Former Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) Gene Pestaina who is now very ill and battling for his life is calling on the government of Dominica to grant him a pension and gratuity.
After serving 38 years and 3 months in public service/ law enforcement in Dominica, Pestaina believes that he is well deserving of his payment.
“I don’t understand what prevents them from paying me…,” he told the media on Monday.
In terms of his health, he pointed out that some days are good while other days he can’t explain.
“I am going through some Chemo and radiology and it pins you down…,” Pestaina stated.
Apart from that Pestaina said he has a good appetite.
However, he pointed out that certain foods like soup turn him off.
A number of former senior police officers have formed a group in order to provide assistance to Pestaina.
“I am very grateful to the persons who have come forward to assist me,” he said.
The group held a press conference on Monday morning and retired Senior Police Officer, Nicholas George explained that the group visited Pestaina at his residence in Roseau on August 3rd, 2016 and became concerned when they saw how ill he was.
The group then decided to write a letter which was dated Friday 5th, August, 2016 and addressed to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, President Charles Savarin, the Minister of National Security, Attorney General, Levi Peter, the Cabinet Secretary, the Financial Secretary, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, the Chief Personnel Officer, the Chief of Police and the Chairman of the Police Welfare Association.
“As I stand before you the Prime Minister, National Security Minister, Attorney General, Cabinet Secretary, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security have not responded,” George revealed.
He said Pestaina’s health is cause for alarm.
“Mr Pestaina told us about his deteriorating health which alarmed us,” he noted. “He also told us of the struggles that he is still undergoing to have the government of Dominica pay him a gratuity and pension due to him, which can he awarded under the provisions of either “the Police Pensions Act” Chapter 23:81 and the Pension’s Act Chapter 23:80.”
George stated clearly that he is making a non-political declaration on the matter.
“The reason I am doing this is because I have been told that it possible and I am hoping that is not the case, that Mr. Pestaina’s matter being represented by us may not be getting the necessary attention because of party political persuasions,” he stated. “Let me debunk this straight off. Mr. Pestaina is my friend, he is our friend and I hoping that somebody doesn’t say to me or to us, the former police officers who are assembled here, that we should not visit a brother police officer merely because that we know which political colour he carries in the Commonwealth of Dominica. I hope this is not the sad state of affair that we are facing.”
George appealed to the government to pay Pestaina the pension and gratuity he deserves, saying he became entitled to a pension by virtue of his service to the state as a police officer.
“He became entitled to a pension by aggregating his police and civil service,” he explained. “So the government has computations that they can use, but you can’t deny that he served for 38 years and 3 months. We are asking whatever computations you use arrive at, grant the gentleman a pension.”
Meantime Pestaina’s attorney, Gildon Richards, said his client is being denied pension at a time when he needs it the most and there is no evidence that he doesn’t qualify for pension.
“There is something that is more hurtful which captures my attention,” he noted. “Mr Pestaina served with the Chief of Police, he served with the Minister responsible for National Security, he served with the Attorney General, he comes from the same village as the Minister for National Security, and I don’t wish here to cast any aspersion on the Minister of National Security. I believe that if he had the last say Mr. Pestaina would be paid a pension.”
He said a denial of pension to Mr. Pestaina in these circumstances cannot be fair.
Richards called on every religious preacher in Dominica who has a conscience to speak on the matter.
“One Sunday has gone, there is another coming,” he urged. “Make Mr. Pestaina’s concern your concern. Please speak on his behalf. It is not something he is begging for, the spirit and practise in the public service, the spirit and practise in the police force gave him a legitimate expectation to expect the payment of a just pension.”
Richards argued that he have a difficulty with people in public office who can’t see their future, “and I am not saying that no one sees his future or thinks of his future.”
“I am saying that there are those of us who lack that sufficient modicum of conscience, that we will do all that we can to frustrate the effort of persons who seeks just benefits,” he remarked.
Pestaina was appointed an ancillary clerical officer in the Ministry of Communications and Works in the public service January 1st 1968, after having served as a substitute for 6 months. He was transferred and enlisted in the Royal Dominica Police Force on October 6th, 1969 as a cadet sergeant. He was then promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 1972, promoted to the rank of Inspector July 1 st 1976.
In June 1982 after 14 years service as a police officer he commenced studies in law at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus Barbados. In 1985 he obtained his LLB Degree.
On 1st October 1988 he was promoted to Assistant Superintendent of Police. He was called to the Dominica Bar on the 21st October, 1988.
In 1991 he was called to the Antigua Bar and 1996 to 2000, Director of Public Prosecutions in Dominica.
January 2001 to 2004 he was in private practise in his chambers.
From 2007 to 2013 he served as DPP in Dominica. He retired in 2013.
Pestaina has to travel to Puerto Rico every two weeks for treatment.
The group of retired police officers has agreed to pay for his next trip abroad to receive treatment.
A petition will also be launched by police officers on behalf of Pestaina.
Do not pay your Social Security Contributions.
People world-wide are dying in their 60’s, just when they are about to tap into their pension. You think this is a coincidence? They tax us to death and then we get back nothing.
It’s a scam of scam. Take private insurance. At least your kin will be able to get some money when you die. Don’t believe these government blood-suckers.
I hope that those who OPPOSE the assistance of ANYONE because of whatever reason will NOT have to FIGHT for assistance for themselves or members of their family who might eventually be in a similar position.
Regardless to the length of service, or whether or not funds were contributed to a pension plan/fund, when a person is IN NEED those in position to assist should do such.
When an elderly person comes to the United States of America, NEVER WORKED, mind you, they receive SSI (SOCIAL SECURITY SUPPLEMENT). These people NEVER WORKED, NEVER CONTRIBUTED, NEVER NOTHING and they get ASSISTANCE.
Yes, yes, America and Dominica has different laws; however, where is the conscience and/or common courtesy toward those who has served, in any capacity.
I am not surprised that our SENIOR citizens, our SICK incapacitated, and DESPERATELY IN NEED have to BEG for HELP in our Country, one that say THEY CARE.
Why is it the Attorney General is taking so long to clear the air?
I remember the day Gene Pestina and Henwood Powell join the police force this two guys was so happy that’s are long time ago. Now its so sad to see my boy like this he deserved better we all from Massacre one people with one love. his mom teacher Barbara was our first preschool teacher in Massacre ….
I feel for the the man but there are two sides to every story. I work with the city of NY in order to get a pension I had to join it payiny 3% of my paycheck every pay period. THere was an employee who worked for 40 years she never joined pension when she retired she went to collect she was shocked to hear she has no pension. I dont know how it is done in Dominica but what i find that is strange why is only now after resign for so many years. Sorry sir I wish you well.
Like every thing else there is rules if he is not at age to collect his retirement that’s one problem I understand he is sick and need money to help with his bills that is why we should have a savings account
for wet days I am sure he was making a lot of money in his position and not just sitting there spending his
monthly salary and saing he have money in social security that’s a hard one I think they will make an exception to assist him.
For that woman, it is strange. What a loss, having worked for 40 years.
Pension should be offered to every full-time employee once they have completed their probationary period. I do think the authorities of the City of NY were negligent in not informing her about it. If she does not have some good savings, imagine what she will have to live on. That woman should sue the NY City.
Ontario has a new system in that, even part-time employees should be registered in a pension fund. Employers must pay a certain percentage. I am not certain if it is fully implemented.
The Province is working on something similar to guarantee all workers a pension. They must pay into a pension fund. The reason is, today nearly every job is part-time with no benefits.
You know, this originated from the U.S. and a former Ontario Premier embraced it. Part-time employment offers no benefit. The government instituted holiday and vacation pay. Otherwise they would get nothing..
Get your facts straight before pointing fingers. Nowadays every issue in Dominica turns out to be politics. The DIRTY one too. Talk On The Bloc is the headquarters for ro ro and DIRTY politics.. An inch turns out to be a mile… A mold turns out to be a mountain. What a shame Dominica has become that way by a set of POWER hungry United Wicked People who will do or say anything to achieve their goal.
I don’t know the full story, neither do I know the Police service orders or the Public Service orders….having said that, I think it’s time for everyone to stop passing the buck on this matter. If Mr. Pestaina is not entitled to gratuity as a Police Officer because of XYZ, then inform him via a formal letter.
Just from DNO’s reporting, I calculated that Mr. Pestaina was employed as a police officer for a period of 21 years. However, there seems to be gaps where he went off to study etc and when he came back.
Be that as it may, there is no reason why he should not be given a gratuity and pension for those years where he was being paid as a police officer, whether it was on secondment or some other way.
Those of us who learnt to count in kindergarten know that this man has not served for 38 years.I can understand his predicament. He needs help, then ask for it tonne’ but do not blame The P.M. Sir do not allow those political parasites to use you as their stomping ground! If you were entitled to a pension for the 23 years you served you would have received it when you resigned in 1991. I am sure there are many kind hearted and generous people who are willing to assist you.
Hello and good afternoon my people. Well am sorry to hear that Mr Pestaina is sick and he is getting kemo in Puerto Rico but I calculated his time severed as a Police Office and it show that he don’t qualify for a pension under the rules. Serving as public prosecutor is a contractual agreement which do not count as time towards a pension although I gave him the six years which makes his time in public service as twenty three years. Now if his lawyer can prove that his cancer was caused by his work as a Police Officer then he should qualify for a disability pension which should be seventy five percent of his Officers salary. They should provide a number or a link where we can raise funds for him which I am willing to donate to his care. It seeme to me that the Police Union isn’t explaining the rules about qualifying for a pension to their members.
Hello and good evening my people. Well I see that I received four thumbs down but don’t tell me exactly what you disagree with. Now am capable of defending my position as documented in my post. Mr Pestaina was a Police Office and he’s an Attorney but it’s clear to me that he don’t understand Civil Service Rules aspecially related to pensions allocation.
Shut up Tony. If you are indeed the poisoned dwarf, just get the man some money from our passport sales. The man is dying. He needs our help and we owe him something as he has served us well (not like some people I know).
Generally those who work in the government service, be it the Police Force should have contributed to a group pension fund once they pass their probationary period and are full-time staff. When they retire or resign they should have no problem collecting what they are entitled to as soon as possible. It should take a month to collect the funds. Was this not so with him? Did he not pay into a group pension fund? Otherwise I do not comprehend the system.
To: The Truth Be Told.
Hello and good afternoon my people. You are partially correct but remember his thirteen years short of getting his pension based on his time served as a Police Officer. Being a Public Prosecutor is a contractual employee not a public servant and he was a law student and an Attorney in private practice which don’t count towards his time of service. Now his best chance is to seek a pension based on his disability if his lawyer can prove that his illness was cause by his service as a Police Officer.
Dominicans your Govt is your biggest enemy, you paying them a salary to put blows on you.
“A fair days work for a fair days pay” taken from the bible. He has worked, I knew him as a police officer. In case he dies before his payment and he had been begging for whats due to him . May I humble say his blood will be on someone or more shoulders. ” God word is truth”. Please pay the man whats due to him.Futher more he is sick and inneed of his money to live on.
God is able Mr. Pestaina. Hold your head up high and keep on praying.
it takes 20 years of direct service in the Police force to be entitled to a pension
For a public service pension you need to have been employed prior to 1978 in a non contractual capacity,
If Mr. Pestaina has satisfied the requirements to receive a pension, I’m certain as an attorney and former prosecutor he is aware the procedure for him to receive it upon his retirement. I’m not connected with the case nor do I know anything about the situation but no story has one side.
Stop pay social security, put your money in a box under your bed
When you encouraged people not to pay social security put their money under their bed what happened to them when they got old and sick? Do you think that the money under their bed is enough to care for them? when people lack common sense do you know what will happened to them and the people following them. So maybe you should ask people to pay their social security so that the government will be able to hand them their own money when they retire. Social security are not government its the people money is money that are taking form your pay check to put aside for you to received when you are able to work no more. So the more you put the more you received when you unable to work.
The point lost in all of this pilitics is whether he is legally due for pension or not? If he is not then he is not.
Now if we are asking the governent to intervene with some special arrangement in light of his service then I’m all for it. But to ask government to pay him pension, even if he is not legally qualified, would be setting a bad presidence. And probably put the governent in legal quagmires in the future from others “not so deserving” making such demands.
I do however sympathize with the sentiments behind this.
A you out of your mind do you think he has worked in all the above mentioned branches of Government for free , and if you believe and think that way you are very unreasonable, because no one should work for Government or any other Company and when they come to the end of their terms just walk away and say thanks., I don’t think so. It is time that the people of Dominica ask themselves the questions also keep looking and see what is going on around them, stop saying it doesn’t have much to do with them because you don’t know when you will be next ,because everything cannot and must not be politic or political, if we continue along those line Dominica and Dominicans will never be moving forward
So if you are sincere with your feelings as you claim I would suggest that you contribute to the petition going around after all we are all each other s keeper, can you relate to that ?
Well it is totally wrong,give the man what is due to him,he is terminally ill,cancer is no joke my people,dont let the poor man get into a depression and suffer,its totally torture,why suffer for what you work for,INSANITY, WEAKED, BAD HEARTED GOVERNMENT.The whole entire police force should go on a pension strike on his behalf,they will surely get a wake up call, trust me it will work.
DNO have you done any research of have you questioned the government side to find out why Mr. Pestaina is not in receipt of a government pension? Is Mr. Pestaina the only unlucky individual being targeted??? People Mr Pestaina IS NOT LEGALLY ENTITLED TO PENSION. That is why he has not been in receipt of a government pension.
Since you believe Mr.Pestaina is not entitled to pension then I would suggest that all policemen keep following what is going on and if possible think of themselves and pension system that are exposed too, they should take the time to read up on it.
Mr. Pestina is entitled to a government pension if Mr. Savarin, is entitled to one after having served just a few years in public office as compared to the marathon years spent by Mr. Pestina in the service of his country.
It is totally disgusting that bearing in mind that we have the richest cabinet of money-takers in the Caribbean that in their hearts they deny this man in his hour of need a few dollars.
Disgusting.
Something not right here!!! We need to hear from both sides
DNO I would like to know why my contributions are not published. I have tried on numerous occasions to express my views but to know avail. I’ve never insult or scandalised anyone. Aren’t we living in a democracy? what’s going on ?PLEASE DNO AT LEAST AFFORD ME THE CURTESY OF A REPLY.
THANK YOU
Dominicans,you were warned beware of the devil,but you still went ahead
There is more perilous times ahead.
you mean there is no man in Dominica with Charles” guts, i suppose only Fre edomists are fighters, It is 1o yrs they are in power Labo rparty would never treat their own people that way,
Stop the name calling and assumptions which may be false. In cases as that, everyone must try to be broadminded. There must be some sort of communication both ways. What is preventing him from getting what is due to him? They must simply calculate the number of years he worked in the Police Force, calculate his salary at that time while working and any other money which is due to him and give it to him.
I believe the fact he must have been employable, this could have been the problem which prevented him from receiving what is owing to him. I hope it will be settled soon, once and for all.
If what is meted out by this gentleman after thirty eight years of service does not dampen the spirit of other professionals who are invited to return to Dominica to serve nothing else will
AS i see it….This matter is turning in many directions..There is a formula to get pension after your have served your country…Why after 38 years this matter is not resolved?Everyone seems to be judgmental in this matter.I am wondering with years of experience in the public service as a law enforcement officer and the legal profession,what went wrong? It seems to me there was a blockage in the pipeline from an unknown source which is still under observation..How many people has gone through this ordeal with so many years of service? Are all the facts in? Isnt there a commission or an agency to look into this matter? To me something is missing?Why someone with such high esteem has come to this point? There remains therefore a broken line to be repaired…Am sorry to hear and see what this has become..However am still searching for the answer……
To: Dominica Massive
Hello and good afternoon my people. First I must say am sorry to hear that Mr Pestaina is suffering from cancer but we must separate his illness from determining his qualification for a pension. Based on my calculation of his time served as a Police Officer he don’t qualify for a pension but if his Attorney can prove his illness is related to his time as a Police Officer then he should get a disability pension.
Give him the money tony.
My guess is that the ploy is to wait for him to pass on and then give him a state funeral? Would be cheaper wouldn’t it?
Give him the money now. We the citizens of dominica who are not gettting one penny from our passport sales demand this!
It is amazing to see the ex- Police officers that in the front line representing Mr Pestina. ( smh)
Two sides to a story gentlemen,,,,,,,,,smh
Well sad to say its politics
He left antigua to come and serve as DPP under UWP rule 1996-2000
We the citizens that putting food in skerro and linton’s mouth, not the other way around.
We are not working for government the government works for us.
Any thing you do in public’s office u do for country not government.
Personally, I don’t believe the problem is Mr. Pestaina. I believe the problem is his lovely wife. Let us not forget the position she held in the Freedom party when Saverin, Rupert, Bellot, and top ranking freedomites bailed out from the Freedom Party to join the Labor Party, she stood firm with the Freedom Party. Remember the political mapuis as to who can afford to buy paint to paint their hotel. Once you decide to give Skeritt political blows, you must be prepared to face the consequences at some time. I rest my case.
Just half a passport sale could save this man’s life. C’mon Dr. Skerrit, give him the money. What about Dr. Darroux’s gold watch – he can sell that too. C’mon, you are rich, we are poor. We beg you Dr. Masa.
The PM certificate dose not allow him to be addressed as ” Doctor ” it is a ceremonial document but because the PM like fooling the people he haven got the nerve to correct the people when they do, after all he didn’t study to be a doctor or for any other doctorate degree, so be smart and use your words correctly when posting your comments.
Point taken!
However, what about our using his full title all the time:-
Doctor of the Lovely University of India, the Honourable Roosevelt Skerritt, Knight of the Order of St. Constantin.
What about that? Happy now?
Give the man his due! For crying out loud!
I will always say that In only worship God. I will NEVER put an X for anyone on earth.
No matter what every national who is of age is obligated to vote. You simply vote for the Party of your choice. Do not make it an issue or a separate political one.
You know what? God expects that you will fulfill your civic duty. Some people are ignorant of the fact that it is their obligation to exercise their right to vote.
If you refuse to do so, little do you know that God will hold you accountable. Therefore, when you bring the name of God in this, think twice.
In your case, based on what you stated, His Most Holy Name should be left out of this topic, your type of comment.
The issue here is Mr. Pestaina who is in need of his pension. Let us stick to the issue and not deviate from it.
Another old problem blamed on Skeritt. A very reliable source informs that Mr. Pestina has received all his benifits related to his employment as DPP. What is at issue are his benifits while he was a police officer. Someone needs to explain why he has not got at least his gratuity for he did work for more than 10 years. This matter started in the early 90’s there were 4 Prime Ministers before Skeritt who became PM in 2004, Pestina had already resigned and opened his law office. So how is Skeritt responsible? Why didn’t Eugenia, Edison, Rosie or Piero clean up the mess. It is a mess when a man works for so many years and is denied benifits, but to blame Skeritt is just pure hogwash. And why is this a political issue, why not take it to the courts?
“A very reliable source informs”?????? I guess it must be true then. Moreover, I am supposed to believe you just because you said so. NOT! The fact is, this is an issue right now. So, how can it be fixed as quickly as possible to assist a man who has given much who needs help right now.
So why is it taking so long to resolve a simple issue like this given his medical condition.There’s no reason why this government can’t resolve it quickly.He earned it.38 YEARS of service.What a shame.A fund should be set up so ex cops and active ones can contribute to help with his medical experiences.Other people can also help this patriot. He’s earned every dime coming to him.
You gave an explanation, my question to you is this: how many years can one serve as a police officer before they can receive a pension? If one qualifies for a pension within ten years, then the man should not have to crawl for what is legitimately his own.
Secondly when he was appointed public prosecutor, was he on a paid contract, which stipulates some form of gratuities, or no gratuity at all at the end of his tenure?
One must realize that Pestanna is supposed to be an attorney (lawyer) by profession, he should have known what was involved when he entered the government employment> Be what it may if there is any legitimacy to his claims wether the problem was resolved by Rosie, Edison, or Eugenia Charles or Pierre Charles.
Roosevelt Skerrit is prime minister of Dominica at the moment, there he is responsible to resolve the issue!
Who is in office now, you clown? Asking about past PM`s. Today is today, yesterday was yesterday, there is a PM in office now, deal with the matter and shut up. It is states money we are talking about, money due to him
U are just a very good idiot willing to swallow any garbage without question. Mr. PesTina illness should not be a reason for him to get his pension or gratuity if he earned he should get it. My concern is why has it taken so long, this issue has spanned 3 administrations, are we getting all the facts.
You are right. As usual, the full story is never told.
This situation highlights the fact that we are responsible for our own destiny, not the Government of Dominica and certainly not the DSS.
Because Skerrit is the PM in charge at this moment in time. How do you correct a past wrong? We cannot get it now from Eugenia, Edison, Rosie or Piero, but Skerrit can correct the mistake, if what you are saying is correct. I doubt that you are correct because you and the whisper that you received cannot be better informed that all those police officers and lawyers acting on Pestina’s behalf! Any by the way, I am disgusted at your conclusion as a human being, party or no political party, I hope you never need help! This explains why Dominica will not improve, because we do not understand how to correct past wrongs – we only know how to continue the bad that others did before! Eugenia, Edison, Rosie or Piero did it so Skerrit follows the wrong behaviour and nothing changes in Dominica!
Before you speak u should read and understand.
Giving Pestina pension and gratuity which he has earned is not giving him a handout or helping him because it is due to him. If u believe that a legally ualified man like Pestina would quietly wait for 25 after retirement to get his benifits, I can surely sell u the Atlantic Ocean.
Copy cat, you still have not considered a name to use on this Website?
You should never try to imitate the names of another. You give others the impression that someone else wrote it. It is not a nice thing to do to emulate others, giving a wrong impression. Readers must be aware of this.
Gene is a good man and deserve much more than he is asking for. His mother was my pre-school teacher. Also, as a young man, I was fooling around with friends doing something I had no business doing. Suddenly I felt someone grabbed me from behind, (by sea moon club) when I turned to see who the L was holding me so, Lo and behold, it was Pestaina (Gene). Hahaha, boy I couldn’t say a word! He then said to me, “boy, if I didn’t know your modah, eh!” I do hope he gets the help he deserves. Also, hats off to all those who have come forward to help him. God bless you all. Gene boy, you won’t remember me. We are people from the same place. Feel better. P.S. I’ve never forgotten people like you and Henwood Powell.
I don’t know who you are but you talk like someone I know .Gene and I grow up together in Massacre his mom teacher Barbara teach me in preschool also .David Stephen…
Get a red T Shirt
Dom fool put politics away the man is I’ll. And he has a orange shirt.
Now that the story is out, the little TIN GOD will come out and give a passionate speech of how he sympathizes with Pestaina so he will not only give him his pension but on top of that he will contribute some passport dollars and pay the next trip, just wait and see.
These guys are SADISTIC, people who take pleasure in witnessing human suffering.
How long again Dominica? Who is next? If Pestaina, a former senior police officer, a former Director of Public Prosecution and a lawyer, can be subjected to such humiliation, what will happen to the others who are openly criticizing the cabal?
Let this be the cry to battle because those guys are determined to see some Dominicans suffer. The worse is yet to come.
Where is the deacon when you need him? Hypocrite! Doesn’t the injustice done to Pestina deserve to be mentioned?
Didn’t some of you state that Church and State do not mix and the Church should stay out of it? I do not think the Church should be brought into this. There are enough of you to stand up and speak out for Pestaina.
If this would help, start a petition and get others to sign it. Then you can get the deacon or pastors to sign it.
Stop calling people hypocrite. Are you not one yourself?
Have you ever heard about jumping into battle without stick? Clearly you don understand the context of my post.
This is sad. If this situation does not drive home the message that Dominica is ruled by a gang of sadists who take pleasure in the pain and suffering of other human beings then nothing good will come out of this country.
A few months ago the story of F.O. Riviere surfaced, a former Minister of this Labour Party administration, the same pain and suffering.
How does a group of politicians who never experienced political victimization, never struggled in opposition and got into power with a golden platter, have so much hate in their hearts and enjoy looking at the suffering of people they assume who do not support them.
This is a warning to the aging Dominicans who appear to be not supporters of Labour, that you will be made to suffer in your old age.
This Pestaina situation must be a wake up call to ALL Dominicans, that the time has come to stand up for the protection of basic human dignity.
This is shameful and must be considered a crime. God is Good all the time!
There are two sides to a story. You have not yet heard the other side. Therefore, you should not judge and make all sorts of derogatory innuendos. It also is not fair.
Hope Pestaina gets his money and pray that he may be restored to good health.
Greetings to you Mr. Pestina , sorry about that demise imposed upon you by the Government and country you have served for much of your life . Thirty eight years service and they do not want to pay you gratuity and pension that are legally due to you . What a shame and disgrace on the part of The Government . Please take the matter to court , use other attorneys from the OECS . You are well known by many of them , they will help you.
This politics thing in DA is going way too far right now.
DA is going down. The people need to wise up and show that the country belongs to them. It start with the public servants. These decisions are to be made by you. Not politicians.
I do believe that some of you assume it is politics and bring politics into it; too much of that. This may be an exaggeration.
I really can’t believe what I am reading. Not because it is not true but because it defies any human decency. If there is no other legal and legitimate reason for withholding payment of pension save simply to not pay it, knowing that he worked all these years and deserve his pension then what does that say about the PUBLIC SERVICE and the political structure around it. If there is a reason then at least tell him.
More than that though, It says that we no longer follow the law in paying people their rightful pensions. It says we have lost conscience. I almost did not make out Mr. Pestaina. DO these people have a conscience? I can only conclude that only cursed souls will met out cruelty like this. THIS IS SO SHAMEFUL ON A STATE that it cannot pay its DPP/ High ranking Police Officer etc his pension. Instead they are psychologically pressuring the man to his grave.
I can only imagine what these people would do to me if they catch me in their web – THEY WOULD KILL ME Period.
Cadette, I have previously considered you to be a person of some intelligence and, perhaps, even a modicum of wisdom. On this occasion like others you should use your intelligence rather than your emotions to ascertain the veracity or otherwise of this false story! You should know better as a former public servant of some years standing. How many other public servants even those well known to be not merely non-supporters but active opponents of the ruling party but have still received their pension, gratuity and/or other benefits due to them? Why would the Government deny Mr. Pestaina pension and gratuity to which he is legally entitled even if they could do so? As you know it is public officers not the Government (I.e. Ministers/Cabinet that deals with issues of pension and gratuity in accordance with the law. I feel for Mr. Pestaina that in his vulnerability he is being misused and abused by the cabal of UWP activist ex-police officers spouting untruths on his behalf.
I am sorry that in this case you did not read what I said. I did not come close to mentioning Government Ministers. I wrote PUBLIC SERVICE in bold. read it again – very, very carefully
. The Government structure is not the Ministers or the Political Party only. Sometimes Ministers may be unaware that one person is causing their compatriot harm. The Government Structure comprises the Public Service too. I am sure you are aware of that.
Now if you really want to have a discussion and even prove me wrong that is even fine. But note how you started – with insults about intelligence and modicum of wisdom
. I always smile or laugh at insults. when you resort to that level it immediately undermines your credibility. you know I immediately become like a DASHEEN LEAF. 
You have mentioned that the story is false. If you think I am wrong and you want to enlighten me I welcome that wholeheartedly but you must demonstrate that you are right.
Not insults 
know when Mr. Pestaina worked in Antigua it was on contract and not in the service of the Government of Dominica. His employment in Dominica as DPP was also on contract, usually at the end of his contract he receives a gratuity. This is not employment in the service of the Government of Dominica. If he resigned in 1991, how then did he serve Dominica for 38 years? This matter is for the court. Why should a group of retired police officers take up this issue instead of a law firm? This matter should have been resolved by Miss. Charles, Mr. Edison James, Mr. Rosie Douglas and Mr. Pierre Charles. If Mr. Pestaina require help the government should, but not on the basis of 38 years of service to the Government of Dominica.
Is the UWP now on a Morality Campaign? Guess they’re the Morality Police.
Hey whoever you are. I never waste time talking about UWP or LABOUR. ALL THE POLITICAL PARTIES are the source of the foolishness that occur in Dominica over the years – in my book NONE are absolved. Once you go down that road your objectivity is COMPLETELY LOST.
It is irrelevant and immaterial who should have addressed the matter in the past. While it may not be this administration who started or created a problem or difficulty, it is incumbent on them to address it gracefully.
The issue here is to investigate what went wrong, outline concisely what the legal issues are and have effective lines of communication.
I have come to realize that a number of issues in Dominica that play in the public domain are in fact easily resolvable issues. But the egos of all parties or persons involved are often so big that simple communication becomes a war of attrition.
I do not care about the political parties – this is a legal and moral matter. The relevant authority should address…
Glad to see at least one person in these comments is clear and well informed on this issue. Everybody else is arguing from a point of virtue, which is all well and good, but it’s the evidence that has to decide the outcome.
You wrote..”THE PUBLIC SERVICE and the political structure around it…..” …stop this spin, your statement arrives at conclusions based on information submitted by one side.
What is holding up this man’s pension? . He worked for it and the govrrnmemt should pay up why is it so hard to do. If the government help the under previllaged so why not pay the people who worked for their old age for their retirement. It’s a shame s for DA to do such injustice to a former government employee. Give the man what due him its simply as that there should be no beating behind the bush to get paid.
This seems to be a no-brainier, 38 years and 3 months in public service? Lets here the other side….
why are u waiting to hear another side while pestaina suffers. it is people like you …….. i will say no more
You cant say anymore cuz is rubbish you talking. There is always two other sides and if you want to argue with only hearing one side its best you shut up for real, smart move
Mr Pestina should have put a plan in place for (health insurance) for retirement, smh
That little boy become big man in Dominica really have big men like children yeah. Mr PM have respect for grown men and women who have served this country before u and who help shape this country. I worked with Mr Pestina in Antigua and I was proud to work with him as a Dominican. Please do the right thing.
Everything is politics. This issue of Pestina pension and gratuity has been around for a long while since when the late Jenner Armour was Atorney General under the DFP, that is before the time of the UWP. Mr. Pestina was in private practice from 2001 to 2004 , why did he not pursue this matter. From what is been said now it looks like a clear case. But what continues to baffle is why Mr. Pestina who is a Lawyer and held prominent office in the legal profession could allow this to happen. Are we getting the full story?
There is more to this. I was told by a sinior officer that this has been an on going issue since whe UWP was in power. So how is pm fault the man cannot get his pension? One and one is not 5.smh
Point I tend to agree with you. You may have a point. It seems to me that a big part of that story is maybe missing. Hopefully the truth will be revealed very soon.
In the last few days, fake news stories are making their way arond the US. They seem so real that people take them serious and sometimes, it ends up having serious consequences; for example the Pizzagate story
I pray this is not such a story.
No story period. 38 proven years.
Of course there is a story but we are yet to find out what it is. I guess DNO could try and speak to those being accused of wrong doing and get the other side of the story. That is the only thing that make any sense to me.
How many of us as parents whose children would come home and say to us that they are hungry because the teacher took all their lunches and not go to school and find out what happened.
It was like yesterday I served with Inspector Pestaina in the CDPF. Mr. Pestaina gave a whole bunch of us hope that attaining higher levels in academia would enhance an up and coming meritocratic system. That was not the case as a whole lot of us found out. Party politics and pettiness is what gets you ahead unfortunately. Now the least decent thing the PM could do is to respect Mr. Pestaina’s wishes.
DNO something wrong in the story, when he left to study in 1982 was he granted study leave?was he still a police officer?? please research that… However he never completed his 20 years as a police officer, he left in 1991 to work in Antigua (You only said he was called to the Bar in Antigua, the truth is he was actually employed there). I am sure Mr. Pestainer is drawing a pension from Dominica Social Security, i need you to research that for me as well…. Now why on earth is he going all the way to PR for Chemo treatment?? This is being done right here on island at a very small cost and based on his age i do not think he has to pay for it, and even if he has to pay it is only $300 per treatment as compared the airfares to PR.
Finally when he is ready for the radiotherapy he can apply to the Public Assistant Program (Red Clinic), he will be sent to Guyana at no cost to him!!!!!!! NOT MY MONEY HE WILL GET FOR SURE… I AM A TAX PAYER!!!!!
you will never fall sick…..
When i think of Gene Pestina, GON Emmanuel, people who served the state to the best of their ability, getting kicked by the same state they upholded, i wonder what those other wards of the state saying, working in the Govt interest just goes to show you, u have no idea where u falling on this island call Dominica. I doubt people will open there eyes cause they will feel it will not happen to them, THINK AGAIN!
Laybah ka travail. Mal travail acotay travail. Devant travail and derhiey travail. Malgray say malgray too. Our senior citizens have reduced to beggars men and women from high places who served our Dominica with pride and dignity now have to beg..where are the pension plans. Where are our health plan… where are our home medical certified health care.
More sewo jump more sewo wine more sewo shake your behind….. now Ras Algi begging for money to get medical aid and we are in 2016 with a government that is allegedly making strides. I just want to vomit…. what a waste of space …
We should all take a page from Mr. Pestina’s book. After a time is another. Some of us think that after God is us. We walk and talk like we are indispensable, but no one knows what God has in store for us. We are in our glory now. How will we end up later?. No one knows. That’s the beauty of life. No one knows.
Pm pay the man its a shame 38yrs no pension awa to much politics in that place he should no even ask that should be done automatic shame shame shame on u mr pm
This is what this country has come to. With this socialist ideology incharge it is only going to get worst. Pretty soon Social security will have to raise pension age to 95 because the government has essentially bankrupted the institution. He will not be the last. The worst is yet to come because the country is essentially non productive, skerrit tell Chinese that Dominicans don’t pay taxes and our revenue is generated from Chinese, and Venezuelan donations and sale of passports to people who will never set foot on the Island. Sorry for your suffering Pestina, may God be your guide and strength and thanks for your service. You are a victim of the last 20 years of Dominica moral and economical decline and there are many more will have to suffer.
Think positive.
I will when I see decisions are made in the best interest of the long term development of the people. Not the interest of individuals. If Mr. Pestina is not entitled to pension according to the rule of law then shame on him. He of all people should know better. If he is then why the delay. Our society should not have to come to this. I could care less about politicians in Dominica. Majority of them have no clue what they about. If the institutions were functioning independent of politics then we would not be having that discussion. Green, blue, and red have compounded the failure to advance this country.
Maybe YOU should construct business plans to JumpStart the economy instead of being a judge!
This is a clear example for Dominicans to see,the Democracy is in danger,this present Gov’t is introducing a dictator system little by little …this has to stop …Shame on this gov’t …the man worked for his pension ;give it to him and quick..