New Year Sit-Down with Prime Minister Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit

Introduction to the Conversation with Prime Minister Scarrett

Opening Remarks

• The host welcomes Prime Minister Roosevelt Scarrett and journalists, setting a positive tone for the evening's discussion.

• The conversation will reflect on the achievements and challenges of 2025, as well as look forward to priorities for 2026.

Participants in the Discussion

• Journalists Khalil John Bapis from Nature Island News, Mathias Spelty from Q95, and Ronaldo Luke are introduced as part of the panel.

• The host will coordinate the program while inviting Prime Minister Scarrett to share his insights on past and future developments.

Dominica's Current State and Future Vision

Key Development Projects

• Prime Minister Scarrett emphasizes transformative projects like the International Airport, Geothermal energy initiatives, Cable Car development, and Port San Marino aimed at strengthening Dominica’s economy.

Global Context

• He discusses shifting international expectations affecting small states, including pressures related to citizenship by investment (CBI), travel policies, and refugee resettlement.

Citizenship by Investment Program

Importance of CBI

• The CBI program is highlighted as Dominica's largest source of development capital over the last 15 years, crucial for national development.

Governance Challenges

• Scarrett addresses balancing economic development with sovereignty and international obligations amidst scrutiny faced by small island nations.

Commitment to Transparency and Engagement

Governance Standards

• The government is committed to high standards of governance while continuing essential development projects funded through foreign investments.

Open Dialogue with International Partners

• Emphasizes constructive engagement with partners like the United States based on mutual respect while addressing realities faced by developing states.

Reflection on 2025 Achievements

Highlights from 2025

• Prime Minister reflects on vulnerabilities due to external shocks but notes decisive progress in key national projects despite challenges.

Specific Projects Mentioned:

• Completion of geothermal energy project after persistent efforts.

• Significant advancements in constructing an International Airport; visual appreciation encouraged for understanding progress made.

Additional Developments:

• Progress in agriculture through investments such as abattoirs and cocoa production aimed at supporting local farmers.

Dominica's Progress and Challenges: A Reflection on 2025

Economic Growth and Small Businesses

• Dominica has seen a significant increase in small businesses over the past decade, with citizens leveraging niche opportunities to create jobs for themselves and their families.

Political Stability

• The importance of political stability is emphasized, as it is crucial for organizational functionality. The government is credited for maintaining this stability in Dominica.

Infrastructure Development

• Major investments are being made in water resources, totaling over $25 million USD. Additionally, in 2025, more than 369 families received keys to new homes at no cost, improving living standards.

Overcoming Challenges

• Despite facing numerous challenges such as natural disasters and geopolitical shifts over the last 12 years, the government believes it has successfully navigated these issues.

Global Context and Leadership Approach

• As uncertainties loom entering the new year (e.g., situations in Venezuela and Iran), the Prime Minister reflects on how Dominica approaches these global challenges with calmness and focus.

• Dominica positions itself as an honest broker among nations, maintaining good relations without engaging in conflict.

Resilience Amidst Adversity

• The Prime Minister acknowledges that while challenges can be daunting for leaders, experience helps navigate through crises like Hurricane Maria and COVID-19 effectively.

• Emphasizes the necessity of confronting challenges directly rather than avoiding them; strategies must be defined to overcome obstacles.

Lessons Learned from 2025

• In response to questions about policies not implemented in 2025, the Prime Minister expresses disappointment regarding delays but remains optimistic about future projects like the Rose Enhancement Project set for 2026.

• Highlights a need for better public engagement before project initiation to incorporate diverse stakeholder ideas into planning processes moving forward.

Challenges in Visa Restrictions and Immigration Policies

Overview of Visa Challenges

• The Prime Minister discusses ongoing challenges related to visa restrictions, particularly highlighting the UK challenge visa and US visa restrictions as significant issues.

• A recent imposition affecting 75 countries raises questions about the reasons behind these restrictions, with a focus on whether they stem from Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs.

Government Response and Public Sentiment

• The Prime Minister acknowledges previous discussions regarding US visa restrictions but expresses disappointment over the public's reaction to the visa ban.

• He emphasizes that immigration policies are often influenced by national imperatives, citing President Trump's campaign promises regarding immigration as a context for current actions.

Global Context of Immigration Policies

• The Prime Minister notes that many countries impose their own immigration restrictions, suggesting that transparency in such policies is not unique to the US under Trump.

• He clarifies that personal circumstances do not influence national policy decisions, sharing his own experience of recently obtaining a US visa.

Engagement with the United States

• The discussion highlights ongoing efforts to understand specific concerns raised by the US regarding CBI programs and how these relate to broader immigration policies.

• The Prime Minister mentions collaborative efforts with five member countries to draft legislation addressing these concerns while maintaining engagement with US authorities.

Future Prospects and Technical Assistance

• Confidence is expressed about resolving current issues with the expectation that temporary suspensions will be lifted soon.

• In relation to UK assistance, he announces an upcoming audit of Dominica's CBI program by a UK security expert aimed at identifying potential shortcomings.

Commitment to Transparency and Improvement

• The government welcomes external evaluations of its CBI program as part of its commitment to transparency and improvement based on constructive feedback received from international partners.

• Ongoing collaboration with both Treasury and State Departments has been emphasized across different administrations, indicating a sustained effort towards addressing any identified issues within the CBI framework.

Discussion on CBI Program and U.S. Relations

Residency Concerns in Legislation

• The Prime Minister discusses the residency issue raised by the United States, indicating it is embedded in existing legislation.

• There is a willingness to amend legislation if necessary to address U.S. concerns regarding the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program.

Transparency of the CBI Program

• The Prime Minister emphasizes that the CBI program operates transparently and is open to scrutiny from international partners.

Visa Crisis and CBI Program Impact

• A question is posed about whether the current visa crisis stems from the CBI program, prompting a discussion on public speculation.

• The Prime Minister refrains from speculating but acknowledges that the U.S. has specifically raised concerns about a lack of residency in Dominica's CBI program.

Addressing U.S. Concerns

• The focus remains on addressing specific points raised by the U.S., particularly regarding residency, without delving into other potential issues.

• The Prime Minister expresses openness to engage with the U.S. to resolve any outstanding issues related to visa suspensions.

Current Visa Status and Future Engagement

• Individuals currently holding visas can still travel to the United States without restrictions, highlighting ongoing engagement efforts.

China's Role in Dominica's Foreign Policy

Relationship with China

• The Prime Minister confirms that China remains an important partner for Dominica, emphasizing transparency in their relationship.

Diplomatic Stance

• He asserts that discussions have focused solely on how China can assist Dominica with its development challenges, maintaining a neutral foreign policy stance.

Maintaining International Relations

Approach Towards Other Nations

• The Prime Minister reflects on his diplomatic approach, avoiding public confrontations even when faced with disparaging comments from other leaders.

Collaboration Over Conflict

• Emphasizes mutual vulnerability among nations and advocates for negotiation over disagreement while fostering friendships internationally.

U.S.-Dominica Relations Overview

Strong Ties with the United States

• Despite challenges, Dominica maintains excellent relations with the United States, agreeing on most international issues as evidenced by voting patterns at the UN.

Security Partnership

• Highlights ongoing collaboration with the U.S. in national security training and funding despite budget cuts during previous administrations.

Dominica's Geopolitical Relations and Healthcare System

Geopolitical Context

• The speaker discusses Dominica's relations with the United States amidst global geopolitical tensions, particularly regarding Venezuela and China.

• Speculation arises about potential choices between aligning with China or America, but the speaker refrains from commenting on motivations behind these geopolitical dynamics.

Healthcare and Cuban Medical Program

• A question is raised about Dominica's commitment to Cuba's medical program, which is deemed crucial for the healthcare system.

• The Prime Minister emphasizes that moving away from the Cuban medical program would be disastrous due to reliance on Cuban doctors in critical care roles.

• Discussions are ongoing with the Cuban government to address concerns while maintaining a partnership that benefits Dominica’s healthcare needs.

• The speaker notes potential changes in the structure of cooperation with Cuba but insists on the necessity of Cuban-trained doctors for effective healthcare delivery.

• Historical context is provided regarding past sources of medical professionals, highlighting challenges in recruiting doctors from other countries due to global demand.

Economic Outlook for Dominica

Growth Projections

• Optimism surrounds economic growth projections of 3.4% for 2026, driven by significant investments in infrastructure and services.

• Major projects include a new ferry terminal designed to enhance passenger experience and connectivity for visitors coming to Dominica.

Investment in Youth and Small Businesses

• Targeted policies will revamp support systems for young entrepreneurs, including lowering interest rates on loans through the Dominican Business Trust.

• A budget allocation of five million dollars aims to increase access to loans and grants for small businesses, fostering local entrepreneurship.

Tourism and Economic Activity

• Record visitor numbers were reported in 2025, contributing positively to economic activity; efforts continue to enhance travel connectivity from North America.

• Emphasis is placed on attracting more visitors as a means of generating foreign exchange and stimulating local economies.

Challenges Ahead

• Despite existing challenges, there is a strong focus on identifying opportunities within those challenges as part of an optimistic outlook towards future growth.

Regulatory Safeguards and Economic Integrity in Dominica's Citizenship by Investment Program

Government's Approach to Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Program

• The government emphasizes that the CBI program will not be relied upon for recurrent expenditures, focusing instead on capital investments. This approach was adopted post-Hurricane Maria and during COVID-19 when revenues dropped significantly.

• CBI funds have been utilized primarily for public sector investment programs and debt payments, with a shift towards using these funds for social support only during crises. This strategy aims to maintain economic stability while ensuring dignity for citizens.

Investments and Economic Growth Strategies

• The government is actively working to reduce reliance on the CBI program by investing in infrastructure projects such as airports, marinas, and cable cars, which are expected to generate tax revenue through increased tourism.

• Investments in hotels and small businesses are intended to create sustainable jobs and stimulate economic growth, demonstrating a commitment to long-term financial health rather than short-term gains from the CBI program.

Legislative Measures for Integrity

• Recent legislation passed addresses international concerns regarding the integrity of the CBI program, aiming to meet or exceed global standards. The government believes this robust framework positions them favorably compared to other countries with similar programs.

• The Prime Minister asserts that their systems are more rigorous than those of other nations within the OECS region, advocating for recognition of their efforts despite being a smaller nation. This highlights a narrative of resilience and capability among smaller states.

Economic Outlook Amidst Criticism

• In response to opposition claims predicting an economic collapse, the Prime Minister dismisses these views as overly pessimistic, suggesting they stem from individuals who thrive on negativity rather than constructive leadership. He emphasizes ongoing governmental support initiatives benefiting thousands of citizens.

• Acknowledging challenges faced due to natural disasters like Hurricane Maria and Erika, he argues that Dominica has shown remarkable recovery capabilities despite significant setbacks affecting GDP growth over time. He compares this resilience with broader global economic trends where borrowing is common among nations like the USA.

Positive Growth and Challenges in Dominica

Government Initiatives and Education

• The government is focused on positive growth, emphasizing the construction of homes for citizens without charge.

• There is a commitment to providing free education at all levels, including state colleges, which is unique among Caribbean nations.

Acknowledgment of Challenges

• While acknowledging that challenges exist, the speaker insists that the country continues to work towards improvement. They argue that challenges are a constant part of life.

• The speaker compares government financial management to personal family finances, highlighting the need for prioritization when unexpected expenses arise.

Support for Vulnerable Populations

• Emphasizes the importance of supporting vulnerable populations during difficult times rather than neglecting them. This support is crucial even when resources are limited.

• The speaker shares anecdotes about individuals in Dominica who are financially better off now than before, countering claims of widespread hardship.

Economic Perspectives and Criticism

• Critiques those who forecast doom regarding the economy without presenting constructive policies or plans for improvement. The speaker calls out political figures for not articulating viable economic strategies.

• Discusses an incident where a woman had to return items at a supermarket due to insufficient funds, questioning why affluent individuals do not assist those in need directly in such situations. This highlights social responsibility among citizens.

Job Creation and Development Projects

• Mentions ongoing major projects aimed at job creation through construction efforts, indicating optimism about future employment opportunities despite current challenges faced by the economy.

Discussion with Prime Minister Roosevelt of Dominica

Opening Remarks and National Debate

• The program begins with a welcome back to the live discussion featuring Prime Minister Roosevelt, held at the Oasis Hotel in Castle Comfort.

• Ronda Luke initiates the conversation by addressing the opposition's call for a national debate, asking if the government is open to such discussions in 2026.

Government's Stance on Debates

• The Prime Minister expresses openness to conversations and debates with anyone willing to engage on national issues, emphasizing readiness for dialogue.

• He reiterates that his party has no problem debating any topic and is prepared to participate in discussions if invited.

Addressing Skilled Nationals and Refugees

• A question arises regarding Haitian nationals in Dominica who have been seeking documentation for an extended period; many are skilled individuals.

• The interviewer highlights concerns about refugees, particularly skilled professionals like doctors, and asks how the government plans to assist them.

Population Growth and Economic Needs

• The Prime Minister discusses the need for population growth due to low birth rates globally, stressing that Dominica requires more skilled workers across various sectors.

• He points out specific shortages in healthcare professionals (e.g., oncologists, pathologists), indicating that these gaps can lead to operational challenges within essential services.

Policy Initiatives for Labor Shortages

• Employers report difficulties finding workers; thus, there is a pressing need for trained personnel in construction and other industries.

• The government has initiated a special policy allowing farmers to bring in Haitian workers under organized programs, which aims to address labor shortages effectively.

The Need for Compassionate Immigration Policies

Addressing the Care Gap for Senior Citizens

• There is a significant shortage of caregivers for senior citizens in Dominica, despite financial resources being available to pay for such services.

• The discussion emphasizes the humanitarian perspective on immigration, highlighting the need to fill skill gaps within the country.

Embracing Immigrants and Refugees

• The speaker advocates for a compassionate approach towards immigrants wishing to come to Dominica, emphasizing that many may seek refuge due to difficult circumstances.

• Post-Hurricane Maria, many Dominicans sought refuge abroad; this experience underscores the unpredictability of life and the importance of welcoming those in need.

Understanding Deportation and Criminality

• A documentary reveals that over 90% of individuals arrested by ICE have no criminal background, challenging stereotypes about deportees.

• The speaker argues for an objective evaluation of opportunities for settling individuals from the U.S. in Dominica, stressing that not all deported individuals are criminals.

Visa Restrictions and Humanitarian Obligations

• The Prime Minister expresses opposition to current visa restrictions on Dominican Republic citizens, advocating for more open policies.

• He calls for a reevaluation of how Haitian nationals are treated, arguing against stigmatization and promoting their dignity as decent people.

Challenges with Documentation and Trust

• Concerns regarding document falsification among some Haitians pose security challenges; however, it is crucial not to generalize or stigmatize all individuals based on these issues.

• A report indicates that 42% of Dominicans in the U.S. on green cards rely on welfare; this raises questions about their ability or willingness to return home.

Future Plans Regarding Refugees

• Discussions around defining deported individuals as refugees highlight ongoing negotiations with the United States regarding immigration agreements.

• An MOU has been signed with the U.S., but details are still pending; collaboration with OECS countries is seen as beneficial in negotiating terms.

The Need for Skilled Professionals

• There is a pressing demand for skilled professionals like nurses and doctors in Dominica; this need reflects broader healthcare challenges faced by society.

• Chronic noncommunicable diseases require extensive management, indicating a gap in healthcare provision that needs addressing through skilled immigration.

Dominica's Healthcare and Immigration Challenges

Hospital Care in Dominica

• In Dominica, patients can remain hospitalized for extended periods (up to three or four months), contrasting with developed countries where stays are typically shorter. This highlights the need for comprehensive care to improve patient survival rates.

Resource Allocation for Healthcare

• Addressing healthcare needs requires significant financial resources. Countries, including those in the Caribbean, are actively seeking nurses from the Philippines and doctors from Africa to bolster their healthcare systems.

U.S.-Dominica Immigration Arrangement

• The discussion raises questions about what Dominica stands to gain from a potential immigration arrangement with the United States. The term "influx" is clarified as not necessarily indicating a mass entry of people.

• There is no predetermined number of individuals that Dominica will accept; it remains uncertain if any refugees will be taken at all. This arrangement is described as a contingency plan requested by the U.S. due to its immigration challenges.

MOU Details and Security Considerations

• Dominica's government emphasizes its friendship with the U.S., stating they are willing to assist but have not committed to specific numbers of refugees. They will assess each case based on provided background information regarding security risks.

• The process involves evaluating potential immigrants' backgrounds before making decisions, ensuring that no one is forced upon them without thorough assessment of security implications.

Economic Opportunities for Incoming Individuals

• Should Dominica agree to accept individuals under this arrangement, there may be opportunities for them to rent homes and start small businesses while working with local employers, similar to how green card holders operate in the U.S.

• The skill sets of incoming individuals (e.g., medical professionals or engineers) will influence economic contributions and housing arrangements, which are still under discussion pending further details from the U.S.

Clarification on MOU Transparency

• A question arises regarding an MOU signed with China that has been sought after by citizens for years. The Prime Minister asserts that details were presented transparently in Parliament previously.

• It is claimed that full details of the MOU were recorded in parliamentary records despite opposition claims otherwise, emphasizing transparency in governmental dealings related to international agreements.

Housing Initiatives for Public Officers

• Updates on housing initiatives indicate approvals expected by February 2024. A special committee will review applications for loans aimed at public officers seeking housing assistance through government programs.

Housing Initiatives and Community Development in Dominica

Update on Housing Programs

• The government has allocated the first five million dollars for housing initiatives, with approvals expected to start in February.

• Acknowledgment of students in Cuba receiving support after a previous inquiry at a press conference; they expressed gratitude towards the Prime Minister.

Future Housing Program Details

• The Future Housing Program aims to construct 10 villas in Warner, targeting affordable housing for Dominicans under 45. An update on timelines is requested by the community.

• Construction has begun with three sample homes: two in Warner and one in Cotton Hill, allowing potential homeowners to assess designs before committing.

Design Considerations and Challenges

• Initial delays were attributed to excessive focus on elaborate designs rather than practical needs; adjustments are being made for more pragmatic home designs.

• Emphasis on creating affordable first homes rather than ostentatious properties to reduce construction costs and meet community needs effectively.

Land Pricing and Accessibility

• Discussion about land sales pricing; historical context provided regarding past prices versus current rates aimed at making land ownership accessible.

• A resident shared her experience of purchasing land at $12 per square foot compared to current government sales at reduced rates, highlighting affordability efforts.

Empowerment Through Affordable Housing

• The government’s strategy includes selling larger lots at lower prices (e.g., $5 per square foot), enabling young professionals like nurses or teachers to afford land ownership.

• The initiative aims to keep money within the community, allowing individuals to invest savings into building their homes, thus fostering economic empowerment.

Environmental Considerations

• The Prime Minister emphasizes the importance of preserving natural beauty while developing projects; he acknowledges public concerns regarding environmental impacts from development activities.

Discussion on Quarry Operations and Environmental Impact

Engagement with Stakeholders

• The speaker plans to meet with stakeholders opposed to the quarry operation to understand their concerns directly.

• Emphasizes the importance of acknowledging public objections, referencing a previous engagement with Cardinal Gochif regarding environmental impacts.

Environmental Impact Assessment

• Introduces the concept of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), which recognizes that all projects will impact the environment.

• The EIA aims to evaluate the extent of environmental impacts and recommend necessary actions for mitigation.

Suspension of Quarry Activities

• After assessing public concerns, the speaker decided to suspend quarry activities until adequate mitigation measures are established.

• A technical team led by the Ministry of Environment was activated to ensure proper implementation of these measures.

Mitigation Measures Implemented

• Various mitigation strategies have been put in place, including sanitation ponds and buffer zones between the quarry site and national park.

• The speaker stresses that development should not come at the expense of environmental protection; both must be balanced for economic growth.

Economic Necessity for Development

• Highlights the need for an international airport as crucial for job creation and economic transformation in Dominica.

• Warns that failure to build this airport now may result in missed opportunities for future generations, citing historical attempts by past governments.

Call for Constructive Feedback

• Invites those raising concerns about environmental issues to communicate specific recommendations or advice through formal channels.

• Proposes involving concerned individuals in government technical teams overseeing project compliance with environmental standards.

Personal Commitment to Environmental Responsibility

• Shares a personal commitment to reforestation, stating he plants five trees for every one cut down.

• Argues against halting airport construction entirely, emphasizing its potential transformative impact on local livelihoods while recognizing necessary sacrifices.

Responsible Development Practices

• Discusses logistical challenges related to sourcing materials from alternative locations versus Debusch, where suitable rock is available.

• Reiterates that development requires responsible practices and sacrifices but insists on maintaining ecological integrity throughout operations.

Discussion on Environmental Concerns and Development in Dominica

Expert Consultation and Local Capacity

• The Prime Minister acknowledges the need for expert input, emphasizing that local geologists and health scientists should be identified to facilitate informed discussions about environmental issues.

• He asserts that Dominica is not beholden to external experts questioning their capacity, stressing respect for local knowledge while inviting overseas specialists to contribute.

Commitment to Environmental Protection

• The Prime Minister expresses a sincere commitment to protecting the environment, urging those with scientific expertise to share their findings publicly.

• He offers an invitation for geologists to present their reports directly, assuring that concerns regarding quarry operations will be addressed responsibly.

Balancing Development and Environmental Integrity

• Emphasizing the importance of balance, he states that development should not come at the expense of environmental degradation; measures must be implemented before any project proceeds.

• The Prime Minister recounts his personal dissatisfaction with observed practices at a site visit, indicating a proactive stance against unregulated extraction activities.

Community Engagement and Transparency

• He calls for direct engagement with citizens rather than relying on social media discussions, advocating for documented conversations about development plans.

• Highlighting youth enthusiasm for the International Airport project, he underscores its potential positive impact on access and economic growth in Dominica.

Clarification on Planning Procedures

• In response to inquiries about planning approvals, the Prime Minister clarifies his limited involvement in day-to-day planning matters but acknowledges issuing stop orders when national concerns arise.

• He explains the dual functions of planning—advisory and regulatory—and stresses its critical role in government projects while noting communication gaps between planners and developers.

Environmental and Infrastructure Concerns in Dominica

Environmental Protection and Quarry Operations

• The speaker emphasizes the need to protect the environment by minimizing tree cutting and human impact, indicating that quarry operations will proceed once technical teams confirm mitigation measures are in place.

• A question is raised about the status of a full environmental and social impact assessment for the site, confirming that a comprehensive assessment was conducted as required.

• The assessment has been approved but is subject to planning review; concerns from planning authorities may lead to further engagement with contractors regarding the quarry application.

Road Infrastructure Issues

Current State of Roads

• A concern is expressed about road conditions post-Hurricane Maria, particularly regarding access issues due to damaged infrastructure like bridges.

• The speaker highlights dissatisfaction with road maintenance, noting that frequent patching leads to poor driving conditions, especially during rain.

Government's Response and Plans

• The government acknowledges public frustration over road quality, attributing it partly to reliance on external asphalt producers for repairs.

• There are plans to purchase an asphalt plant for better control over road maintenance; however, alternative solutions like using concrete are also considered due to current limitations.

Long-term Solutions for Road Maintenance

Concrete vs. Asphalt

• The speaker suggests using concrete as a temporary solution when asphalt is unavailable, despite acknowledging its lesser durability compared to asphalt roads.

• Emphasis is placed on properly constructing concrete roads with adequate thickness for community benefit and ease of maintenance by residents.

Upcoming Projects

• Approval has been granted for resurfacing key roads including New Tong Road and Portesville Road as part of ongoing infrastructure improvements.

• Specific areas targeted for resurfacing include Pocasi and Tibo; however, budget constraints have led to higher-than-projected costs for bridge reconstruction in EMSO.

Concerns Over Electoral Registration and Safety Issues

Safety Concerns Regarding Infrastructure

• The Prime Minister acknowledges safety concerns regarding the road by the UE, emphasizing the need for peace of mind for residents.

• There is a commitment to see construction work on a bridge in Emzor by 2026, although funding through government loans is not yet confirmed.

Challenges in Electoral Registration

• A question arises about low registration numbers for electoral confirmation; there are calls for allowing bus certificates as valid identification.

• The Prime Minister states that the Electoral Commission operates independently and has been cautious due to past fraud concerns raised by opposition members.

Legislative Interpretation and Voter ID Requirements

• Discussion on using birth certificates raises concerns about potential fraud; suggestions are made to limit access to personal documents.

• The law's intention was misinterpreted by the Electoral Commission, which has authority over required documentation for voter confirmation.

Personal Experience with Confirmation Process

• The Prime Minister shares his experience protesting irrelevant questions during his own confirmation process, highlighting issues with current regulations.

• He has tasked the Attorney General with engaging the Electoral Commission to consider amendments that could facilitate easier registration.

Political Responsibility and Mobilization Efforts

• There's an acknowledgment of potential parliamentary action to prescribe necessary documents for voter confirmation if needed.

• Concerns are raised about accusations of fraudulent practices related to voter ID requirements, stressing careful handling by the commission.

Engagement with Electoral Commission and Party Discipline

• The discussion highlights challenges faced by elderly citizens lacking standard forms of ID, suggesting government support may be necessary.

• Emphasis is placed on political parties' responsibility in mobilizing voters; hard work is essential both in opposition and governance roles.

Conclusion on Independence of Electoral Commission

• The Prime Minister reiterates respect for the independence of the Electoral Commission while acknowledging ongoing engagement regarding electoral reforms.

Political Dynamics and Future Prospects in Dominica

Concerns About Political Listening and Unity

• The speaker expresses frustration that while issues are raised, they feel unheard by political leaders, questioning the effectiveness of political discussions.

• Notably, all opposition parties have historically united against the ruling party, indicating a persistent political alliance among them.

• Criticism is directed at the leadership of UDLB for seeking assistance from the Freedom Party, which has not participated in elections since 2005, highlighting perceived weaknesses in current governance.

Election Readiness and Government Focus

• The discussion shifts to cultural elements with references to Calypso music; however, it transitions back to serious topics regarding election readiness for 2026.

• The speaker emphasizes their priority on completing major government projects that will benefit future generations rather than focusing solely on upcoming elections.

Addressing Societal Issues and Educational Reform

• There is a commitment to improving living conditions for citizens still facing distress and enhancing quality of life as part of governmental priorities leading up to 2026.

• A significant focus is placed on educational reform aimed at bettering the education system for youth in Dominica.

National Projects and Global Context

• The government aims to complete transformative projects such as reliable international access, clean energy initiatives (geothermal), and tourism development through a blue economy strategy.

Constitutional Considerations and Closing Remarks

• The Prime Minister notes that constitutional provisions allow for elections at any time but suggests there will be no surprise announcements regarding election dates.

• Gratitude is expressed towards participants and organizers of the event, emphasizing community engagement.