Overseas-based activists opposed to Dominica’s economic citizenship programme have called for an end to the sale of Dominica passports, alleging that it is being abused by leading government officials including Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit for personal gain.
The allegations include claims that Dominican passports have found their way into unscrupulous hands including that of a notorious Indian national.
Former Dominican ambassador to the United States Crispin Gregoire was among a group of young Dominican intellectuals who held a news conference on the matter on a Washington-based Radio Station on Saturday night.
“There are too many questions about the economic citizenship programme and I think the time has come for us to end that programme,” Gregoire, a former key diplomat of the Skerrit administration, said.
He also called for the government “to come clean on all its diplomatic appointments”.
Gregoire and others including former IMF Economist Dr Thompson Fontaine and lawyer/author Gabriel Christian have called for a commission of inquiry into the “passport scandal” and other alleged irregularities involving the Roosevelt Skerrit administration.
They have denied that their efforts in that regard are aimed at mischief making and destroying Dominica’s name overseas.
The groups say their love for Dominica is what is spurring them on to confront a Skerrit administration they insist is corruption-plagued.
The Dominica Labour Party’s Public Relations Officer Dr Philbert Aaron has dismissed the initiative by this group of US-based Dominicans as an attempt to internationalise a local politically motivated bid to unseat an otherwise popular administration.
Skerrit’s DLP won 18 of the 21 seats in the December 18 2009 elections.
Skerit is using the resoures of the country to play politics. You guys are doing the right thing to help save Dominica.
Just like those who enter the “pit toilet” must come out, so too, those “Ninja Patriots” will be exposed for who they really are someday. We Dominicans seem to be our own worst enemies…tanishing our country’s integrity in the international circles simply because we can’t have our own ways. It’s wrong!
Patriotes eh? I suspect all that is the ‘assfault’ that causing them things you know. Patriots or Ninja Diaspora Clan?
WATCH THEM MAN,THEY LOOK LIKE THEY HUNGRY,WAITING TO GET SOME NEWS THAT THE PEOPLE TURN AGAINST THE PM,SO THEY CAN CACTH THE NEXT FLIGHT.MAY PAR LA..WHY STAY AWAY FROM DOMINICA TO FIGHT THE WAR AGAINST THE PM?..GO TO DOMINICA AND SHOW ALL U STRENGTH..
Bunch of egomaniacs!!I doh know why Crispin involving himself in that crap.
Pray for my village.. Pray for Dominica.. Internet children at large again with their ignorance!!!
The same set of “PATRIOTS” that want Skerrit out. where were they when Chinese people had passport under UWP…. HIPPOCRITES…. btw I know it’s spelt wrongly!
Wherever I roam Dominica is my home, so I have a right to speak on whatever affects the land of my birth and upbringing.
These guys look like a bunch of poker gamblers
Remember Dominicans twet!! Careful who you trust!
What I would like is for some respected, true Patriots, not necessarily associated to any politics, to take these ‘foreigners’ to task . . through the court preferably!
They call themselves ‘patriots’, that would be laughable if their actions were not so DESPICABLE!
The selling of passports is a vibrant economic engine for Dominica and all other countries that participant in the sale of their country passport. The problem is, it depends on which political party that is at the helm of their country treasury. How much do you think Mexican passport sells for?
1) whast other countries sell passports?
2) where is the evidence that our scheme is a “vibrant economic engine” ?
We have not seen the desired results under either the Freedom, UWP or Labour party.
Please, educate yourself before making broad-sweeping without supporting evidence.
We are just going around in circles. Bottom line is there should be transparency.. and I am not seeing that.. Politics in Dominica is very polarized and until we put the future of the country in the forefront rather than for personal gains.. we will remain right where we are..backwards..
We must all ask. What exactly are they wanting? To truly ‘clean’ up Dominican politics?
I don’t believe them.
I believe they have a hidden agenda. That agenda will slowly become apparent. They will expose themselves.
They look like cowards and traitors to be sitting there while we all working hard to make DA grow.
You know something? This DLP has done more for DA than any other. Look at what they do …
New roads, new college, new hospital and so much more. We have an educated people and our economy is growing … YES growing.
The whole world went to hell economically and we did not. It is a fact.
There is much to do but they are actually trying … we with them. We voted DLP … sorry, but it is true … I don’t care about what you ‘patriots’ think about that … that was DA choice.
Watch out for these dangerous men DA. They are hidden with their motives …. but they most certainly have one. And it is not honesty as we can plainly see. Any honest men would have come out with their wants and agenda and so we can all understand what it is they want.
ADMIN – I am happy you put the word “Patriots” in parentheses, because there’s nothing patriotic about this bunch. When they leave their comfortable perches and set foot in Dominica, roll their sleeves up, use their overseas contacts, put their shoulders to the wheel and start helping Dominica move forward, then I will re-assess the “patriot” label – until then, I pass.
On another note, I think this story that am linking to here now needs to be followed in Dominica. It concerns a piece of legislation going to be pushed in the US Congress that will punish US business that establish call centers outside the US. If it passes and signed into law, it will have a dramatic effect on the hundreds of people employed with Clear Harbour….http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/01/09/anti-outsourcing-bill-uproar-india-philippines_n_1193958.html?ref=business&ir=Business
It is time for the Prime Minister of Dominica and his deputies to be placed behind bars for the coprrupt sales of Dominican passports.
PATRIOTS we need you all down here. The iron is getting hot.
eh bein wey, when we will want our good name in Dominica, those patriots will already have destroyed it.All u not seeing those so-called patriots don`t want us to get American visas and green cards again…. so we will turn on Skeritt….BADD BADDD BADDDD MEN
Watch out Dominicans,these guy are planning to form their own political party. Don’t fall for it.
this guys remind me of the wealthy cubans hiding behind the US curtain in florida,trying to distabilize cuba,wow i can see the same pattern here, i can tell this is a CIA operation,first the youngest world leader making headline news by posing with chavez and also a friend of castro,now a united dominican posse, hell it is so plain to see, these people always use a string of events to undermind a government,they will use your own people,when were they made exiles from dominca,are not all these guys freedom party pillars,whatever they are or were,they are not working alone,this is political warfare,declared on the skerrit government because of the people they chose to seek aid from,trust that,it is a god damned shame though,fighting a little country and its prime minister,because he wants to help his people,and so based on the political and economic environment he can not get help in america or europe,in fact he has to accept a homosexual condition in order to get aid from england,anyway the courts will prove if the government is corrupt or engaged with people of terrorist nature,if chavez or castro is not already seen as so,is not the government filling a law suit to that effect,do the right thing skerrit take it to the dam court and make them pay.
What’s wrong with these bunch of clowns? You all might be book smart but the people of DA have common sense; that’s why they’ve been rejecting the UWP. DA is a Democracy and you all should respect that. Trying to unseat the government is not supporting democracy. In his hatred/jealousy of Skerrit, Thomson is trying to amass support. The people of DA cannot be fooled! This is not patriotism but treason.
Why are you guys so worried…You honestly think people of importance listening to those guys? When they get on ABC, CNN or BBC with this rubbish then we should be worried. Six guys in a room with a camera and Dominicans are going crazy. If by now you guys don’t see those guys are a bunch of jokers you will never see it. The world don’t say John or Petter from Marigot …they say those Dominicans ,,,guys becareful what u wish for. I have a pension.. skerrit can get a job with a university of his choice..What about the 18 year old starting out? Keep thinking is Skerrit or labour you hurting.
Why are you responding to something that is rubbish? Wonder if you understood what they were saying? Guess your eyes were too red.
LONG LIVE THE PATRIOTS. EXPOSE CORRUPT ACTIVITIES.
Tell me what the washington 6 are trying to accomplish. You are not hurting skerrit or green you are hurting Dominica the place we call home. You guy have your greencard,US passports and visa and you call the usa home so stay out of our business down here. Hector and the rest stop feeding those guys rubbish.
hear rubbish….
Can we begin civil proceedings against these guys charging them with treason? This is going to far. If these guys are all US citizens, we should write the state department and have them explain why the US is allowing this to happen.
We should…Did you hear the agitator Gabu…the man sounds so militant
It is a kind of treason. What do they want?
DA is doing OK you know. These guys are trying to kill it for their own gains.
Rest assured that they actually think that they are doing good.
But for whom?
Job Well Done guys! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.AT LEAST YOU ALL ARE PLAYING ALL YOU ROLES AS PATRIOTS.
If they are patriots they should be here in DA.
So only the 50 thousand or so D/cans living in D/ca can claim to be Patriots?
Think again son!
Never forget, there are more Dominicans living overseas than in Dominica itself. Our political parties are very aware of this. Where do you think the extra voters came from to tip the balance during the last election?
So called ‘Patriots.’
This 2000-2012 DLP HAS DONE MORE DAMAGE TO DA’S EMAGE THAN FROM PJ TO EDDOH . THIS GROUP OF USA DOMINICANS CAN NOT TEACH THE CIA NOTHING ABOUT THE DLP . THEY KNOW EVERY THING ABOUT THE DLP . JUST GIVE THEM SOME TIME . YOU SEE WHAT THEY DO STANFORD AND NORIAGB .REMEMBER WHAT MR. GOUTY SAY
At the end of the day the only ones going to be in trouble are those Dominicans who are citizens of Dominica hoping to travel abroad. I feel sorry for em
If I have a problem with my Dominican neigbor I will stay in Dominica and slove my problem with her. I WILL NOT GO TO AMERICA TO BRING DOWN MY NEIGBOR CAUSE MY NEIGBOR IS NOT AMERICAN BUT DOMINICAN TO MAKE PPL SEE ME ON TV IN A MEETING IN AMERICAN WITH BORN DOMINICANS AROUND A TABLE. WHERE ARE WE GOING? SOME OF U NATRALIZE AMERICAN BUT I STAYED AWAY FOR TWENTY YEARS AND I CAME BACK TO DOMINICA. YOU ALL STAY IN AMERICA AND MAKE LIES,BEFF ON ALL U COUNTRY IF ALL U MAN ENOUGH COME BACK TO DOMINICA ON THE NEXT FLIGHT TO DOMINICA BAND DE JALOUSY U ALL HUNGRY FOR POWER THIRSTY TO BE THE NEXT PM OF DOMINICA U SHOULD STAY AND BUILD YR COUNTRY THATS WHY I WILL NOT TRUST YOU ALL NOT AT ALL U BEHAVE LIKE INFANTS STAY IN AMERICA THATS ALL U COUNTRY.
patriots ha,ha how many have significant investment in DOMINICA EMPLOYING ANYONE,,JUST TALK TALK TALK,,,,and PLAYING SMART BUT NOT BEING CLEVER..JUST PURE EGOISTIC FERVOURS ,,,THE REAL PATRIOTS ARE WATCHING,WORKING,SWEATING AND DEVELOPING THE NATURE ISLAND
Name us the investments the 55 000 other Dominicans have, or the 70 000 + living abroad have. FEEBLE EXCUSE..You don’t have a cent to invest in Dominica to get involved in politics.
Those guys are educated clowns. I think they wants to build hotels in Dominica and do not want to pay for bringing in material. Try Try and you will (suckseed).
You are worse than an illiterate.You are too blind to see.It’s not your fault.
GOD PLEASE PUT A HELPING HAND.
But Skerrit is French and they bought him a Dominican passport..lol
Aaron, the local political situation will impact on the country globally, what if you guys are found wanting by the US authorities would you not expect it to affect Dominicans travelling with a Dominican passport overseas? Deals with the real issues/situation as they are now and not the popularity of the PM or party
Only one person in this group I would like to address. Dr Gregoire, I used to take you seriously until you chose the good ole U
S of A instead of your country. you could have been prime minister man and you allowed it to come to this. you cannot now come and cry over spilt milk. SERIOUSLY
Gabriel is one of the most egotistical Dominican alive today. He built his career on pushing up himself where ever there is a spotlight. Gabriel when given a chance always want to be the one talking so the focus will be on him. Gabriel plays on words to make it seem believable but take a deeper look and he is a fickle as they come. Gabriel need to speak to a head doctor or soon we will hear that he is in the mad house.
Thompson is a follower and will be easily lead by Gabriel. He is as weak as they come. He has no substance and is only strong behind the scences but is as timid as a cat when you meet him in person.
Chrispin is a weakling no wonder he don’t have the position that he held. Chrispin believes that if he attach himself to these guys he might get the backbone which the labour party was trying so hard to pull out in him. Chrispin had the opportunity to speak out while he was enjoying the perks of diplomacy as the UN Representative and he did NOT. Chrispin could not make up his mind when he had to and when it was too late he got pissed.
Dr. Finn just need to take care of his health before he start giving advise.
The other one is just a follower.
Stop distroying the gains we have made as a people. Gabriel Dominica dose not revolve around you. You continue to push and alligned yourself with any and everyone who you believe will help your cause to show you up as a leader. You have to stop or you will go crazy. Dominicans will never vote for you. We will never support folks trying to destroy us. If there is a problem you could find another way to deal with it than to bring shame and disgrace to the Dominican people. Lord have mercy on your power hungry soul. Wicked, wicked, wicked wicked men.
If UWP would ever get into Government, we would have problems with those power hungry men. First I know they all including Fontaine are saying that they are more qualified than Lennox and that, they should be the ones leading. But one thing I must say Lennox was in D.A. Those others there pushing Lennox in the shade, were in the USA, making their money and securing their retirement. They believe that there is a chance for them now to be in power or a chance to take over this country. So while the true UWPites are asking for a change in Government (take out Skerritt and Labour, they say), there is a big change taking place within the leadership of the UWP. They talk about Skerritt being a communist and Dictator, watch out for that bunch trying to take over the UWP.
Sitting there with their holier than though bull.
These traitors will sell our country to USA. CIA stooges and traitors the lot of them …. corruption … selling out your country while not even living in it … YOU LOT.
I imagine these guys would be happy to see US bombing like Grenada … for their profit.
TRAITORS. Come here and try that.
As long as the UWP and any other … ahem … ‘patriots’ (yuk) sign a pledge punishable by death that THEY will not also sell passports … get rid of it.
I am guessing that once in power (maybe 2030?) we will see the usual bull.
All i see is a bunch of losers, patriot my foot,some of these guys enjoyed all the duty free they got while i sat in dominica buliding the country and they so greedy they still want a whole lot more, for instanace why cant gabo tell us whar happen to his famous choclate coco beans factory and the solar houses he was building you all think we stupid and for greg to stand thier amist all that well greg if you so man and you figure that poeple buying what you saying i say be a patriot surrender that us passport and run in the 2014 general election in grandbay and we will see if you will not be just like lyanthea. you cann ruuun you mouth but thats were you will stay outside.fountaine release your us passport and come down let me see if you can muster the avalange of stephenson by a man not a boy you are all talk and no action. come down.jno keep writing it looks like you.as for the rest we waiting waiting. victory tomorrow.
My friend Glen u there talking about Passport but doh forget the child u abused
I am so tired of of this. DR Thompson where is your proof? You guys are educated but forming the royal fool with yourselves. No matter what you all try Skerrit and his party is already in Power and there is nothing that you all can do. Gabo you only turned from Skerrit because he would not give you the money to fund the project. He told you that you have to go raise your money and you were mad and turned against him because things didn’t go your way. All of you guys tired bring Dominica down instead of trying to help build the country you all have been causing division. Labor party will stil win next coming election because of you all stupidity. Why don’t you all come together and try to see how you all can win the next elections? Labor didn’t win by one vote 18 to 3 that says how you all meant nothing to the country..
Execute those traitors! Off with their heads!
how bad the suitation has become.(typo from previost post.)and the fact is only a handful of people profiting from it.have you seen some of these big ass houses being construced by govt officials with paltry salaries.while dominicans are treated like dogs a soon as u present your d-a passport.
patriot. the passport sales have been negatively affecting you and your family and me for some time now.we just did not know the suitation is.
peace
Can anybody tell me wher Skerrit is hiding and if he is now a MOO MOO?
WELL dONE GUYS. IT’S THE TALK OF THE TOWN TODAY MONDAY in all the offices and other work places.
IT is so sad for dominica,when you have a disrespectful idiot like franky bellot speaking on behalf of the pm.the same franky that was against the pm a few yrs ago,but franky you know the deal you made so keep on singing.tony day is coming god is watching my brothers
I have used different screen names just to see, but I have never seen any of my comments DNO
If they so patriotic look at them in the pic
where is the Dominican flag?This fat man need to come to DA and eat some fruits and vegetables. lol …lol All u better leave
my country alone.
I was travelling to another country and got held up, questioned. Which part a Dominica are you from, who are your parents, where are they from, what do you do? Questioned like I bought my passport. The selling of passports is going to have lots our other countries imposing visa restrictions on us. Being loyal to your PM is fine but when your ability to travel becomes restricted you will understand what these people are trying to say. It is an ecomnomic program that has gone too far out of hand.
Ebony, you make a very valid point.I’m sure that those of us, who hold dual citizenships are unquestionnably loyal Dominicans.We will produce our Dominican passport with a proud flourish upon arrival here and when we leave again but what is our passport of choice when travelling outside of Dominica?That is when we become pragmatic and use the document that provides the easiest passage exactly because the presentation of our Dominican one presents us with restrictions and a lot of questions we rather not face.
Ask mr. Skerrit, mr. St.-Jean or even mr. Green for that matter!
YOU ARE A DAMN LIAD..STOP LIEING ABOUT PEOPLE ASK YOU ANY QUESTION WHILE TRAVELING
These guys are real patriots and highly educated. No wonder Skerrit is so afraid of them. GOOD JOB GUYS . YOU ALL MADE ME FEEL PROUD 1 000 000 000 000 000 000 000 000 000%.
Let me say how fortunate i was to have listened to these PATRIOTS on Saturday night.These guys are really inspirational, and filled with love for Waitikubuli.I was particularly impressed when they vowed to continue. YOU ALL MUST NOT FORGET TO PROTEST OUTSIDE THE WHITE HOUSE.
I mean when and where this corrupt cabal stop hurting the country.
To Gabriel you have always been my mentor.Love how you dealt with Krazy,WHEN HE CAME UP WITH THE NONSENSICAL STATEMENT ABOUT “iF YOU ALL HAVE INVESTMENT IN DOMINICA” Does a Dominican must have investment in Dominica, to question his leader? The statement was a crazy one.KEEP UP YOUR GOOD WORK PATRIOTS,WAITING TO HEAR ABOUT THE NEXT ONE.
ONE more thing, does the world care About us? Everybody is trying to build their economies, and feed their people, while these people are just trying to buy pity….
Do not worry my fellow Dominicans Skirrit’s rope has just come to an end. He has failed in his effort to make us look stupid in the outer world. Tomorrow he will be packing up to go home when the verdict is announced in court, lets start looking at his replacement as his fate is already sealed.The same judiciary he disrespected by saying no court, no constitution can tell him what to do will now Judge and prove him wrong.
I do understand that these Patriots may have
concerned about the selling of passport
but if they are Patriots is Washington the
best place to address the matter?What do they
think will happen to Dominica. Are there any other ways of addressing the matter.If they
are all that educated which i know they are
Is Dr Thompson forming a group to support
his allegations.If they are so dam Patriots
why don’t they come down and contribute
something to the country.Everytime i read
the blogs on DNO there has been allegations
upon allegations made about Skerrtit
up to now I yet to hear that he has been convicted. One thing they cannot say is that
Dominica is not making great strides…unlike
all the other administration.I tell them to come here and do something positive for Dominica rather than staying in America and
tarnishing my country. Jealous they Jealous!
The mass of the people elected Skerrit . Accept it. If he thief and does all these things he will pay for it. Let the man help the people.Dose’t St Kitts have a similar programme? just wondering.
YOU SOUND LIKE SOME OF THOSE PEOPLE IN JAMAICA WHO SUPPORTED DUDUS COKE
We have ask fora full account from government and all we hear is Tony lies.we want a full account else we taking this fight to the last corner of the earth
Your country was tarnished long ago by this corrupt, greedy and illegal regime. STOP THE DREAMING! Are you really serious? These PATRIOTS are just trying to bring back a semblance of respectability to Dominica.
This rubbish about come down and contribute,is just a joke.They have contributed and will continue to do so in all forms.What does contributing to society mean to you? This question is nonsensical in this age of technology. You can be in Timbuktu and be contributing to Dominica. You should have listened to hear what Gabriel had to tell Krazy on this question. So take it back. ITS RUBBISH!
This fool called Grandbay Girl, must be another beggar of Skerrit. You must go find some work to do instead of spewing out your garbage on DNO.Have you contributed to Dominica more than these patriots? GO TO THE RED CLINIC.THAT’S WHERE YOU BELONG.That’s what skerrit has made of you.
Or maybe your brain is smoked, so you really cannot see and understand what these lazy incompetent men has done to Dominica.
I hate to make this personal, but since you made it personal i will respond in kind.
I begin by saying i am Dominican. and i guess u are. if u aren’t u must have some interest in Dominica to contribute to DNO That being said u have the right to ur opinion and as a civil person
and then Dominican . I respet ur opinion and your belief. it would have been nice to respect mine and everyone else’s opinion
No i have not rceived anything from Mr Skerrit and if i needed i would definitely
look for something. I defend Skerrit because
i see improvement in Dominica.i see elderly
people getting home care…much needed help
elderly people receiving home care services.
I meet people who have traveled Dominica
boast about the improvement in Dominica
These i had never seen before. The roads to
my village is safer under this administration
and i can go on and on…which is what i see
Dominica gave me a foundation to be who i am today, that i can trancend that to my children Good moral values in the workplace
So yes these are some of the reasons why i feel the way i feel.We may not always agree
on everything u may not like Skerrit but my
motive is not to destroy my country. Now all this is said. Show me a country that does
not have it’s share of problems. We all have to come togther to help our country. not to go overseas and give the county bad publicity
We did the same thing to Pierre Charles and he was only appreciated after he died.
I am Dominican. I say do not destroy it
let’s work together to make it better.God bless u and God bless Dominica here and overseas…Peace
i often wonder why Dominicans are so backward in the eastern caribbean…
think they lack the level of discuss period
their so call pros have not shown up for work period..
its sucks when you look at Dominica how much they have losted and are being laughed in the caribbean…
if things were so damm great as those blind labour party says…why would they go around giving out low end gifts at xmas..
i will continue to flush labour down the septic tank because they are whats goes in their…
MAN THIS COUNTRY IS LOST!!!
THE PEOPLE HAVE BECOME SOOOO STUPID…
AND THE EVIL ONES ON TOP ARE USING THAT TO THEIR ADVANTAGE SO THAT THEY WILL STAY ON TOP
BUT GOD WILL NOT BE MOCKED
THE MERCIFUL GOD HEARS THE PRAYERS OF HIS FAITHFUL AND HE WILL RESCUE THIS COUNTRY ONE DAY… 2MORO TO BE EXACT
Losted? U tell me very little about ur ability to criticze me as a Dominican as it
relates to my opinion .lol Dominicans do not
write such bad grammar.’They have losted’
LOL
Clearly u were not educated in Dominica
if u did u would know that “eastern caribbean
should be “Eastern Caribbean”. and your sentence would be a complete thought.
So think again when u decide to criticize
Dominican. Just saying lo lol lol
I support the job done by these guys 100%.it is tim that the world know what is going on in dominica.
DON’T BLAME THE MESSENGERS.
one question i want to ask,how best can we end this thing?while we fighting among o
urselves, chinese slowly taking over.haitian par maylay, they have nothing to loose.WE are maybe the least populated nation in the world,yet we cannot seems to get it together,
Boy i doe want to see how this one going to end.
Tomorrow is going to be the frist shocker.I hope you guys can take IT like a man.
WHO BROUGHT THE CHINESE TO TAKE OVER?!!!!
The best way to deal with it is to get this ADMINISTRATION out!!
There is no win or loose. We need justice!
And then what? Dominica the most corrupted country in the west! Nobody would want to trade with us? then what? When a tourist Google’s Dominica, the negative portrayals by the Few Dominicans will have the world of impact, then what? our economy Sinks… Recession, stringent measures, Harder times.
Some people had their own political agenda, Come on Guys think, be it 15 or 18 seats, the majority of Dominicans voted for the DLP.
When you give so much negative publicity on my country, it affects those who, reside here.
All i want you fellas to do is just say how you all can make my life better… from the look of things, just that hr of disgust, just put me one step back.
Remember Washington DC is NOT ROSEAU.
I concur. good comment
Yes I agree. They are punishing Dominica and will stop at nothing to discredit us all for their own gains.
They are CIA stooges. Idiots.
Lee Harvey Oswalds all of them.
When your ticket was paid to come down to vote these thieves, you did not know what next. Come down to face reality in Dominica.
sorry i live here
good jobs guy we needed that to expose the rogue government, it only take you guys lennox wanted some help. They are so corrupt it takes these big fishes to help us thank you guys.
AFTER LISTENING TO THIS BUNCH OF CUT THROAT STREET WALKING INSANE LUNATICS IT’S NO LONGER A CASE OF ME DEFENDING THE PRIME MINISTER BUT INSTEAD I LIKE MANY OTHER DOMINICANS CONSIDER THIS A DIRECT ATTACK ON EVERY PATRIOTIC DOMINICAN.
IT IS AN ATTACK ON ME
IT IS AN ATTACK ON MY FAMILY
IT IS AN ATTACK ON MY FRIENDS
IT IS AN ATTACK ON YOU
WHAT WENT OUT ON THE AIRWAYS IN WASHINGTON DC CAN NEGATIVELY IMPACT LIFE FOR ALL OF US IN DOMINICA.
I AM DOMINICA
What about the weekly blitz?
GARBAGE…
AND YOU ARE NOT A PATRIOT
Totally agree 100%
Passport in wrong people hand. I know you all are talking about yourselves. Bad Bad Bad men.
If you look closely, there is just a thin line separating PATRIOTS from TRAITORS…the line on the R
. Shift the letters around and is six of one, half a dozen of the other.
THATS WHY DOMINICANS HAVE BEEN DECEIVED BY THE “TRAITORS” FOR 9 YEARS.
THEY WERE MISTAKING THE TRAITORS FOR PATRIOTS.
EVIL WILL NOT BE DEFEATED EASILY, BUT IT WILL BE DEFEATED
Based on that you be A HUGE FOOLISH TRAITOR!
THANKS AND THUMBS UP TO THE PATRIOTS!
Dominicans should stop calling the prime minister’s name in utter nonsense and call for him to investigate the matter. The passport office needs investigation as well and the former administration uwp. you cannot simply blame one person for this. it is unfair.
Who is de leader? Skerrit…
Who is de minister of finance? Skerrit….
Is does matter how many times you change your name to post a comment, the case in hand still remains the same. IT SMELLS FISHY. Changing your name prove the point.
WE NEED A PROPER REPORT. NOT BITS OF INFO HERE, THERE AND EVERYWHERE.
Accountability, Professionalism and Respect is not to much to ask for.
I applaud the call for a Commission inquiry…but in all honesty, who is unbiased enough to lead the inquiry.
Everyone and everything is spurred by some political biasness and hatred.
Who woul dbe the impartial members of the commision? Or better yet, will there be a balanced group?
You all seems to be playing most patriotic.Give up your US citizenship and come back home and contribute.Stop staying on the outside and run all you mouths.You all are not the mouth piece for dominicans living in the US.You all represent yourselves with your own political ambitions.
The so called patriots of Dominica are nothing short of a farce. A few of these people’s services have been refused or terminated by the government. They have since relocated and are obviously hell bent on interfering with the political and governing process of DA. They spend their time plotting ways to find the government at fault for their personal gain. Passport fraud is nothing new or particular to Dominica and years are spent by the more financially advance countries on developing passports that are more sophisticated with hopes of reducing fraud. Still it is impractical to guarantee that persons who hold passports to a country other than their own will not get involved in criminal activity or be found to be an unscrupulous character. There is no honesty by these boys wanting what is best for the country and its people. The government is in the process of promoting the country for tourism and potential investors, these boys have just taken the opportunity to capitalise on Dominica being more exposed to slander the government and the country at large. Their concern is not local support for the government since it is obvious 18 out of a possible 21 seats. Their concern is on making DA political system seem dysfunctional by the international world particularly the western world. The Dominican government has been able to use its independence to form diplomatic relations with countries dim fit and can help foster economic growth in Dominica. The government have used the rights of an independent country to determine its own future against the wishes of the likes of the western powers who try to determine who we as an independent country should have diplomatic relations with. These are not so called “educated” men making rational decisions to help Dominica development in any shape or form. They are just vindictive persons who would take any steps necessary to get back at the government and thus affect the country’s status. These men are not to be applauded for their destructive actions but rather be prosecuted by the full extent of the law. I notice they keep using the same Indian national as an example. I wonder why? I look forward to Mr. Fontaine being served. Truth be told!
To those who oppose this move, are you against an audit of our economic citizenship program to determine whether it has been abused since its inception? Are you guys giving up your rights to check and balances as Dominicans?
What is wrong with an inquiry? As a Dominican, I would like to know the procedure for granting economic citizenship (not what is online). Who grants it? Is it the real estate agent trying to lure people to DA? Is the process vetted? Is there a background check? These are simple questions we have the right to ask.
Many countries, including the U.S. uses economic citizenship programs. It is just another way to generate revenue. However, when such a program becomes the subject of local and international concern, because a few individuals who have been arrested for criminal mischief, have our passports in their possession, then it would only make sense to ask questions.
Are you guys telling me that you are so politically blind that you would not question something that has been suspected of malfeasance?
HALF OF THEM ARE IDIOTS AND THE OTHER HALF IS EVIL
well if here is representative of the population then i guess …… they want to live in ignorant bliss lollooooooooool this is so foolish haha haha
For you own gains you eat Dominica good name.
EVERY Government here needs investigating .. from the very start of our independence and then a whole NEW bunch of guys and gals to take over … but you guys? NO WAY
Traitors all of you.
Unlike you and I, many others who are educated, most Dominicans lack he knowledge and the strength to think deeply of the processes and procedures that govern such policies.
This is no insult to my fellow Dominicans, but you cannot let ignorance prevail. When you’re in the box, it is sometimes hard to see what happens in front your eyes.
I will support you in saying that Every country in the world has economic citizenship program – it’s a stimulus to the revenue. However, such a programs needs to be govern by heavy assessments, verifications, vetting processes and most of all security clearance. After this is done, there must be transparency in the program to allow Dominicans where the revenue from such investments is spent to again stimulate the economic infrastructure of Dominica.
IT will take more than just the two of us to create change in the minds of Dominicans. They are deeply rooted in following as oppose to creating their own identity. They are not exposed to great leadership. I’ll give you a scenario which explain to you who most Dominicans are: I live out the country and I called home to speak with my grandaunt who is 83. She has been a labour supporter from birth…so we engaged in a political discussion and I asked a legitimate question. “What has Skerrit done for Portsmouth? I’ll make it easier, what has Ian Douglas done for Portsmouth in 10yrs?” My answer in the end was, don’t let me hang up the phone on you. And let me tell you, my grandaunt raised since I was a baby, but see how quick she became in defence to people who do not care about her. Well, most Dominicans are like her, they fail to see beyond their reach and will follow the likes of the parents, grand parents.
This is the dark cloud that blinds most Dominicans. Most do not understand the concept of government and their representation. DOMINICANS, a government works for the people, NOT the people working for the government.
RISE UP DOMINICANS…Take your country back if need be…vote LEADERS that are honest, trustworthy in elevating you as a country….DON’T give your vote just because…
lets wait and see what happens in court first if he did have something to do with the sale of passport thats wrong of him and he should pay for it
DO YOU THINK THEY’LL GIVE UP THIER US PASS
PORT TO BE HOME THE ANSWER IS NO. I
WONDER WHAT TYPE OF SALARY THEY WOULD BE
ASKING SO CALL GENTLEMEN. GUESS WHAT TWO OF
THEM ARE FORMER. TAKE IT FROM THERE. THEY
MIGHT BE WORST DON’T LET THEM FOOL US. PM
WAS’NT THE ONE WHO STATED PASSPORT SALE.
ERROR STARTED.
Stop talking shit.If you’ve got nothing to say just shut up.
I am really concerned about the thought process that goes into some of your comments. Ok! We all agree that the PM did not put it in place. However, he becomes the guardian of it under his watch. Are you telling me that he should abdicate his duty in ensuring that everything under his watch is done with integrity? If the light flickers, would you not be concerned and check why it is flickering? Of course, if you are deliberately causing the flicker, because you want others to be blinded by it, then I can understand your motive for not getting it fixed. In that case, you would be the fox guarding the hen house.
GOOD JOB PATRIOTS
DOMINICA HAS BEEN HIJACKED BY EVIL
IF DOMINICANS DON’T FEEL THEY WILL NEVER LEARN
THEY WILL CONTINUE IN THEIR EVIL WAYS
THATS WHAT YOU CALL TOUGH LOVE
THE DOMINICAN PEOPLE HAVE BECOME SO EVIL AND IMMORAL AND THEY WANT TO BE SHIELDED FROM THE NEGATIVE CONSEQUENCES OF THEIR EVIL.
WELL DONE PATRIOTS
Patriots?? on a washington DC radio station. They don’t care how they damage Dominca’s image, Guess they have nothing to lose. They and their families are not here to suffer.My daily bread comes from services provided to an off shore American school. When you Mr. Patriots, potray Dominica as the an unstable country you very well know the impact that will have on our livelihood. Please Mr. Patriots, all of you please come home and let us discuss our laundry locally. Please Please. I am dominican. Are you?
Enemies of the State…these people are not speaking for us
they will find out…i doh know if is blind day blind nah..lambs to the slaughter!!!! *intellectuals* kay bar zoye!
Which us are you referring to. A lazy beggar like you will say more than that. Go find work to do. LONG LIVE THE PATRIOTS!
I don’t want to be productive like all you Patriots…please show me what has Fontaine and Gregoire has done for DA…The Moomoo talking now
another step in gaining and bringing the issue to the global arena is taking that outside of the white house so that would capture the international focus on CNN,NBC,ABC FOX News MSNBC and the other networks so please Gabo you talk me at DGS thats they way to go in my view..
you taught me to be firm and militant in actions and not to be a yes yes citizen.
so im extremly proud of you grouping and the actions, thats your nature, and the Dame would be proud of your actions as she did make that move to the white house..when Regan was President so take the global focus to the corner of every globe as prevention is better than in the end, causing apache’s to be moving over dominica…
Hats off to you all take the bull by the horn..
I had similar ideas. These guys were fluent, and did a fantastic job.A PROTEST OUTSIDE OF THE WHITE HOUSE..1000 000 000% AGREEMENT.. I LOVE HOW gabriel dealt with the two callers.
CIA stooges the lot of them … traitors.
Now that the ‘Patriots’ have spoken and the PRO of the Labour Party Dr. Philbert Aaron has responded by saying it’s “An attempt to internationise a local politically motivated bid to unseat an otherwise popular administration.” Having heard both sides, I have some questions for the PRO Dr. Aaron:
1.Sir, these men raised some serious questions. Why did you fail to address any of them?
2. They said that the program has been abused by the leading government officials including the the PM, for personal gain. Is that true or false?
3. Remember they said that it was abused by “Leading government officials.” The last time I checked, you were the the PRO of the DLP and not a leading government official. Why then you want to answer for leading government officials? Let them speak for themselves instead of trying to bring partisan politics in this serious matter?
4. Crispin Gregoire ask for them to come clean with all its diplomatic appointments. Can we get a yes on that?
5.They called for acommission of inquiry into passport scandal and other irregularities involving the Skerrit Administration. Can we also get a yes on it ASAP?
6. Before you dismiss these calls and call the patriots names, why don’t you ask your friends in the government to treat these questions with a sense of urgency and honestly address these questions? That’s what thinking Dominicans want to hear and not the political game you tried to play.
1.Sir, these men raised some serious questions. Why did you fail to address any of them?
A.You want the Administration to lose time by answering questions that these men created. What about the questions the man from Penville and Delices is asking. Who cares about Gabu and Fontaine in DC when we have to deal with our struggling farmers in Delices and TeteMorne.
2. They said that the program has been abused by the leading government officials including the the PM, for personal gain. Is that true or false?
A. There is a law suit pending…we shall find out. If Thompson want the truth he can expedite it by allowing himeself to be served.
3. Remember they said that it was abused by “Leading government officials.” The last time I checked, you were the the PRO of the DLP and not a leading government official. Why then you want to answer for leading government officials? Let them speak for themselves instead of trying to bring partisan politics in this serious matter?
A. What are you really saying
4. Crispin Gregoire ask for them to come clean with all its diplomatic appointments. Can we get a yes on that?
A. All od a sudden Crispin can talk. The man never held a meeting with Dominicans living in NY/NJ for all the time he was Ambassador, all of a sudden he has a voice… The Moomoo talking now
5.They called for acommission of inquiry into passport scandal and other irregularities involving the Skerrit Administration. Can we also get a yes on it ASAP?
A. Who are the they…are they livin in Penville/Mahaut/Laplaine…I have not heard Dominicans in DA called for that…why do we have to please Fontaine…who is he
6. Before you dismiss these calls and call the patriots names, why don’t you ask your friends in the government to treat these questions with a sense of urgency and honestly address these questions? That’s what thinking Dominicans want to hear and not the political game you tried to play.
A. How did these men become patriots to Domincans…what have they done…Please look up the meaning of Patriot.
@time for truth. Do you believe that Aaron would try to involve himself in a conversation of a debate with these learned, patriotic and honest gentlemen. They would bring him to shame. It’s one thing to be Kairi bragging, and to match up to these PATRIOTS. Long live these guys.LOve for country is something i admire. GOOD JOB!
Look over your comment…….Each point they said…….they said……my question to you is who died and made these intelectual or so called intelectuals words the gospel truth eh? So because THEY SAY the government must respond? Eh beh well they well Important eh….Idiot
Well Well Well I just can’t believe that some of my Dominican People are so Foolish sorry to say it so. After reading the comments below it hurts my heart to say that am a Dominican however I wont allow those who are under the RED SPELL to make me feel bad about being a Dominican. My God why cant you all see the light. Stop thinking about party and think of your country. All of you all who are under that red spell talking so much gabbage keep shouting ‘I AM DOMINICA ARE YOU” so show it now by joinning the Patriots in the fight agaisnt passport sale to international Criminals. How can you all agree to the sale of your passports to INTERNATIONAL CRIMINALS cant you all see the consequences behind it. We are at stake here guys, our families are at stake. Cant you see when such is done we are harbouring criminals. Further have you stop to wonder WHERE IS THE MONEY OF THE PASSPORT SALES BEING DEPOSITED? Or in Lay man terms when the passports are being sold where the money going. It is not in the Treasury ok Guys. I have Never Known Dominicans to be so stupid. Wake up guys. Get out of that Spell or cult which you all are in and forget about PARTY think of COUNTRY. stop this foolish ness about sour grapes etc. Wrong is wrong. It is really sad that these guys had to revert to this medium to help save Dominica etc but my God if talking in our own little Island aint working my God you got to seek help outside. This Passport Sale Has to STOP forth with and by the Grace of God it will.
If you all are so patriotic to Dominica why not give up your US citizenship, form a party and come here to contest general elections.
You all claim to be experts in all kinds of fields and instead of looking for ways to uplift Dominica tarnishing the country’s image to the international community.
The rest of the world must be laughing you idiots.
You all are just victims of sour grapes and nothing else. Just jealous of Roosevelt Skeritt. But as the saying goes “sticks and stones can break my bones but words can do me no harm”. Long live Skeritt, Long live the Dominica Labor Party.
lick it to dem!
Can ;a man in his sane mind be jealous of Skerrit. You must be a lunatic man. You need to tell us what GOOD qualities Skerrit possess to cause a man to be jealous of him. FROM WHER I STAND HE HAS NOTHING. ABSOLUTELY NOTHING.This is the worse we have had, and will ever have. This is how he has to be remembered.
You Die Hard fool, do you any morals in you?
Totally agree.
Bunch of CIA stooges and traitors.
@ Die Hard.Your brain is really dead.Guess it’s white powder.Why do you stupid think that they can’t do come home and run for election? Does Dominica belong to you? They can do everything that you can do under the constitution.YOu do not have any more right than they do.Didn’t you know that? YOur one vote is insignificant compared to what they would get. I AM ALL FOR HONEST PEOPLE.THAT’S HOW I WAS RAISED.Sorry for you.
my country is the DOMINICA NOT THE US!
Surely if the Government have nothing to hide, it is a simple matter of coming forward and saying:
a) so many passports were sold to these people
b) xamount of monies was raised from the sale and is being used to help Dominica thus
The names/occupation of whom these passports were sold to should be made know. It is in the interest of Dominicans to know who walks among them.
And yes the sale of passports should be stopped because is is merely a stepping stone for most.
Just look at the comments that are being posted here…. no wonder the Country is going down the tubes. You people are so gullible… it’s a crying shame.
What makes their opinion more important than any random Dominican ex-pat?
They sell their country for material gain, BUT SKERRIT CANNOT BUY ME, I AM DOMINICA.
Let Obama know of the danger on his door step.
Keep up the good work Gabriel and continue the struggle u making Rosie smile.
Roosie would have kicked Gabu longtime ago…But Skerrit too nice.
That is the big problem with Skerrit…too freaking nice…people just saying what they want about you and at nights passing backdoor asking for favors..yes I said…damn right I said it.
Ask Gabu…lol
Don’t put Roosie in your garbage.Skerrit as he is now would not be in Roosie or Pierro cabinet.You and your skerrit would be out,begging as you doing now.
Go ahead men. You all are all rich Dominicans living good in the states. You all tired of the cold now. Want to come back to Dominica to lead. That is not love for Dominica. that is looking for power.
Obama has enough on hiws plate lol
They remined me of the educated (black power) men of the early 70’s. where are they?.They want power the easy way.
You know pretty well they are. They are out there in the USA, FIGHTING on your behalf.They are fighting against corrupt and criminal activities.
You mean a bunch of spoiled middle class university types making up rubbish so that working class black guys get hurt? I agree they are like that.
Come here and try this … TRAITORS.
I hope they explained how this whole sale of passport thing first started:
That PM Eugenia Charles wanted to sell the Layou River hotel and land of which she was the major shareholder. She pushed through the law and found a Chinese woman, Grace Tung, and made her honourary consel for Dominica to sell Dominica’s passports abroad to raise the funds for the same honorary consul to buy the hotel.
But Eugenia Charles is a saint and Skerrit is a devil. (Can you imagine what they would be saying now if Skerrit had done what Miss/Dame Charles did? !!)
And a handful of Dominican-born men who live abroad with US passports are “Patriots”. That is really the world turned upside down!
Haha… well said! We were corrupt from the get-go. Dominica never had a chance.
Does anyone remember Patrick “PJ” John and his plan to sell Dominica to the Nazis, Klu Klux Klan and Gay Mafia-men? (Search for ‘Bayou of Pigs’ in Google)
I posit that our island is more beautiful than we are – it seems that those in power eventually get blinded by that power. Or maybe I’m wrong; maybe the allegations of greed, corruption, nepotism, and self-enrichment are all false (I mean this sincerely).
What’s truly sad is that more than likely, we’ll never know the truth.
When will some of you blindly supporting the Skerrit administration eyes be opened? When?!! Not because we are out here we are not contributing. I am certain even while living in the US for over 16 years that I have contributed to the economy more than some of you that just running your mouths. Even people that don’t send money home directly are still contributing because of their taxes that are uses to send foreign aid to Dominica. Even if you love the guy, what is right say it’s right, and waht is wrong call it wrong! I love my children and I will not waste time to correct them – even if they cry, I know I am looking out for their good. Stop being blinded because of politics. Ever since I moved to the US I knew Gabu, and he volunteered to organize I Dominica association which brought Dominicans in his area together and helped out Dominica- he never stopped, contributing in several other areas for the good of Dominica. I also know Mr. Fontaine running tracks in Dominica, and during the National athletic meet this man always stood up for fairness and justice wherever it seems that that was lacking –these are naturally good men with nothing for good intention for Dominica. Right now I am not supporting any political party, but I support the effort of these gentlemen, because I know their intent is for the good of Dominica.
You know their intent…let’s just leave it there.
So Fontaine worked at IMF for how many years and not one name of person he can give the government of Dominica to network.
Not one person the man networked with at IDB, Word Bank , IMF that could secure some massive grant to do the same Citrus plant or bla-bla-bla-bla his been wantin to do.
Magwaysay.
same fing i say eh..all of a sudden he surfafce..that is his contribution to our country to drag it through the mud…as for d crispin gregoire post he want he go have to take one of domlec on in his behind!
“Not one person the man networked with at IDB, Word Bank, IMF that could secure some massive grant to do the same Citrus plant or bla-bla-bla-bla his been wanting to do.”
First off, how do you know he can’t give the government any names? And besides that, do you really think that’s how we should get a citrus plant in Dominica? I find that your claim is ridiculous. Mind you, I’m not defending him, nor do I even know or like him personally, but if you’re gonna say something, please let it be more than that.
I for one believe that the government is already too involved in what I think should be private sector endeavors. Hotels, citrus plants, villas (some people claim)… a government should be paving the way for locals to establish these enterprises of their own volition. The government should be encouraging banks to make funds available, prioritizing the study in certain disciplines, mandating job placements after study, setting up service standards and consumer protection, enabling access to remotes locations, etc (the government IS doing some of these).
That is just the nature of Dominica leaders and their followers are just the same – handouts, handouts handouts! You think a grant is free? Economics 101 – nothing is free, someone pays for it! And if you think we here in the diaspora are worthless, just get some knowledge WEAKISORT. The tax payers in the diaspora monies are used to fund some of these grants that you so want! How unthoughtful some of you are. We love our country and want good for it just as you think you do.
And that is ur right to support them! it is also my right to be wonder what their agenda is.Just saying
HATERS, CROOKS AND POWER HUNGRY.
That’s a good way to describe a brainless monkey like you.
JUST LIKE YOU. IT TAKES ONE TO KNOW ONE.
MAY THE LORD HAVE MERCY ON YOU!
and what do we call you for being so gullible and full hearty???
Patriots my foot!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
POWER HUNGRY GUYS LOOKING FOR THIER POCKETS,. YOU ARE NOT
IN THE UN NOW THE GRAPE IS SOUR THEN. GOD
DON’T LINE UGLY TIME WILL THE FOR ALL OF
YOU.
Seems like that’s another case of sour grapes.All these men were in one way or at some point a big supporter of Skerrit. Gabo een came to dca to be part of Chevez visit etc, now they on a rampage. That is not the way to go about things. That’s why Skerrit will get away with the mess he does.
Btw, Finn, have aged a lot, he needs to lose that weight.
Why don’t you address your mind to the issue. Forget about the sour grapes. What do you have to say about the allegations and the proof brought forward?
HIS EYES ARE FINALLY OPENED
A few simple questions do need to be answered about the Economic Citizenship Program, but I’m not sure the manner in which the “Patriots” have approached the issue is best. Trying to address this issue remotely with one-foot-in-one-foot-out will help no one. Further, the attempts will be seen by most Dominicans as shallow attempts to destabilize the country they claim to love.
I do feel, however, that government officials should agree to a commission of inquiry into the aforementioned program. Few people will argue that there is a lack of transparency and accountability.
What are the objectives of the Economic Citizenship Program? Who are the agents of the program? What are their fees? What are the government’s fees? What qualifies an individual or family to be considered for the program? What becomes of the government’s fees? How many passports have been sold over the years? What percentage of the government’s total revenue is made up of receipts from passport sales?
These are only a few of the questions that need to be answered. I personally think that the sale of a country’s citizenship is a concept that ALL citizens need to (at the very least) comprehend. Our identity as a nation is irrevocably tied to one’s passport and it’s about time we took these allegations seriously.
I will endeavor to answer you questions, which have already been asked and answered so many times in the last few weeks.
1. What are the objectives of the Economic Citizenship Program? The Economic Citizenship Programme is an investment promotion mechanism geared towards increasing foreign investment, it is a means of attracting investors and generating much needed revenue for our beloved Nature Isle.
2. Who are the agents of the program? There are several agents/promoters who assist potential investors. A full list of the official agents is available on the Government’s web site – http://www.dominica.gov.dm
3. What are their fees? What are the government’s fees?
The fee structure is as follows:
Under the Family Option, the investor-applicant is required to make a cash investment of US$100,000, which qualifies the investor, spouse and two children less than eighteen years of age for Economic Citizenship. And additional US$15,000 per child is required for any child who has turned eighteen but is less than twenty-one years of age.
Under the Single Option, an investor (whether single or married) is the sole applicant for Economic Citizenship and is required to make a cash investment of US$75,000.
There are other fees associated with an application under the current Economic Citizenship Programme including a non-refundable US$1,000 application fee, a non-refundable US$200 processing fee, a naturalization fee of US$550 and stamp fee of US$15. Other fees related to the due diligence and other investigations on a case by case basis.
4. What qualifies an individual or family to be considered for the program? Anyone with the financial wherewith-all to invest and is of good character and willing to endure the rigorous due diligence and vetting process can apply for Economic Citizenship.
5. What becomes of the government’s fees? All investments are paid directly into the Government of Dominica account at the National Bank of Dominica. The investment paid by the investor is not withdrawn from the account unless the application is approved, rejected or withdrawn by the applicant. Upon the rejection or withdrawal of an application all sums paid into the designated account are refunded to the applicant (net of bank charges).
6. How many passports have been sold over the years? Since the start of the program me in 1991 several individuals have qualified for economic citizenship. The total number is a matter of public record as the names of all persons granted citizenship are published in the Official Gazette. The total from 1991 – 2010 would be quite substantial.
7. What percentage of the government’s total revenue is made up of receipts from passport sales? Again this would change from year to year and can be found in the budget estimates published by the Ministry of Finance.
I trust you find this information helpful, I have seen it all published several times but for some reason people keep asking the same questions. rather than accepting the facts.
@real Patriot..I really appreciate the effort, time and info presented in your piece. However as a programme… what people would to see is a report that not only answers the questions raised, but also states how the approved investors are assisting DA. what are these investments
Thanks again
I do appreciate your efforts… Thank you. I have a few follow-up questions though:
What do the agents charge for their participation in the process? Also, who determines what is “good character”, and who conducts the due diligence examinations of prospective investors (and their families)?
Based on the government fees you quoted, it would appear that the Economic Citizenship Program contributes quite a bit to our bottom line. Under what section or sub-category of the budget estimates would those figures appear?
Is the Official Gazette available in electronic format? If not, is the hardcopy available for every- and anyone to buy and/or pick up a copy? Further, the “Patriots” claim that there have been illegitimate sale of Dominican passports; what would be the best way to prove or disprove this? Cross-referencing the number official passports created with the names associated with the ECP that appear in the Gazette?
Thanks for outlining the parameters of the economic citizenship programme but rather than making general statements it would be helpful to provide specifics:
1) Exactly how much revenue has been raised, each year since the inception of the programme and what/where is the tangible evidence of the inward investment? – in the mean time we are still the nation with the lowest per capita-GDP in the OECS!
6) exactly how many citizenships have been granted and to whom, over the same period?
I’m afraid the answer “substantial” is rather meaningless and will not suffice!
7) Budget estimates of revenue in this case are not the same as “actuals”.
The Govt.auditor’s report does list them, with much delay but as lump figures only and the amounts shown only raise further questions without knowing how many citizenships were actually granted during the relevant accounting period.
This lack of actual, verifyable data is exactly why the programme causes such unease and mistrust. If everything is above board let’s have the exact figures, with a breakdown of countries of origin of the applicants, for public consumption. Or are these strategic state secrets? This is not a political issue. These questions are valid regardless of what party happens to be in powerat any given time.
where is that information published my good friend? and if it is so easy to come by and so easily accessible by all Dominicans why till today we haven’t heard someone officially representing the government (be it civil servant or political appointee)come and clear the air and present a full report disclosing the operations, the passports sold, the money received etc?? wouldnt that be the best way to remove speculation about the system??? but instead of just being open and frank with the people the government decides to take offense at the questions being asked they try to both discredit the one posing the questions and use legal manoeuvrings to prevent full disclosure. what do you expect any logical thinking, unbiased individual to think? is it far fetched to believe that there are some underhanded or illegal activities taking place there therefore people are evading the situation??? you tell me and will you as a person accept that type of behaviour, lets say if you are a shareholder in a company and the manager is acting in that evasive manner?
I applaud these men for their forwardness and good hearted commitment to elevated the political standards in Dominica.
Accountability is key to any developing contry.
Right now we need more men and women to join in this effort to bring back dignity and pride to our beloved nation.
in since i was a kid i always heared people talk about selling passports in dominica never reaally understand why they did it but i was born in de 80′ i grew up under freedom party and they did it then in came uwp they did it now labour they are also doing it.Dominica is de only country from what hav beening hearing over de years tht selling its passport like hot bread from de oven i support de government last election because uwp did not put enoough effort into telling de people what plan they hard for them they more focus on skerrit taking de money we all know when any government change de country does slow down a bit without knowing what plan they hard de people was left with no choice but to stick with what we hav till somthing come better cause de government doing some good work around de country. But with all tht said i support these guys we hav to stop sell our passport period!
add me to the patriot movement.
tell them to shot their toilet
All these guys have reject their Dominican passport to another country..But what is wrong with them so called educated men who want to lead our little country?I can imagine what kind of salarey they will be looking for if they get a chance to be part of a government…
They want to enjoy the best of both worlds. They live in Washington and cuddle up among and with the “Beltway Boys”. They enjoy all the perks of living the life of successful professionals in Washington. I am sure, wihtout contradiction, that they worked hard for what they have achieved in life. My beef though is why stay in Washington, enjoying everything Washington has to offer and then dictate to me here in Dominica what choices I must make about the governance of the country? I live here. I sacrifice to remain here and keep the wheels of civility moving in Dominica. Thompson is on record as indicating his interest in running for elections in the Grand Fond Seat next election. He expects to stay in Washington and win elections? They come here for carniv al Christmas and Creole Festival. They have a good time as we do in Dominica and escape again the day after the fete to Washington to continue their successful life. They do not stay here with me and take the “Gwayay”. I stay here. I am sure I know best who has my best interest at heart. None of them in Washington with alltheir degrees can diuctate that to me. How many of them have sworn allegiance to America anyway? They have dugged up issues after issues. Like a soap opera – every week the character changes. Yet they cannot provide the conclusive evidence, such as what is necessary in our system of justice. Now they want an inquiry to dig up the evidence they claim that is hidden.
By the actions on Saturday, they have now internationalize what is really a local political matter. What do they expect to get out of it? Are they saying that for all the years they have been accusing the governmenet of corruption, the USA, England, Canada, France, China, Venezuela the EU andothers have not heard about these? All these countries have fully staffed embassies in the region with the capabilities to spy/listen on happenings in Dominica. In deed it was they who leaked out the US Embassie’s secret Wikileaks reports on Dominica. They think America is unaware of their crusade? I am very sure that even if no other country is interested America is very interested in what is happening. Do you belive America has forgiven Skerrit for developing ties with Cuba, Chavez and China? They have great interest developments in Dominica. So my question is what is their real motive. Ws it a preparatory exercise for their supporters inanticipation that they may lose the case? Yes the big case. But sorry to hurt your pride fellas. You cannot stay in Washington and dictate to me who I shall give my cross to govern this country. In any event none of you have committed themselves one way or another to any of the existing local political outfits. Is that a situation that you all are only interested in what is based in Washington? I am looking for workable alternativenfrom you to replace Mr. Skerrit. Name the patriot comrades. I too like thousands of Dominicans have no confidence in those patriots with whom you cuddle up with in Dominica.
Come to Dominica, be part of the daily struggle to survive, declare your intentions as Fontaine has done and now Lennox (very belatedly, but even then his intention is loaded with uncertainties, at least in public)and run your campaign. Washington is no place to stay to run for political office Come to Dominica. That is where ypou belong.
DNO, young Patriots are you guys serious. Sour Grapes Patriots. Thats why Dominicans are not listening to them, because when they were friend with the Prime Minister, When they themselves were part of the eco passport, telling the Prime Minister who he should give Passport too, when you all were making all the trip to countries and collecting the passport monies. Your mouths were shut. So now keep it shut. We Dominicans are not interested.
Speak for yourself.
I hope soon and very soon….there will be some document going around for all interested in being part of this Overseas-based activists to sign.
I am ready to be a part of this movement.
We need to keep our Dominica for our generation and those to come. Some of us just think the “Caribs” Kalinago, fight to keep Dominica/ Waitukubuli was in vain. Let us not be blinded by power or money. Anyway…
Time Will Tell.
Who care…run to the hills
Just because the set of did not get what they want from the government they running their mouth.
give it a rest people and go find work to do
You yourself need to find work to do because you are talking crap. Do you understand what these PATRIOTS are doing on your own behalf? The country stinks corruption under these corrupt men. This is what the PATRIOTS are fighting. Mark you they love ‘Skerrit’ more than you, because you cannot tell Skerrit what he IS doing is wrong, but they can.
PATRIOTS? I CALL THEM STATE ENEMIES. DEM FELLAS EVEN ASKING THE PM TO COME UP TO WASHINGTON TO TALK TO DOMINICANS. BUNCH OF SOUR LOOSERS. GEOTHERMAL GAS BURNING THEM
But, but, but…the government (LABOUR) went everywhere in search of those same people to come down and put them in power, why can’t they go a talk to them now?
I was activeli involved in getting people from Antiga and the BVI to come and vote and we all celebrated when we won, now is pure rubbish my beloved PM is doing. Come on man, are we so blind in this country. I soo regret what I did it’s not funny at all. We waiting for all u to come to Antigua and talk to us also. All u, Vince, has my number. Just call me and I will round up people (Dominicans) for the meeting at the same place (Vince knows).
I consider you to be worse than a state enemy.You are a living dead.
THESE GUYS ARE DANGEROUS.IL SONT DANGEREUX TRES DANGEREUX. BEST U GO UP FOR PRESIDENT IN AMERICA IF U MAN ENOUGH I DONT WANT U TO FIGHT FOR ME ,I AM NOT DUMB NOR DEAF FIGHT FOR U AND YR ACOLITES I FOUGHT FOR TWENTY LONG YEARS ALONE AND NOW I SAY AMEN WITH STRENGHT NOW I AM IN MY COUNTRY THE LAND OF MY BIRTH I STAYED AWAY FROM IT FOR 20 YEARS AND EVERY MORNING I SAY GOOD MORNING DOMINICA I LOVE.
traitors
They trying all kinds of ways to faustrate Skerrit., but they will not succeed.
But Skerrit FRUSTRATED already by his own doing and by his advisor ….
Well done guys. I listened with interest on Saturday night and was pleased with all your performances. Dr Gabriel, I was very impressed with how you took care of this particular caller. Keep up the good work guys. Dominica does not deserve this corrupt regime. Something has to be done. Dr. Fountain you are wonderful, Luv you bro.
You well right when you said you pleased with their performances……..what a Show……PATRIOTS my foot
Crispan u wasn’t concerned about this when you were the ambassador to the U.N hmnn is it because you lost your job #sour grapes
I feel so sorry for Chrispin. I guess being unemployed makes him look and sound desperate.
wooooooooooooooooye eh bien look it..and mr so fresh and kohpahwayzon…lol all u dont know nothing money does make jumbie dance wii
Right now it seem that everyone 95% ofdominicans arein the youth bracket…Most of them are working the graveyard shift. Because they really got time on their hands to sit posting comments all day long.
Atleast if you gonna be insultive to your fellow Dominicans, try it with an original name.
Shame on you…
Give Gabu credit for being able to fool Vaughn Martin at WPFW in DC. We can now consider that radio station as an extension of the Q95, lie machinery.
With the way things going jest now d whole world will b saying “I am Dominica”
This is the best combined group of educated imbeciles ever arranged. I dare them to form a political party and come and run elections. Let us deal with them!!!!
They have already tried and failed. You forget the “Real Labour Party”. lol
DVT i think that you should change that name to CVA.
I mean c’mon man. I do not really address anyone personally here on DNO. But I mean is there any other name that you could use?
Have some integrity my brudder/sista. This is just unbecoming…
Although I applaud their activist efforts, I would prefer of these guys relocated to Dominica and fight their battles.
It is one thing if Dominica was a dictatorship where people were persecuted, but it is a democracy. There is no excuse for them to fight their war by remote control. I think they would have a lot more credibility. By the looks of it, they are fighting the war but they do not want to get their hands dirty.
Bravo to ur comment Rabbit,u hit the nail on the head.
They really just want to overthrow the peoples choice and are being disrespectful to the electorate. Its sad that these disgruntled group are bitter because they each failed to get their wishes fulfilled. Gabriel Christian wanted geothermal exploration but had no capital. Thompson wanted to do his own fly by night bank and failed after years of helping implement the oppressive policies in Dominica & other developing countries. Crispin lost the UN diplomatic position to Vince. Clayton Shillingford lost a contract got blue and turned from red to green. Dominicans can xee that they are self centred.
No. I still need my own passport; don’t ruin things for people.
All of these guys are well established overseas. I don’t see how they are trying to help us or ever are patriots. Would patriots try to destabilize the country like they are doing? All I see are guys vex because they do not support the government.
Why would those fellows want to come here. Dominica is so lawless. If any of them decided to move back, their homes would be firebombed and nobody would go to court. The police may find the man with the gasoline in his hand but nothing would be done. They are not safe here. Until the the people of Dominica stand up for their rights this is not a safe place for someone who opposes this regime.
boss what you talking dere nah..all u like to make all you own country look bad wii..!sort
Can you say how Skerrit is trying to help the poor in Dominica? He knows nothing more than helping himself. BUT TIME WILL TELL!
@. They are not the ones destabilizing the country. The ones huckstering our passports to crooks and criminals out there blame them for that. These PATRIOTS are trying to restore order and pride to Dominica. The Dominica that Skerrit and his cabal has destroyed.
No Sense!!!!
WAKE UP from your slumber Honey. You better wake up now get out of that trance you are in now because by the time you want to your lovely Nature Isle will be no more. According to the Calypsonians “Wake up Dominicans Wake up”
It is a shame to have a bunch of Dominicans eductors trying to fool the public.If you are honest why cannot you recommend the opposition to stop cashing on parliament and do their work that they are getting paid for in doing that they and us will know what is going on . Stop taking us for a ride smart boys.
Your empty brain is filled but just with garbage. Go to the Red Clinic.