Dominica celebrating 45 years of independence

CMC – Dominica is observing its 45^th anniversary of political independence from Britain today with the traditional military parade, the awarding of honours to deserving nationals and a call from Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit for citizens to continue to work towards the overall socio-economic development of the island.

Delivering his independence address at the parade held at the Windsor Park Stadium in the heart of the capital Skerrit said, Dominicans stand together at this juncture mindful of the challenges, “but still a hopeful people, grounded in an unshakeable faith.”

“We shall march into the future, optimistic about the possibilities for people development and the opportunities to take our country to greater heights of development,” Skerrit said, adding that “at these crossroads, we understand that personal responsibility, national discipline and unity of purpose will guide us through.”

“In the spirit of patriotism and love for country, let us recommit to protecting our land and its people; to overcoming our challenges; and to placing Dominica on a firm trajectory to growth and prosperity.”

Skerrit told the nation that despite the external shocks and natural disasters, the impact of climate change, which has slowed but not halted the national development, Dominicans have much to celebrate.

“Our celebration is a prayer of gratitude to Almighty God for leading us through numerous challenges. It is a reference to all that we have overcome as an independent nation,” he said, adding “that it is also a celebration of the empowerment of the people, whom he described as “the real engine of growth, the heart of our society and the core of what makes us unique.”

The independence celebrations mark the first for the recently elected first-ever female head of state Sylvanie Burton, whom Skerrit said highlights the role that women have played in shaping the country.

“Dominica continues to show the world that we are committed to the advancement of women and recognising gender equality, particularly in our governance structures.”

Skerrit said that over the years, despite the natural and man-made disasters, Dominica has recorded growth and development in all aspects of the economy, noting that in the tourism sector, the island is growing as a unique and much sought-after tourism destination.

“We have pursued a deliberate policy to improve and expand the quality of our hotel room stock, and now we have several five-star and even six-star hotels available, while others are being constructed,” he said through the Citizenship by Investment Programme (CBI), allowing foreign investors to gain citizenship in return for making a substantial investment in the socio-economic development of the island.

Skerrit said the international airport, the largest single capital project in Dominica’s history, is under construction and it is being funded under the CBI resulting, in zero debt burden to the citizens of this country.

“Dominicans have long yearned for an international airport,  a facility that every previous government promised to build but never did,” he said, adding “it is no longer a figment of your imagination or a dream; you can see it unfolding before your very eyes in the village of Wesley,” north of here.

“By God’s grace, our international airport will be built. The enormous benefits to be derived from a substantial increase in airlift to and from the island should not be underestimated. We have already seen a marked increase in stayover arrivals since we established direct air access to the United States mainland.”

Skerrit said that on November 10, the government will go to Parliament to seek approval for a loan from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to implement the Roseau Enhancement Project and the construction of an entertainment complex, which will include attractions for families, such as a bowling alley, built-for-purpose theatre, a recording studio for our artistes, among other features.

Skerrit said that Dominica has also made “significant strides in the development of our geothermal plant” adding “we expect very shortly to sign an agreement with a developer for the construction of the power plant, and we have also secured financing for the new transmission lines”.

He said that the government is also actively pursuing the development of a Green Eco-Industrial Park, with the support of the Green Climate Fund.

“This will not only spur industrial development on a large scale, but also attract businesses interested in utilizing clean, green and affordable energy,” Skerrit told the nation.

Meanwhile, Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretary General Dr. Carla Barnett, has extended congratulations to Dominica which is celebrating the milestone under the theme “Anou Selebwe (let us celebrate)”.

“The theme underscores the enduring and impressive strength, and unity of the people of Dominica, as you come together to reflect and acknowledge, with pride, the many achievements and momentous strides made since Independence. The rich heritage, culture, industry, and democratic institutions have all served to advance national development in the Commonwealth of Dominica.”

Barnett said that Dominica has played a lead role in advancing CARICOM’s agenda and promoting regional integration and that the island also remains a consistent and dedicated advocate for the Community.

“I am confident that the bonds of friendship, dialogue and cooperation forged between the Commonwealth of Dominica and the rest of the Community will continue to advance the Region towards realising our collective objectives,” she added.

The sub-regional Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) in recognition of Dominica’s independence celebrations hosted a virtual flag-raising ceremony at its St. Lucia-based headquarters with OECS Director General Dr. Didacus Jules, addressing the function.

“As we celebrate today, let us remember that our independence is not just about the freedom from colonial rule, but also about the freedom to imagine, to innovate, and to inspire. It is about building resilience in our economy, our infrastructure, our social structures.

“And above all, it is about fortification of the personal, community and national spirit. The theme “Anou Selebwe” compels us to not just celebrate our past, but to also lay the foundation for a future that is even brighter and more promising,” Jules said.

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