Integrity Commission to move ahead with PM inquiry

Prime Minister Skerrit

The opening hearing of the inquiry by the Integrity Commission, into a matter concerning Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, which had been postponed indefinitely, has now been set for Monday February 25, 2013.

The Integrity Commission has fixed this date after it ruled that it has the jurisdiction to proceed with the inquiry dealing with the Prime Minister, a person in public life.

The ruling comes after lawyers for the Prime Minister Alick Lawrence SC, and Lennox Lawrence, had raised objections to the proposed hearing and written to the Commission on December 10, 2012 stating that the proposed hearing was “unlawful”. They also went to court seeking judicial review.

Lennox Linton had filed the complaint with the Commission in November 5, 2010 alleging that the Prime Minister had been in breach of Section 1 (c) and 1 (e) of the Code of Conduct in the Second Schedule to the Act and Section 47 (1) of the Act.

Linton, in his letter to the Commission, alleged that Prime Minister Skerrit is in breach of section 47 (1) of the Act “by virtue of his possession of unaccounted property, namely 8 ocean front villas at Guilette, Savanne Paille with an estimated market value of 8 million EC dollars which cannot be explained by his legal income.”

He further contended that the Prime Minister, in order to finance his ownership interest in the villas which he could not afford on his legal income “accepted gifts, benefits or advantages in contravention of item (c) in the Code of Conduct”.

After hearing Alick Lawrence SC, for Prime Minister Skerrit and David Bruney, counsel for Linton, the Commission ruled among other things, that it has jurisdiction to proceed with the inquiry on the grounds that it “has complied with the statutory preconditions for embarking on the statutory requirements to hold an inquiry under section 33 of the Act.”

The Commission also states in its ruling “That there is no statutory requirement that a person in public life must be given a hearing before the Commission forms the view, upon the examination of a complaint under section 32 or otherwise, that an investigation is necessary to ascertain whether the provisions of the Code of Conduct have been breached and to hold an inquiry under section 33 of the Act.”

The opening hearing is set to begin at 9am at the Public Service Training Center.

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152 Comments

  1. IPO
    January 28, 2013

    As Long as Roosevelt Skerrit is in Politics and is PM of Dominica….workers will never make it to Government…you can take that to the bank, save, withdraw it, loan it…it is security for you.

    So lennox can jumpo up and down, hailay sookou, cru, shout, hack, fake and do all sort of stuff that is water running down on the dasheen leaves.

    So continuue with all your crap…

    Come on Blue Devils give me some dislike, I challenge those blue uwp devils to give me some dislikes…look at them.

    • T
      January 28, 2013

      If you were not a paro, you would know that bad governance is not a Lennox thing.It should be at the core of what you detest, and speak loudly against.You seem to be satisfied with the crumbs, the laziness,and the stretching of your hands to say thank youto members of the gang of corrupt leaders.
      I say thank you to Lennox, for the yeoman work he has been doing on behalf of paros like you.
      KEEP IT UP LENNOX. GOOD JOB

    • BRAIN DAMAGE
      January 28, 2013

      Partner, government come, government go. It’s Skerrit’s turn to fly.

    • Malgraysa
      January 29, 2013

      IPO, one can only shake one’s head. Haven’t you still not got it into your thick skull that this has nothing to do with politics? I, like many others supported Skerrit in 2005 but we want this resolved and cleared up because it is dragging the COUNTRY down, never mind the party!

    • IPO
      January 29, 2013

      Word Up…I knew it….The Truth Never Fails

    • Prefer to be unknown
      January 29, 2013

      Sorry, forgot to say….message directed at ‘IPO’……..(the person writing under that name)

  2. Anonymous
    January 28, 2013

    Something gives me the feeling that Lenox Linton and the workers party have no confidence they will win if an election is called tomorrow. If they did I would expect knowing all what they brought to light that the people would vote them in. Then after wining the elections file criminal actions against the former Gov like mis Charles did to Eddison. Now since they have no confidence of wining it shows therefore that the people has more confidence in this present Gov.

  3. GWATANCE
    January 28, 2013

    Beside a matter of possible financial irregularities which has yet to be proven by the IPO and other authoritive legal bodies, can it be agreed that SKERRIT although with the wrong advisors has done well for the Country infracturally and otherwise and with good intentions? JUST A THOUGHT

    • ()
      January 28, 2013

      Oh yes. He has done extremely well for himself and some of his acolytes.The majority be damned.The long arm of the law will one day, just one day, settle the score.

    • Malgraysa
      January 28, 2013

      Sorry Gwantance, too late. Any goddwill he may have had has been squandered, sacrificed on the altar of greed and vanity.

    • Anonymous
      January 28, 2013

      You are perfectly right! I need to add further that I can’t think of anyone of those opposing that would do any better, although too bad they may get their wish.

      • Malgraysa
        January 29, 2013

        So we have to settle for mediocracy rather than aspire for the best? Shame on you.

    • saint Michael
      January 29, 2013

      You are just the typical ja gwatance brain washed, tunnel vision, ignorant, primitive, people who will vote for a mule painted in red and given a shoe. Hey do t blame me for speaking the truth. I am a borne and bred porssi resident and it is a embarrassment to witness the le el of ignorance in Portsmouth. Not only that the hypocrite Christians , priest, pastors and their followers are no different. The corruption and dishonesty is rampant yet te so called god fearing people are still supporting immoral and corrupt behavior. Sakwais pokwit, mourne sort

      • GWATANCE
        January 31, 2013

        Bro I understand your sentiments, reassured gwatance is no brainwashed and all the other adjectives quoted, There are other politician and others in Public Office could be targeted as the leader. Has it ever occured that some who arevehemently opposed are due to the fact when they wanted they did not get. THINK OF IT

  4. Morihei Ueshiba
    January 28, 2013

    Hong Kong have Leung Chun-ying a far cry from what we call leadership & development in Dominica. :mrgreen:

  5. stehen
    January 28, 2013

    on island we have an official historan mr honychurch, well people we all have to make it our duty to keep records of audio declaration
    or photo copy transcript of what our politician say on critical matters. thats our reference to pass on to our chirldren.

  6. stehen
    January 28, 2013

    play back the tape . Tony Astaphan told the world that he was the first one present after the fire bomming of mr Emanuel
    resident

  7. MOU
    January 28, 2013

    where is my commmennnnnntt??????

    I comment since Saturday!!!!

    is best allu just block my IP from even logging on to allu site since is always a problem to approve my commmmmmenntt….stupse

  8. they too corrupt
    January 28, 2013

    DNO did you mean Nonintegrity Commission. With all the nonsense that’s been going on there I did not know we had an Integrity Commission. If we did then definitely they were on an extended vacation or they had taken go -to- bed pill. So welcome back guys because we really missed you. I do hope that you will not put your integrity on the line but rather you will uncover everything that needs to be uncovered, so we could once again be known as a country of law, respect for constitution, and integrity. Please do your job without being influenced by political colour.

  9. Roughcake
    January 28, 2013

    Tell me which other PM’s other than Eugenia Charles, Pierre Charles,Roosie who did not dip their fingers in the pot??? Ha Ha Ha.

  10. Jay
    January 28, 2013

    It is clear to me now that the IPO was designed to lull public unease and as a protective screen to block inquiries into unexplained wealth accumulation, particularly that of our leader. It is equally clear that he has no intention of giving account in person to the IPO and his lawyers are contorting themselves into finding legal ways to axchieve just that. One legally appointed member has already been muzzled by an injunction and “judicial review” that is going nowhere. Another one, although assenting to the new hearing date, excused himself from being present at the meeting because of “ill health”. What is there to stop another member tending his resignation before the hearing and so make it impossibe for the Commission to have a quorum. Learned S.C. has already hinted as much at such a possibility.

  11. Dominican by birth
    January 28, 2013

    They better do their job and not pretend, waiting for the outcome because it’s quit glaring

  12. Doc. Love
    January 28, 2013

    Regardless to what Skerrit does,people like Tony, Lennox and Alick must try to keep him in office at all cost and as long as possible.Imagine,the Skerrit Labor Party looses the next general elections and Mr. Lennox Linton is given a Ministry reponsible to investigate the curruption in the Skerrit Labor Government.Mr. Matt Peltier is given the post as Manager of G.I.S.Mr. Angelo Alleyne is advisor to the Commissioner of Police. Mr.Arthie Martin, Chairman of the Dominica Social Security and Mr. Blessing a commissioner on the I.P.O.Finaly, Mr. Copiel is made Superintendant of the Prisons.

  13. magwae sa
    January 28, 2013

    why cant they just leave our sweet PM alone? Skerro we will defend you to the hills… Keep working for DA

  14. BRAIN DAMAGE
    January 28, 2013

    You are thinking very hard at your next strategy in the pic mr PM. Even if the people do not have ears mr pm, but they can hear and even if they do not have eyes, they still can see mr. pm!

  15. daniel thomas
    January 28, 2013

    I have seen many people dig up pit for others and they are the first to fall in that pit.Recently i listen to a coworker of mines singing for the downfall of another friend who stud up to the people he served for wasting of his precious time but in fostration he uses the f words he got band from that business house,because that business house only listen to the complain from it employee and did not consider the reason for the man fustration that coworker was happy because he will be getting more hours and keep say the next step is to get read of him,guess what happens? that man is still at work because that coworker was found to be dishonest and demoted and caught in the act. I say that to worn those rejoicing and praying for the downfall of the PM his accusers and those who want to replace him at any cost if u a seeking to harm and innocent man for your own good please watch out, a former UWP leader accuse that that same PM called him corrupt and what become of him ? he is now on self impose exile for his wrong doing in his own practice. there are many examples that we can learn from, and the late mastalyn Labab used to say time will tell.

  16. justice
    January 28, 2013

    What ever happens in the dark, will come to the light. God is long suffering. He gives us enough rope to hang our selves. If a Government is elected by the people and they are paying them to do the countries job, the nation has to know exactly about their whole lives. They choose to seek public jobs, so we the public has to know where their monies comes from, we have a average how much the Prime Minister and the Ministers are making.

    They are the servants of the people and we are their masters, because we pay their salaries. If they want to be secretive, get out of politics. U think and respectable commander in chief, should insult the people that voted them in. Even they are right or wrong, there have to be accountability. Any business has responsibility, and accountability.

    We hope this is the final straw, to know what is going on at lass. We hope they did not have too much time to hide all evidence if thy are guilty. We hope the law is going to prevail. Every one at this point should stay quiet as a serpent, and harmless as a dove. PEACE!!

  17. Dom
    January 27, 2013

    This is how this is gonna go. He and his people already on damage control, then you have people on the commission already bought or intimidated. Theyre going to find no conclusive evidence of integrity violations. He will be validated.

    Fraud and corruption is simple as this. You make 100,000 a year. You had 50,000 in ur account, in 5 years without spending or other sources of ligitimate income you cannot end up with any more than 550,000.

  18. stehen
    January 27, 2013

    we must not celebrate yet , count our chickens before they are hatch,
    remember DOMINICA is not run as a normal Country,no law ,no counstution

  19. Pointe Michel-Roseau
    January 27, 2013

    How is that in 2003 a certain man could not afford to buy himself a dress suit. He went into politics and soon afterwards had enough money to be handing out dry cash to the people who supported him, and had the gull to say it’s not anyone’s business where the money comes from!!!
    Accountability in Dominica seem to slow in coming but 99 days for the ones who take and one day for the guard.lets see what happens.

    • Lone
      January 28, 2013

      What about the la point guy that built the mansion during the first term then sold the mansion for $850 pound sterling and while the house was on the market he was already building another more expensive mansion. So while everyone is zooming in on the corrupt PM but the others are sailing under the weather.
      The ministers that taking all government contracts – claiming housing revolution but they are the ones who own the contracts.and collecting te money through their associates up north. No names DNO.

      • Roseau.
        January 28, 2013

        But you still have not come up with the reasoning asked of Dominican people to figure out why it is that a guy who went into politics “BROKE AS WHITE POWDER” can afford to amass millions in such short space of time?
        I mean Dominicans can say what they want but in the end we are the ones who will be left to hold the empty bag with stones.
        Two people doing the wrong things does not make it right.
        The other thing is that so many of us are struggling each day and we still fail to see the that these guys are just taking us for a ride. “Get rich by any means.” A Lass Dominicans open all u eyes.

      • Malgraysa
        January 28, 2013

        Please, tell me where I can buy a mansion for 850 pounds sterling. That is a remarkable price and I’d really like to find such a bargain. Could not even find a decent second-hand car for that!

    • Joe
      January 28, 2013

      What about the person in question having a significant increase in salary over that of when they were not a politician??

      If your current salary is say $1,500 there is not much you maybe able to do with it, but if you get into another job that is paying you $4,500 then that would make you financially independent right..

      Be logical in your thinking, try to erase the HATE Lennox Linton push in you against a very hard working successful individual…..

      • ??????????
        January 28, 2013

        @ JOE Lennox continues to give you diarrhoea.Just when will you stop dreaming of the patriot and statesman.One of Cominica’s finest son! Well the diarrhoea will explode on you as if you have the AIDS virus, because Lennox will not stop.
        Wish you were of Lennox’ quality, because you would be upset and mad with lying and stealing. Go get a doze of character, integrity,and uprightness. Stop being an accessory of corruption and evil.

  20. Just me
    January 27, 2013

    Tell Mr. PM that his worst enemy is his best friend….Mr. Lintion is blessed and who God bless no man curse…..Long live the power of truth.

    • Concern One
      January 27, 2013

      Truth is not what we want it to be.

    • IPO
      January 28, 2013

      Lennox is blessed…we shall see.

      Just wait

  21. dissident
    January 27, 2013

    A coin has two different sides. There is a wrong way and a right way to do anything.
    What I am getting from this is that de IPO, in total defiance to Tony Astaphan, has no intention to resign.
    Is de IPO satisfied that NONE of its members nor any of de service providers has leaked any confidential information?

    Between now and February 25 we de people should expect an answer about leaked information and put a muzzle on Tony’s mouth.

    We nah know how we and dem gonna work this out…..someone will have to pay for de innocent minds that they corrupt everyday oh children mark my word.

    We vow to advance with reason and clear judgement. And our works will stand as a testimony thru to the future. We will live and love again. Our existence depends on it.

    Tony cannot determine that for us

    • DOMINICAN
      January 28, 2013

      is just so the senior council had seko seko on radio interviewing seko seko thereby obstructing the police investigations and no one has held him respondsible. he knew he knew and he knew that seko seko was a person of interest to the police .

  22. %
    January 27, 2013

    Those leaders who lie, cheat, steal and insult the people of this country, should never be spared of the law or legal system, which they themselves are denegrating as being non applicable to them..

  23. Anonymous
    January 27, 2013

    no law or constitution can stop us!!! go Skerro go.. we with you

  24. bee
    January 27, 2013

    Dominicans must stop waiting to rejoyce on people downfall in life nobody knows becareful for what you all are asking. Pray for god to bless this island dont let hatred and envy destroy it.

    • January 27, 2013

      I back you 100 percent, I don’t think its Dominicans writing this crap on DNO. gOD bLESS THE pm God Bless Dominica. Ask Lennox? Is people business he want to let out soo? He better becarefull. The CAT will come out its bag soon.

    • pong
      January 27, 2013

      when it was edison you had a big party, stop crying… criminals should be punished, and those in high office should be sentensed harder

  25. Pondera
    January 27, 2013

    Interesting development

  26. objective
    January 27, 2013

    Another son of the soil,black brother, leader down for the kill, for nothing more than selfish personal reasons. Then what next drag Dominica back another 20yrs.
    When will we stop that crab house slave mentality? We need to chastize to correct not to distroy. And let him without sin cast the first stone.
    I am not saying that things are perfect, there are surely room for improvement some things must be revisited. But the fact is we are doing damn well under the present leadership/government given the state of the world’s economics.
    maintaine the lion spirit bro you have note stolen any thing from the public purse.

    • No choice
      January 27, 2013

      Not being objective by definition of the word Objective. You are an enabler.
      As Blessings would say he wants to be a…….. to take care of enablers.you need to be treated 1000000 times the plan treatment for medard.Fool!

  27. Lougaoo Mem
    January 27, 2013

    We the people, have a moral responsibility and imperatve to ensure that the constitution and laws apply equally to every citizen of the land. Roosevelt Skerrit is, and was never above the above, eventhough, he thinks so. And Mr. Astaphan can jump high jump low, one day he’ll pay and he knows.

    • Gary
      January 28, 2013

      To Lougaoo Mem

      The opening statement of your comment is so true and i truly believe that, but i wonder if you really believe what you said in that statement.Well,I do not think so, simply because of the last sentence of the comment, that to me does not sound like a person who is truly committed to what was said in the opening statement of the comment.You need to separate observation from your perception, see what is and not what you expect.

      The allegations which the PM is facing and has to answer is very serious. I’m not in any way advocating that a body such as IPO should not do it’s job as to what it was set up to do by law.What bothers me is the fiasco and circus to which the IPO has attached to it self.We all want accountability and transparency in Government but some of us seem to forget that for such thing to happen there must be a rules and procedures and even laws to govern such process. If the process procedures, and laws set up to govern the IPO in it’s overseer into accountability and transparency in Government is compromised or found to be politicized then there can be no credibility in such body to carry out it’s mandate.

      It is time that such allegations against the PM be addressed once and for all, and I’m hoping that this can bring closer to this matter.

      • Lougaoo Mem
        January 28, 2013

        Gary my brother,
        I fully concur and understand what you’ve stated. But again you must understand that my comments are from the deep feelings and affection I have for my native land. If only you’ve been where I’ve been, and seen what I’ve seen, then you’ll understand. Maybe, I must admit that I may get a little too emotional. But thnx anyway for the observation. One Love!

      • Frenz
        January 29, 2013

        Dude stop the hypocrisy. You are making a statement and you cannot back it up. The IPO has entangled itself? In what way. When the IPO rejected the other complaints by Lennox Linton two years ago , the IPO was fully functional to you laborites or Skerritites. Today the IPO is contaminated just because it decided to proceed with the investigation.
        You and yoor biasness is sickening. The same people you make an A&&&& of yourself to defend robbed the treasury in high day and you said it was lie and then went silent because your iabolic pokes person said after lying and spinning that the dispicable garbage bin fraud should not ave happen. Note though that the same system is sending people to jail for crackers and cheese.
        How d people like you Gary sleep or look your kids ,if any , in the eye and ask them to be upright, honest and sincere. I sure hope Tony start and maybe people like you will follow. You come here pretending to be intellectually neutral but every time you try you reinforce and reaffirm that emptiness comes from empty.

  28. Look It
    January 27, 2013

    Many are excited but this wont fly
    come on if the crab hunter can win his case the PM will surely win his

    • Crabs Backs
      January 27, 2013

      Did he win? lol! either am out of touch or you misunderstand something.

  29. Positive
    January 27, 2013

    From 2012 to 2013 we have been waiting for justice yet we have been played with on this play ground known as Dominica. This country and the people have been crying for some justice and this step is a positive one. But, the PM is not the only person that needs to feel what DSP feels like. Tony should be taken too as soon as he gets back. How can a man know so much about a fire boom which almost killed two people yet still be living a life of the rich and famous on the outside? Is human life not cherished anymore or have we come to an area where wrong doings are what we teach our children?

    • Concern One
      January 27, 2013

      Rubish. Our comments shouldn’t be bias but with objectivity so we all can learn from it.

    • objective
      January 28, 2013

      This is just the cry of a few who are very much surprised and disapointed that the little boy with toys, country booky could get so far in this hash environment. Dominica knows that it is the nature of our country leadership that’s keeping us afloat today.

  30. Listener
    January 27, 2013

    What all that woopla, the matter is before the court cant we wait for a dicission from the court? Linton is an investigative politition he knows what he is fighting for and will stop at nothing,if skerrit can prove his case and go back to his home at morne bruce some of youall will surely take a dose of something.

  31. Watch Dog
    January 27, 2013

    Will the proceedings be broadcasted live? Why Not? The Bugging Investigation was broadcasted live on TV.

    • Bon gents
      January 27, 2013

      Are you certain?

  32. BRAIN DAMAGE
    January 27, 2013

    Thank God, we are awaiting for justice in our land Dominica.

  33. Peeping Tom
    January 26, 2013

    Anyone who is truly interested in justice and a fair resolution to this matter must be concerned about the recent developments on this issue. I do not see us getting to the bottom of this issue using the present IPO Act.

    Do you all really expect the PM to get a fair hearing when this Commission has been infested by his enemies? In which world does the accuser also get to judge and execute the accused? So, I expect the PM’s lawyers to fight hard to protect their client from persecution. I would if I were one of them. To all who claim “if you are innocent juss face the Commission”; well let’s face it, it is not because I am innocent that I must willingly stand in front your rifle and hope that at the last minute some good Samaritan will say “doh shoot him because he innocent.” Which fool willingly subjects himself to such?

    In the public’s interest, if I had a magic wand, I would disband the Commission and suspend the IPO as an institution. I would remodel it and then take on Mr. Linton’s accusations afresh, including those that were already dismissed. In its current make up, this Commission is bound to hit major walls and in the end, Dominicans may never really get that level of “public integrity” we want. I want public integrity, but I don’t want it at any cost; certainly not at the cost of justice or any other social value that we hold dear.

    No matter what the result of the Commission’s inquiry, a heavy question mark will remain and for the rest of our existence as a nation, we will be discussing this case. Some (like myself) will wonder about the process and the extent to which we can accept the Commission’s findings, irrespective of its contents. Others may simply reject it outright. Still, others will welcome it as the finest example of justice and the rule of the people over its leader. So, it is unlikely that this inquiry is going to resolve the issue at hand and it is unlikely that Dominicans will ever know the truth. Already, we know of illegal machinations by some operatives, which only serve to pollute the process.

    Don’t misunderstand me, I am pleased that the IPO can function. It is what we have. It is crippled and sick, but it is what we have created for ourselves and therefore, I want it to function to the very wording of the law until we can upgrade it. However, unlike those who dismiss it when it does not serve their interests but champion it now because it seems to be ruling to their liking, my position on the IPO and this ongoing issue is clear. I ask: What social value is it promoting? And, in whose name?

    • Nac Vibes
      January 27, 2013

      Yes mister spin doctor, maybe we should fill the IPO with your clones.

      Come on Lennox, catch them and light them, dis ya fire ha fi bun.

    • pong
      January 27, 2013

      well yes, i do expect the pm to get a fair trial since the evidence submitted is the same lennox has brought to our attention..i am from possie and i am 1000 percent sure he is the owner of the villas and apartments….

      so stop making excuses

    • Nac Vibes
      January 28, 2013

      A quote from you mr spin doctor ” I want public integrity, but I don’t want it at any cost”

      Well we want development, but we don’t want it at any cost, certainly not at the cost of our constitution or our future.

  34. Respice Fimem
    January 26, 2013

    What took them so long? The villas alone they investigating?

  35. IluvmyPm
    January 26, 2013

    Tell the IPo it is none of there Dam business how I build
    my modest home I am above the law

    • Anonymous
      January 28, 2013

      No one is above the law -that I feel is the issue -I remember one man who parked me in a save a lot -he was annoyed that I asked him why .He then said I am in Dominica I can do as I choose.

  36. Minister of Teething
    January 26, 2013

    99 days for the Tief and One day, Just one day for the people of Dominica….

  37. ONE QUESTION
    January 26, 2013

    How does the information contained in the leaked IPO/Counsel file reconcile with what the public has been made to believe concerning the dwelling house in VC?

  38. Anonymous
    January 26, 2013

    Well it in only fair to hear the matter all sides will present and for once and for all this matter will be put to rest.

  39. IPO friendly
    January 26, 2013

    A. Words of Roosevelt Skerrit dated Tuesday, July 19th, 2011 at 6:55 PM
    Prime Minister Skerrit said the probe into the matter will prove “once and for all” that he isn’t involved in the villa scandal. The IPO Commission has not reached a conclusion” that he own nor has an interest in the Villas.
    “I have no interest in those villas and I have not acted in any way in breach of the code of conduct under the act. The issue of conflict of interest in Cabinet does not arise because I have said on countless occasions that I am not the owner and I do not have monies invested in Blaircourt. I never used my office for personal gains or I the furtherance of any alleged interest in villas. I have no doubt that this will be satisfactory established”.
    The Prime Minister said he is welcoming the move in an effort to finally putting the matter to rest.

    B. Words of Roosevelt Skerrit dated Wednesday, July 27th, 2011 at 2:18 PM
    On Kairi FM’s Heng Program this week he criticized the IPO. “The Commission was wrong to write to me,” he said.
    Skerrit said the commission has indicated there was no evidence that he had interest in those properties.
    “If somebody is bringing evidence to you, you have a responsibility to ask the persons where did you get this from? Who gave it to you? How long did you have it in your possession? So to say that it is alleged that I may have breached the code of conduct is questionable,” he said.
    PM Skerrit said, “It was important to establish whether I had an interest before you could say that I breached the code of conduct.”

    • Shameless
      January 28, 2013

      Well, Skerrit can rest assured that if found wanting, guilty or lying to the commission he will pay the price and pay darely. If the police is afraid to arrest him then I will personally effect a citizens arrest to get the matter rolling. You can fool some people some time but you cant fool all the people all the time.

      Assertive, NOT Agressive!

    • Watch Dog
      January 28, 2013

      Between the 19 and the 27 July he had the chance to see the hard evidence that Lennox presented and started to back back then. Now he is in full reverse gear with his lawyers dancing on their hands and head to stop the investigation. But the investigation must go on.

  40. Fair & Balanced.....
    January 26, 2013

    I am no fool, if the IPO has determined that it has jurisdiction in this matter and that there must be an “inquiry” to establish whether or not the Prime Minister has “ownership interest” in those Villas well there must be some “documentary evidence” in their possession to at least raise some eye brows, hence the reason to probe further. We may act foolishly as a people from time to time but we certainly are not fools. No one is against anyone in public office acquiring stuff but it must be done legally and within the scope of their LEGAL INCOME. Mr. Prime Minister if you are free of these charges then here is a golden opportunity to vindicate yourself in the eyes of the public and put those matters to rest once and for all. Whilst you are at it please address the issue of the “modest 3 bedroom, EC$400,00 dwelling house in VC – your home town”. If you have lied to the public then you must be made to answer, this country wasn’t willed to any person or group of people and the nation’s interest must be preserved as no man is a law unto himself in this democracy. I wish you well but sir you have to answer to those claims, what is good for the goose is also good for the gander.

    • They dissappear
      January 27, 2013

      The last inquiry when our good friend the sexiest commissioner ever got away after all the allegations and atrosities he was guilty and not guitly of with a slap on his wrist.
      Fortunately, inforced retirement he his history nobody remembers him .The young female police officers are off the hook lolHe is now very fat and means nothing to anyone.If you did not know of him you would not know now.
      Will Medard go the same way?

  41. serious business
    January 26, 2013

    moderation will be done onw week after ash wednesday , as that week will be used to sleep and write about the theweek before.
    before we know it it’s easter withnuf weddings and birthday parties n between lol.
    We like it so.

  42. serious business
    January 26, 2013

    It speaks volumes as to where your heads hearts are lol,lmal

  43. serious business
    January 26, 2013

    Lastnight this was the first topic added the calpyso came long after maybe this morning.
    None of the postings/comment for the calpypso competition’s comments are waiting modification 12 hrs after my comment on the Skerrit IPO issue.
    Why? Is it so obvious that calypso displaces national issues.
    No wonder we are where we are in 2013 good luck in DA’s liberation from economic social and political backwardness rum and bachannal is more important.

    • Bon gents
      January 27, 2013

      Hahaahaah lol DNO have balls/cojones shameless too

  44. you see
    January 26, 2013

    can the public be there

    • Bon gents
      January 27, 2013

      They will have a lottery lol

  45. Anonymous
    January 26, 2013

    Good,as mandated by the Rule of Law.

  46. Drlee
    January 26, 2013

    Finally the commission put down their foot.

    • Dragon fly
      January 27, 2013

      The commission is just plying with the people. The commission is just facilitating Tony and his gang in filing a court injunction.

    • princess Osanna
      January 27, 2013

      Thanks to Lennox. The country needs at least half a dozen like you. Things would have been different.

  47. ok
    January 26, 2013

    ebeh look it , tonyyyyyyy save us!!!

    • Drlee
      January 26, 2013

      Lol

    • FLORIDA
      January 27, 2013

      GOD SAVE US……TONY CAN NOT SAVE US AND HE CAN NOT SAVE HIMSELF.

      • DOMINICAN
        January 28, 2013

        i will say GOD save me instead.every knee shall bow and …….. YOU ALONE IN YOUR JUDGEMENT

  48. way papa
    January 26, 2013

    Lennox Linton good man to have all them LIARS on the Ps and Qs. Can I therefore conclude that LENNOX LINTON is worth his salt as an INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALIST… I hope those who are found to be in breach of the law are reprimanded… Let’s see if this is not just a PAPPY SHOW… between you and me, when i sure there are truths and half truths, lies and half lies on both sides but i am tending to believe LENNOX LINTON telling the truth a little more… way papa :lol: :lol: :lol:

    • Peeping Tom
      January 26, 2013

      :mrgreen:

  49. Not a herd folllowe
    January 26, 2013

    We will wait to see how the plan by the Commission to proceed with the hearing will unfold. I find Feb 25 is a long time to wait to do the work the Commission is empowered to carry.

    • DOMINICAN
      January 27, 2013

      but i wonder if the police went to seach tony s office and home too.

  50. Shameless
    January 26, 2013

    Finally a step in the right direction! Hopefully the commission will be fair minded, truthful and honest during the investigations and in reporting their findings.

    Assertive, NOT Agressive!

  51. Anonymous
    January 26, 2013

    I always had faith in the I.P.O and the chairman Mr. Johnson with whom I have worked in the past, to do their job properly and in accordance with the law. We must realize that the integrity Commission is not about friendship. It’s about the laws governing the office. Therefore, if the law is on your side, then the chip must lie where it falls. In fact I would advise Mr. Johnson to resign from the Commission and from all dis debaa. On the other hand,it is clear that Mr. Henry Babs Dyer should spend some more time in his wife’s office taking a refresher’s course in law. He is all about the place expressing all kinds of opinion and criticisms and as an ex Attorney General it is rather unusualto have someone who is now a shadow of his former self being nominated by a serious Bar Association to work on such an important body and with men of such high repute on the Commission.There are so many bright, energetic and hard working lawyers,especially young women ,who would definitely be most independent and fair on the Commission.

    • Shameless
      January 27, 2013

      Stop the hypocrisy. The same government has a disgraced former commissioner of police on the police service commission and Dum-in-acans are not saying a damn thing about it.

      Assertive, NOT Agressive!

  52. Anonymous
    January 26, 2013

    I sense the act of jealouly towards the P.M from lennox linton.lennox you makes me sick! both you and your UWP haters. every thing the p.m do is a headache for you guys. you all are hating on him because he is doing a good job towards the developement of our nation so you all dont like that because you all are power hungry .a bunch of HATERSSSS, HHATERS ,HATERS DON’T BUT APPRECIATE

    • Channel 1
      January 26, 2013

      @Anonymous – Well if Lennox making you sick, take up permanent residence in the hospital nah. Stuppesssss!!

      • January 27, 2013

        just remember after the hospital is gentle rest

    • MOU
      January 26, 2013

      we now know why the words “idiot” and “foolish” were created and placed in the dictionary

    • Merina Mckenzie
      January 28, 2013

      I feel for people like you.
      You should spend some time on learning to read and write properly. Check you verb tense, punctuation and grammer. At the end of the day, Skerritt will run to France leaving you “barefoot” and ignorant.

    • Malgraysa
      January 28, 2013

      Of course Lennox makes you sick, because the truth hurts!

  53. Anonymous
    January 26, 2013

    Wow, isn’t this place quiet one day after this article was published?

  54. soucoyan
    January 26, 2013

    oh, the comments not censored yet? :lol:
    Skerro caca boiling. everthing for a time . The good bad and the ugly.

  55. Aye Dominique
    January 26, 2013

    Oh please Integrity Commission, give me a freaking break!!!!

    Disband they need to disband this institutution and send everyone of you packing. You all really think anyone have time for all this foolishness. Dominicans come down on you all for putting the cart before the horse, in order to make it seems like you all are serious about your jobs, you are coming with this, like we all went to school on Sundays right?

    • Shameless
      January 27, 2013

      Sounds like you are the only one who went to school on Sundays while it was snowing in Dominica. Damn coonooomoonooo!

      Assertive, NOT Agressive!

      • hmmmmm
        January 28, 2013

        Honestyly – that is what politics have done to you? Everyone who disagrees with your opinion some how is an idiot or a coonoomoonoo.

        Why or why can’t we just all agree to disagree and stnad on uncommon ground?

  56. ???????????????
    January 26, 2013

    So many broken, destroyed and dismantled institutions on island, at least ONE will be showing its head above water on Monday February 25th 2013.
    The laws of the Commonwealth of Dominica should be equally applicable to all its citizens, including those who have arrogantly and pompously promulgated to the populace that not even the Constitution can stop me.What manner of ‘in your face’ arrogance is this!
    I thought the PM had two Senior Counsels representing him? IS ONE MISSING IN ACTION? WHY?

    • BRAIN
      January 26, 2013

      Sorry :( i accidentally select the disliked option…soo sooo…sooo sorry…..I LIKED THE COMMENT!! I LOVED IT!!!! :-P :-P :-D :) :wink: :wink:

    • ??????????????
      January 27, 2013

      Get your own Name to coment. Hello we are not the same ????????????????????

    • DOMINICAN
      January 27, 2013

      i hope the police go and search by this one too like they did by linton . hmmmm for if they don t it will look very bias and prove that the police force is political. I hope the new chief of police has the gut and balls .

      • pong
        January 27, 2013

        you need more proof about the political police force….

  57. itsabouttime
    January 26, 2013

    it.s about time something get going here for we the people of this country, A A i want to know if Skerrit is above the law for everything this man do is under carpet, anyway he need to go now i mean now we had enough of his wickedness towards us we God children

  58. 4u2C
    January 26, 2013

    IPO please do the job you are paid to do. This is a step in the right direction and we the public looking forward to see you all act in protecting the public purse.
    Its here that this IPO have to set a standard of fairness, truth and proper investigation. This will be the yard stick by which the youth and our future leaders will measure this organisation. Be fair and protect the public and the public purse!

  59. Satelite
    January 26, 2013

    Here we go again.

  60. Referee
    January 26, 2013

    This is clearly a movement in the right direction for advocates of transparency in government. It is also an indication that the IPO commission has a chance, no matter how slim, to grow into the kind of institutional safeguard that was intented when the IPO was conceived and enacted.

    The key point here is that as an institution, the IPO commission must be nurtured and peopled with the sole intent of preserving its integrity so that its values and its mission are inseparable. If properly nurtured, the IPO could become the vehicle through which we we transmit our collective values on the proper conduct of government officials from one generation to the next. If we can accomplish this feat it would be entirely in keeping with the traditional role of an institution in the broadest sociological context, that is,an organization or a set of values that are accepted in and of themselves as the basis for national conduct that is passed on from one generation to the next. Seen in this light, the IPO commission’s mission is larger than the sum of the personal ambition and biases of its individual members. They should view their role as agents of preservation of the best of our political values, whether they are honesty, truthfulness, fairplay, or just old fashion good citizenship that form the basis and the foundation of a sustainable democracy.

    Indeed if we can transform this nascent institution from a collection of individuals into a legitimate and respected force for political decency,and preservation of our political values we would demonstrate that we are serious about the letter and intent of the IPO act.

    Tt is therefore critical that we view the IPO not as a battleground for duelling political forces, but as an institutional vehicle for the preservation and transmittal of those values which we hold sacred and worthy of transferring from our current generation to the next.

    The mission of the IPO, seen in this larger sociological context, is far more important than the mission of protecting or defending the prime minister and his political interests. This is why it is imperitive that we need to push back agsinst those cynics who measure progress by short term political victories of one party over another while we ignore the larger and infinitely more meaningful measure of the damage done to our political institutions and the future of our democracy.

    There is no denying that a lot is at stake in this matter involving the prime minister. An outcome that favours him unfairly over the broader national interest would be profounding damaging to the institution of the IPO and our collective hopes for a sustainable democracy.

    • A Student
      January 27, 2013

      Dont need to know who you are. But your comment is very inspirational to me as a young dominican. Wish you and others like you, who provide positive information/knowledge, would use this anonymous medium to educate the masses.

  61. Anonymous
    January 26, 2013

    Let us wait for the outcome. In DA now one can almost predict the results of these cases. Its a D… shame

    • DOMINICAN
      January 27, 2013

      one thing i can surely say is that in my 38 years in this country i have never heard so many allegations and seen so much tongue lashing in politics like what has happened between 1995 and the present time.too much power driven politicians who are not real leaders.just there for fame money and oppotunities. what a shame.

  62. Malgraysa
    January 26, 2013

    Thank God! Come what may, we need to know the truth and deal with it. We can not continue as we are with all these allegations hanging in the air poisoning the atmosphere.

    • Dragon fly
      January 27, 2013

      We already know the truth. I am not sure if the batteries in the polygraph, that is the IPO can handle the truth. Let us hope the polygraphic machine does not break down . No name no warrant. All cat I know they volere. ( Sour Sour)

  63. Anonymous
    January 26, 2013

    I believe one day mr Linton and everyone else who calling to see mr. Skerrit out of office or jailed will get to see that. My question is what will be next? I am asking because I suspect that it won’t end there, the next move will be to ask the entire cabinet to leave since they stayed there and watch mr. Skerrit do all his wrong doings, mark my words. This is to me more about politics for their own personal gain than it is about “the people”. Too bad so many people are fooled into thinking that it’s about them although I agree when they do wrong they should me thrown out or in jail but never to think that we the people will get anything good out of it. Leaders have come and gone in Dominica and the country remained poor with high levels of unemployment under everyone of them. Who is to think that any one of them in this time will change any thing, I believe the problem in dominica is too many black grab in the same barrel just look at Africa and you’ll understand what I mean. Who want to go fight and get hurt, to get any politician out of office that’s them but not me if my vote can’t do it then dying or getting hurt is not worth it. At the end of the day I have to come back and fight the same one I put there out again, simply madness if you ask me. Many of the people here complaining put this Gov in now they want a war to get them out, why can’t the same vote do it. If Linton and the workers party want power so bad then take to the streets and fight send stones if all you have to, find the evidence take it to the police what ever but keep at it, sorry though just not me all you will get to fight any battles to put all you in power just to come and do same thing. I am no “pappy show” to get fooled over and over again into thinking that you politicians can bring any relief to my life.

    • IluvmyPm
      January 26, 2013

      This is one of the most truthful statements I read on dno

    • Respice Fimem
      January 26, 2013

      Silly!

    • DOMINICAN
      January 27, 2013

      this will not be the first nor the last case of this nature so dominica in not unique to this type of situation ok people.

  64. January 26, 2013

    Island of RoRow in in Caribbean

  65. mouth of the south
    January 26, 2013

    hhhhmmmm so i guess the commission is satisfied by the findings of the police, that astaphan is the one who leaked the confidential information. then the next step is to take astaphan to court.

    • Peeping Tom
      January 26, 2013

      :mrgreen: :mrgreen:

      • Morihei Ueshiba
        January 28, 2013

        :twisted: :twisted:

    • DOMINICAN
      January 27, 2013

      am i to believe that the police searched his office and electronics too. if yes then the police force is closer to becoming a none political police force. remember i said IF SO.

      • mouth of the south
        January 27, 2013

        i doubt that they have, but evidence such as email, tape record of astaphan saying (even if i distributed, i may not be the only one)… that is after denying and actind as if he never did… plus called for the investigation of mr linton…. the facts are clear… he’s guilty… and a simple lawyer letter to google/gmail can retrieve such info…. and rest this case, u don’t have to search mr astaphan’s home, obviously he has ‘moved’ any said document…

  66. Nudibranch
    January 26, 2013

    If he,like the other govt workers investigated has nothing to hide then why worry. You are first and foremost a public servant, NEVER forget that.
    I bet it will be opened and adjourned indefinitely however.

  67. Seminole Ave
    January 26, 2013

    Hmm i smell a Rat…based on what was revealed By Linton and his evidence to Law Enforcement Authorities here..points clearly to the Attorney For The Prime Minister who leaked his files to Third Parties..

    So the Commission has now surely proceed ahead With The Matter of Inquiry..

    But wonder if they will be stalled again by the Legal Spin Doctors of the Prime Minister..

    Only Time will tell. Wonder if Justice will Prevail…

    Would be nice that the Citizens of Dominica get Ruling in Favour of Justice to their Constitution Right on the Heels of Carnival..

    My Advice to he Courts is to release the Judgement A few days Before, as Carnival is part of Celebrating Freedom from the Evil Doers!

  68. cod capi
    January 26, 2013

    hope lintons wish come true he’ll then be the new prime minister of dominica

    • Roughcake
      January 28, 2013

      God help us if this ever happens.Not another Mari goat ian please PaPa Bondieu.

  69. Watch Dog
    January 26, 2013

    YEAHHHHHH!!!!

  70. Servant of the Publi
    January 26, 2013

    My PM, you will continue to stand high among your enemies. God will continue to bless and protect you.

    • ()
      January 26, 2013

      God has nothing to do with lying, stealing and cheating.But again i do not know which God you are praying to.

    • pong
      January 27, 2013

      well your god makes mistakes my own dont…

    • Merina Mckenzie
      January 28, 2013

      Romans: Provide all things honest in the sight of all men.
      If one live in sin, God will not bless them.
      Read your Bible, before you call God name in your mess.

  71. Dragon fly
    January 26, 2013

    All you the lar hiding in Miami while the priest ad the passport merchant trying a thing. But since the cousins attorney combination don’t have the public appeal instinct like te liar in Miami it see. Like Caiii Poule is about to fall dwn

  72. jeremy sinclair
    January 26, 2013

    Now this will be interesting,especially as Mr Skerrit’s shadow is not there to twist things I mean of course Astaphan,who it appears is only as good as his last mistake exiled by the look of it,

    NOW we will see what fancy excuse he comes up with to justify his enourmous wealth can’t wait for the result

  73. lion
    January 26, 2013

    9am 25 February 2013 will come and gone yap yap nada nada amen!

  74. Lougaoo Mem
    January 26, 2013

    Hooray!!! This is a victory and good news for the country. The message must be sent that no one, regardless of their positions is above the law or the constitution. We are tired and fatigue of politicians and certain lawyers who behave like the laws of the land do not apply to them, therefore, they can do and say what they want with impunity.
    The time is now for every citizen of the land to take a stand, and demand that the laws apply to everyone without fear. If those who are tasked to ensure that equal rights and justice is for every citizen, and they themselves continue to flaunt the laws that they swear to uphold and defend, then true democracy is destined to fail in D/ca.
    I’m confident that the time is drawing near when all those involved in allegation of corruption, shenanigans, cover-ups, lies and deception, will be held accountable for their actions if found guilty.
    A warning to the police, religious leaders, teachers, intellectuals, and those who simply know the truth but choose to support and defend the wrongs because of their greed and personal interests, will pay a hefty price, also history will not be kind to you.
    It’s funny most of the calypsonians articulate the evil deeds of our leaders in their lyrical contents, we sing and dance to the rhythm, yet still, many simply don’t get it. Lougaoo Mem will continue to advocate what is good for the best interest for his beloved island, while he roams the wooded mountains of Berrikoa. Before I end, I am calling on my fellow Grand Barians to demand
    better representation from their Parl Rep. You deserve far better than what you are given. Just think for a moment, that the DLP you support is on a campaign insinuating that the Hon. Gon Emmanuel fire bombed his home while he was asleep on that Christmas morning. My fellow villagers, you know better. Do not be an accomplice by supporting such a criminal interprise, because one day, you may have to pay for the evil you supported. Thank You!

    • Mweh mem
      January 26, 2013

      Where de car dat was supposed to be de evidence?

      • \|||||\|"
        January 28, 2013

        hmmmmmm

  75. Brohim
    January 26, 2013

    Villas, Round 2: FIGHT!

  76. Doc. Love
    January 26, 2013

    Excellent job Mr. Johnson.Let us see what kind of kokomarkat Alick, Tony and Lennox are going to pull now. If Skerrit has nothing to hide,do as Mr. Linton did,allow the IPO Commission to do its work.He can come to the PSU Center with as many security officers as he wants,just find his butt their and on time.

  77. Candominican
    January 26, 2013

    wen the feb 25 comes around, the commision will find another excuse, may be julien will be on sick leave!.Waste of time

  78. 4u2c
    January 26, 2013

    IPO, please do the work you were appointed to do. This is a step in the right direction and we are looking forward to see fairness and swift justice. The public purse MUST be protected and we must leave an example of a fair and just legacy for our future leaders and children. If not we will pay terrible!

  79. serious business
    January 25, 2013

    First knock at this one like an opener in cricket.
    Play monopoly with that sucker.
    Don’t pass go can’t cash out the worth of $8million. lol Straight to………………..
    in monopoly property is bought &sold.
    Not constructed lol

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