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The CDU is gravely alarmed by the recent reports emerging from the Commonwealth of Dominica regarding the arrest and detention of members of the political Opposition, including Mr. Johnson Boston, who were exercising their constitutional right to peacefully protest and raise legitimate concerns about the state of electoral reform in the country. Electoral Reform is critical to the integrity of the electoral process and the administration of free and fair elections in Dominica. This blatant abuse of state power is not only unconscionable—it is undemocratic and deeply dangerous. The arrest of citizens for exercising their rights to freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and peaceful protest is a direct affront to the democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution of Dominica. We are witnessing what appears to be a disturbing and deliberate trend: the use of the machinery of the state as a tool of political victimization and intimidation. This erosion of democratic norms signals a dark and dangerous turn—one that should alarm every right-thinking Dominican and every citizen of the Caribbean who believes in justice, accountability, and the rule of law. Let it be clearly stated: Political dissent is not a crime. Speaking out against the government is not a crime. Assembling to peacefully protest is not a crime. These are the hallmarks of a functioning democracy—not threats to it. The heavy-handed actions of the authorities in Dominica bear the hallmarks of authoritarian regimes and dictatorships that have no place in the Caribbean. This is not just a local issue—it is a regional concern. The preservation of democracy in one Caribbean nation is the shared responsibility of all. We therefore call on the President of the Commonwealth of Dominica to immediately uphold the Constitution, denounce these scare tactics, and ensure that the fundamental rights and freedoms of all Dominicans—regardless of political affiliation—are protected and preserved. We further call on all democratic forces, civil society actors, religious leaders, regional organizations, including the OECS, and the people of Dominica—especially the youth—to unite in full condemnation of these abuses. Silence in the face of injustice is complicity. Now is the time to speak out. Democracy in Dominica is under threat. We must defend it.

The RayAsta Foundation was founded in memory of Raymond J. Astaphan, son of Jennifer & Reginald Astaphan. Raymond was a young promising Medical Student with a degree in neuroscience and psychology, pursuing a dream to become a Neurologist. He prematurely passed in a vehicular accident in on May 29th 2015. Established August 13th, 2020 the Foundation focuses on Stroke Care; rehabilitation services, training, advocacy and education for persons affected by Stroke by creating hope through compassion, transparency, and generosity for persons in the community affected by Stroke. We recognize that earning the trust and respect of the community is dependent on our commitment to these ideals. "Stroke survivors in Dominica need your support! On April 1st at 7 PM , join the RayAsta Foundation  with host Jael Joseph for a special simulcast broadcast  as we raise awareness on stroke prevention and raise funds to provide vital care and rehabilitation. During this campaign, we will focus on: Caregiver training  to ensure compassionate, skilled support. At-home care  and essential medical equipment. Physical therapy  for recovery and independence. CORE PRINCIPLES • Public Education and Sensitization • Development of Clinical Protocols – Paramedics, Emergency Room, Specialized Stroke Care Unit • Staff Training – Ambulance, Emergency Room, Specialized Unit • Stroke Center – Dedicated Stroke Unit with Rehabilitation facilities. • Home Care – Care Giver and Supervisor Training. Several initiatives are being planned starting May 29th as we remember Raymond. These upcoming initiatives will be centered around Stroke Awareness, Stroke Care and Stroke Prevention. The Stroke Care Giver level 2 training will begin at the Dominica State College on April 7th. To register call 448-0571 It will be a certificate course implemented in partnership with the Dominica State College. The April 1st campaign will focus on: • A little about the RayAsta Initiative • What is a stroke • Psychological Impact on stroke patients • Caregivers perspective • Testimonial/Surviving a Stroke Cecilia St Hilaire, CEO of the RayAsta Foundation stated “the statistics of stroke in Dominica is alarming. “There are two (2) stroke patients admitted to the Dominica China Friendship Hospital weekly. This is alarmingly high”. Full recovery outcomes for these patients are limited at best because: • The public does not recognize the symptoms of stroke • Understand the importance of early detection, diagnosis and treatment • Understand the disease and how it affects patients • Understand the importance of prevention, care and full recovery • Understand the importance of prevention, care and full recovery The campaign is designed to sensitize the population on all aspects of stroke and stroke care in an effort to: • Reduce the incidents of strokes • Sensitize the public on the signs of stroke • Sensitize the public on healthy lifestyle to prevent or minimize stroke • Improve the outcomes for full recovery for stroke patients All events will be featured live on Facebook.

The year is a sacred time of renewal reflection and Grace in the Catholic Church.   A Jubilee is celebrated every Twenty-five years. The theme for Jubilee 2025 is “Pilgrims of Hope,” and it will be a year of hope for a world suffering the impacts of war, the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the climate crisis. The Jubilee of 2025 began on December 24, 2024, with the opening of the Holy Door and will last until January 6, 2026.  In the Diocese of Roseau, The Jubilee year 2025 was officially opened on December 29th 2024, at Our Lady of Fair Haven Cathedral Chapel by His Lordship Bishop Kendrick Forbes. The Jubilee year also coincides with the 175 Anniversary of the Diocese of Roseau and will Therefore run from January 2025 to April 2026.   Four Pilgrimage sites - Our Lady of La Salette in Point Michel, St. Francis Xavier in La Plaine, St. Peter’s church in Colihaut and the Salybia Roman Catholic church have already been opened to  provide a sacred space where the faithful can pilgrimage for prayer, praise, adoration, reconciliation and to receive special graces and a plenary indulgence.   There are other special activities to be rolled out during the Jubilee year, which is a special year of grace when the Catholic Church offers the faithful the chance to receive the plenary indulgence , meaning the forgiveness of sins for themselves or deceased relatives.   As we celebrate Jubilee 25/26 everyone is invited to participate and are encouraged  to give of their time , talent and treasure to the success of the various events planned for the period.

Nathalie Murphy, a citizen of the Commonwealth of Dominica, has lived with sight impairment for over 40 years. As a founding member of the Dominica Association of Persons with Disabilities, she has dedicated much of her life to serving the organization and advocating for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. Her personal experiences with disasters, particularly as a blind woman, highlight the critical intersections of human mobility, human security, disaster displacement, and disability. Nathalie's initial experience with disaster occurred in 1979 during Hurricane David. Blind at the time and living with her sister, she faced immediate challenges to her safety and mobility. "I could not see anything, but all I could do was hear." The destruction of their home forced them to seek shelter, navigating debris-filled streets to reach safety. This early experience underscored the unique vulnerabilities faced by people with disabilities during disasters, particularly concerning safe evacuation and access to secure shelter. The lack of accessible information and support systems left her reliant on family for survival and mobility. Decades later, Hurricane Maria presented a new set of challenges. Drawing on her involvement with the Dominica Association of Persons with Disabilities, Nathalie was able to prepare in advance. “Seeing that, within the organization, we would conduct workshops and have training programs and educational programs to do with disaster preparedness and disaster management. I knew exactly what to do when the announcement was made that we would be affected by Hurricane Maria...I spent the day prior to the arrival of the system, preparing and securing all of my important documents and personal items and ensuring that I had a place to stay in my own home to weather the storm.” However, the storm's devastation led to the destruction of her home, and again, issues of mobility and security became paramount. “My husband, who is also blind and I stayed at our home for about a week. We saw nobody; there was nobody who came to look for us, to ask what our needs were, or to determine what could be done to assist us,” she laments. A few days later her stepson came from Florida about 10 days after the storm, and had them both evacuated to Florida. They remained in Florida for over three months and returned to Dominica in January the following year. Nathalie and her husband faced isolation in the immediate aftermath. The absence of outreach from local authorities highlighted a systemic failure to prioritize the needs of disabled residents. The tarpaulin offered days later was insufficient, underscoring the need for targeted, accessible assistance. The displacement to Florida offered temporary safety, but also highlighted the cultural and social challenges of being displaced, even within a family setting. Upon returning to Dominica, Nathalie encountered further obstacles. Navigating the bureaucracy of insurance claims and reconstruction efforts proved difficult, compounded by the lack of accessible information and support. The lifting of import duty concessions further hindered their ability to rebuild, leaving them in a partially reconstructed home years after the disaster. "But we are comfortable; we are comfortable downstairs, and I think it is quite accessible and everything. So, we will decide what we would do with upstairs when it is completed. To some extent, yes, because I felt that much, much more attention should have been given to persons with disabilities who are not in a position to assist themselves...So, I think it was a form of discrimination, if I have to say that, yes, because if priority were given to all persons with disabilities who were affected." Nathalie's experience points to systemic inequities in disaster response and recovery, where people with disabilities are often overlooked or face additional barriers to accessing assistance. Nathalie's story offers several critical lessons for improving disaster preparedness, response, and recovery: 1. Prioritize Accessibility: Ensure that all disaster-related information, communication, and services are fully accessible to people with disabilities. 2. Targeted Outreach: Implement proactive outreach programs to identify and support vulnerable individuals, including people with disabilities, in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. 3. Inclusive Planning: Involve people with disabilities in disaster planning and decision-making processes to ensure that their needs and perspectives are considered. 4. Accessible Shelters: Establish accessible emergency shelters with appropriate accommodations and support services for people with disabilities. 5. Equitable Resource Allocation: Prioritize the allocation of resources to support the recovery of people with disabilities, including financial assistance, housing, and rehabilitation services. By addressing these critical gaps, Dominica and other disaster-prone regions can build more inclusive and resilient communities that protect the human rights and security of all residents, including those with disabilities. Nathalie's advocacy and lived experience serve as a reminder of the importance of disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction.

The pulse of Dominica’s vibrant culture is back! Creole Heartbeat Magazine proudly announces the return of its January – March 2025 Edition, featuring none other than SHELLY on the cover. This issue is packed with exclusive features covering some of the biggest cultural and tourism events of the season:  Carnival 2025 Recap – A look back at Dominica’s most electrifying Carnival celebrations, featuring highlights from the road, interviews with performers, breathtaking costume designs, and reflections on the festival’s cultural significance.  Yacht Festival in Portsmouth – In Full Swing! – A deep dive into this ongoing festival, showcasing Dominica’s maritime culture, the experiences of yacht enthusiasts, and the festival’s impact on tourism and local businesses.  Looking Ahead to the Dominica Music Awards – A preview of the biggest night in Dominican music, featuring artists to watch, award predictions, and insights into how this event is shaping the local and regional music industry.  Upcoming Jazz N Creole Festival – A first look at what’s in store for Jazz N Creole 2025, including must-see performances and the festival’s role in showcasing Dominica’s unique blend of music and culture.  Discover Dominica’s Natural Wonders – Stunning features on adventure tourism, breathtaking natural sites, and eco-friendly activities that make Dominica the ultimate nature island experience. Creole Heartbeat continues to be the leading voice in celebrating Dominica’s vibrant entertainment scene, cultural traditions, and tourism industry. This issue is packed with must-read stories and exciting insights into what makes our island unique.

The Housing Recovery Project (HRP), a flagship initiative under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, continues to transform lives and restore dignity by providing modern, safe, and secure homes to families across Dominica. More than just housing, the project provides a foundation for families to rebuild their lives with security and confidence, allowing them to focus on their livelihoods, education, and community well-being. Since its inception, the HRP has been a beacon of hope for families whose lives were upended by the devastating effects of Hurricane Maria in 2017. By prioritizing the most vulnerable, the project has not only rebuilt homes but also restored stability, security, and a sense of pride to hundreds of households. A New Chapter for Beneficiaries For many beneficiaries, receiving the keys to their new homes marks the beginning of a transformative journey. Ginette Toussaint of Good Hope admitted, “It marks a great significance in my life - receiving my beautiful house. Thanks to the Government of Dominica, the Housing Recovery Project and everyone who made it possible. What I have waited for has come to pass. See what the Lord has done! More Than Just Housing The HRP is about more than just construction. What happens after the homes are built? Families gain the security of knowing they can weather future storms—and the confidence to plan for tomorrow. Each home is designed to withstand a category 5 hurricane, ensuring long-term safety and security for beneficiaries. The project also facilitated land ownership documentation to families, giving them a permanent stake in their future and fostering a sense of pride and stability. As of February 20, 2025, the Housing Recovery Project (HRP) has practically completed the construction of 317 homes, handed over 283 completed homes, with 50 homes currently under construction. Additionally, 176 beneficiaries have received their land ownership documents — a critical step in securing their futures. A Commitment to Resilience and Dignity Honorable Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, Minister for Housing and Urban Development, emphasized the transformative impact of the HRP. “This project is about more than rebuilding homes—it’s about rebuilding lives. It’s about restoring dignity, providing security, and creating opportunities for families to thrive. Every key we hand over represents a new beginning, a fresh start, and a brighter future for our people.” The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development echoed this sentiment, stating, “By strengthening housing infrastructure, the HRP contributes to Dominica’s Climate Resilience and Recovery Plan, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to building back better and protecting future generations.” Looking Ahead The HRP remains committed to its goal of contributing to the national goal of delivering 5000 resilient homes by 2030, ensuring that every deserving family in Dominica has access to safe, secure, and modern housing. With the support of the World Bank and other development partners, the project continues to set a standard for resilience and inclusivity in the region. As the HRP moves forward, it remains a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to transforming lives, restoring dignity, and building a more resilient Dominica.

The largest global environmental movement Earth Hour returns for its 19th edition with the Biggest Hour for Earth as it unites millions around the world in celebration of our planet. The National Development Foundation of Dominica (NDFD) will once again lead Dominica in the observance of Earth Hour this year. Last year, Earth Hour International formally recognized the NDFD for its significant contributions in organizing Earth Hour in the Commonwealth of Dominica since 2021. From 8:30 pm local time on Saturday, 22nd March, WWF’s Earth Hour, the world’s largest grassroots environmental movement, returns for its 19th edition with the ‘Biggest Hour for Earth’ in support and celebration of our planet. Earth Hour serves as a beacon of positivity, hope, and inspiration to rally as many people as possible in over 180 countries and territories. Since its creation in 2007, Earth Hour has been known for its “lights off” moment. As landmarks and homes across the world switch off, supporters are also invited to symbolically switch off and ;Give an hour for Earth’, spending 60 minutes doing something - anything - positive for our planet. In 2024, over 1.5 million hours were given to our planet by supporters around the world. Earth Hour is more than a moment; it's a movement that has continued to inspire and mobilise people globally, reminding us of our collective responsibility to create a more hopeful and resilient future for our planet. In Dominica, the National Development Foundation of Dominica (NDFD) will once again take the lead in the observance of Earth Hour by organizing activities such as beach and river cleanups, educational outreach programs, sustainable cooking bonding activities, and a movie night featuring an environmentally relevant blockbuster. NDFD’s Business and Entrepreneurial Development Manager (BEDM) Donald Bercasio invites everyone and all organizations to participate by engaging in an activity of their choice that benefits our planet for one hour at any time on March 22. Bercasio also encourages all participants to share their videos or photos with the NDFD for these hours to be accounted for or to tag the Foundation’s social media handles when posting these activities online. Kirsten Schuijt, Director General, WWF International: “The stakes have never been higher. The past year was the hottest on record—capping off the hottest decade, with the hottest seas ever recorded. We’ve witnessed historic wildfires, storms, and droughts as well. Our world is in peril and we are rapidly approaching dangerous climate tipping points beyond which key ecosystems may never be able to recover. Earth Hour is a powerful reminder of the urgency to act while we still can. It is not just about switching off lights; it’s about switching on a global movement for change. By engaging individuals, communities, and businesses, we can create a collective force that drives real impact and inspires hope for a sustainable future.” Through the Hour Bank, Earth Hour invites everyone, everywhere to find the most enjoyable ways to give an hour for Earth. Whether it is cooking a sustainable meal at home, catching a nature documentary, taking a mindful walk through the woods to bask in nature and feel the earth, or engaging in a home scavenger hunt to identify and swap out unsustainable products with eco-friendly alternatives, there are myriad options to choose from. The Hour Bank provides a list of activities and events based on participants' lifestyle interests and preferences, from food and fitness to art and entertainment. The 'Give an hour for Earth'; call-to-action makes participation even easier and fun, encouraging individuals not only to switch off lights symbolically but also to take 60 minutes to do good for the planet by doing something they love. Yves Calmette, Senior Director, Brand and Network Communications, Earth Hour Global: “Earth Hour is all about making environmental action accessible, enjoyable, and meaningful. By aligning our actions with people’s passions and interests, we can inspire even more individuals to join the movement. The Hour Bank is designed to show that everyone can contribute to protecting our planet, no matter where they are or what they love to do. Building on the incredible momentum of 2024, when we reach a milestone of 1.5 million hours, we aim to surpass that number to 2 million hours this year. Together, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future.”

Blossom Dominica and Finesse Beauty proudly present the 2nd Annual Afro-Caribbean 2025 Edition – Fashion Time-Travel Event! Get ready for an electrifying night where history, culture, and fashion collide in a spectacular celebration of Dominica’s heritage. Set for Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 5:30 PM at the Anchorage Hotel, this year’s event promises to be bigger, bolder, and more unforgettable than ever. Following last year’s incredible success, “Dominica’s Story Comes to Life” returns with a brand-new theme: “The First Settlers”—a captivating journey through the trials, triumphs, and resilience of Dominica’s earliest inhabitants. This year’s edition will take guests on an immersive experience through runway time-travel, from the roots of the Kalinago people to the vibrant, contemporary expressions of Afro-Caribbean culture today. Expect a jaw-dropping fusion of fashion, storytelling, spoken word, and high-energy performances that bring the island’s history to life. The night’s highlight includes a special guest performance by renowned Dominican artist Michele Henderson. Other featured segments include an evolution of Dominican fashion, from traditional Kalinago attire to modern adaptations inspired by the colors of the Dominican flag, alongside spoken word poetry, an open-mic session, and a runway showcase of national wear both traditional and contemporary. Speaking on the evolution of the event, Kimara Matthew, CEO and Founder of Blossom Dominica and Finesse Beauty, expressed her excitement for this year's expanded edition. “This second edition is not just a show—it’s a cultural movement. We are diving deeper into our roots, honoring our heritage, and creating a space where storytelling, music, and fashion unite. It’s a moment for Dominicans, both at home and abroad, to embrace and celebrate who we are.” This event is proudly supported by The Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce , Optishop, My kitchen By Anna WindtiThe Progressive Mind. Look out for giveaways, prizes, andspecial surprises as we count down to the runway and join us as we bring Dominica’s Story to Life—again!

IsraAID Dominica donated a drone equipped with a thermal camera to the Office of Disaster Management (ODM), marking a significant step forward in Dominica’s disaster preparedness and response efforts. The handover reinforces the country’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve search and rescue operations in challenging environments. This drone will provide ODM with enhanced aerial surveillance capabilities, particularly in disaster situations where rapid assessments and real-time data are crucial. The thermal imaging function will allow for improved detection in low-visibility conditions, increasing the efficiency of search and rescue missions. Following the handover, key stakeholders, including members of district disaster committees and the fire and ambulance services, participated in a specialized two-day training aimed at expanding their technical knowledge of drone technology. The training covered critical topics such as: • Basics of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) • UAV Safety Protocols • UAV Legislation and Legal Regulations • General Operating Procedures • Hands-on Flight Maneuvers • Drone as a First Responder • UAV Fleet Maintenance and Management By equipping ODM with advanced technology and providing hands-on training, IsraAID is strengthening the capacity of local disaster response teams, ensuring they can act swiftly and effectively in times of crisis. IsraAID remains committed to working with national agencies and local partners to enhance Dominica’s resilience against disasters, ensuring communities are better prepared and supported in emergency situations.

The Dominica Association of Professional Engineers (D.A.P.E) will host several activities in commemoration of Engineers’ Week. The celebration, which runs from March 23 to March 29, will begin with a mass at the St. Martin De Porres Roman Catholic Church in Canefield on Sunday, March 23 at 10:30am. The President of D.A.P.E, Nicole Laville, said it is important to the association to start the week off in thanksgiving. “On Sunday, March 23rd, we will kick off the week with Mass at the St Martin De Porres Chapel in Canefield. And we’re going to take this opportunity to give thanks and offer our organization, our profession and the work of our hands to the Almighty.” On Wednesday, March 26, the association will engage the youth with a debate featuring the Dominica State College and the AcademiX School of Learning. The topic of debate was especially selected to pique the interest of the young people. “The topic of this debate is particularly timely and in keeping with what is happening in 2025 and it is ‘The Rapid Advancement of AI is a Threat to Engineering Jobs and Will Soon Lead to a Lack of Innovation in the Field’. And we believe that this discussion will be crucial for the field of engineering....The debate is also an opportunity to encourage young people to do research about the field of engineering and this is one of the aims of our organization-to promote engineering and to gain ground for new engineers in Dominica,” Laville pointed out. Laville indicated that the debate will be held at the Amphitheatre of the Dominica China Friendship Hospital at 2:30pm and the public is encouraged to attend. To culminate the week of activities, an award ceremony and social will be held on Saturday, March 29. “To close out the week, we are going to be holding the Engineers’ Award Ceremony and during that ceremony we are going to honour three (3) exceptional engineers for their outstanding contribution and dedicated and long service to the field of engineering in Dominica. This is the first time that this is going to be done for engineers in Dominica so we are definitely looking forward to this event,” she informed. Laville said she hopes that the award ceremony will serve as encouragement for other engineers to offer dedicated service. ### END ### ABOUT D.A.P.E: The Dominica Association of Professional Engineers (D.A.P.E.) is a professional body committed to enhancing the skills and capabilities of Dominican engineers. D.A.P.E. focuses on maintaining high ethical standards, promoting continuous professional development, and ensuring that engineering practices meet local and international standards.

With just a little under three months before the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) must take urgent action to prepare for climate-related displacement and migration. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and partners are calling on media and stakeholders to share the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices cards available on Trello to enhance preparedness and response efforts. The Caribbean faces increasing threats from hurricanes, floods, coastal erosion, rising sea levels, and prolonged droughts. These environmental shocks not only disrupt economies but also exacerbate socio-economic vulnerabilities, leading to internal and cross-border displacement. As SIDS work to enhance their disaster response mechanisms, it is essential to mainstream human mobility and human security into national climate and disaster risk reduction policies and planning. This call to action aligns with the upcoming regional workshop, Mainstreaming Human Mobility and Human Security in Caribbean Climate and Disaster Risk Reduction Policies: Progress and Way Forward, to be held in Saint Kitts and Nevis on March 25-26, 2025. This workshop will bring together government officials, policymakers, and regional stakeholders to strengthen the integration of human mobility considerations into National Adaptation Plans (NAPs), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) strategies. Why the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocols Matter? The Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices Cards provide essential guidance for Caribbean nations to manage migration and displacement effectively in the face of climate-induced disasters. By ensuring that communities, policymakers, and responders are equipped with standardized protocols, SIDS can improve national and regional coordination, protect displaced populations, and build resilience. Key Workshop Objectives The workshop, organized by IOM with funding from the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFHS) and the French-funded project on Environmental Migration and Disaster Displacement, will focus on: • Assessing progress in incorporating human mobility into Caribbean climate policies. • Training stakeholders in the application of the Environmental Migration, Disaster Displacement, and Human Security Policy Assessment Tool. Identifying policy gaps and opportunities to enhance disaster and climate mobility strategies. • Sharing best practices to ensure the dignity, safety, and livelihoods of displaced populations. • Strengthening multi-stakeholder partnerships for regional collaboration. • Discussing climate finance mechanisms to address funding gaps for displacement, migration, and planned relocation. Call to Action Media and stakeholders are urged to share and amplify the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices Cards from Trello across platforms, ensuring that the Caribbean community is well-prepared for the upcoming hurricane season. By integrating human mobility considerations through the human security approach into climate and disaster risk reduction policies, we can collectively strengthen the region’s resilience and disaster response. For more information about the workshop and how to access the Cross-Border Evacuation Protocol and Best Practices, please visit https://www.iom.int/countries/dominica where the complete protocol reports live.

The Parliamentary Representative for the Marigot Constituency, Hon. Anthony Samora Charles, has declared his full support for the Government of Dominica’s Electoral Reform Bills, which were presented for their second and third readings in Parliament on Wednesday."I stand for this bill to be passed, because we have to start somewhere. We have to give and take and this is not about political parties showing how strong they are or the government flexing their muscles. This is about democracy,” he stated. “We need to work together, simple.” He added. The Government introduced three key pieces of legislation aimed at strengthening the country’s electoral system: the Registration of Electors Bill & Regulations (2024), the House of Assembly (Elections) & Registration Bill (2024), and the Electoral Commission Bill (2024).These measures are designed to enhance electoral integrity, increase transparency and modernise voting procedures in line with international best practices. Among new measures, the Registration of Electors Act provides for the introduction of mandatory voter confirmation within a 12-month period, requiring individuals to present valid documentation for verification. Additionally, Voter Identification Cards will be issued, incorporating key identifying information such as a photograph and advanced security features.