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- Discover Dominica Authority Appoints Ayodele Andrew as Festivals and Events Manager
Discover Dominica Authority announces the appointment of Ayodele Andrew as its Festivals and Events Manager, effective December 18, 2024. With over two decades of experience in event management, tourism, and hospitality, Ayodele is well-equipped to enhance the island's major festivals and further establish Dominica as a top destination for cultural tourism. Ayodele Andrew holds a degree in Business Administration & Marketing from George Brown College, Toronto, Canada, and a diploma in Hospitality Business Management from the University of Derby, UK. She has been instrumental in organizing some of the Caribbean's most prestigious festivals, including the World Creole Music Festival, Mas Domnik, Antigua & Barbuda Carnival, and the St. Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival. Her expertise spans across hospitality, project management, and sustainable tourism, making her a natural fit for this role. In her new role, Ayodele will oversee the planning, execution, and marketing of Dominica's flagship events. Her leadership is expected to enhance the global visibility of these festivals, further strengthening the island's tourism industry and preserving its cultural heritage. "I am truly honored to take on this role at Discover Dominica Authority," said Ayodele Andrew. "Festivals and events are integral to Dominica's identity and tourism sector. I look forward to collaborating with our stakeholders to create memorable experiences that highlight our rich heritage and solidify Dominica as a leading destination for cultural tourism." Benoit Bardouille, Chairman of Discover Dominica Authority, commented: "Ayodele's extensive experience and deep passion for tourism make her the ideal fit for this role. Her leadership will contribute to the continued success of our festivals, enhancing Dominica's presence on the global stage and strengthening the island's tourism sector." Ayodele's appointment comes at an exciting time as Discover Dominica Authority prepares for a dynamic year of events, including the highly anticipated Mas Domnik. Under her guidance, the Authority aims to attract visitors and support local talent through innovative programming and sustainable practices.
- Do It Center Dominica Expands with the Opening of Do It Center Express
Do It Center proudly announces the opening of its new retail location, Do It Center Express, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to serving Dominicans with quality home improvement solutions. Conveniently located on Cork Street in Roseau, Do It Center Express combines the accessibility of a city-center location with the trusted quality, variety, and service that customers have come to rely on. Completed in just six months, this new store location has created 16 jobs, further contributing to the local economy. “We are thrilled to open this new location,” said Evadney Esprit, General Manager of Do It Center. “Our mission has always been to provide customers with a wide selection of quality products at great prices, supported by a friendly and knowledgeable team. This new location will allow us to enhance that mission and bring even more value to our customers in Roseau and island wide.” Do It Center Express is designed to make shopping more accessible and convenient, catering to customers in the city with quick access to essential home improvement products. The expansion reflects Do It Center’s dedication to continuously innovating and growing to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
- Dominica Celebrates International Migrants Day 2024 with IMD Mixer
The International Organization for Migration (IOM)- Dominica marked International Migrants Day (IMD) 2024 with an inspiring and dynamic event under the theme “Every Step.” Held at the Fort Young Hotel, the IMD Mixer brought together government representatives, stakeholders, migrants, and civil society to celebrate the contributions of migrants to Dominica and strengthen collaborative efforts in migration management. The event commenced with opening remarks by Sherma Oscar, Financial Assistant at IOM Dominica, who welcomed the distinguished guests and highlighted the importance of recognizing and supporting migrants’ journeys. She underscored the event’s theme, noting that every step migrants take enriches the social, economic, and cultural fabric of Dominica. Head of Office Natasha Greaves delivered a compelling address, reflecting on the strides Dominica has made in migration management. According to Greaves, “our collective responsibility is to ensure that these steps are taken safely and on regular pathways. Migration should never be a perilous journey but a beacon of hope. By fostering safe migration, we unlock the immense potential that migrants bring, fueling sustainable development and enriching societies.” IOM Dominica launched its first magazine “Routes and Roots” that captures the essence of the organization’s work on the island, while amplifying the voices of migrants who have made Dominica their home. “This publication celebrates their journeys, their contributions, and the steps we are taking together to build a more inclusive society—one where diversity is celebrated, and human rights are upheld,” said Natasha. The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, Ms. Jo-Ann Commodore shared a message highlighting the importance of the projects that IOM Dominica has collaborated on with the ministry over the past two years: “A capacity building management programme was implemented by IOM which focuses on developing institutional capacity, human capacity and operational capacity. The trainings provided, paid special attention to the treatment of women, unaccompanied children and victims of human trafficking. “ Mrs. Gloria Joseph, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Labour, in an impactful address spoke on the importance of treating migrants like they are Dominicans. She also shared pertinent information on the rights and responsibilities of migrants, urging Dominicans to consider their families who may also be migrants in other countries. “I implore you, be very considerate of the foreign nationals in Dominica, and when once they have gotten their status, they are no longer foreign nationals. We are there. They are us,” Joseph remarked. Both ministries expressed gratitude for IOM’s support in capacity-building initiatives and reaffirmed their commitment to addressing migration challenges. A symbolic handover of equipment and communication materials to key ministries served as a tangible representation of IOM’s support in enhancing migration management capabilities. The materials will aid in data collection, public awareness, and strengthening inter-agency communication—all critical components for informed policymaking and service delivery. Attendees participated in the “Migration Matters Mixer,” an interactive session that fostered dialogue, networking, and shared reflections on the importance of migration to Dominica’s future. Migrants present, some of whom came to Dominica by way of Haiti, Nigeria and Cuba shared their various journeys to Dominica, the warmth of the people and the opportunities they received through regular migration pathways. The mixer was followed by an electrifying cultural performance by Afrobeat artist and Cameroon migrant, Marie Pascal Affana, whose music brought the evening to life and celebrated the vibrant diversity migrants bring to the island. The event concluded with closing remarks by IOM Dominica Project Coordinator Vynliz Dailey. She expressed her gratitude to all participants, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration. “Let us carry forward the lessons we have learned and the inspiration we have drawn from the incredible strength of migrants. Let us commit to fostering inclusion, embracing diversity, and building bridges that connect us all,” Dailey said.
- IOM Dominica Commemorates International Migrants Day with IMD Mixer, Launch of Routes and Roots Magazine, and Highlights Key Partnerships
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Dominica is proud to join the global community in celebrating International Migrants Day (IMD) on December 18, 2024, under the theme “Every Step." This year’s theme underscores the importance of safe and regular migration pathways, challenging the negative narratives surrounding migration and celebrating migrants while fostering inclusive policies that benefit individuals and communities alike. In commemoration of this day, IOM Dominica will host an IMD Mixer, a networking event bringing together government officials, private sector stakeholders, and civil society partners. The event, to be held at the Fort Young Hotel, will provide a platform for dialogue on migration governance and celebrate the achievements of Dominica in enhancing its capacity to manage labour migration effectively. Natasha Greaves, Head of Office for IOM Dominica, expressed pride in the organization’s partnerships and the progress made in migration governance: “International Migrants Day is a time to celebrate the contributions of migrants and to reaffirm our commitment to their rights and inclusion. I am especially proud of the strong partnerships and collaborations IOM Dominica has fostered with government ministries, local organizations, and international allies. These partnerships have been instrumental in driving impactful change and strengthening Dominica’s migration systems. On December 18 we will launch our first magazine, Routes and Roots which details the incredible partnerships we’ve built and the meaningful stories of resilience we have captured and communities and people that inspire our work. IOM Dominica remains committed to strengthening migration systems that benefit everyone.” Dominica recently demonstrated its commitment to strengthening labour migration management with the successful completion of a three-day workshop titled Building Capacity for Effective Labour Migration Management and a two-day Essentials of Migration Data Training (EMDT). Organized by IOM, both events brought together representatives from key government ministries and departments; Building Capacity for Effective Labour Migration Management equipped them with tools and knowledge to enhance policymaking, address challenges such as discrimination and xenophobia, improve migrant integration, while EMDT provided an understanding of the key concepts in migration data and statistics, inform about potential strategies for obtaining data and how to identify the strengths and limitations of available data at the different stages of the data life cycle from data planning, to collection, to management, to analysis, and finally, dissemination. “The recent workshop and training exemplify the power of collaboration in addressing migration challenges and seizing opportunities for growth,” noted Ms. Greaves. “By working together, we are building stronger systems and ensuring that migration contributes positively to Dominica’s development.” Both events focused on aligning national practices with international standards while addressing regional dynamics. Participants explored strategies to make migration processes more inclusive and efficient, receiving insights into data-driven decision-making, policy formulation, and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration. The IMD Mixer will continue to build on these achievements by providing a space for dialogue, reflection, and forward planning. The event will celebrate the partnerships that have strengthened migration management in Dominica and showcase IOM’s ongoing commitment to promoting safe and orderly migration. “As we commemorate International Migrants Day today, we extend our gratitude to all our partners who have supported our initiatives throughout the year,” added Ms. Greaves. “Together, we are creating a future where migration is celebrated as a driver of development and inclusion - one step at a time.”
- Deep Connections, Deeper Risks (Part 1): As if the Climate Crisis Wasn't Enough, Greedy Mining Companies Want to Plunder the Ocean
By: Chalsey Gill Anthony, Environmental Communicator and Advocate, Belize Vampire squid, yeti crab, gummy squirrel sea cucumber, and glass sponges sound like characters from a storybook. But these bizarre and beautiful creatures are real; thriving in the dark, cold depths of the ocean. This underwater wonderland now faces a threat from mining corporations that want to strip the seabed of its rich minerals for profit, leaving destruction behind. The deep sea regulates the planet’s temperature, stores vast amounts of carbon dioxide, and generates oxygen. It’s also a biodiversity hotspot, home to species found nowhere else. Yet, we know so little about it. Scientists estimate we’ve explored more of the moon’s surface than the deep sea. Every dive reveals something new—a previously undiscovered species, a unique ecosystem, or even life-saving medicines. To mine the deep sea without understanding it is like tearing pages from a book we’ve barely started reading. The Cost of Greed Imagine a bulldozer tearing through a rainforest, uprooting ancient trees, and destroying countless wildlife, often unique to that ecosystem. Essentially, deep-sea mining is like vacuuming the sea floor, except the damage happens on a far greater scale and with even more devastating consequences. Deep sea mining isn’t just risky; it’s reckless. Mining companies want to extract valuable minerals from polymetallic nodules, crust, seamounts, and hydrothermal vents—rich in metals like nickel, cobalt, and manganese. As these giant machines scrape the ocean floor, they unleash toxic plumes—clouds of sediment that suffocate marine life and spread far beyond the mining zone. Noise pollution from their operations disrupts whales, dolphins, and other animals that rely on sound to navigate. Coral gardens, hydrothermal vents, and sponge fields—some of the most biodiverse areas on the planet—could be wiped out in days. The Caribbean Connection These corporations are targeting the Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), a biodiversity hotspot in the Pacific Ocean. Stretching between Hawaii and Mexico, it holds enormous fields of rock-like formations—polymetallic nodules. To them, these nodules are dollar signs. To marine life, the estimated 21 billion tons of polymetallic nodules, they’re home. You might think, "What does this have to do with Belize or even the Caribbean region?" Everything. Our ocean knows no borders. The clouds of sediment won’t stay confined to the areas being mined, they can travel thousands of kilometers, affecting fisheries and coral reefs. Noise pollution will disrupt migratory species vital to Belize and the Caribbean's marine ecosystems and tourism industry. Take Peggy, for example—a female loggerhead turtle equipped with a MarAlliance satellite tag. Since leaving Belize in March 2024, Peggy has traveled thousands of kilometers to the waters of Mexico, the United States, and the Bahamas. This journey proves just how interconnected our ocean is. For creatures like Peggy, these disruptions can mean life or death. And it’s not just about species. It’s about people. Fishermen, tour operators, and coastal families who depend on the ocean will bear the brunt of decisions made far away. From fishing to diving tourism, our livelihoods are tied to the sea. Like Belize, the Caribbean’s economy depends on a healthy ocean. So, deep sea mining poses a huge threat to our way of life because the impacts can ripple across borders. In addition to affecting the livelihoods of many that depend on the sea, it will also impact the economy and ecosystems, globally. The Bigger Picture Let’s not forget that we are trying to save our planet from the ‘triple planetary crisis’—the interconnected challenges of biodiversity loss, pollution, and climate change. As if these challenges weren’t already enough, deep sea mining could make us even more vulnerable. The deep sea is a critical carbon sink, absorbing greenhouse gases that would otherwise speed up and increase climate change. Disturbing this balance risks releasing stored carbon, making the climate crisis even more severe. The mining industry argues that we need these metals for green technologies like batteries and renewable energy. What makes this even more frustrating is that the greed driving deep sea mining is entirely unnecessary. The truth is, we don’t need to destroy the deep sea for a sustainable future. Alternatives like improved recycling of existing metals and the development of sustainable technologies can meet our needs without ripping apart the seabed. A Call to Protect the Deep Belize and the Caribbean cannot afford to ignore the risks of deep sea mining. The ocean connects us all, and its destruction will ripple across nations. We must join the fight to #DefendTheDeep and call for a precautionary approach until we understand its full impact and have safeguards in place to protect our planet’s most precious resource. By raising awareness, advocating for strong regulations, and supporting sustainable alternatives, we can protect the ocean and ensure a healthy planet for future generations. PHOTO CAPTIONS Saltwater Cave is located just north of South Water Caye in Belize. Photo Credit: Above And Below — By Andres Fletes Giant mining machines used to mine the deep sea. Photo Credit: Sustainable Ocean Alliance Peggy, a female loggerhead turtle tagged by MarAlliance. Photo Credit: MarAlliance Spotted drum: Photo Credit: Above And Below — By Andres Fletes
- In Recognition of our Mini-Bus Drivers
I wish to commend the minibus drivers of our country. Has anyone stopped to think how valuable our minibus drivers are to those who rely on public transportation or those who require the bus service for short term? Minibus drivers are multitaskers. They ply their routes regularly - picking up and dropping off passengers, assisting the elderly and others, receiving money and giving change, remembering their passengers drop off points, combatting traffic, challenging roads, elevated fuel prices, parts, service, maintenance, increased insurance premiums etc, etc, etc... Special mention to those driving manual (stick) shift - Bravo! Recently, I've become a public transport user or 'Hire 11' as we would say in days gone by, and I am in awe of our minibus drivers. In my view, public transportation is an option rather than driving to and from Roseau! To the minibus drivers of the Canefield Route - Cress Jr, Turbo, Legit, Seraphine, David (x2), the minibus driver who explained to me the bus fare, the minibus driver with the gospel music (needed it that day!) and the minibus driver from the Grand Fond Route, I sayTHANK YOU! I also wish to acknowledge my fellow passengers. Minibus drivers are our unsung heroes! Let's acknowledge their vital role in our society. And finally a note to the Traffic and Licensing Department - Bus Route Banners on Minibuses would be welcomed... Thank you! Nancy NASSIEF CAUDEIRON
- 2024 Christmas Message from Most Reverend Kendrick J. Forbes, Bishop of Roseau
Beloved in Christ, The Christmas season provides me with the opportunity to extend heartfelt good wishes to all. I pray that this season will bring the blessing of peace to your hearts and homes. The first reading at Christmas Mass at night is invariably taken from the Prophet Isaiah. The Prophet proclaims, “The people who walk in darkness have seen a great light; upon those who dwell in the land of gloom a light has shone. … For a child is born to us, a son is given us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name him Wonder-Counselor, God-Hero, Father-Forever, Prince of Peace.”(Isaiah 9:1,5) This is the message of Christmas! The joyful, hopeful message that God is with us! Isaiah says, “A child is born for us.” Christmas is about the invisible God becoming visible. The divine becoming human. The message of Christmas is relayed beautifully in the Carol, “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.” One verse in particular gives voice to the true meaning of Christmas, “Veiled in flesh, the Godhead see; Hail the incarnate Deity. Please as man with man to dwell, Jesus our Emmanuel.” Christmas is about the Eternal Word of God, the Only Son of God, assuming our human nature. He came speaking the language of self-giving love. He came to reveal to us that God is love. He came to show us the way of love, the way of truth, the way of life. When God entered our world clothed in human flesh, that humble act said something profound about the human person; that wounded by sin though we may be, imperfect though we are, in God’s eye we are GOOD, and we are LOVED. Christmas proclaims the awesome truth that the human person is loved by God to such a degree that the Infinite One would lower himself to invite us back into communion with him. Christmas is first and foremost about love. God’s love for us. The amazing love of God calls us to neighborly concern, generosity and unselfish love. The love we are meant to share is to reflect the love God has for us. This time of year can be joyous for some and a struggle for others. There is the joy of gathering with family and friends. But the season can be a struggle for those who are alone, who have lost loved ones, those who go without the basic necessities of life. I encourage us to show God’s love and peace to all, most especially to those for whom the joy of Christmas is elusive. Dear brothers and sisters, it is my fervent prayer that you will have a blessed and wonderful Christmas, and that each and every one will know the truth that God is not distant and that Jesus Christ is born for our good and the salvation of the whole world. May the Lord’s peace be upon us. May you have Blessed Christmas, filled with peace, joy and love. As pilgrims of hope let us journey together throughout the JubileeNew Year 2025.
- Spotlighting Resilience and Talent: Student Athlete Focus Newsletter Launches Issue 2
Student Athlete Focus Newsletter, a publication dedicated to shining a light on the achievements and stories of Dominican student-athletes, proudly announces the release of its second issue. This issue's cover story features Treneese Hamilton, an inspiring young athlete whose dedication and resilience have marked her journey to becoming a rising star in sports. Her journey showcases the spirit of determination and pride, symbolized by her holding the Dominica flag high. Inside This Edition: Club Feature: Spotlight on WE United FC, a key contributor to Dominica’s thriving football culture. Local Spotlight: Highlighting student-athletes such as Dhamario Challenger (Football) and Kenya John (Netball/Football), who continue to excel in their respective sports. Regional & International Stars: o Amiah Gilbert (Cricket) o Mosiah Bonney (Football) o Mervin Mingo (Volleyball) o Kesean Shillingford (Basketball) o Stephan Pascal (Cricket) This issue underscores the importance of recognizing local and regional student-athletes who balance academics, sports, and personal development. It also highlights their contributions to uplifting the profile of Dominica on the sporting stage.
- Dominica Invites You to Mas Domnik 2025: The Real Mas
Dominica invitesthe world to Mas Domnik 2025: The Real Mas from January 18 to March 5, 2025 , with the main events taking place on March 3 and 4. Next year's celebration promises to be the most exciting yet, showcasing an authentic cultural experience that highlights Dominica's rich history, music and community spirit in a safe atmosphere. Mas Domnik is notably one of the oldest carnivals in the Caribbean, dating back to the 1700s. It has deep historical roots in the masquerade traditions originating from formerly enslaved Africans. Over time, it has evolved into a vibrant festival that blends African, French, Kalinago and European influences. Mas Domnik stands out as one of the Caribbean's most authentic carnivals, featuring lively music, dance, elaborate costumes and street parades. This celebration of freedom and cultural pride unites communities in joyous festivities. Key Events Include: • Opening of Carnival : January 18, 2025 • Miss Dominica Pageant : February 27, 2025 • Sunrise : February 28, 2025 • Carnival Monday : March 3, 2025 • Carnival Tuesday : March 4, 2025 • Téwé Vaval : March 5, 2025 In addition to these main events, over 40 fringe events will take place beginning January 7, offering visitors a dynamic experience of Dominica’s festivities. Traveling to Dominica for Mas Domnik is easy and convenient.Multiple airlines connect the island to major hubs in the Caribbean, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Key airlines include LIAT 2020, Sunrise Airways, Caribbean Airlines , WINAIR and InterCaribbean Airways. Ferries like RFS L'Express des Îles provide convenient connections to neighboring islands. For international travel, American Airlines and United Airlines are key carriers from the United States. Early booking is recommended for the best travel options.
- Bleu Magic Rum Partners with Caribbean Superstar Mr. Ridge
Roseau, Monday 16th December, 2024- Bleu Magic Rum, Dominica’s first premium rum, is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with award-winning Bouyon artist Mr. Ridge, marking a pivotal moment in its journey to redefine the global rum scene. Together, Bleu Magic and Ridge will bring a bold, rebellious energy to rum enthusiasts worldwide, celebrating the vibrant culture and spirit of the Nature Island. Bleu Magic, represents a new era for Caribbean rum. Inspired by the Maroons of Dominica—famed for their resilience and defiance against slavery—the rum embodies a "spirit of rebellion" rooted in history yet designed for modern tastes. As a Black-owned brand in an industry dominated by titans with little connection to the Caribbean region, save for its complex colonial past, Bleu Magic stands apart as an authentic export of Dominican heritage and craftsmanship. Enter Mr. Ridge, Caribbean Bouyon Artist of the Year and a cultural trailblazer who has taken Dominica's unique Bouyon music to the world stage. Known for his infectious beats and boundary-pushing lyrics, Ridge disrupted the Caribbean music space in 2018 when he made his debut as an artist and has since then, captivated audiences from Dominica to Europe and beyond, making him the perfect ambassador for Bleu Magic. “I think Bleu Magic and Ridge is a great partnership because we share a similar mission: to conquer the world and promote Dominica fully,” says Ridge. “It’s exciting to represent a locally-based product with such international appeal.” Fresh off his Caribbean Music Award win in August 2024, Ridge’s influence continues to rise as he introduces Bouyon to new audiences globally. His role as Bleu Magic’s ambassador reflects the brand's strategy to represent culturally making a Rum that appeals to a younger, dynamic adult demographic who value authenticity, quality, and cultural connection. Rum production in the Caribbean is inextricably linked to the region’s colonial past and the transatlantic slave trade. The inspiration for Bleu Magic lies in the legacy of Dominica’s Maroons—enslaved Africans who escaped plantations and resisted oppression, carving out lives of freedom in the island’s rugged mountains. Crafted at the Belfast Estate, where rum-making has flourished since the late 1800s, Bleu Magic honors this tradition while forging a bold new path. Its sleek branding, premium quality, and cultural connection aim to shift old perceptions of rum. “We wanted to create a rum that captures the essence of Dominica—its wild beauty, its rebellious spirit, and its rich history,” says Elroy Harrow, brand manager for Bleu Magic. “With Ridge as our ambassador, we’re showing the world what the Caribbean has to offer—a premium, authentic product with global appeal.” Bleu Magic’s collaboration with Ridge highlights its ambition to take Dominica’s rum industry to new heights. The partnership was launched during Dominica’s Independence celebrations, where the rum made a splash with VIP attendees at the World Creole Music Festival – the largest music event for the Season which attracts Dominicans in the Diaspora as well as Regional tastemakers. “Bleu Magic is one of Dominica’s best-kept secrets,” says Harrow. “But not for long. We’re ready to introduce the world to a premium rum that reflects the soul of our island—bold, authentic, and unapologetically rebellious.” Bleu Magic Rum is more than a drink—it’s an experience that blends history, culture, and craftsmanship into every bottle. Discover the spirit of rebellion and join the movement as Bleu Magic brings Dominica to the world. OnTarget Comm
- DAEC Holds Annual General Meeting: New Executive Board Elected for 2024
On Saturday, December 7th, 2024, the Dominica Association of Evangelical Churches (DAEC) had its Annual General Meeting (AGM). A cross-section of pastors and evangelical leaders was present at this much- anticipated meeting. At this year’s AGM, some pertinent topics and issues were discussed and notes were made to inform future plans by the executive of the association. Also at this AGM, elections took place for the positions of president and vice president and we are pleased to announce the election results. The executive of the DAEC now comprises of the following: President - Rev. Matthew Auguiste Vice President - Pastor Dr. Robertson Thomas Secretary - Rev. Mrs. Jennifer C. Valerie Treasurer - Minister Avril Junkere Assistant Secretary/Treasurer - Rev. Dontae Adams Members: • Apostle Joseph Benjamin • Rev. Casmus John We look forward to continuing to work with all of our evangelical partners going forward.
- PARLIAMENT TO CONVENE ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2024
The Second Meeting of the Second Session of the Eleventh Parliament will be held at the House of Assembly on Monday, December 16, 2024. Prime Minister, Honourable Roosevelt Skerrit will present a Bill for an Act to make provisions for the effective operation of the Electoral Commission; a Bill for an Act to make provisions for the election of members to the House of Assembly, and a Bill for an Act to make new provisions for the registration of electors. The bills will be presented for the first reading ONLY. The Honourable Dr. Irving McIntyre, Minister for Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience and Social Security will seek approval for Supplementary Estimates of Expenditure for the financial year ending June 30, 2024. The Honourable Cassanni Laville, the Minister for Health, Wellness and Social Services will introduce a Bill for an Act to establish a Pharmacy Council to provide for the regulation of pharmacists and pharmacies and to regulate the supply of drugs to the public; as well as a Bill for an Act to establish the Medical Laboratories Council to provide for the licensing, monitoring and inspection of the operations of a Medical Laboratory. Government will also seek parliamentary approval for a bank guarantee to secure the commitments made in the Air Service Agreement between the Discover Dominica Authority and United Airlines Inc; as well as authorization of an additional credit facility from the International Development Association (IDA) to fund the completion of the East Coast Road from Bois Diable to Hatton Garden via Castle Bruce and the Kalinago Territory. The funds will meet the additional cost of rehabilitation due to remedial works required as a result of change in site conditions since the completion of the original designs and to increase the resilience of the section of the road. Other matters on the Order Paper include the Money Laundering (Prevention) (Amendment) Bill 2024, Proceeds of Crime (Amendment) Bill 2024, Investment Funds Bill 2024, Dominica Hospitals Authority (Amendment) Bill 2024, Eastern Caribbean Securities Regulatory Commission Agreement 2024 and Securities Bill 2024.












