ensure the houses which will be denoted are up to par?
Years ago you and other critics would not even consider making such comments. You would promptly and respectfully say, “Thank You” with a genuine smile. How the years and aging have changed some people, not for the better.
Consider too, “Beggars are not choosers.” Ever heard that saying?
@ The Real Facts, Do you really have the guts and heart to suggest that because the people who got affected by tropical Storm Erica, they are beggars and “Beggars are not choosers”? How evil are you! I know what they are going through is very hard; but that does not make them beggars with no choice.
We say a big thank you to Venezuela, but that does not mean the government should not be sure that those PVC material does not pose a health hazard to them and others, they are given along political line, they pass security code, and they are not erected in River beds.
I find what @ River Port posted was very important whether he is UWP or not. Your comment was very bias and even if you are a supporter of Mr. Skerrit, you should not be so foolish. It is comments like yours that hurt the DLP and Dominica.
It was stated not about them but because some of you love to criticize the gifts from Venezuela.
Why, before the storm what were you consistently saying about the PM and the Red Clinic and those who utilize the service? Have you forgotten that? Are you another hypocrite?
Some of you always misconstrue what was stated. You need no further explanation and excuses. Not much common sense, eh? Next time try reading between the lines and read the other person’s comments.
if u can see that,don’t u think that the people who are going to erect them know that the areas where they will be layed out has to be a safe zone,u all always want to sound political and know it all,like the government and the ministers are dumb people,give u all clappers a break and allow the people to put the asistances in place,when the increment weather systems normalize,the people will decide where they want live,did u not see all the big houses still standing in t savan,u think the people who built them going to just walkaway from them.
Kitchen cupboards cost EC$10,000.00 to construct. Sure we can give it to local contractors. If you want to house two people instead of 300 you would make that decision.
Please Anthony, kitchen cupboards cost $10,000.00 EC dollars that is so untrue. You have to be residing in Dominica to find out the truth for yourself. Don’t listen to all what you hear or are being told. Empty vessels make the most noise.
ff you wants to spend that amount on kitchen cupboards no problem. Can you imagine what a luxuries and exquisite kitchen cupboard set that would be with that amount of money. The wood for the cupboards would be make from cedar wood or imported from some country etc and not plywood. The knobs for the cupboard would be stainless steel or made from gold and not plastic. You get my drift…………….
They scrutinize everything and make an issue out of it instead of saying “Thank God” and Thank You!” Appreciation is lacking. Broad-mindedness is also lacking.
If those houses were locally built, they would also inflate the costs and the material could be inferior.
It is better and wise that Venezuela build them to their specifications and donate them.
I think these houses are made to last and to weather the storms.
My kitchen cupboards did cost in the region of 10 grand for materials and workmanship..I live in the north of the island..it all depends on what u looking for and if u can afford
@Neutrel,The Cupboards,Anthony speaking about,they replinish themselves,and sing When they Are full. ??
Those very peeps who will be lucky will want islands in their kitchens lol hence $10K is joke
constructors /carpenters will be in money making gear and act foolish let alone greedy
I will say thanks to Venezuela for the help. However, I would like to add I hope the ministry of health is getting a certificate for each of these materials stateing the PVC has been tested and free of carcinogens. We tend to let down our guard in times like this because we are desperate. However the public short term and long-term safety must be guarded. Any material made from petroleum has the potential for long-term health and environmental impacts. Everything decomposes and deteriorate with time and the elements. Remember lead paint and asbestos containing compounds. I am just warning that we do our due diligence first and I hope that is the case.
Shaka, I am not a fan of the Venezuelan political regime but I can report that these houses are certified to contain no carcinogenic materials as attested by the renowned German TUV certification authority. As you can see from the illustration they have burglar bars and I am reliable informed that they are also bullet proof (up to 9 mm.), which may say a lot about the country of origin. However, I am glad that our homeless are getting help. I just hope the planned locations will be carefully laid out so we do not end up with unsightly ghettos that blot the landscape and stigmatize the occupiers.
Cool. As long as relevant authorities do their homework. We have not heard that a site for relocation is finalized and we already got 300 homes. It’s good to see the response to assist. That’s a committee by itself. I am assuming that all the planning and engineering that goes with a settlement is already finalized or will be shortly. We have seen what landslides and flash floods have done so I do not expect any of those homes to be placed in areas with high hazard potential. We cannot keep doing the same thing when it comes to construction location. Now is an opportunity for change . 20 lives lost should be a lesson learned.
Community
Referring to your last sentence, the housing minister will have to ensure that the houses and grounds are well-kept. From time to time, they should be inspected by the authorities. Should the residents fail to keep them up to par, they should be so advised to clean up their act.
I hope the government take note of that They should not only be given the houses and turn their backs. It is vital that they visit and inspect, be it once or twice a year to ensure the houses and grounds are well-kept and healthy to reside in. This will be to the benefit of all the residents.
Prior to visiting and for inspection, the residents should be previously advised and reason given so that they do not think they are being spied upon.
If they are neglected as you stated, they could become like a ghetto. Hope this never occurs. The residents should be proud of their home and surroundings. This should encourage them to keep them livable and clean. This would be worth looking into
Shaka Zulu if you have a better idea and could provide 300 houses to the Government of Dominica, to house the people who are presently living in makeshift shelters; the government of and people of Dominica would be grateful; if you cannot and Venezuela can; join the rest of us and say thank you so much to the Government of Venezuela. You are indeed a friend. Even if you can provide one house we would thank you too.
This is excellent cooperation between our two countries.
I hope the simple Dominican minds will now see the US Media propaganda for what it is.
We already have these houses in Dominica – Stockfarm for example have a few of them . They are termite proof and in many cases better than the US houses that we all see on tv that keep blowing away under tornados. These houses can be painted by hand or using a spray gun and if the intended owners are ambitious they can expand on its square footage in concrete as a single story building or they can elevate these structures and have an upstairs and downstairs and place elegant fencing to upgrade their home values.
Taking pride in their new home would do much to enhance the standard, environment and value.
Ze I respect your opinion but please , explain to me why the vast majority of our people prefer to emigrate to the U.S.A. rather than Venezuela if your assertion is correct?
All those persons making un-complimentary comments, most likely have a roof over their head. There is a deperate need which Venezuela is fulfilling at least in the short term, their political agenda aside.
I guess it gives you a nice and cozy feeling inside to deprive starving babies in Venezuela to fulfill “desperate” needs here.
You are a bleeding heart to no good. Are you a Christian? Do you love your people? Are you not saddened at what occurred to Dominica and to some nationals? It does not appear to me that you are a kind person. Your comments give you away as a hardhearted one.
Your comments do not mean that you love the Venezuelan people so much. You have an ulterior motive why you made such ungodly comments which depict as if it is not the norm that when disasters strike, governments of other countries come to the aid of other countries.
Do not expect caring, compassionate nationals of all to be pleased with your comments. They are unbecoming of a patriotic national who cares.
I think you are one of those who comment for the sake of commenting. Be careful of your words, as imbedded in your heart, do not eventually condemn you.
I agree…..and i believe if anyone who’s making these kind of comments did not had a roof over or their family head i don’t think they’ll be talking like this today. For god shake these people need a home and they can’t afford to stay in a school for a long period of time cause the children have to report to school.
Let me just say thank you Venezuela
This is a huge political propaganda ploy by Venezuela in its battle against the United States for influence.
Presently in Venezuela, toilet paper is hard to come by and there are long lines at supermarkets for simple things such as milk and sugar. Venezuelans have resorted to looting to get basic food items. Dominica is better off than Venezuela, even after Erika….at least we can still go by Save a Lot and buy sugar.
SO where is the money coming from for the houses? Maduro is depriving his own people to “assist” Dominica. It is like taking food from the hands of a starving child to give to a not so starving child.
Aren’t Venezuela exploiting our weakness after Erika? And Dominica is falling for it!!
Dorival, I can walk down any street in the state that I call home and find homeless people on the sidewalks any day of the week. A recent survey found that there are approximately 57,000 homeless people living on the streets and in shelters in New York City and that’s just one state out of fifty. Despite these staggering figures, the U.S. donates billions of dollars in aid to foreign countries annually. Venezuela’s problems are no worse than anyone else’s. Stop drinking the U.S. State Department Political Propaganda. My guess is, we should return the homes to Venezuela and leave our people on the streets.
Wow, strange you live in the US, and not Venezuela. In the same country where its state department is using political propaganda against Venezuela. Why? Venezuela too poor for you? LOL.
What I spoke about I read and saw on BBC, Reuters, Associated Press and the like. Last I check neither the BBC, Reuters or Associated Press work for the state department.
Now I know that all countries have social problems but Venezuela is teetering on the brink of bankruptcy (oh no, State Department propaganda)….This is international news, not coming from the State Department.
Add to that there are approximately 50 million Americans living in poverty…….
Dorival projects his ignorance and wickedness of heart. He is not a nice person. If he were, he would not make such comments. What else could I state in view of his type of comments?
Dorival needs to get out there and help people, to do a kind deed in Jesus Name.
“Reach out and touch somebody’s hand, make this a better place, if you can.” If he does, he will feel better. For it is in giving that we receive. . . . – Prayer of Peace.
O.k Anthony your comment is correct. My view of the 57,000 homeless in new york city, is the policy of liberal, progressive, leftist, thinking and politician. Who want to talks about building free, low income housing, free health care and school. like we have in dominica and venezuela. Any time you have a government that say they want to help to poor and homeless. it causes more poverty. The homeless population will get much higher under comrade de Blasio wacky social policy
U have a housing scheme going on somewhere in Bath Estate so how ur people homeless. Put them in that housing in Bath Estate. Who are those houses for .U guys are making like DA so needed.Are theses house that are being built in Bath Estate for special people? Why can t the homeless be placed their or in the Palace?
If you are such an intelligent person, you should know that every country has contingency funds to assist other countries that are in need of, as D./ca.
You do not appear to be pleased that Venezuela is assisting D/ca or is it because you do not support this government that you have nothing good and encouraging to state; not even thanks?
Know that the Venezuelan people will not starve, Know also some people appear poor, some, through their fault. You can think of the many reasons. Every country has such people.
People as you make me angry and disappointed in you, as a national. Even though I probably do not know you, I thought you had more common sense than that.
I am unable to comprehend that you would make such comments, knowing what occurred to Dominica and some nationals. Who do you think should help them? How will they get help and from whom?
Since you are so critical, what are you doing to assist them?
Utilize your common sense if you have any.
And you Real Fact, you are such an intelligent person, what have you done to assist Dominica other than sitting your rear end in Canada while you sprout crap everyday on DNO.
Little do you know how much I am helping. I will not make you wise for you are a non-caring person. You have also depicted how crude, rude and disrespectful you are.
I know some people with the surname, Dorival in Dominica. I also know some with the surname, John. I will inquire about you. I am shocked and cannot believe that you have such a type of attitude which words are not enough to express. It also sounds that you are a miserable person.
Poor you, Dorival! Do you love being unkind? This is not nice. It will make you an extremely unhappy person with no peace. May you change for your own benefit.
Due to your words, I feel sorry for you. God took note of your comments. You will have to answer to him for what you stated.
Wether you are real or a phony Facts, it is not true that all countries have a contingency fund to help nations in need of help, that is a lie, figments of your imagination!
If that is the case tell us how much Skerrit and the and his party has in his contingency fund to give away to people when they have a need such as Dominica has at the moment. Some of you talk so much crap as if you are an authority on the subject, when all you are doing as simple speculating and telling lies!
Give them your house then Dorival John…..since you are so quick to see faults
Ok, Ok …. just go ahead and inform us how much, as little as it is you have done for the people left without a home due to the floods. Come o go ahead tell us, help and just cut he crap, now is not the time for usual crap. We are hurting. Real lives have been affected, you sit at a PC writing stupidness, stop it please! Come on.
dno please block this guy
But how they saying venezuela broke nuh? or are they really broke and trying to compete with the USA?
You have much to learn. When you ask such a question you make yourself look foolish.
Read the comments of sensible people.
I will inform you, in case you ignored it, overlooked it or do not know all countries have poverty. However, governments set aside funds, annually, in their contingency budget to assist other countries in time of need. Therefore, keep this in your head and never ask such a question again for it is a foolish one of someone who does not make it his/her business to know certain matters about governments and how they operate especially at such a time.
Governments in especially the democratic world help each other in time of need.
In case you do not know this, learn it: “We are the world. We are the children of the world.” We are obligated to help others. This is one of the expectations of God from us.
We are quite aware that she not knowledgeable of the economics and politics
governing countries.
This does not qualify you to be so condescending.
When one learn they should teach.
I know what she mean-speaking in lay man
terms.
How can a country that is fighting for the basic commodity as
toilet paper,giving us money.
Merina:
Can you not read their comments or do you do the same? They state this out of vindictiveness and sarcasm. This is why I responded accordingly. These types of people do not really want to learn. They know very well what they stated, against Venezuela because he is a friend of the PM and they are not supporters of the PM.
Everyone has an opinion and everyone has a right to their opinion and to respond accordingly. Are you an exception? I doubt it.
I think that looks quite nice. I hope that Dominicans of all political persuasions will be considered as recipients based on need.
God Bless You ,Many thanks. things are hard on you but you remember us. may God continue to bless you.
are these homes up to our building standards, maybe someone can shed a light on this…
why not get the funds and let the money circulate through the private sector via the local Material Companies on island…and give the local contractors work thus having a spin off from the TOP-DOWN..
One thing Dominica will forever remain the fools paradise due lack of vision..
the longer Labour stays in power Dominica will never be a prosperous island!!
they are cloaked in too much trickery and deception!!
Shut up and say thank you idiiot.
They do not know, “A thankful heart has a continuous feast.”
When people put themselves out for us, spending money and time and at a time as that, the least we could do is to be grateful.
Someone once said, “Gratitude to people is gratitude to God.” Some do not appear to possess this godly virtue.
Your comment is rubish…
who ever you are i am sorry to say you are an idiot. circulate what. Its a donation made to our country. They apparently have been using this in their country and felt that need that we could benefit from it. its cost effective and less time consuming. what local contractors are you talking about. do you know how long it would take local contractors to erect 300 hundred homes for displaced citizens and how much that would cost?????????????????????????????
Vanya, are the homes we build all up to our building standards? Never mind that, do they all have appropriate planning permission? I am an opponent of Skerrit’s regime but when we criticize we should not be hypocritical.
Do you have a roof over your head? Praise God. The people who will receive these homes have none. Go figure.
Vanya ….. Once you are willing to make the funds available in order for them on construct the houses , it will happen. Your point just proves how ungrateful and unappreciative of a person your are. Others are willing to offer help and here you go being selfish , trying to be smart but yet sounding like an idiot. Go sit and watch some documentary on tv and get some common sense.
Vanya be thankful. I am praying that they are strong and can uphold good too but something is better than nothing. GOD is good. Through these tough times he continues to bless Dominica!