United Workers Party (UWP) hopeful for the Castle Bruce constituency, Isaac Baptiste, has said land reform and duty free taxes on building materials are among plans the party hopes to implement in order to boost the employment sector and living conditions of Dominicans.
Speaking at a UWP meeting at the Potterville Savannah on Sunday evening, he said over 20 percent of 30,000 houses in Dominica are in need of repair or complete replacement.
“That’s an opportunity to create jobs for everybody and at the same time improve your housing conditions,” he said.
He stated further that land reform will be introduced to ease the pressure and cost of registering family land, noting that many people cannot register family lands because of registrations costs.
“We will ensure that you can come in and register this property at a reduced cost, and with this title, you can go and get a mortgage and improve your housing condition,” Baptiste said.
He further revealed that rent control legislation will be modernized under UWP regime.
“We are saying that there are people who want to invest in rental housing, but the issue of rent control is an issue,” he said. “We need to modernize our rent control legislation so that we can look at investment in rental housing, and therefore provide better housing for our people.”
The meeting was a culmination of the UWP’s “Coast to Coast in 25” initiative.
Duty free is a hoax. It only amounts to 4-5% plus you have to hire a broker. Nothing but a hassle. I have a better suggestion, quit taxing stuff that this island doesn’t produce and people bring into this island. That would serve to stimulate the economy. Try it for 6 months and then cut the rest of the taxes in half.
If we keep crying the country down what else will happen to this country ? remember the tongue is a weapon people . If we do not appreciate the blessings that we have now , do we expect to get more? Everything seems to be politics but I think we should cry loider for the secondary schools to start teaching skills so that our youth leaving in the near future will learn to be more self sufficient and stop depending on behind the desk jobs . I hope people cry out for this instead of bickering on politics.
Are you crying down the country when you point out the failings of the school system as you have just done?
skerret linton have you on your toes.Well done linton am rolling with you
It is good to see that Dominicans are finally opening their eyes and now want to be among the other Caribbean countries who want development.
This response in Pottsvilee should continue throughout Dominican.
Let us move forward.
I’m impressed. The rest of Dominica can run their mouth, but Castle Bruce needs to embrace a good leader when presented with one. I am really happy that persons like Mr. Isaac can step forward to make a contribution in the political arena. This gentleman is a wealth of information, expertise and experience. With a few like him, UWP is good to go. Welcome Mr. Baptiste!
mr Baptist, i wish you well and hope the people of the Castle Bruce constituency make a wise choice.
Good luck.
Well papa, they say look people. But all-u they always had people and they never win and they still cannot win, watch and see. Singing “I hear an old lady say o-la workers al-lay workers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”
Mr Baptiste.
Hello and good evening my people. First I must say that I don’t vote in Dominica because I don’t reside there but I hope to build my home on my mother land. Mr Baptiste its not the fee to register land rather its extended family that build on my family land which is costing me about twenty thousand dollars trying to evict him. This person don’t have any papers for the land but he build a house on my mother land. He didn’t even build on the back of the land rather he build on the front which bound with the main road. My mother have her paper for her land which is registered with the Government so how can this man just build a house on my mother land. We need to do something about this.
If you have knowledge of a squatter and they stay there for 5 yrs. and you do nothing, they get to stay. So do something.
skirret is talking about housing revolution do u know that former parl reps who voted for him to be prime minister they are with out a house just dno please look into that one
In this reformed UWP i see a vibrant group serious about putting Dominica first. I am really loving their vibe. They are focused only on the issues confronting the Dominican people whilst the government who has been in power for 14 years is bent on demonizing, dehumanizing and vilifying these good men and woman. I have supported the DLP for all these years and I must say that I am dissatisfied with the handling of the Dominican economy. Roosevelt Skerrit seem to have his priorities wrong and the men and women with him have no say, its just about one man. I can no longer support this failed regime and Roosevelt Skerrit is in the process of reaping what he has sown. TWL….
llabour!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And when you take revenue from one area, where are you going to make up for that? remember, I am always seeing posts here saying that DA is the poorest country in the Caribbean, or is it politics as usual?
Housing and Land reform policies are basic requirement for the progress for any country…..these suggestions are coming for an educated man who has a masters degree in physical planning and a first degree in Architecture….He is also a former Chief Physical Planner… He knows what he is talking about….It’s time to listen and learn form educated and experienced persons who know what they are talking about than be brainwashed by wishy washys…..
These proposals mean more work for Mr. Baptiste’s business.Do you realise that the more construction means more persons with mortgages and therefore less disposable income to support the economy? Where is the economy to support this proposal then? It seems to me that we need to create new income generating economic activity that will provide for a vibrant economy. This is what will generate funds for housing development. In the industrialized countries Housing starts is an indicator of the health of the economy not the driver.
For your information Mr. Baptiste does not have a professional Degree in Architecture. His Degree in Planning and (history of) Architecture does not qualify him to practice Architecture anywhere in the world except Dominica. For emphasis he is NOT an Architect.
I have read all your comments on any and every issue. I must say of a truth you are very IGNORANT , STUPID and BITTER. You don’t annalize anything on its own merit – you are given a forum where you can spread your bitterness and hatred and so you do at will.
The Labour party is doing a lot of wrong in this country, they have destroyed the economy – we are given a fake impression that things are good and you just continue to be stupid. I guess you are not working nor are you occupied with anything meaningful – so you spend your time just being ignorant
yap! yap! yap! empty vessel.
Let me make this statement to everyone of you. Some of you people in Dominica are delusional.Come on open your eyes to see what is happening around you.
Whether it is UWP, Labour or Freedom; everyone of these political parties are corrupted and obsessed with their own personal self interest.
What did UWP did for the country when they were in power? Absolutely jack Sh…..t.
Did they create mass employment opportunities for the country? No…. all they did was look after themselves and their friends who supported them.
So what makes you all believe they would be any better or different if they were re-elected?
Let us not talk about the freedom party because they are an absolute waste of space.
The reason why this government is in power, is because there really isn’t a viable and credible opposition offering better alternatives. It is all talk, talk and more talk and no action.
They come up with all these ridiculous schemes and initiatives, but the first question is where are they going to find the money and resources to implement and sustain long term these gimmicks.
Historically those in power spend most of their time fending off accusations of corruption and mismanagement, yet soon as they are in opposition they turn around and do exactly what the previous opposition was accusing them of when they were in power. (Talk about the pot calling the kettle black)
The UWP seem to think that they have all the answers to Dominica’s problem, but I am struggling to recall any meaningful and sustainable initiative they implemented to create long term employment and economic growth when they were in power.
If they did, then why is the country in such a mess? And why did they get kicked out after one term in power?
(It’s all a load of tim tim bwa shesh)
These so called politicians in Dominica have no foresight or a visionary mandate to drive the country forward. They have no business acumen, and their so called initiatives are primitive and lacking long term sustainable substance.
Finally no incoming government can turn around a stagnant and flagging economy within one term.(5 years)even more so in a third world country as poor as Dominica, unless they can wave a magic wand. So you lot can keep on dreaming.
Anyway these politicians when they come into power; they are just interested in lining their own and their friends pockets, so that when they are kicked out of office,their future needs are taken care of.
I am a proud Dominican living abroad but what I have seen whenever I come home makes me realise that these so called politicians in Dominica are ALL THE SAME.
Dominica will always be stuck in the dark ages.
Thanks….and rest in peace in America. ..You thinks America was always as it is…They had their fair share of political assassinations, depressions and political scandals…I wish you would tell this to the Dominican out there who come home to vote and leave us in misery….Let us Dominicans who have a vision for the country make the decisions for its future !!!!
So keep voting Skerrit and making him rich? That’s you alternative? At least share the wealth right, if you really believe in what you wrote.
You are one big contradiction and waste of time. No government can turn the country around in 1 term but you’re saying UWP did nothing. Talk , talk talk you say, how else would the people know what’s on offer if the parties do not talk? And since all the politicians are so bad why don ‘t you come forward to provide what I assume you think is good? Stop being a damn fool ok.
finally someone is making some sense!!! kudos to u
Therefore, forget the political parties and vote for the best person for the office. Look at their platform and what they stand for. I am not a supporter of political parties. Get registered and vote. Most of the people here are not registered to vote.
WOW! If this photo is just a section of the crowd I would really like to see the full crowd. Look like nuff voters to me
some fool said dominica headed in the right direction! well i dont want to live in that da u live tehbe. uwp is change rgey are a hardworking group workerssss
Fear no more laybarites we have dem, Skerrit signs US$300 million agreement with China….international tourism hotel, reconstruction of an international airport, building a hospital newly, and the total investment is about USD300 million
Mr. Linton, as Political Leader of the United Workers Party, you are doing an excellent job. Since you became Political Leader of the UWP, Skeritt has admired your leadership qualities and numerous innovations. For instance, you organized an Employment Symposium, Skeritt has followed you with an Employment Expo. You proposed an International Airport, despite criticisms from Skeritt, D is reporting, the Chinese have agreed to assist the Government as regards the building of that Airport. You talked about a National Airline, we are hearing of Government’s involvement in an Airline. You intend to target land reform, duty free taxes on building materials, I won’t be surprised, these proposals are in the pipe lines awaiting Skeritt’s consideration. Go ahead, Skeritt, implement Mr. Linton and the UWP plans, however, during your implementation, remember, Mr. Linton is totally against corruption and the large cabinet you now control.
So who is the fool?
You
Look out next week or there after Labour Government going to come out blazing with a housing strategy to boost construction and or to revolutionize their own hosuing revolution wait and see.. they are very reactive these days and have become the ” all of a sudden government”.
…at the end of the day, does it matter?? What we want is development so if the PM can take an idea from the opposition and implement it, as long as it benefits the country and its citizens then Kudos! Cause really if someone cares about the people their concern should not be about being in power to make a change, their concern should be about making meaningful contributions and seeing their ideas implemented.
That’s not a bad idea, I would love that as I’m preparing to build a house. The question is, can the country aford this and how many more buildings or renovations can be done to provide more jobs than what are there now in the construction field. We want the Govt. to do everything for us, and yet we want everything free. I see a change but a change for the same, just another set of people in Govt.
The idea is that the many other persons, including those on the diaspora who like you wish to build but are constrained by cost of materials, will be able to do so. This will stimulate the economy by providing jobs which will in turn generate spending and provide taxes like income tax and VAT. You should also be aware that some of that money will be new monies coming on from abroad.
Some things are not as cut and dry as I’ve tried to explain but I have confidence that those who formulate the policy will be able to execute it. You see that is the difference between what is being said by the UWP and what is being done by this government.
If you cannot afford to register your land, would you be able to service a mortgage for construction?
UWP surely has a better broad base plan which once kicks off will attract investors and spins off to the island..
But the today’s Dominican, hmm i am not sure, they seem dazed and unwilling to make that change..
Dominica will always be a bottom island, it’s just the nature of em citizens.
@Nac Vibes: The truth is this labor party people supporters can bring nothing substantial to intelligent debates and discussion because they are used to the gutter politics their leaders engage in. As a result whenever sound and novel ideas are brought to the discussion of governance and economic development prospects, they have no choice but to shamelessly stoop low and find petty arguments to oppose. Imagine that all one can say in opposition to great ideas and proposed alternatives is “yawn” or “I’m tired of promises”
I was reading intently,until i saw what i always suspected in the making,UWP regime,that word regime,dominica is a democracy brother,we do not need a regime, with that said,the story heading says duty free taxes on building materials,now show me which part of that written statement,that says anything about free taxes,mortgage is a burdensome condition,rental business in dominica,who you going to rent for,almost everybody in dominica,have their two by four,unless you all bringing in couple boatloads of refugees and giving them jobs,i am not seeing rentals working,as for land registration,tell the familly members,stop trying to kill one another for what their mothers and fathers live without no wills.
A pronise is a comfort to a fool
workeerrrrrzzzz, more organized than that lying lazy thieving government that there
They need to win 8 seats can they tell me the 8 seats they going to win? If they can do that they r the new government.
Alas I want to shake your big toe. I keep on saying that.. UWP tell me which 8 seats you taking from Labour, that is how you will be the Government of the day PERIOD. Until then, it is labour time again like it or not.
Some of us are just like confuse woman,who believe every promises they hear.
Well I don’t believe ANY PROMISE made by Skerrit or any other member of the lazy,CORRUPT, INCOMPETENT and GREEDY CABAL. I believe the promise made by Mr/Honourable Baptiste, because I have not known the gentleman to be an inviterate LIAR.
inveterate.
They are making promises where r they going to get the money,to pay for them promises? Them Guys r really hungy for jobs,power and money. Dominican be ready to go back when the country was in debt. They talking about the farmers,when they r the ones that kill the banana industry.wake up people do you want to go back to the nineties? Or move forward? It’s time to start drilling them guys how they going to move the country forward. I need to see a plan.
Mr. Linton, please slow down because UWP is giving too many good ideas at this time. Though you need to give hope to the many Dominicans that have lost hope thanks to Skerrit, the fact of the matter is, Skerrit is running with every idea you give and because he cannot implement anything he giving people the impression that it cannot work. Linton leads and Skerrit copies though he cannot work the maths.
This is a great idea to allow ppl to improve their homes. The arms and legs they charge for material in da is sick. Construction workers, architect, will have work nice move. I left da years ago n the house all look the same rundown way.
They are in promising phase. With the World in economic crisis someone tell me how are those “goodies” are going to materialise?
We will be back in business….LPO meeting LPO
we still wining labour party uwp take dat
all u can never win
Dominica is already heading in the right direction. We are to far ahead to turn back now. All those who want change will get coins…
You are already getting the coins at the Red Clinic. Honest Dominians want change, and it is not far.
Signs of a responsible government in waiting… looking forward to better governance with the new uwp team headed by lennox linton
Easy to say.(empty promises) u all know and must tell the poeple is the whole world that is expesive u all talks is just to get into power and thats bad.
We was there before u big doedoeand u all know we can do it.
shortboy first of all you dont know how to spell and secondly where are all the jobs Skerrit keep promising the people.500 there ,400 over there and yet still nothing cannot materialize .
According to Si Robertson “That’s what I’m talking about”. I am really starting to like these guys. They are coming across as a much better organized group than what they had before. They are now discussing serious policy issues and informingt the public of how thay can make people’s lives better.
Now let the debate begin.
And this is what the labourites cannot take in. Instead of cursing ranting and raving lets discuss and take on the issues that face us on a day to day basis. How Long…Not LONG…ready for elections to be called my household of 5 voted labour last elections not this time around
that is economic development for everybody and not some. i love that.
*Yawn*
Tired of hearing all these promises
Labour Party has given you more empty promises.
Then use your vote and make them reality, the UWP will deliver. I guess the thought of having to do some actual work for your daily bread makes you nervous.
I’m tired of hearing promises too. But don’t forget who has been in government for the last 14 years making these promises. The Labour administration has been in the position to fulfill promises and what we have is economic stagnation, low employment levels and a national debt of over 1 billion dollars- that means almost $15,000 for every man, woman and child btw. So if you are truly tired of empty promises, remind this govt who has the power (the people) and vote them out so they can go clean up their act in opposition. Let us see if the opposition’s methods can work and if it can’t we’ll vote them out too. If you want progress, you need to participate fully in the democratic process and that means holding regimes accountable for their promises.
You people never cease to amaze me.
For how many years now you all have been bashing the opposition about staying out of Parliament and how they they should be telling you of alternatives, now that they are putting up credible alternatives you are all running scared, funny how is now your thieving excuse for a government is running about like a headless chicken, still trying to hide their incompetence.
@Nac Vibes: The truth is this labor party supporters can bring nothing substantial to intelligent debates and discussion because they are used to the gutter politics their leaders engage in. As a result whenever sound and novel ideas are brought to the discussion of governance and economic development prospects, they have no choice but to shamelessly stoop low and find petty arguments to oppose. Imagine that all one can say in opposition to great ideas and proposed alternatives is “yawn” or “I’m tired of promises”
well said you can bring a cow to the river but u cant force it to drink
Ebeh look promises
i will be coming home to vote inother you guy dont ever see the white house! DLP all the way.
You like every qualified Dominican have a right to vote for whoever you want. But if you are a bit away from the reality of the massive, take your mind away from partisaness and feel the pain of the people who live in a cycle of poverty, dependancy. The few of us bold enough to desire fiscal independence and a better life demands change. Skerrit fixation with power and emulating Chavez and Castro must end now. You also have the right to be smart enough to get the facts and change your mind and your vote?
look people!!!! wooorrrrkkkkeeeerrrrsssssssss
dey trembling!!!
what a big joke!
