Multi-Purpose Identification Card to be issued in October

This is what the National I D card will look like
This is what the National ID card will look like

Plans to begin issuing the Multi-Purpose Identification Card (MPID) in October this year were discussed at a public consultation exercise at the Portsmouth Credit Union Hall on Thursday July 18, 2013.

In 2012, the Government of Dominica decided to implement National ID Cards which would be used for voting purposes during general elections.

The MPID project is part of a regional sub project among O.E.C.S countries to integrate electronically government systems and services.

The electoral commission is the body responsible for the issuance and administration of the MPID system in Dominica.

Chairman of the Electoral Commission Gerald Burton, during Thursday’s meeting, explained the purpose of the multi-purpose identification card.

“That card is intended to provide one unique means of identification for O.E.C.S citizens. Not everyone has a passport, social security card or a driver’s license and the multi-purpose identification card presents a unique opportunity for all citizens to have a means by which they can be identified but more importantly a means of identification that is authentic, and meets international standards,” Burton explained.

Burton said this move to implement the MPID is in keeping with Government’s decision to issue a national identification card instead of a voter id card.

He went on to state that the Commission had no difficulty in moving forward with Government’s recommendation.

“The Electoral Commission has over a number of years, proposed the introduction of an identification card for use in elections as a means of identifying persons who appear at the polling stations. The law as it is right now gives the power to the Chief Elections officer to utilize some form of identification card as part of that process and so the commission has always taken the position that we ought to go in the direction that most other countries in the Caribbean and indeed in the world have introduced as part of the Electoral process and i.e. a unique identification card,” he noted.

Burton added that the Government of Dominica agreed that the multi-purpose Identification Cards would be used in the voting process during General elections.

“The Government is of the view that rather than issue identification card for only election purposes, a national identification card would serve multiple purposes. The Commission took the view that we had no difficulty with such a card providing that it met the criteria that the commission had identified as being required for purposes of elections,” informed Burton.

He explained that the Government of Dominica agreed that such a system would be managed by the Electoral Commission.

“We have had the opportunity to examine the MPID and the Commission became satisfied that the O.E.C.S proposed MPID met the criteria that we felt was required for the purposes of elections and its is for that reason that we indicated to the Government that we were prepared to utilize the MPID for purposes of election but on the basis that the control and management of such a system would be within the control of the Electoral Commission since the commission is constitutionally mandated to oversee the registration of electors and the conduct of elections in Dominica,” Burton remarked.

He said that while every citizen and resident would be entitled to receive a multi-purpose identification card, not everyone who receives such a card would be entitled to vote.

“It is important that we underscore that the MPID system is separate and apart and is totally independent from the Electoral system. The Electoral Commission in the last year has brought the electoral system in house. A new system has been designed and is located within the Electoral office and that system is totally independent from every other Government system and will be independent from the MPID system,” he noted.

“When once you have been registered on the MPID, if you are also registered as an elector then your registration number of election purposes will be put on that card. If you are not registered as an elector, then you will not have that number on your card. Even if you show up at polling station with your MPID card and your electors number is not on that card you will not be able to vote,” Burton explained.

Meantime Chief Elections Officer Steven Larocque disclosed that the enrollment process is expected to commence in October this year.

“The Commission has taken a decision that the enrollment will start for individuals of voting age, and that will be followed by individuals of ages 5-17 so that we meet the deadline of getting as many persons who are eligible to vote to get their cards,” he said.

“There will be an enrollment section where your biographic, bio-metric, photograph, signature and supporting documents will be captured. Vetting will be done by senior officers at the Registry Department and the issuance of the card will be done at the Electoral Office when all systems are checked and it is deemed that the person can be issued with a card,” explained Larocque.

The Electoral Commission is hoping to have the multi-purpose identification cards issued during an eighteen month period commencing in October 2013.

The card will be valid for ten years.

National I D card layout (back)
National I D card layout (front)
National ID card 2
National I D card layout (back)

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195 Comments

  1. How long? Not long
    July 22, 2013

    Skerritt and his DLP Govt has forced the Electoral Commission to accept National ID cards, instead of Voter ID Cards, which is what the Commission recommended specifically years ago.

    The Commission wanted Electoral Reforms and to clean up the voters list. They never requested National ID cards. The Commission has lost its independence. Remember who said that is madness the Commission was doing to think of asking for funds to produce Voter ID cards and to clean up the list? The cabal has succeeded in stalling the Commission’s genuine request, for Voter ID cards, to ensure our elections are Free and Fair.

    The Cabal has designed their plan. They would listen to no one about Voter ID cards and to clean up the list. Govt. refuse to give the Commission the money it requested to do its work. Control/influence of all institutions in Dominica is the order of the day. How long? Not long. Dominicans will never accept fraudulent elections. Attempts at such plain to see. No elections without electoral reform/Voter ID cards. Put that in your pipes and smoke it. The world is on the side of those who want FREE and Fair elections.

    • Anonymous
      July 22, 2013

      Do you even know how long ago the agreement for the funding of this project was signed? Or more so, do you know how long ago they negotiated the terms of the project even with the other OECS countries? Both answers are before the 2009/2010 OAS report and the Electoral Commission request for funds. Do some research on the internet before you comment.

  2. ted lewis. (posie)
    July 22, 2013

    To vote in a constituency a person must be residing there for the last six month. Would this card prevent persons from voting in constituencies where they should not have been registered. For eg I can’t understand how the hell my father is voting in the cottage constituency. I say no more.

  3. Justice and Truth
    July 22, 2013

    I suppose the cards will have their signature. In this case, if stolen and used by an unauthorized person, prior to using the card, the signature should be checked for authenticity.

  4. Jonathan Warner
    July 21, 2013

    You don’t need address or san (although address is included in a British drivers licence…)

    All you need is:
    Surname
    First/Middle names
    DATE of BIRTH
    Place of Birth
    Nationality
    Expiry date
    Validity date
    Place of issue/issuing authority (These cards could be issued by the high commissions abroad to Dominicans not resident on the island)

    And on the reverse any “Other information” such as restrictions or notices…

    Would be interesting to know if we can use this to travel overseas… I could use this in the UK… To travel around the EU at least and as long as it says its my national ID card , they be none the wiser. Not a problem for me as it would say place of birth: United Kingdom

  5. Jonathan Warner
    July 21, 2013

    LOL , Dominica? RFID chips in thier ID Card?
    They can’t even make an official looking form of identity.

    If I was to use that here in the UK (where foreign identity cards can be used as proof) , id be laughed at! My library card looks more official

    • wow
      July 22, 2013

      The card looks FINE!

      Critising for critising sake.

      Dominica is not the UK!

      stupes!

    • Jane
      July 22, 2013

      Who ask you to use it? You born in UK stay there and use you superior card.

  6. John
    July 21, 2013

    The only people who should be able to vote should be only people residing in Dominica for at least 5 years and legal citizens born and naturalized that’s all not those people who bought citizenship and passports who have never spent any time in Dominica or have not even been there.

  7. Anonymous
    July 21, 2013

    This card is so empty.what does that card presents to any o.e.c.s countries.absolutely nothing.take those card and go share it for vielle case and mahaut people.

  8. prisca
    July 21, 2013

    All I can say to my fellow Dominicans.. just becareful what you wish for. Lennox as head of UWP? what a joke. Not all that glitters is gold.
    Mr Linton you are more a so called political divider than a uniter. On the other hand I do hope you run so you can be in the hot seat getting a taste of your own poisonous medicine that you’ve been dispensing for so long. Just remember one thing..MANY ARE CALLED BUT FEW ARE CHOSEN.

  9. SMH
    July 20, 2013

    Nationality… Dominica??
    LOL, people we can do much better than that! *Dominican!

  10. Anonymous
    July 20, 2013

    cool

  11. dictate
    July 20, 2013

    Nothing but an attempt to mess around the electoral process. Nothing else Dominicans.

    The Electoral Commission recommended electoral reforms some 8 Years ago. It requested funds from Skerritt’s DLP Govt. to implement those Reforms. Funds would be needed to produce VOTER ID CARDS and to CLEAN UP the VOTERS” LIST. The list is bloated with names of dead people and those not eligible to vote.

    The Commission pleaded for reforms, for funds to do its work to ensure elections are FREE and FAIR. The opposition protested. Dominicans expressed concerns about the political influencing and pressures on the Commission. Utter disrespect for the body mandated by our Constitution to conduct elections. It is supposed to be “Independent” of the Commission.

    Now, that Chief Elections Officer comes parroting the nonsense about OECS National ID card. How comes Grenada, in the OECs, has Voter ID cards implemented?

    Why should you all attempt to interfere in the election process and having the people skeptical about Kokomakak? Elections will not be free and fair without serious Electoral Reform. Voter ID cards are specific for voting and cleaning the “dirty” list and could also be used as an ID card. Election Observers from OAS and CARICOM also recommended specifically Voter ID cards and cleaning up of the Voters’ List.

    Who has the right to ask for Voter ID cards? The Electoral Commission. Why?
    Who does not want Voter ID cards? Skerritt and his DLP Govt.
    Who influenced the Commission to produce NID? You? Me? Why? The trends are frightening and dangerous. Institutions are being bulldozed.

    Whose fools are we. Dominicans smell a big rat. The Cabal just cannot afford to lose power. Not with all those truths about corruption hanging on some people heads.

  12. good dawg
    July 20, 2013

    any one who find this should be tied wit politics is just dom how do y’all so cut up in politics the country will Nevada move toward

  13. Papa Dom
    July 20, 2013

    The chairman knows well that it is impractical to start printing cards before cleaning the voters list. When people fail to do their work properly and the next government replace them they crying political victimisation. If I were a leader of a country I would have more faith in an individual who stands his ground and does his job without fair or favour, than one who gives in to the dictates of a government, right or wrong.

  14. Reporter SLU
    July 20, 2013

    Why an OEC S card and not a National ID card. What does the OECS have to do with our voting. I live of Dominica and is National ID card we used. I don’t have a problem with the Social Security No. being there but there need to have more back ground features to prevent Identity theft.

  15. July 20, 2013

    writing multi-purpose on the card makes it look cheap…
    ID cards are normally for multi-purpose ,none the less social security defers in each country, every country have different ways of doing documents…i think it is more prudent to give a card for each purpose because by putting all someone information such as social security number on an ID card makes it easier form criminal to all your personal info.
    none the less some people take pleasure in talking crap on their comments ;such as, why it is a haitain picture on the card….this is just an example of the ID card which is shown above so we could have seen a picture of a japanese ,none the less whether it is a haitian or a japanese picture they could also have dominican citizenship…
    we must read a lot ,listen to documentaries and our level of comprehension will get higher because to many of use can’t understand what we read…

  16. Discombobulated
    July 20, 2013

    Most countries have ID cards. What is the big deal Dominicans? I don’t get it. The card looks fit for purpose. Is that not end of?

  17. Justice and Truth
    July 20, 2013

    Congratulations Dominicans! You now have an ID Card. Well, you are progressing. It is a step in the right direction. Times do change. Be proud of your new ID Card and keep them safe and secure. :lol:
    In these times an ID Card is necessary. If per chance the police stops a national or a resident, the first thing which is requested, “Show me your ID” as is done in the case of drivers for their vehicle license.
    Those who are not nationals or residents will have to produce their passport; a good way of catching some who are illegal in the country.
    The government issues free ID’s. I expect when renewed, nationals will pay for the cost of renewal. Otherwise it will cost the government an exorbitant sum to renew those ID cards free of charge.

  18. O_O
    July 19, 2013

    I don’t want it…i not voting, and my passport is enough…

  19. JUDGE DREDD
    July 19, 2013

    lennox, lets put a tony(injunction) on de national id cards and de electoal commission.. dem people to bad

  20. JUDGE DREDD
    July 19, 2013

    mister looking like a haitian that does work in my garden..
    i doh want dat. if it doh have voters id i not voting

  21. July 19, 2013

    This looks like a Green Card. I hope this is NOT this person’s real identity.

  22. Ohhh Dominica!
    July 19, 2013

    But if I have a passport what I’m I doing with that? They ask for a voter ID all you coming with all kind of crap. I have enough ID cards in my damn wallet, I do not need this shit. It would be so much cheaper and to the point if the card was issued solely for voting purposes, because if I had six children I would go and get for all 6 of them, babies or not. If is money the government has to waste let’s see.

    I just find this is ridiculous and Labour party could not ask for a better puppet at the electoral commission.

    This labour party trying all kind of strategy to make things shadey and confusing but I suspect something serious will happen in this country if Labour party messes with this upcoming election.

    Enough is enough

  23. betty
    July 19, 2013

    I glad it good for them people that don’t live in da but like to run hom e and vote and run back up

  24. Positive
    July 19, 2013

    Only real issue for me is that it does not have the address of residence. If it does not have that then it is lacking a vital piece of information for both travel and electoral purposes

  25. red man
    July 19, 2013

    why is there no biometric info on this card, (height, weight, eye color ect.) i know all black people look alike but we have other ethic minorities in DMA now…

  26. Anonymous
    July 19, 2013

    Which entity will issue these cards? Who will be responsible for issuing these cards? Constitutionally it cannot be the Electoral Commission.

  27. der
    July 19, 2013

    honestly they could of done a much better job with those id cards they look plain and boring… compared to other id cards…. for example why not have a background showcasing Dominica’s beauty hmmmmmmmm

    • Anonymous
      July 20, 2013

      its a sample

    • Anonymous
      July 20, 2013

      Thinking this is just a sample and the real thing is much different?

    • Anonymous
      July 20, 2013

      You realize that same card going to be issued in the other OECS countries as well right? You just cannot please everybody.

    • A sett of chatter
      July 20, 2013

      Maybe they followed the requirements of the OECS standards for all the cards they issue under the name…”Genius”

    • ok
      July 20, 2013

      You mean like the driver’s licence that I have, that when photocopied as the id I presented while performing a task was illegible. It is all well and good to think like that but we have to be practical. I have seen those from Grenada and I must say that ours seem more readable.

  28. Anonymous
    July 19, 2013

    If is a Dominican National Identity card, why is a Haitian picture they have on it?

    • July 19, 2013

      What make you think it is a HAITIAN?

    • prove it !!!
      July 20, 2013

      how are you so sure he’s a haitian ?

    • Mojo 1
      July 20, 2013

      Because is they that will be enjoying de bulk of these cards. Dominica has about 60,000 people yet the govt will print 100,000 cards for the 1st run. So u can figure out the maths.

    • Doc. Love
      July 20, 2013

      Maybe Dominicans don’t want to put their face on that coshawknee.

    • Anonymous
      July 20, 2013

      It is a Canadian. Haven’t you been following the news. A Canadian company that doing this system.

    • Dj
      July 20, 2013

      Seriously the thought crossed my mind

    • SMH
      July 20, 2013

      I guess he is a national now! :lol:

    • orchid
      July 21, 2013

      Where ignorance bliss, it is folly to be wise. Why does it matter which picture is on the sample? Each card must have the owner’s picture. So, your picture will be on your card.

  29. July 19, 2013

    that’s too much trouble to prepare for a simple election.

    • July 19, 2013

      Voter’s registration cards in America do not have anyone’s picture on it.

    • Anonymous
      July 20, 2013

      elections are not simple . where are you living ?

  30. Anonymous
    July 19, 2013

    O E C S have nothing to do with Dominicans voting I D card, secondly the constitution makes provision for voters I D card, and not O E C S, I D card, the constution is the rules set and agreed upon for every government to run the country by why do we want to change the rules, the chairman of the electoral commission simply do not worth sitting in that chair, he cannot agree to use any other card that is not supported by the constitution.

    • anonymous2
      July 19, 2013

      Challenge it.

    • Joe
      July 20, 2013

      Quote the section of the constitution that specifies ‘Voter ID Cards”… You just a foolish follower, there is no excuse for your stupidity!!!!! We are living in a world where information is readily available so READ boss READ!!!

    • Law
      July 20, 2013

      Registration of Electors Act Chapter 2:03, Section 19

      “The Chief Registering Officer may cause identification cards containing prescribed information to be issued in accordance with the Regulations, or may employ other suitable methods of preventing electors from voting more than once in the same election.”

      • Parfait
        July 21, 2013

        But if that is the case what is all this talk about? The Chief Elections Officer MAY cause ID cards to be used…that means they don’t even have to issue cards according to the law. And they (Electoral Commission) can set any Regulations according to the laws…so what is this talk about? The way I see it, they doing even more than they have to in order to clear up this voting “story” in Dominica.

        People really need to read this article properly to see how truly free Dominica really is. You mean to tell me the Electoral Commission only accepted this card after they were satisfied it met all their requirements? That speaks well for that office. Wish some other countries was as free as this.

    • orchid
      July 21, 2013

      Need to think things out a little before writing.

  31. corbe
    July 19, 2013

    Why are people making a big deal about social security number??? Stuppes!! We are not in the US where their systems are very impersonal.

    There is no way people can steal your identity in Dominica just because they have your social security number… To withdraw your own money from your bank account, to cash a cheque you have to bring sometimes 2 types of ID so just quit that nonsensene…. Stuppes!!

    Go to the social security office on your own business and see what kind of treatment you will get… much less to get informationon behalf of someone else…

    As for me somebody free to go and make DSS deposits in my name – and tell them to leave my salary alone…

    • July 19, 2013

      A person’s Driver’s License is their identification card. If you do not have an account in a bank they ask for TWO forms of ID, I present my DL along with anything w my name on it. The only INTERNATIONAL ID I think a person need is a PASSPORT. Let us say for argument sake, individuals will no longer need TWO forms of ID to cash a check if they possess that International ID Card?

      • July 20, 2013

        Oops, Multi-purpose ID Card. I wrote International ID Card.

    • Anonymous
      July 20, 2013

      very ignorant comment full of false information. check your facts!

    • O.O
      July 20, 2013

      Retard, what you do think they do to steal identities? THEY MAKE THEIR OWN ID CARDS USING THE NUMBER … SMH! Shut up when you have no idea what you talking about!

  32. Doc. Love
    July 19, 2013

    All those labor Party supporters who were hoping for a snap election in order to catch the opposition with its down, must think again. According to the Chairman of the Electoral Commission,the Government of Dominica agreed that the multi- purpose I.D. Cards would be used in the voting process during General Elections. He also said, the Government has agreed, the system would be managed by the Electoral Commission. If Skerrit keeps his word, the Commission will have a lot of work to do in order to have the voters list sanitized, have many voters registered and I.D. Cards subsequently printed. I doubt everything can be done by end of year.

    • Too Nice
      July 19, 2013

      I dont believe anything that is said.

    • MET YO
      July 19, 2013

      they looking at february to have elections.

      by saying that a multi purpose ID can be used during elections, they may just allow any other ID in the event that everyone has not received their own in time for election.

      But, there shall be no election without VOTER ID CARDS. And we Not joking

    • Natural Living
      July 20, 2013

      yeah but it doh mean the next general elections……it could be for the one after….

    • orchid
      July 21, 2013

      Voters lists already exist. The same voters lists are checked every quarter and new lists publicized. People continually register when they become of age to vote and do so all year round. People who work at such things know that. It is time we stop this DRAMA about the voters list. We need to educate ourselves about what happens at the electoral office and the procedures taken to end up with a voters list.

      • PetProjects
        July 21, 2013

        @ orchid the list needs to be cleaned up. My Grand mother died 7 yrs ago an she’s still on the list… 4 of my Aunts reside Overseas for the past 25 yrs and they are still on the list .. Shall i continue on ??

        Is their something to hide? Why can’t we get a clean voters list ?? It would be in the best interest for Mr Skerrit to push ahead with a clean list before the next Election. Think about it, in tht case if he wins, The UWP can’t cry foul!! it’s Win- Win situation for both parties.

  33. WHO VEX VEX
    July 19, 2013

    I want mines

    • Anonymous
      July 21, 2013

      Is not mines is mine dotish labourite

  34. O.O
    July 19, 2013

    Btw… Just my two cents… DNO I think it is wise, that whoever did the report should do some further research into what those abbreviations stand for so that readers can better understand. Because I DO NOT BELIEVE AND I HOPE NOT that the government will allow printing of people social security numbers on such an ID card, whether back or front. WHEN LOST. IDENTITY THEFT is the result! .. I hope they know that

    • Justice and Truth
      July 20, 2013

      The number should be printed. This is for identification purpose. They must be careful to keep their card in a secure place. If they do not need to use it and frequently so, they should keep it securely at home.
      An advice and/or suggestion, they could make a photocopy of it and keep the photocopy on them.
      In the event they lose the card or through theft, they should notify the office immediately. The card could be cancelled and a new one issued. I do not know if the government thought of this.

    • July 20, 2013

      I would think NOT because a SS number represents a person’s entire life. If stolen the thief can use that number to ruin one completely. Identity theft is on the rise, and not only on BIG Countries.

    • really????
      July 20, 2013

      Are u serious? your SS number is printed on your SS card…and u still have one… so what if your SS card gets lost and your bank card have your bank card number and sometimes your account number on it… and u still have one.. can identity theft not still happen that way?.. What does printing your SS number on the card have to do with anything… do u people not think before you speak?????? it’s an effing ID card…. thus they need information on it to ID you…including your damn SS number….duhhhh

    • Chow Mein
      July 20, 2013

      Good point. is a point that was already brought to Gerard Burton, yet they remain resolute. Dominicans playing naive now but when the sh_t hits the fan, I hope they doh hold their head and cry:”If I had known”

  35. B.E.B.
    July 19, 2013

    My Steven Larocque, u mentioned that a card will be valid for 10 yrs.If a card is issued in 2012, why would it expired in 2017. Are u telling us that the card is valid for 5 yrs.? Please rectify this

    • Anonymous
      July 20, 2013

      Didn’t you see the word “SAMPLE” written across the thing? Gosh man. Why we so quick to criticize and even giving that comment thumps up.

  36. Michael Joseph
    July 19, 2013

    The MARK of the BEAST is at WORK.

    • 666
      July 19, 2013

      Yes mwahhha cause he number is more than a number hmmm stupes, 666 <——- I have mystical powers mwahhahaha

    • anonymous2
      July 19, 2013

      You got that right and the general populace doesn’t have a clue.

  37. ????????????????
    July 19, 2013

    Skerrit’s failure as PM is clear for all to see. He needs to be sent packing ASAP by the electorate.
    Whatever card you all have I will take it and go and vote for MR LENNOX LINTON,or whoever represents his party.. THANKS BE TO GOD!

    • Too Nice
      July 19, 2013

      Amen. Card or no card

    • IPO
      July 20, 2013

      I heard its either sprags or Blessings

  38. dissident
    July 19, 2013

    This card should be labeled a Caricom National I’d card.
    Why not?…..I wonder how does our voting systems compare across Caricom? Are our electoral laws word for word de same as other islands across Caricom?
    Do de electoral commissions across Caricom have jurisdiction on matters outside electoral issues? Can u name any other caricom country where the electoral commission is issuing id cards for voting where these same voters cards are being used for other government services? Is caricom giving financial support for this program in any Caricom country other than Dominica?

    I am ur former student mr burton……..I am ashamed

    • Anonymous
      July 20, 2013

      Can’t you see it says OECS? This is part of an OECS project NOT a CARICOM project.

  39. Mweh meme
    July 19, 2013

    Nationality should be ” Dominican” not Dominica…fix it please..

    • MET YO
      July 19, 2013

      zor sot we….is Dominica they have to put.

      So a person from United States of America supposed to put what? United-an States-an of-an AMerica-an??

      weh papa

      • charmz
        July 22, 2013

        it’s american fool

    • anonymous2
      July 19, 2013

      They put the country.

    • July 20, 2013

      I guess to not have us confused for people from the Dominican Republic that is how it should be written. We know we are Dominicans but people from the Dominican Republic are also Dominicans. My, and other people, Certificate of Citizenship had my Nationality as Dominican Republic simply because on the application I wrote my Nationality as Dominican. That was corrected to “DOMINICA”. Thank God and was able to notice the error.

  40. Krazy
    July 19, 2013

    it looks nice… love it

  41. Not a herd follower
    July 19, 2013

    Everything for Mr. Burton, the Chief Elections Officer, is that the government has decided…. One does not get the sense that the Electoral Commission is exercising its independence mandate granted to it by the Constitution. Mr. Burton, I want you to tell the nation how this card will be used to clean the bloated voter list that contains names that ought to be removed because of death and long term migration as the law requires.

    • Not a jerd follower
      July 20, 2013

      Correction: Mr. Burton is the Chairman of the Electoral Commission and the Chief Elections officer is Mr. Steve Larocque

  42. Pedro
    July 19, 2013

    We want free and fair elections in Dominica. The Commission is trying all kind of tricks to steal the elections for the Labour Party.

  43. Marlpardee
    July 19, 2013

    So y they have to use someone ‘s face. Can they not use an image with no pic. I guess d man that volunteer want his face all over the place.

    • JUDGE DREDD
      July 19, 2013

      why you doh send your picture fool

    • July 20, 2013

      In America, once your name is on the list you just have to present your DL for comparison to what is on the list. I would think back home if your picture is on the card you wont need to present any other ID to vote; however, this CARD should be called a VOTER’S REGISTRATION CARD, and NOT a Multi-purpose Card. A Multi-purpose Card is an ID that can be used for EVERYTHING, including travel. Prior to 9/11 a person could travel with their DL or their Voter’s Registration Card. These TWO items are PROOF that you are a legal resident, Permanent or Citizen.

  44. Marlpardee
    July 19, 2013

    Somebody help me. If u say nationality can u say dominica or dominican? I am confused.

    • July 20, 2013

      Hopefully both, but be careful because depending on whom you are talking to “Dominican” means “Dominican Republic”. When I tell people that I am from Dominica they automatically assume “Dominican Republic”. I have to explain the difference.

    • Enquirer
      July 20, 2013

      I am Dominica , are you? They confusing us for real.

    • Anonymous
      July 20, 2013

      the nationality says Dominica cuz thats who we are … Dominican is the nationality of someone fron the Dominican Republic

  45. Marlpardee
    July 19, 2013

    Ok y d back of the card looking like my green card lol. name, address and date of birth should be on an id card. If u move, it is up to u to update yur info with the office who issued the card. As for ss#!!! Who in their crazy mind would put a social security number on a card? Are u kidding me? I like the idea but too much stuff on card papa. Voter registration should not be in that at all. All u upgrade so have everyone come in to the voting booth with their passport, and hire me to validate their identity. For sure there will be no marmargayar with who voting .

    • Justice and Truth
      July 20, 2013

      What are you stating? Do you reside in the U.S.?
      I reside in Canada. I have a separate social insurance card with this number. I also have a medical card which has numbers for medical purpose only. Once that number is accessed by the medical profession, should I visit a doctor, all relevant personal information is retrieved from their computer which includes my S.I.N. which the doctor forwards to the Ontario Hospital Insurance Plan, to collect his/her fee. This card does not have a S.I.N. Those who retire have a separate card with their S.I.N.
      We have cards upon cards. I guess the government here can afford to print them. :)
      What the Ontario government has done, the medical cards now have pictures, renewable every 5 years. The reason for the picture, in case it is stolen and someone tries to use it to get free medical care or someone lends their card to an unauthorized person. This happens. Will not elaborate more on this. :)

    • July 20, 2013

      A GREEN CARD is my sentiment exactly. Putting a person’s Social Security Number on that card spells DISASTER.

  46. Enquirer
    July 19, 2013

    I have a question for the electoral commission. I am 17 years old and will be 18 in May next year. If I am issued a card this year without an electoral registration number, will you issue a new card with the requisite number when I attain the age of 18?

    • Z
      July 19, 2013

      That is an obvious yes. But you will have to pay for the 2nd card.

      • July 20, 2013

        You should not have to pay for a second card, the original should be automatically updated. It should not matter anyway because the DOB will be on the card for verification.

    • Enquirer
      July 20, 2013

      Sorry. I omitted to ask who bears the cost if a new card is issued?

  47. beholder
    July 19, 2013

    If you’ll notice there is a statement at the bottom of the card. It says: TO BE PRODUCED ON DEMAND
    )Who will demand it? Will it be demanded outside the polling place? By whom?Under what circumstances?
    If for whatever reason you are not eligible to vote are you still required get a card?
    (9)Will it be required of those who already have other valid ID, passport, drivers license, etc
    (10) under what circumstances will it be demanded?

    • Z
      July 19, 2013

      Have you ever read the last page of your passport. That is standard language of these ID documents. I am certain the other countries involved (Grenada, St Lucia and St Vincent) have the same language on them.

      • Lovely
        July 20, 2013

        we do (SLU)

    • Anonymous
      July 19, 2013

      u do realise all oecs islands gonna have their own cards right? u old farts doh tired flap your gums all over the place?

      • ok
        July 20, 2013

        Truth is that some already have theirs

    • July 20, 2013

      If this CARD is issued for VOTING purposes, it should NOT be issued to people that are unable to vote. If this CARD is for MULTI-ACTIVITY and you are under the voting age you will not be able to vote anyway; however, the office need competent people to ascertain the difference.

  48. About time
    July 19, 2013

    Finally the Electoral Commission gives us some real information. I was against the idea but this makes a whole lot of sense.

  49. beholder
    July 19, 2013

    I have a couple of questions?
    (1) Does this card contain an RFID chip. If so it is trackable and the information can easily be lifted with the same kind of reader the election commission uses. That means your identity can be stolen including your social security # (Unless you buy a special wallet that blocks the reader.
    (2) If this identity card is purely for voting, why do issue it for children, 5-17, unless you want a complete census of all individuals for control purposes.
    (3) What will disqualify you as a voter?
    (4)Who is footing the bill for this new system which requires new machinery, photo equipment, and readers. Without RFID technology on the cards they can easily be counterfeited.
    (5) So what purpose does it really serve?

    • Anonymous
      July 19, 2013

      lmfao boy go and sleep please you are sleep deprived and starting to hallucinate.. no conspiracy here try again

    • Roots
      July 19, 2013

      There are alot of people in Dominica who has no form of ID ( no passport or drivers licence). This is a good move.

    • anonymous2
      July 19, 2013

      This is a control mechanism.

  50. Dont always Comment
    July 19, 2013

    Is it just me or this guy looks like a haitian

    • Too Nice
      July 19, 2013

      Dominicans and Haitians, look alike so what are you trying to say. ALl you in all you little mindset Shut up already. Dominica and Haitian are almost identical in other countries.

    • IPO
      July 20, 2013

      And you look so much like an African…so I prefer the Haitian

  51. sweet cheeks
    July 19, 2013

    Mah vlay sah……..sah moin Kay westay la y yeh la…..mahtay ma’hday zort pour ah’yeh

  52. Candominican
    July 19, 2013

    How is this card cheaper than a voters id CARD?. Everybody seems to forget the purpose for which the card was recommended, i.e. voting only, nothing else. Take these gullible people for a ride skerrit. This country sucks, i mean really sucks!!!

  53. July 19, 2013

    @ citizen– current address can not be added, so will you make a new card every time you move homes or villages?
    think of it.

    • July 20, 2013

      You are supposed to inform of any changes, and they will update your information and should give you a new ID Card, at no charge.

  54. no wes pay e may
    July 19, 2013

    all i have to say, that is a good idea. and dominicans be civilised when October comes. dont go rushing for ID cards and being all vulgar and disrepectful to the workers like how all u behave when all u go for birth certificate.

  55. Pat
    July 19, 2013

    That too shall pass. Next move is DNA Profile. And look is now people will get to know who is who father!!!! lol

  56. SkerritDoThat
    July 19, 2013

    Your social security number is the mark of the beast.

    • anonymous2
      July 19, 2013

      So is your birth certificate and any marriage certificate as well as your death certificate and passport.

  57. Morihei Ueshiba
    July 19, 2013

    Why don’t caribbean Governments lower inflation or lower taxes? Why do they like to regulate people lives with the intention of generating more revenue, u leaders have really failed your people. And stop following the developed world set your own path in history, what happen u all don’t have the brains?

    • anonymous2
      July 19, 2013

      The aim is to create 2 classes (check history), the rich and the poor. The rich get around taxes and the poor get burdened with them, making the rich richer.
      The U.N. is behind a lot of this. Before that, it was royalty or dictators. This is a 2 faced organization. They know that most black leaders (and any other color for that matter) are no match for their power games and deception unless they have created said leader (presently Barry Soetoro).

    • Go read a book
      July 20, 2013

      This level of ignorance does not deserve a response. Nuff said!

    • July 20, 2013

      How do you think the developed world became developed?

  58. Coolzz
    July 19, 2013

    Dominicans who do not have a driver’s license could get this…..and……drum roll……the rest of us could actually use our drivers license as ID…..what a concept…..widely used in the USA…….and found to be sufficient for use in the US electoral process…..along with a little hard paper voters registration card…..why re-invent the wheel…..keeping in mind that US citizens born or naturalized are eligible to vote from ANYWHERE in the world as long as they are a registered voter in the US….no matter how long they have lived out of the US….

    • anonymous2
      July 19, 2013

      The only problem is that the people are never directly involved in electing the President of the U.S. The special group called the ‘electoral college’ does this. So the act of voting in this case is really deceptive. In other words, it is a controlled process, controlled by the corporate process.

  59. Anonymous
    July 19, 2013

    Come on Lennox invite skerrit to a debate,and make him BAY GAY YEAH!

    • Tall is her body
      July 21, 2013

      Hope no one in your family stutter

  60. Seminole Ave
    July 19, 2013

    Again that’s why i never believe in Dominica and Dominicans they never stand up on the side of being Right…they just call the radio and talk and talk Nothing happens…

    Their are some much high profile folks in Dominica who can stand on the right side for the island’s sake…But again it’s dominica…that’s why they will remain backward and carry that Poorest Island in the eastern caribbean Badge..

    Dominica the “Fools Paradise”

    • Concern One
      July 20, 2013

      With all this garbage coming from your thoughts, we all must respect your opinion no matter how disrespectful you are of our country and us. This demonstrates democracy and the freedom we as a people are so blessed with. Surely, by exercising our God-given democratic rights to express our selves through our comments, our votes and actions that do not make Dominica a “Fools Paradise,” but a paradise where freedom reigns. Something a lot of countries wish they had and are fighting for. Go Dominicans, express yourselves.

  61. Anonymous
    July 19, 2013

    Now we talking. I was waiting for the Commission to give more details before I commented. This is indeed an excellent idea.

  62. ME
    July 19, 2013

    Why would U want my Social Security # on there? That’s putting me at risk to have my identity stolen. I think Nationality is more important than,current address!

    • ok
      July 19, 2013

      so what do we use the social security number for in Dominica? Do we ask the same question about the SS card that we have? lets at least start the process, who knows, in a couple years the cards could be perfected.

    • Krazy
      July 19, 2013

      in d/ca social security numbers don’t really matter unlike the us its ur life so why u gettin worked up about social security number

  63. papa met!
    July 19, 2013

    where is the voters registration number on the card. i thin it should include that. since its a multi purpose ID card

    • Anonymous
      July 19, 2013

      open ur eyes bfor u comment 8)

      • Thank you
        July 19, 2013

        Thank you ‘Anonymous’, I’m getting tired of these people who just cry for crying sake

      • devil in details
        July 19, 2013

        Look like you have 20/20 vision and awake.

    • pingo
      July 19, 2013

      Cant you see! it is there as the electoral number

    • Reader
      July 19, 2013

      I was guesing it is the electoral number :lol:

  64. July 19, 2013

    Just hope it could fit in a warlet :-D

  65. July 19, 2013

    is there a system in place for persons leaving outside of Dominica to get a card?
    I surely want to get my own before election.

    • Pass by
      July 19, 2013

      when was the last time you came to Dominica? If not in the last five years the answer is NO

    • Met Yo
      July 19, 2013

      You ask a great question here……..This is why I never understood the opposition making such a big deal about this…..Their agument was oh we need this to clean up the voters list and oh persons living out of Dominica and they coming to vote so we need voter ID cards???? I am not making any argument for any party here Labour nor UWP but ok now the cards are a reality who or what is gonna prevent any Dominican residing in or out of DA to go for their card???? Maybe someone could enlighten me thanks

      • Too Nice
        July 19, 2013

        this is not what UWP was asking for.

    • hope
      July 19, 2013

      Its for the people living inside and out of Dominica not Leaving outside of Dominica.

    • wow
      July 22, 2013

      I want my card to and i live out of Dominica. I have never voted but i have visited 2 in the last 3 yrs.

      why is it that US nationals out of state are allowed to vote in the elections? Becuase they are citizens.

      so as a citizen of DOminica who contributes to the economy – by repatriating money …then i should be allowed to have a card and cast me vote if needs be.

      for example – i went to the royal bank to get an account and i said i’m DOminican but living overseas. They still wanted my Dominican address, phone number etc. so if i have some form of Dominican id – i wouldnt have all that issue to prove i’m Dominican by birth..

      we need to be open minded – not only Dominicans living in Dominica are Dominicanns.

      We live abroad also

  66. Good Idea
    July 19, 2013

    This is a great idea. We have needed multi purpose ID cards for ages. All our citizens can use them for a variety of purposes; opening a bank account, photo ID for clubs, usage of debit/credit cards. Now it can actually be possible to enforce the drinking age policies, etc at our clubs.

  67. PetProjects
    July 19, 2013

    All The Electoral Commission needs to do now is clean up the Electoral list an i’m satisfied…I am not against D/cans living overseas voting but if it’s for Skerrit i not in tht. Skerrit ride us enough, misery in our skin while u all overseas living a better life….Come down an stay D/ca for 2 yrs and if u want vote him thts fine by me :-P Salt you going suck, u must run back!

    Once you show Identification you should b able to vote..A separate Voter I.D card is pointless.. I myself got to much cards in my wallet already…Broke i broke just plastic i got in my wallet!.. :lol:

    • B.E.B.
      July 19, 2013

      I’ve been thinking along these same lines, one already has their drivers license, so many ATM cards, Social cards, passport, business places cards and the list goes on, I think that Govt. should go for the voters ID card which would be cheaper. I don’t think my wallet will be able to hold more cards

  68. John
    July 19, 2013

    Goodluck… i think this will be a shoe only card… :) :)

  69. Anonymous
    July 19, 2013

    one thing missing is Address

  70. Charles Richie
    July 19, 2013

    Ask the Chairman of the Electoral Commission to clear the air for us;

    1. Why the Commission does not want to do a complete re-registration of voters?

    2. Where under the Constitution the Commission is mandated to deal with matters other than Elections?

    3. Where does the Commission want to go to SOME countries to issue ID’s?

    I want us to see the real intention of this Gerald Burton led Commission and their move towards disrespecting the rights of voters. This is a Travesty of Justice.

    It is not too late, Mr. Burton, stand of for the Constitution and Dominicans.

    • Candominican
      July 19, 2013

      Having a MPID does not qualify anyone for voting, only a Voters Id CARD CAN. Stop fooling the people Skerrit and Burton. This country sucks!!!!!

      • IPO
        July 20, 2013

        What did you use prior to that….

    • Not a herd follower
      July 19, 2013

      I wholeheartedly agree with you, Richie. The Commission appears to be accommodating of the present Government’s political objectives rather than acting within the speific electoral provisions of the law and the Constitution. The mission of the Commission is to ensure free and fair elections not to be playing to the tune of the DLP government.

    • Think
      July 19, 2013

      Why would a leader want to put something in place that may cause him to lose the election. Come on.

  71. Yes
    July 19, 2013

    I am satisfied with this card. There is compromise on both sides. The people of Dominica gets voters id card and they also get a national id. Very good idea. I hope this puts the issue the opposition had to rest

    • South
      July 19, 2013

      This is not about the opposition. It is about Dominica.Country before party.

  72. Doc. Love
    July 19, 2013

    As far as I am concerned,regardless to what kind of cards Skerrit uses with Mr. Lennox Linton as head of the United Workers Party, Skerrit must loose the next general elections. Mr. Lennox Linton is a superstar,can you imagine the thousands of Dominicans especially from the country areas who have been hearing the man on the radio and would want to see, meet and touch the man personally.

    • Independent
      July 19, 2013

      I do not agree with you. Lennox is a good radio personality. I listen to him all the time, but I would not vote for him to be the prime minister. The supporters of UWP need to realize that they will always be supporters and vote for their party but they need to get independents like me to vote for them. With Lennox that is not possible. I won’t vote. They should feel the pulse of not only their supporters but the members of the public they would like to vote for them in the next election

      • .
        July 19, 2013

        You are just one person. It would be better if you SHUT UP. Lennox is better in every respect.
        GO FOR IT LENNOX.

      • c
        July 19, 2013

        so who do u sugeest they put??

      • Concerned
        July 19, 2013

        That’s the worst I’ve read so far tonight.
        If you want to see change please vote people.

      • anonymous2
        July 19, 2013

        If you don’t vote….you don’t count. Get a 3rd party candidate, an Independent on the ballot. Give people a choice for a change. Nobody wins in the 2 horse race. It is generally fixed. How about a woman for a change like Ms. Charles.

    • Anonymous
      July 19, 2013

      Wat u tring to say country ppl foolish?

    • SkerritDoThat
      July 19, 2013

      Lennox Linton will be the next prime minister of Dominica. :wink:

    • O.O
      July 19, 2013

      who that? Lennox who? Perhaps if it was Lennox Honeychurch, I’d vote so he can politicize me with history…but ki Lennox Linton? LOL UWP make a GRAND mistake, not just any ordinary mistake lol …SOrry pal :lol:

  73. PSY CHO
    July 19, 2013

    Is the ” Multi Purpose Identification Card” at the top necessary? to me just OECS ID Card works!! Im not against the idea though. hopefully the reason for which it was implemented will be maintained and that elections would be properly conducted

    • Met-yo
      July 19, 2013

      It is a World Bank Project that calls for a multipurpose card. Why you think other countries involved?

  74. Citizen
    July 19, 2013

    This card is missing pertinent information which should be included on the card e.g.

    -SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER
    -CURRENT ADDRESS

    Our social security number is issued once in a lifetime to each citizen and this is an important number which should be included as further identification. The current address of the card holder is important too. If we doing something, let us do it right!!!!!!

    • Independent
      July 19, 2013

      I think the NIS is Social Security. I agree about the address. Instead of place of birth it should state “current address”

      • Just Reading
        July 19, 2013

        But isn’t current address a bit troublesome to put on an ID card since people even within Dominica change addresses so frequently? So, my current address today, may not be mine tomorrow, and can you said I am not me, if my current address changes…

        I think like all international ID card, one’s SS# should and MUST be put on the card….that would help to further individualized a person…

        I also think the 4 last digits of one’s SS# should also be on the voter’s list for further proof of individualization?

      • Citizen
        July 19, 2013

        Thanks

      • Citizen
        July 19, 2013

        Thanks!

      • corbe
        July 19, 2013

        I think instead of address it should list which constituency that you are registered to vote in because is on that list your name would be.

        And to vote somewhere else you would have to re-register at the electoral office and then get another card issued…

    • see back for details
      July 19, 2013

      think thats what NIS stands for

      • Citizen
        July 19, 2013

        Thanks

    • ummmm
      July 19, 2013

      NIS would represent social security

      • Citizen
        July 19, 2013

        Ok thanks. I wasn’t sure what NIS stood for

    • Twisted
      July 19, 2013

      I’m hoping that the type of additional information you mentioned can be some how Encoded into the Card in that area at the back. So while it might not be visible to the eye, the info can be read by a machine. This might be for certain security precations

    • pingo
      July 19, 2013

      Social Security number is there as NIS

    • Dominiqe81
      July 19, 2013

      A persons Social security number should be very private.No one should know it but you.Why would you want the Govt to include it for the whole would to know if it got lost.Address is a no no.You have nationality there why put address.Remember that card has limited space to include those info

    • Anonymous
      July 19, 2013

      lol where in the world are ppl SSN printed on an ID card? whoa… u need a wake up call brother.. u guys are too paranoid

    • O.O
      July 19, 2013

      8-O WHOAYYYYY! 8-O … are u calling for Identity Theft?? OH NO NO NO.. No Social Security Number should be printed on ID cards, No where in the world whoever you are… awa wi fweh.. all you doesn’t think properly man??

      • T-Ballerz
        July 21, 2013

        You find you making sense. I have a DSS card and the main thing on it is the Social Security Number! Allu just like to complain for everything.

  75. A sett of chatter
    July 19, 2013

    I like the vibes.. When I come down later in the year I’ll apply for one.. The cards can also help to reduce the abuse of underage adults buying booze.

    • Not a herd follower
      July 19, 2013

      That’s a good observation. I hope vendors will ask young persons to produce their cards before selling. My problem with the card is that it will not assist in re-registering voters list, a long outstanding need for fair and free elections.

    • JUDGE DREDD
      July 19, 2013

      jackass

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