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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.”

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

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

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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.

United Nations Resident Coordinator, Simon Springett, has congratulated the Government and people of the Commonwealth of Dominica on the country’s accession to the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, as announced at the recent Universal Periodic Review dialogue in Geneva. On December 5, Dominica became the 175th state party to this core human rights treaty demonstrating a strong commitment to safeguarding the dignity and fundamental freedoms of all human beings. This Convention seeks to eradicate torture in all its forms and ensure justice and accountability for victims. In reflecting on this milestone, Mr. Springett noted: “Dominica’s decision to add this essential treaty to the various other international instruments it has ratified, is a clear demonstration of its unwavering dedication to human rights and the rule of law. This step reinforces the country’s commitment to ensuring access to justice and protection of the dignity of all human beings. Some Highlights of the Convention Against Torture  Prohibition of Torture: Establishes an absolute ban on torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment under all circumstances.  Accountability Measures: Requires states to investigate and prosecute acts of torture and to provide reparations to victims.  International Cooperation: Promotes collaboration between states to prevent and combat torture globally.  Prevention Mechanisms: Encourages measures such as training for law enforcement and judicial personnel to prevent the occurrence of torture. The Role of the UN in Supporting Implementation The UN system is fully committed to supporting the Government of Dominica in its efforts to implement the provisions of the Convention, and all other human rights instruments ratified by Dominica. Through technical assistance, training, and capacity-building initiatives, the United Nations will work closely with the Government, the justice system, civil society and others to ensure the treaty’s obligations are fully implemented in law, policy, and practice, and accountability is ensured. Additional Resources for Information Members of the press and the general public seeking further information on the UN Convention against Torture or the support provided by the UN system in Dominica can visit:  Human Rights Instrument: Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment  Committee against Torture (CAT)- the body of independent experts that monitors the implementation of the Convention

Dominica made a strong showing at the prestigious Hewanorra National Honey Show in St. Lucia, which took place after the 12th Caribbean Beekeepers Congress. The four-day Congress was a highly anticipated gathering for beekeepers from across the Caribbean to come together, network, and exchange knowledge and best practices. The Hewanorra National Honey Show is not only a platform for learning but also a competition where Caribbean nations compete for top honors in various categories, showcasing the finest in honey, beeswax products, and other value-added products. At this year’s show, Dominica's participants excelled in multiple categories, winning sixteen awards reinforcing the island’s reputation for high-quality bee products. Dominica entered into a wide range of categories and received multiple awards, demonstrating the island's diverse talent and expertise. Beekeepers from across the Caribbean islands participated in the show, including Antigua, Barbuda, St. Lucia, Dominica, Trinidad, Tobago, Guyana, Anguilla, St. Kitts, Nevis, Barbados, Montserrat, Grenada, Jamaica, British Virgin Islands, and St. Vincent & the Grenadines. Dominica’s exceptional performance at the show is highlighted by the following first-place awards: • Medium Amber Extracted Honey – 1st Prize (Nathaniel Lovell) • CARICOM Honey – 1st place (Nathaniel Lovell) – Best Honey in CARICOM • Mead – 1st Prize (Nathaniel Lovell) • Best in Show OECS – Nathaniel Lovell • Art (Adult) – 1st Prize (Carol Sorhaindo) In addition to these top honors, Dominica received awards in several other categories, showcasing the island’s wide-ranging excellence. The full list of additional awards is as follows: • Photography – 2nd Prize (Vernella Orlé) • Photography – 3rd Prize (Terri Henry-Lovell) • Best Commercial Product (Value Added Product) – 2nd Prize (Terri Henry-Lovell) • Beeswax Candles – 2nd Prize (Terri Henry-Lovell) • Inclusions with Chocolate – 2nd Prize (Alan Napier) • Light Amber Extracted Honey – 3rd Prize (Nathaniel Lovell) • Dark Amber Extracted Honey – 3rd Prize (Nathaniel Lovell) • Beeswax Block – 3rd Prize (Nathaniel Lovell) • Chocolate Bar (Dark) – 3rd Prize (Alan Napier) • Chocolate Bar (Milk) – 3rd Prize (Alan Napier) Additionally, Nathaniel Lovell also won the coveted UK National Honey Show Blue Ribbon Award for the best exhibit in the entire show, further solidifying Dominica's high ranking after their recent first place in the UK National Honey Show International Category for 2 matching jars. With awards spanning across honey, beeswax products, photography, art, and even chocolate, Dominica’s participants proved their expertise across categories, demonstrating the island’s commitment to excellence in beekeeping and product development. Competitions were also held in honey cocktail, honey cakes, and best commercial product (honey), and junior art. In 2023, participants won six awards at the Hewanorra Honey Show and with this recent landslide of sixteen awards, which was the most awards received by any one country, Dominica continues to improve and excel.

The Government of Dominica has approved the granting of concessions on Christmas barrels imported into Dominica for the period December 9, 2024 to January 10, 2025. A ‘barrel’ refers to non-commercial packages received in receptacles such as barrels, boxes, crates, packages and drums; and containing items for personal use only and not for commercial use. Eligible items shall be foodstuff with limited items of clothing, toiletries and toys. Barrels valued up to EC$1,500.00, will be exempt from Import Duty, Environmental Levy and Customs Service Charge and each household in Dominica is entitled to a maximum of two (2) barrels. A flat port charge of Ten Eastern Caribbean Dollars (EC$10.00) will be payable to the Dominica Air and Seaports Authority (DASPA) for charges related to handling and storing of the barrels, and the Value Added Tax (Vat) of 15 percent of the import value will be payable to the Comptroller of Customs.