AGP Executive Report

Roseau North By-Election: Dominica Labour Party candidate Ashma McDougall is projected to win the Roseau North seat, with preliminary figures showing 1,506 votes for McDougall versus 983 for UWP’s Daniel “Danny” Lugay and 50 for independent Sherman Boston; PM Roosevelt Skerrit says the result “speaks for the whole country,” even as some voters raised polling concerns ahead of the official recount. Housing & Resilience: The government handed over 11 climate-resilient homes in Canefield East, part of a wider plan to deliver 215 homes and apartment units across nine communities. Citizenship by Investment: Businessman Kenny Green defended Dominica’s CBI programme on DBS Radio, saying it helped the country recover after Hurricane Maria and continues to fund national projects. Disability Affairs: A proposed National Disability Affairs Unit is welcomed, but questions remain about how it will work alongside the existing National Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Regional/International: Canada launched a Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot for students from 33 eligible countries, while CARICOM marked the fifth Africa Day with renewed calls for stronger Caribbean-Africa ties.

Roseau North By-Election: Ashma McDougall of the Dominica Labour Party has won the Roseau North seat, beating UWP’s Daniel “Danny” Lugay in a three-way race that also included independent Sherman Boston. Housing & Resilience: The government handed over keys to 11 climate-resilient homes in Canefield East, part of a wider plan to deliver 215 homes and apartment units across nine communities. Local Politics: With the by-election now settled, attention turns to what McDougall will deliver on roads, drainage, sanitation, health, education and housing. Disability Services: A proposed National Disability Affairs Unit is drawing questions about how it will work alongside the existing National Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Agriculture Support: Eco Balance secured a grant to launch its “Greening Farms” project in central Dominica, backing safer, more sustainable farming with training and composting systems. Regional Links: UWI Five Islands and the Antigua and Barbuda Bar Association signed an MOU to expand practical legal training for law students. Climate Warning: A new commentary argues the world has broken its 1.5°C promise, warning small states should not be left to pay the bill.

Housing & Climate Resilience: Eleven Canefield East families received keys to climate-resilient homes as Dominica pushes ahead with its wider delivery of 215 homes and apartment units across nine communities. Public Finance for Homeownership: PM Roosevelt Skerrit also announced a new EC$10M housing loan facility for eligible public officers earning EC$45,000 or less, at 3.5% interest. Agriculture & Environment: Eco Balance secured a grant to launch its “Greening Farms” project in central Dominica, backing safer, more sustainable farming with equipment, composting systems, and hands-on training. Disability Policy: A proposed National Disability Affairs Unit is welcomed, but questions remain about how it will work alongside the existing National Commission for Persons with Disabilities. Local Governance Watch: A commentary revisits the stalled Castle Bruce Police Station project, now left incomplete for years. Regional & Global Context: CARICOM marked the fifth CARICOM-Africa Day with renewed calls for stronger Caribbean-Africa ties, while a UN-linked commentary warns the world has broken the 1.5°C climate promise—an issue small states say they can’t afford. Roseau North By-Election: With voters heading to the polls Monday, candidates are campaigning on jobs, unity, healthcare and delivery, as party endorsements and local priorities intensify.

Roseau North By-Election (Sept 7): With nomination day already done, Dominicans head to the polls Monday, September 7, to replace Miriam Blanchard, with three candidates on the ballot: UWP’s Daniel “Danny” Lugay, DLP’s Ashma McDougall, and independent Sherman Boston. Housing & Public Services: PM Roosevelt Skerrit continues the housing push, handing over keys to 11 climate-resilient homes in Canefield East as part of a nationwide 215-home delivery, and he also announced a new EC$10M housing loan facility for eligible public officers earning EC$45,000 or less. Campaign Focus: Lugay’s pitch centers on jobs, healthcare and waste management, while McDougall highlights community infrastructure like footpaths, drainage and sanitation, and Boston stresses unity and practical community development. Protected Areas Update: The government is revising management plans for Morne Trois Pitons and Morne Diablotin National Parks, with a consultation process underway and a plan expected over about nine months. Air Access Watch: Officials say major airlines are showing interest as Dominica works to secure routes for its planned international airport.

Housing Boost: PM Roosevelt Skerrit says Dominica will offer EC$10M housing loans at 3.5% to eligible public officers earning EC$45,000 or less, as part of the government’s “housing revolution.” Climate-Resilient Homes: The state will hand over 215 homes and apartment units across nine communities, with 11 families already receiving keys in Canefield East—aimed at safer, modern, resilient living after hurricanes and natural calamities. Roseau North By-Election: Campaigning heats up ahead of Sept. 7, with DLP candidate Ashma McDougall pushing community fixes in Gutter (footpaths, drainage, sanitation, facilities) while PM Skerrit urges voters to back her and critics trade barbs over governance and delivery; an online Only Polls survey puts DLP ahead among respondents. Protected Areas Update: Government is revising management plans for Morne Trois Pitons and Morne Diablotin National Parks, with a nine-month consultation process to align conservation, watersheds, biodiversity, and tourism. Regional Watch: CARICOM’s Eminent Persons Group is in Haiti to support dialogue ahead of the Dec. 13 elections, coordinating with OAS efforts for a Haitian-led roadmap. Global Climate Letter: A new open letter argues the world has broken the 1.5°C promise and says small states should not be forced to borrow more to pay for damage they did not cause.

Roseau North By-Election: With voters set for Monday, Sept. 7, Dominica’s political heat is rising as DLP candidate Ashma McDougall pushes “delivery” in communities like Gutter, while PM Roosevelt Skerrit urges young voters to turn out and back McDougall, arguing the UWP has disappointed. Housing & Resilience: In Canefield East, 11 families received keys to climate-resilient homes, part of a wider 215-home push, and the government also announced a $10M housing loan facility for public officers earning $45,000 or less at 5% interest. Healthcare Focus: Finance Minister Dr. Irving McIntyre highlighted continued investment in primary healthcare, commissioning and renaming the Savanne Paile Health Centre as the Nurses’ Parillon and Peter Health Centre. Protected Areas: Government is revising management plans for Morne Trois Pitons and Morne Diablotin National Parks, with a nine-month consultation process to balance conservation and tourism. Regional Climate Justice: A new commentary warns the world has broken the 1.5°C promise, saying small states shouldn’t pay the bill for damage they didn’t cause. International Airport Moves: Officials say major airlines are showing interest as Dominica’s international airport takes shape, including expected capacity increases and resumed New York service.

Climate & Housing: Dominica handed over keys to 11 climate-resilient homes in Canefield East, with Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit calling it “security, comfort, and peace of mind,” as the wider 215-home rollout across nine communities moves ahead. Housing Finance: Skerrit also announced a new $10M housing loan facility for public officers earning $45,000 or less, offering 5% interest to help more families reach home ownership. Roseau North By-Election: Campaigns are heating up ahead of Sept. 7, with DLP candidate Ashma McDougall pushing plans for footpaths, drainage, sanitation and community facilities, while UWP’s Danny Lugay pitches tourism initiatives for youth jobs; meanwhile, an Only Polls survey puts McDougall ahead among respondents. Governance & Electoral Reform: The Electoral Reform Coalition backed Gregor Nassief after remarks by Skerrit at a DLP executive meeting, while Nassief says he’s seeking legal advice over alleged monitoring of a private meeting. Crime & Security: Acting Police Chief Davidson Valerie reported nine homicides so far this year and a record cocaine seizure worth over EC$67 million, with arrests and charges underway. Tourism & Infrastructure: Officials say major airlines are showing interest as Dominica’s international airport takes shape, and a US$75M cruise village in Roseau North is expected to be formalised soon.

Roseau North By-Election: With voters set for Sept. 7, Dominica Labour Party candidate Ashma McDougall is leading an Only Polls online survey (about 67.6% to 32.4%), while campaign trail promises focus on footpaths, drainage, sanitation, community facilities and housing in Gutter. Political Tensions: Businessman Gregor Nassief is pushing for “the right people” and says CCTV allegedly shows Prime Minister Skerrit’s security detail monitoring an invitation-only civic meeting, while the Electoral Reform Coalition backs Nassief and warns of intimidation. Housing & Community Delivery: PM Skerrit announced a $10M housing loan facility for public officers earning $45,000 or less at 5% interest, and also flagged the handover of 215 climate-resilient homes across nine communities. Tourism & Jobs: Officials say major airlines are showing interest as Dominica’s international airport takes shape, and Skerrit reiterated plans for a US$75M cruise village in Roseau North. Health & Safety: Government says primary healthcare remains a priority as a renamed health centre commissions; police report nine homicides so far this year and a record cocaine seizure. Agriculture Recognition: Two young Dominicans earned regional honours, including OECS Young Farmer Award winner Ephraim Elijah Roberts. Regional Watch: CARICOM’s Eminent Persons Group is stepping up engagement with Haiti ahead of its Dec. 13 elections.

CARICOM-Haiti Diplomacy: CARICOM’s Eminent Persons Group is in Haiti for talks with political actors and stakeholders as elections near on Dec. 13, with CARICOM Secretary-General Dr. Carla Barnett urging coordination with regional and international partners. Roseau North By-Election: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit tells Roseau North voters to back DLP candidate Ashma McDougall, while McDougall lays out priorities for Gutter including footpaths, drainage, sanitation, community facilities and housing; meanwhile the DFP backs UWP’s Danny Lugay, and the Electoral Reform Coalition and Dominica Business Forum trade concerns over alleged monitoring tied to Nassief. Local Governance & Delivery: A US$75 million cruise village is moving toward a deal for Roseau North, and Dominica is revising management plans for Morne Trois Pitons and Morne Diablotin with a nine-month consultation process. Health & Safety: Government highlights continued investment in primary healthcare with the renaming/commissioning of the Nurses’ Parillon and Peter Health Centre, while police report nine homicides so far this year and a record cocaine seizure. Economy & Business: Asprofin Bank expands into embedded finance via an API-driven BaaS partnership, and GEMS Holdings appoints Marvlyn James as Acting CEO. Agriculture & Education: Two young farmers win regional honours, and Dominica reports improved 2026 CXC results alongside CTEC’s modular approach to mathematics.

Roseau North By-Election: The UPP has endorsed Danny Lugay for the Sept. 7 contest, urging opposition cooperation in a three-way race against DLP’s Ashma McDougall and independent Sherman Boston. Housing & Resilience: Government is moving into “Welcome Home” handovers, with keys for 215 climate-resilient homes and apartment units across nine communities starting this September, including Canefield East families receiving first allocations Friday. Crime & Drugs: Acting Police Chief Davidson Valerie says Dominica has recorded nine homicides this year and reports a record cocaine seizure worth over EC$67 million, with arrests and charges underway. Education & Exams: CXC results show gains, including a 10-point jump in CSEC Mathematics performance, while CTEC modular assessments are expanding to help students master subjects in stages amid growing AI use. Tourism & Business: Plans are advancing for a US$75 million cruise village in Roseau North, expected to boost local vendors and tourism services. Regional Governance: Nevis is taking part in the CPA conference in Jamaica on strengthening parliaments in the digital age, including youth parliament discussions. Community & Seniors: The government reaffirmed support for older citizens through programmes like Yes We Care and the 65-and-over non-contributory pension.

Cruise Tourism Boost: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit says a US$75 million cruise village for Roseau North is moving ahead, with a formal agreement expected soon—aimed at bringing more passengers and spending to local vendors, taxi operators and tour guides. Public Safety & Crime: Acting Police Chief Davidson Valerie reports nine homicides so far this year and a record cocaine seizure in four months worth over EC$67 million, with arrests made and more patrols planned across Roseau and other communities. Housing Delivery: The government is set to hand over 215 climate-resilient homes and apartment units across nine communities starting September, with “Welcome Home” key ceremonies beginning Friday. Education & Skills: CXC results show improved performance, including a 10-point jump in CSEC Mathematics, while CTEC modular assessments are being used to help students master subjects in smaller certified steps. Governance & Business: GEMS Holdings appoints Marvlyn James as Acting CEO, and businessman Kenny Green backs Dominica’s CBI programme while warning the European Commission wants CBI schemes ended by 2028. Community & Culture: Dominica mourns veteran communicator Marcella André, remembered for her regional media impact and mentorship.

Housing & Urban Development: Housing Minister Melissa Poponne-Skerrit says Dominica will begin allocating 215 newly built, climate-resilient homes and apartment units across nine communities starting September 2026, as part of the push to deliver 5,000 resilient homes after Hurricane Maria. Senior Citizens Support: Dr. Cassandra Williams reaffirmed government backing for older Dominicans, pointing to the Yes We Care Programme, Public Assistance, the 65-and-over Non-Contributory Pension and the Centenarian Programme. Education & Youth: CXC tightened School-Based Assessment rules amid growing AI use, adding originality checks and signed declarations, while Dominica’s CSEC Mathematics results rose by 10 percentage points year-on-year. Politics & Governance: Ahead of the Sept. 7 Roseau North by-election, PM Roosevelt Skerrit and DLP candidate Ashma McDougall framed the race as “about delivery,” while questions continue around businessman Gregor Nassief’s reported UWP alignment. Community & Culture: Creole Season gets a boost with the return of the Flavours of the World Festival on Oct. 4, featuring food, music, performances and a fashion segment. Sports: Young athletes Omari Caesar and Zaiden Cornelius both secured athletics scholarships in Jamaica, highlighting Dominica’s growing junior talent pipeline.

Resilient Housing Push: The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development will hand over 215 new resilient homes and apartment units across nine communities, with “Welcome Home” key ceremonies starting this Friday, as Dominica targets 5,000 climate-ready homes. Senior Citizens Support: Health and Social Services Minister of State Dr. Cassandra Williams says the government is reaffirming help for older people through programmes like Yes We Care, Public Assistance, the 65-and-over Non-Contributory Pension and the Centenarian Programme. Tourism & Culture: Creole Season gets a boost with the return of the Flavours of the World Festival on Sunday, Oct. 4 at Windsor Park Stadium, featuring food, music, kids’ activities and a chef competition. Education Updates: CXC has tightened School-Based Assessment rules due to AI, including originality checks and signed declarations, while Dominica’s CSEC Mathematics results rose by 10 percentage points year-on-year. Agriculture Skills: Southeast banana and plantain farmers received practical training on safer chemical handling and mist-blower use at the La Plaine Agricultural Training Centre. Dementia Milestone: The Dominica Dementia Foundation marks 10 years of advocacy and support for people living with dementia and their caregivers. Regional Inclusion: A UN campaign, HireAbility, is urging Caribbean employers to break barriers and expand decent jobs for persons with disabilities.

Roseau North By-Election: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit rallied Yampiece residents behind DLP candidate Ashma McDougall ahead of the Sept. 7 vote, arguing the opposition has been absent since 2019 and pointing to DLP work on housing, education and disaster response, while also touting a new international airport and a planned $75m cruise village as boosts for local vendors and taxi operators. Disability Inclusion Push: The UN launched its HireAbility campaign across the English- and Dutch-speaking Caribbean, urging employers to break barriers and expand decent jobs for people with disabilities, with businesses signing a disability-inclusive employer pledge. Agriculture Land Access: OECS Director General Didacus Jules urged governments to provide crown lands to young farmers on transparent terms they can use as bank-collateral, stressing inclusion should be structural, not ceremonial. CXC Exams Update: Dominica successfully ran its June 2026 CXC programme across 17 centres over six weeks, with e-testing at 12 centres and two reported exam breaches leading to cancelled results. Tourism & Community: Soufrière Dive Fest wrapped up with kayaking, scuba, snorkelling and community events, with Coulibri Ridge winning the kayak champions title. Public Safety Concern: A letter urges urgent action at Canefield Cliff after repeated serious crashes, calling for speed bumps, better signage and stronger police presence, plus readiness from emergency and medical services.

Disability & Jobs: The UN launched its “HireAbility Campaign” across the English and Dutch-speaking Caribbean to push disability-inclusive employment, linking UN country teams, governments, employers and disability groups. Road Safety Push: A letter to the editor is calling for urgent action at Dominica’s Canefield Cliff after repeated deadly crashes, urging speed bumps, better signage and stronger police presence plus emergency response readiness. Tourism & Community: Dominica’s Soufrière Dive Fest wrapped up after two days of kayaking, scuba, snorkelling, hiking and family events, with Coulibri Ridge winning the Kayaking Champions title. Local Governance & Elections: Roseau North by-election campaigning continues ahead of Sept. 7, with DLP candidate Ashma McDougall gaining endorsements and debate over the registration process. Health & Support: The Dominica Nurses Association renewed its focus on training, mentorship, safer workplaces and mental health support for nurses. Agriculture Threat: Farmers and residents in Grand Bay are being invited to a Lethal Yellowing Disease awareness meeting as the ministry confirms LYD presence in Dominica. Sports: Javelin standout Addison James takes up his new Sports Ambassador role effective Sept. 1.

Education & Youth: Castle Bruce Secondary student Jeremie Rolle tops Dominica’s June 2026 CSEC results with 14 grade ones, as officials report a 3.3% rise in overall pass rates. Health & Nursing: The Dominica Nurses Association renews its push for better training, mentorship, safer workplaces and stronger mental health support for nurses, while also urging compassion and dignity in patient care. Agriculture Threat: Farmers and residents in Grand Bay are invited to a meeting on Lethal Yellowing Disease after the Ministry confirmed the palm-killing disease in Dominica in March 2026. Local Development: DOMLEC pledges full five-year scholarships for four secondary students, marking the programme’s 40-year support for education. Sports: Javelin standout Addison James takes up his new role as Dominica’s Sports Ambassador effective September 1. Politics: Roseau North by-election campaigning continues as Ashma McDougall gets endorsement support from businessman Kenny Green ahead of the Sept. 7 vote. Regional Health Security: SVG becomes the first OECS member to adopt a regional digital health early-warning system, with training and port surveillance pilots underway.