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Registration has opened for the Dominica Economic Revival Summit 2024, being spearheaded by the United Workers Party (UWP) and Electoral Reform Coalition (ERC). An Awards Dinner and Opening Ceremony on June 4 at 7 p.m. will be hosted as a precursor to the two-day summit. Nine entrepreneurs will be awarded in various categories for their economic contribution and entrepreneurial success. Mr. Phillip Nassief- a pioneer in the manufacturing and tourism sectors- will receive a posthumous Lifetime Achievement Award. The evening’s keynote speaker is Mr. Darwin Telemacque, who is the Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority. The dress code is formal. Tickets can be purchased online or at the party’s office at 6 River Street, Roseau at a cost of EC$250.00 or US$95. The summit follows on June 5-6. Sessions on day one will focus on Agriculture, Tourism, and Manufacturing & Construction. Day two sessions will focus on Knowledge & Blue Economy, Sports, Music, Entertainment & Culture and Renewable Energy. A plenary session will culminate each day, in which participants are expected to review outcomes. The Dominica Economic Revival Summit will bring stakeholders together to develop strategies for the country’s economic advancement. The Jungle Bay Resort and Spa in Morne Acouma, Soufriere is the venue for both events. Individuals and organisations are encouraged to register by Friday, May 24th, 2024, due to limited space. Participants can register through this website https://www.da-econsummit.com/. The full schedule can be accessed here https://www.da-econsummit.com/workshop. For more information about the summit, please contact the Secretariat at daeconsummit@gmail.com/ Telephone: 1767-265-0928/Whatsapp: 1767-617-6482.

Former member of the United Workers Party (UWP), Attorney Joshua Francis, along with Parliamentary Representative for the Marigot Constituency, Anthony Charles, have publicly announced their affiliation with the recently established political entity, the United Progressive Party (UPP). Francis says that during the new party’s Delegates Conference, a leader will be elected. He underscored the UPP’s primary objective of advancing Dominica's development. Furthermore, Francis emphasized the party’s commitment to serving all Dominicans, including those residing abroad. Regarding his UWP membership, he confirmed his resignation, and expressed willingness to provide a written resignation if requested by the UWP executive committee. Meantime, Anthony Charles, has also confirmed his decision to help in forming the UPP. Recent PRESS RELEASE The United Progressive Party (UPP), birthed in response to a dire need for a viable change relating to the governance of the Commonwealth of Dominica, is delighted to announce ’its entry onto the political and social landscape of this island nation. The compelling need for the revitalization of our economy, the chronic deprivation of growth opportunities in both the private and public sectors, and the lack of access to proper healthcare by the general populace to name a few are all indicative of the need for urgent and immediate change. Through the emergence of the United Progressive Party, the electorate is being provided with a credible alternative to the existing political parties. It is indeed both a contemplative and exciting moment for all of us that the UPP has achieved “its full recognition, having been accorded national party status by the Chief Election Officer of Dominica on May 8, 2024. However, it is not just an achievement for UPP but also for the people of Dominica at large as we now seek to develop, build, and grow a strong and caring relationship with every Dominican. The founding members of this party have been very concerned about every aspect of life in Dominica, and are eager to gain the confidence and support of the nation as we strive to address and reverse the factors that have contributed to our nation’s overall decline, build on the positives and structure a new pathway to make Dominica the true Nature Island of the world where “its people will prosper in a most peaceful, responsible and thriving economic and social environment. We are grateful for the efforts of past and current administrations, including the opposition parties, in the development of our country, and will cooperate where necessary with all stakeholders as we leverage the support of all to forge a new and progressive direction under the banner of this trailblazing and innovative party, the United Progressive Party. Of note, the symbol of the UPP is the “bottle” with orange being “its official color. Its motto is “United for Progress”. Further information and an update on developments about this new party will be announced at our first Press Event scheduled for June 10, 2024.

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection, continues to be a significant public health concern in many parts of the world. In response to this growing threat, various countries have established initiatives to raise awareness and combat the spread of the disease. One such initiative is the observance of National Dengue Day, a day dedicated to educating the public about dengue prevention and control measures. What is Dengue Fever? Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted to humans primarily through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. These mosquitoes are widespread in tropical and subtropical regions, making dengue a major health issue in many parts of the world, including Southeast Asia, the Americas, and Africa. The symptoms of dengue fever can range from mild to severe and may include high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain, rash, and mild bleeding. In severe cases, dengue can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which can be life-threatening without prompt medical intervention. The Importance of National Dengue Day National Dengue Day serves as a platform to raise awareness about the prevention and control of dengue fever. It provides an opportunity for governments, healthcare professionals, non-governmental organizations, and communities to come together and take concerted action against the disease. Through educational campaigns, public health initiatives, and community outreach programs, National Dengue Day aims to: Educate the Public: One of the primary objectives of National Dengue Day is to educate the public about the signs and symptoms of dengue fever, as well as the importance of early detection and treatment. By raising awareness, individuals are better equipped to protect themselves and their families from the disease. Promote Prevention Measures: Prevention is key to reducing the transmission of dengue virus. National Dengue Day emphasizes the importance of measures such as eliminating mosquito breeding sites, using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and installing mosquito nets or screens to prevent mosquito bites. Encourage Community Engagement: National Dengue Day encourages communities to take an active role in dengue prevention and control efforts. This may include initiatives such as clean-up campaigns to remove stagnant water sources where mosquitoes breed, organizing educational workshops, and promoting community-based surveillance systems to monitor dengue activity. Advocate for Policy Change: National Dengue Day also provides an opportunity to advocate for policy changes and increased government funding for dengue control programs. By mobilizing public support and raising awareness among policymakers, efforts to combat dengue can be strengthened at the national and local levels. Taking Action Against Dengue As we observe National Dengue Day, it is essential to recognize that dengue fever is a preventable and controllable disease. By adopting simple yet effective measures, individuals and communities can contribute to reducing the burden of dengue and protecting public health. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself and your community from dengue fever: Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites: Regularly empty containers that collect water, such as flower pots, buckets, and discarded tires, to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Use Insect Repellents: Apply insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing, especially during peak mosquito activity times. Wear Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and shoes when outdoors, particularly in areas where dengue is endemic. Install Mosquito Screens: Use mosquito nets or screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering living spaces. Seek Medical Attention: If you develop symptoms of dengue fever, such as fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, or rash, seek medical attention promptly for evaluation and treatment. By working together and implementing comprehensive dengue prevention and control strategies, we can mitigate the impact of this disease and create healthier, safer communities for all. Let us use National Dengue Day as a catalyst for action and a reminder of the importance of protecting ourselves and our loved ones from the threat of dengue fever.

Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) is pleased to announce that the 2024 Tourism Service Excellence Awards nominations are now open. These awards aim to acknowledge and celebrate the relentless commitment and outstanding contributions of individuals, companies, and organizations within the tourism sector in Dominica. The 2024 Tourism Service Excellence Awards will honor outstanding contributions in the following categories: • Accommodation of the Year • Tour Operator of the Year • Tour Guide of the Year • Tourism Vendor of the Year • Tourism Taxi Service Provider of the Year • Community Tourism Development • Sustainable Development To ensure high standards of excellence across the board, only providers certified by the Nature Island Standards of Excellence (NISE) will be eligible for nominations. The DDA encourages the public, tourism stakeholders, and patrons of Dominica’s tourism industry to nominate their peers, colleagues, or even themselves for their contributions to the elevation of the island’s tourism sector. Nominations can be submitted through DDA’s online portal at www.discoverdominica.com. The deadline for nominations is set for Friday, May 17, 2024. The Discover Dominica Authority is committed to fostering a culture of appreciation and recognition within Dominica’s tourism industry, and these awards serve as an integral part of that mission. By celebrating the exceptional efforts of those who go above and beyond to advance tourism in Dominica, the Authority aims to inspire continued excellence and innovation in this vital sector. For more information on the nomination process, award categories, and eligibility criteria, please email tourism@dominica.dm or call 767-255-8221.

Roland Royer, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy of Dominica, and Didacus Jules, Director General of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), met with the Director General of the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), Manuel Otero, to discuss joint actions designed to promote climate resilience in agrifood systems across the Caribbean countries. During a visit to IICA Headquarters in Costa Rica, they highlighted the urgent need to institute adaptable agricultural systems in the Caribbean capable of thriving despite constantly evolving climate challenges. They emphasized the importance of technological innovation, the inclusion of young people in agricultural production, and the formulation of sound trade policies to support food self-sufficiency. Minister Royer shared Dominica’s experience and underscored the need to use natural resources more sustainably to ensure food security and improve agricultural production in his country. He also highlighted his nation’s continuing efforts to promote economic and agricultural resilience, particularly in the wake of devastating natural disasters. The OECS Director General emphasized the need to find solutions to guarantee food security in the region. He stressed the importance of developing a strategy aimed at promoting self-sufficiency and reducing dependence on external supply chains. Dominica’s Minister of Agriculture and the OECS Director General  pointed up the collaborative efforts with IICA as an essential tool for addressing food security challenges in the Caribbean region. IICA Director General Manuel Otero pledged to continue working closely with the countries concerned to promote agricultural innovation and climate resilience.

Republic Bank Barbados is preparing to welcome its inaugural female Managing Director come July 4. Anthony Clerk, with 42 years of service within the Republic Bank Group and serving as Managing Director since 2017, will retire. Stepping into his shoes is Carlene Seudat, a seasoned banker boasting over two decades of experience in Risk Management and Corporate Banking. Clerk's tenure saw the initiation of various impactful projects, including the Bank's journey towards Digital Transformation and Sustainable Development. He oversaw the conversion of the Bank's Core Banking System and played a pivotal role in fostering Renewable Energy Products, including financing Barbados' inaugural Wind Farm. Additionally, he facilitated financing for affordable housing initiatives and bolstered the Bank's corporate portfolio. Seudat, currently serving as General Manager of the Shared Services Division at Republic Financial Holdings Group since 2020, brings with her a wealth of expertise. Her extensive managerial experience at Scotiabank, including roles such as Vice President of International Operations and General Manager of Risk Management, positions her well for her new role.

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has disclosed a notable rise in dengue fever cases throughout the Caribbean amidst the observance of Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week 2024. PAHO data reveals that this year has seen over 6.5 million cases of dengue fever across the Americas, tripling the figures from the same period in 2023. In the English, Dutch, and French-speaking Caribbean alone, over 25,000 cases have been documented, exceeding half of last year's total. PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa has cautioned about the lethal consequences of undiagnosed and untreated dengue, expressing concern over the region's alarming spike in cases. Dr. Barbosa emphasized the importance of Mosquito Awareness Week, running from May 6 to 12, in rallying collective efforts to eradicate breeding grounds, halt disease transmission, and safeguard communities, particularly ahead of and during the rainy season. The Aedes aegypti mosquito, responsible for transmitting dengue, chikungunya, and Zika, thrives in and around households, breeding in stagnant water-filled containers. These diseases, characterized by fever, joint pain, skin rashes, and in severe cases, fatality, pose significant health risks. Contributing factors to the mosquito's proliferation include rising temperatures, improper waste disposal, water-retaining containers, and weather anomalies. PAHO advocates for active participation in Caribbean Mosquito Awareness Week 2024, viewing it as an opportunity to coordinate, educate, and engage in cleanup initiatives.

Thomas Letang, the General Secretary of the Public Service Union (DPSU), expressed concerns regarding the contemporary challenges facing the union during his address at the 12th Biennial Delegates Conference. He emphasized ongoing issues within public service employment, highlighting the politicization of the system and its adverse effects on various aspects, such as recommendations for acting permanent employment. He criticized the practice of replacing qualified public officers with less experienced individuals and raised concerns about prolonged acting appointments without official appointments. Letang reiterated the union's stance as independent from political affiliations, focusing on issue advocacy and opposition when necessary. Additionally, he highlighted instances where individuals are unaware of their employment rights, stressing the importance of understanding and asserting these rights. President Steve Joseph echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need for union members to educate themselves about their rights and actively advocate for them. He underscored the role of unions in protecting workers' rights and promoting balance in society.

A newly recognized political party has emerged in the Commonwealth of Dominica, as confirmed by a letter from the Chief Elections Officer, Ian Michael Anthony. The United Progressive Party (UPP) has officially gained recognition, effective May 8, 2024, under Regulation 4(2) of the House of Assembly (Elections) Regulations. In accordance with this recognition, the UPP has been assigned the symbol of a Bottle. This symbol will be printed alongside the names of the party's official candidates on the ballot paper in each constituency. Additionally, the party's designated color is orange, and its symbol, the bottle, is meant to signify independence and freedom within the framework of the constitution and laws of the Commonwealth of Dominica. Furthermore, the party's constitution outlines its motto as "Unity for Progress" and its slogan as "Unity for Progress". The UPP envisions a future for Dominica characterized by democracy, freedom, and dignity for its people. It aims to utilize the country's resources sustainably to enhance the well-being of all citizens and residents equitably, while fostering economic and social empowerment and a commitment to the common good and community. The party's primary mission, as stated in its constitution, is to participate in the general elections of Dominica with the goal of securing political office. This, it believes, will enable the effective management of the nation's affairs in alignment with its vision for the future.

As the mercury rises and the sun beats down, the importance of staying hydrated cannot be overstated. Whether you're lounging by the pool, hitting the hiking trails, or simply going about your daily activities, proper hydration is key to maintaining good health and well-being, especially during hot times. Here are several reasons why staying hydrated is crucial: Regulation of Body Temperature: Our bodies rely on water to regulate temperature through sweating and evaporation. When it's hot, we sweat more to cool down, and if we're not adequately hydrated, our bodies can struggle to maintain a normal temperature, leading to overheating and potentially dangerous heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Optimal Physical Performance: Dehydration can impair physical performance, causing fatigue, weakness, and reduced endurance. Whether you're engaging in strenuous exercise or simply going about your daily routine, staying hydrated ensures that your muscles and organs can function at their best. Cognitive Function: Research has shown that even mild dehydration can impair cognitive function, including memory, attention, and mood. When you're not properly hydrated, you may find it difficult to concentrate, make decisions, or stay alert, which can impact your productivity and overall well-being. Prevention of Health Issues: Chronic dehydration can contribute to a range of health issues, including kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and constipation. By drinking enough water, you can help flush toxins from your body, support kidney function, and maintain healthy digestion. Skin Health: Hydration plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin. When you're well-hydrated, your skin is more resilient, supple, and less prone to dryness and irritation. Drinking plenty of water can also help flush out toxins and promote a clearer complexion. Prevention of Heat-Related Illnesses: In hot weather, the risk of heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke increases. Staying hydrated is one of the most effective ways to prevent these conditions, as it helps your body regulate temperature and replace fluids lost through sweating. Boosted Immune System: Adequate hydration supports a healthy immune system by facilitating the transport of nutrients and oxygen to cells and tissues. When you're hydrated, your body is better equipped to fend off infections and illnesses, keeping you feeling your best. To stay properly hydrated during hot times, it's important to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Water is the best choice, but you can also hydrate with other beverages like herbal teas, fruit-infused water, and electrolyte-rich sports drinks. Additionally, eating water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables can contribute to your overall hydration. In conclusion, staying hydrated is essential for maintaining good health and well-being, especially during hot weather. By prioritizing hydration and making it a part of your daily routine, you can support your body's vital functions, prevent heat-related illnesses, and feel your best all year long.

In the heart of St. John’s Harbour, a buzz of anticipation fills the air as Antigua and Barbuda commemorates a significant achievement, greeting over 500,000 cruise passengers within a mere span of five months. According to Rawle Reynolds, the Operations Manager at the Antigua Cruise Port, as of May 5th, the nation has welcomed 496,000 passengers through 253 ship calls. Today, the grand arrival of two majestic vessels, the Stellar Voyager and Ocean Odyssey, promised to propel the total beyond the 501,000 mark. This influx of guests augers well for the local tourism industry, with reservations for the upcoming summer season eclipsing previous records. Antigua stands on the brink of an unprecedented surge in cruise tourism, paving the way for what seems like a great year ahead.

Washington, D.C. - The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) welcomes the ruling issued by the Dominica High Court, which declared unconstitutional, null and void section 14 of the Sexual Offences Act prohibiting 'gross indecency' punishable by 12 years imprisonment and section 16 prohibiting 'buggery' punishable by 10 years imprisonment and/or committal to a psychiatric hospital for treatment. Legislative provisions that criminalize private consensual same-sex relations are against international human rights standards, as they violate human dignity, privacy, and freedom of expression. It is also worth noting that the Dominica High Court in its decision highlights international and Inter-American standards which stipulate that laws criminalizing consensual intimate relations between persons of the same sex are against the principles of equality and non-discrimination in the American Convention. With this landmark decision, Dominica has aligned itself with other nations whose courts have struck down criminalization provisions as human rights violations. Most Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries now comply with Inter-American standards on decriminalization. The IACHR has noted that even when these laws are not enforced, they have a negative impact on society, as they foster prejudice, encourage acts of violence, and enable a culture of impunity. In 2020, the IACHR emphasized that such criminal prohibitions interfere in aspects related to the private lives of individuals on the basis of a protected category of the American Convention without reasonable justification, in violation of human rights standards. Furthermore, they constitute barriers for persons with non-normative sexual orientations and gender identities to access other rights, such as freedom of association, freedom of expression, health, employment, access to justice, among others. All States in the region that still maintain these forms of criminalization are called upon to repeal laws that facilitate the persecution of LGBTI persons in any form and that encourage acts of violence due to prejudice and discrimination. In addition, the States of the region are urged to continue advancing the social inclusion and real equality of LGBTI people. The IACHR reaffirms its commitment to States and Civil Society Organizations to assist in the processes to create a legal framework that protects LGBTI persons from all forms of violence and discrimination. A principal, autonomous body of the Organization of American States (OAS), the IACHR derives its mandate from the OAS Charter and the American Convention on Human Rights. The Inter-American Commission has a mandate to promote respect for and to defend human rights in the region and acts as a consultative body to the OAS in this area. The Commission is composed of seven independent members who are elected in an individual capacity by the OAS General Assembly and who do not represent their countries of origin or residence.