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Dr. Vince Henderson, Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade, and Energy, emphasized the need for foreign ministers to foster environments that enhance opportunities for collaboration and strategic partnerships. He made these remarks during the opening ceremony of the 27th Meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) at the State House Conference Center on Thursday. The meeting took place from Thursday, May 23 to Friday, May 24, 2024. Dr. Henderson welcomed the attendees, noting their presence in Dominica as a strong commitment to strengthening regional ties within the Caribbean, with the exception of Haiti. He highlighted that the council will review important engagements with third states and discuss plans for the 2024 CARICOM Friendship Year. Dr. Henderson mentioned that the council would consider geopolitical issues impacting sustainable development, provide updates on associate membership applications from various states, and discuss the implications of expanding observer status. He added that the COFCOR will review significant upcoming international meetings, such as the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting and the future summit, emphasizing the need for coordinated attention and unified positions. As the hurricane season approaches, Dr. Henderson stressed the importance of climate justice and sustainable development in interactions with third states and international organizations. Dr. Henderson highlighted that as Dominica faces increasing debt to build resilience, it remains vigilant against the threat of another hurricane season.

This year is projected to be one of the most active Atlantic hurricane seasons, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicting the development of 17 to 25 tropical storms, and up to 13 of these could become hurricanes of category one or higher. NOAA's Climate Prediction Centre indicated that the increased activity is due to a combination of factors such as near-record warm ocean temperatures in the Atlantic, the onset of La Nina conditions in the Pacific, weaker Atlantic trade winds, and reduced wind shear, all of which promote tropical storm formation. NOAA anticipates 17 to 25 named storms (with winds of 39 mph or higher). Of these, 8 to 13 are expected to develop into hurricanes (with winds of 74 mph or higher), and 4 to 7 could become major hurricanes (category 3, 4, or 5, with winds of 111 mph or higher). The agency has a 70% confidence level in these predictions. NOAA emphasized the importance of preparedness. The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season was notably active, tying with the 1933 season for fourth place in terms of activity, with twenty named storms. Seven of these became hurricanes, and three reached major hurricane status. The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 to November 30.

Rapper Sean Kingston was taken into custody during a performance in California, shortly after his mother faced a similar fate in Florida, all related to the purchase of a massive TV, according to a lawyer familiar with the case. The Broward County Sheriff's Office reported that Kingston, 34, was apprehended without incident on a Florida warrant near Fort Irwin, an Army base roughly 150 miles northeast of Los Angeles. Earlier that day, Broward detectives arrested his 61-year-old mother, Janice Turner, during a raid on Kingston's 14,000-square-foot rented mansion in Southwest Ranches, seizing several items from the property. This unusual case revolves around Kingston's purchase of a 17 x 9 foot TV in September 2023. Lawyer Dennis Card, who has filed a lawsuit against Kingston regarding the $150,000 entertainment set, was present during Turner's arrest. Card alleges that Kingston bought the TV on credit with a minimal down payment, promising the seller, Ver Ver Entertainment, which sells the sets under the brand name Colossal TV, that Justin Bieber would endorse their products.

The National Cooperative Credit Union (NCCU) Ltd has inaugurated its Member Care Centre, a new initiative designed to elevate the quality of member service. The launch event was held on Wednesday. Branch Manager Glenda Smith-Baron expressed her enthusiasm, stating that the day marked a significant milestone in the history of the credit union. She emphasized the importance of this initiative, noting that members deserve the highest standard of service. The Member Care Centre aims to provide comprehensive support, ensuring that members’ inquiries are handled promptly and efficiently. She highlighted the goal of creating a seamless and enjoyable experience for members. Smith-Baron assured members of the high level of service they can expect from NCCU’s dedicated team, reaffirming that exceptional member care is central to the organization’s mission. She further explained that member care is integral to the identity of the credit union and discussed the credit union's principle of member economic participation, which underscores that members are the primary stakeholders and beneficiaries. She reiterated that for the credit union, member care is about striving for excellence in every aspect. Additionally, NCCU has introduced the role of a member success advocate, which is central to the new member care initiatives.

The Government of Dominica announces the appointment of Mr. Leroy 'Wadix' Charles as a Cultural Ambassador for the Commonwealth of Dominica. The appointment recognises Mr. Charles’ outstanding contributions to the promotion of Dominica’s cultural art forms and expressions and underscores the Government’s commitment to the preservation of the nation’s cultural heritage. As Cultural Ambassador, Mr. Charles will assist the Government in the development of a Creole Language Policy for Dominica and provide consultancy services on the organisation of national festivals and events including Independence Celebrations, the World Creole Music Festival (WCMF), Carnival, DOMFESTA and Emancipation Day Observance. The new Ambassador will also assist in the promotion of Dominica’s festivals in the French West Indies and encourage cultural and sporting exchanges with these territories. Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles has championed the preservation of Cadence-lypso and other forms of Creole music since his early days as a member of the Young Cultural Dramatists and Co-Founder of WadiCole. He is a founding member of the World Creole Music Festival and served as chairman of the festival’s band selection committee. He also served on the “Konmité pou Etid Kwéyòl (KEK) and the Board of Directors of the Alliance Française de la Dominique, is the President of the Creole Heartbeat Movement and the host of the long-running creole music programme, Hit Parade Creole, on DBS Radio. Among many accolades for his tireless advocacy, Mr. Charles is the recipient of the prestigious Golden Drum Award and the Meritorious Service Award from the Government of Dominica. In 2023 he was honoured by the Folk Research Center in St. Lucia for promotion and preservation of the Kwéyòl language. The Government of Dominica honours Leroy ‘Wadix’ Charles for his efforts to ensure Dominica’s culture remains vibrant, dynamic, and well-preserved for future generations and looks forward to his continued contributions as Dominica’s newest Cultural Ambassador.

The Commonwealth of Dominica notes with concern the continued inclusion of the Republic of Cuba on the United States State Department State Sponsors of Terrorism list, which identifies governments that actively support violent non-state actors involved in terrorist activities. The Commonwealth of Dominica firmly holds that there is no evidence of state-sponsored terrorism acts being supported by the Government of Cuba and considers this an arbitrary classification intended to justify the decades-long economic embargo imposed on Cuba by the United States of America. Consequently, Dominica calls for the reversal of this unmerited and unjust listing of Cuba as a state which sponsors terrorism. Dominica further restates its call for the normalizing of relations with Cuba and the lifting of economic sanctions by the United States for the enhanced peace, stability and economic growth of the Cuban nation which has made tremendous contributions to the development and welfare of the Caribbean Region particularly in the areas of health, agriculture and education. The Commonwealth of Dominica stands in solidarity with Cuba in its condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including acts that qualify as state-sponsored terrorism.

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) successfully concluded its comprehensive Training-of-Trainers (ToT) program on key topics in immigration and border governance from May 15 to 16, 2024. This initiative, held in Roseau, brought together a group of law enforcement officers, aiming to equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct effective training sessions, which will be cascaded to a broader audience of government officials across Dominica in the upcoming months. The ToT program focused on creating a pool of competent trainers capable of disseminating critical knowledge on immigration and border governance. The two-day training featured a well-rounded agenda designed to build both foundational and advanced skills. On the first day, participants were introduced to the program's strategic goals, global migration dynamics, diverse learning modalities and effective methodologies for audience engagement. The second day delved into specific topics such as the management of identity and travel documents, regulatory frameworks for migration and strategies for trafficking in persons and migrant smuggling, among others. The training also included material on how gender impacts the various policies as it concerns migrants. According to Inspector in charge of immigration, Deryck St. Rose, “This training is important to provide us [immigration] with a better understanding of what to look for when people move from other countries to Dominica.” He expressed the need to be able to be equipped with this knowledge to share it with other officers. Participants like Corporal of Police, Pertrina Dupigny expressed her enthusiasm and the value she gained from the training. “Normally, you would hear of human trafficking, and you think of someone taking somebody from one place to another for illegal purposes. But when you really delve into the whole material, you realize how much more the whole human trafficking and smuggling of migrants involve and the various trials and tribulations that the migrants must go through. It's really touching especially when it when it concerns children,” explained Dupigny. Following the successful completion of the ToT, participants are scheduled to cascade this training to other government officials in the upcoming months. The cascade training will mirror the comprehensive agenda of the ToT, ensuring a consistent and thorough dissemination of knowledge. The IOM's Training-of-Trainers program represents a strategic investment in the professionaldevelopment of Dominica's immigration and customs officers. “By building a cadre of skilled trainers, theprogram aims to strengthen the country's border governance and enhance the capacity of governmentofficials to manage migration effectively,” said IOM Facilitator Vynliz Dailey.

As global temperatures rise, extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and severe. These heatwaves can pose significant health risks, especially to vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. To protect yourself and your loved ones during periods of extreme heat, it is crucial to take specific measures. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe and healthy when temperatures soar: 1. Stay Hydrated Drink Plenty of Water: During extreme heat, your body loses more fluids through sweat. To prevent dehydration, drink water regularly, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration. Eat Hydrating Foods: Include fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet, such as cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and berries. 2. Keep Cool Stay Indoors: Whenever possible, remain indoors during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you need to be outside, seek shade and take frequent breaks. Use Fans and Air Conditioning: Utilize fans and air conditioning to keep indoor spaces cool. If you don't have air conditioning, spend time in public places that do, such as shopping malls, libraries, or community centers. Cool Showers and Baths: Taking cool showers or baths can help lower your body temperature. 3. Dress Appropriately Lightweight, Light-Colored Clothing: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight. Dark colors absorb heat and can increase body temperature. Wide-Brimmed Hats and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses. 4. Avoid Strenuous Activities Limit Physical Exertion: Reduce or reschedule strenuous activities to cooler parts of the day. If you must exercise, do it early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower. Pace Yourself: Take frequent breaks in a cool, shaded area if you need to work or exercise outside. 5. Monitor Health Symptoms Watch for Signs of Heat-Related Illnesses: Be aware of symptoms such as heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps, which can indicate heat exhaustion. More severe signs, like a high body temperature, confusion, or unconsciousness, could signify heatstroke, a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Regularly check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and others who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. 6. Stay Informed Weather Updates: Keep an eye on local weather forecasts and heat advisories. Being aware of upcoming heatwaves can help you prepare in advance. Community Alerts: Sign up for community alerts to receive notifications about cooling centers and other resources available during extreme heat. 7. Create a Cool Environment at Home Block Out the Sun: Use curtains, shades, or blinds to keep direct sunlight from entering your home during the hottest parts of the day. Use Fans Strategically: Position fans to blow air across your body to increase evaporative cooling. Placing a bowl of ice in front of a fan can also help cool the air. Insulate Your Home: Improve your home's insulation to keep the cool air in and hot air out. 8. Be Prepared for Power Outages Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit that includes water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, and a battery-powered fan. Backup Plan: Have a backup plan in case of a power outage, such as staying with friends or family who have air conditioning. By taking these precautions, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of extreme heat. Remember, staying cool, hydrated, and informed are key strategies to safely navigate the challenges of rising temperatures.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, a prominent hardliner and potential successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, died in a helicopter crash near the Azerbaijan border, officials and state media reported on Monday. The crash, which occurred on Sunday, also claimed the lives of Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and six other passengers and crew members. The charred wreckage was discovered early Monday after a challenging overnight search in blizzard conditions. Supreme Leader Khamenei announced that First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber would serve as interim president, according to the official IRNA news agency. Under the Islamic Republic's constitution, a new presidential election must be held within 50 days. Iranian state television showed footage of the wreckage scattered on a foggy hillside, and images from IRNA depicted Red Crescent workers carrying a covered body on a stretcher. All passengers aboard the helicopter were killed, a senior Iranian official told Reuters. Following the death of Amirabdollahian, Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani was named acting foreign minister, IRNA reported. The crash comes amid growing dissent in Iran over various political, social, and economic issues. Iran's clerical leaders face international pressure over the country's disputed nuclear program and its increasing military cooperation with Russia amid the Ukraine war. Since Iran's ally Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, sparking Israel's assault on Gaza, tensions involving Iran-aligned groups have intensified across the Middle East. A long-standing "shadow war" between Iran and Israel escalated last month with exchanges of drone and missile fire. State media indicated that the U.S.-made Bell 212 helicopter crashed into a mountain peak, though the official cause of the crash has not been confirmed. Among the dead were the governor of East Azerbaijan Province and a senior imam from Tabriz city. An Israeli official, speaking anonymously to Reuters, stated that Israel was not involved in the crash. "It wasn't us," the official said. NBC

Ministers responsible for the environment within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) are grappling with critical issues such as climate change, biodiversity threats, economic instability from external shocks, and limited institutional and financial capacities. These concerns were underscored during the 112th Special Meeting of the Council for Trade and Economic Development on The Environment and Sustainable Development, which was held virtually on May 15, 2024. The meeting, chaired by Hon. Pennelope Beckles-Robinson, Minister of Planning and Development of Trinidad and Tobago, centered on topics including the upcoming Fourth Conference of Small Island Developing States (SIDS4), environmental governance, climate change, disaster risk reduction, plastic pollution, and the new agreement under the Law of the Sea on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ). In her opening remarks, Minister Beckles-Robinson emphasized the region’s reliance on marine resources and healthy ecosystems, which are increasingly threatened by climate change, biodiversity loss, and plastic pollution. She highlighted that the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) is significantly larger than their land masses, making marine resources vital for their economies. Minister Beckles-Robinson also noted that robust ecosystems help mitigate costs associated with climate change, soil erosion, pollution, and natural disasters. However, these resources face significant threats from climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. She also highlighted the region's challenges, including limited institutional capacity and financial resources, and its vulnerability to external factors. Joseph Cox, CARICOM Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Integration, Innovation, and Development, spoke about environmental threats and supply chain crises, stressing the need for global cooperation. He pointed to the upcoming 29th Meeting of the Conference of Parties (COP29) and its focus on establishing a new global finance goal to assist developing countries in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to extreme weather impacts.

Sunrise Airways will introduce new flights connecting Dominica to Antigua, St. Kitts, and St. Lucia, starting May 25th, 2024. The airline’s new services will operate six (6) days a week (excluding Tuesdays), offering daily flights between Dominica and Antigua, with onward connections to other destinations. This schedule is designed to cater to both business and leisure travelers, ensuring flexibility and convenience. The airline will operate commercial flights on a 30-seat twin-turboprop aircraft. The Honourable Denise Charles-Pemberton, Minister for Tourism, expressed her support for the initiative: "We are pleased that Sunrise Airways has heeded our region's call for increased intra-regional travel. Their dedication to connecting our islands aligns with our vision for a more interconnected Eastern Caribbean. This expansion is not just a win for Dominica but for all the destinations involved. We anticipate a surge in tourism and economic activity, offering our citizens more travel opportunities and bringing our communities closer together." Sunrise Airways, a family-owned carrier based in Haiti, services a network that spans twelve (12) gateways across six (6) Caribbean and Central American nations, including Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Panama City, and St. Maarten. With plans for further expansion in the Eastern Caribbean throughout 2024 and beyond, Sunrise Airways is poised to play a pivotal role in the region's travel industry. For reservations and more information on Sunrise Airways' services and destinations, please visit www.sunriseairways.net.

The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) has acknowledged the recent debit discrepancies experienced by Republic Bank (EC) Limited customers on April 29, 2024, arising from delayed e-commerce and point-of-sale transactions. The affected customers, totaling approximately 12,112 across five Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) countries, including Anguilla, Commonwealth of Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, were impacted by the untimely situation, which also included ECCB staff. Expressing dissatisfaction with the situation, the ECCB emphasized the hardship and anxiety caused to affected customers. As a licensed financial institution, Republic Bank is obligated to promptly debit customer accounts for such transactions, a responsibility it failed to meet on this occasion. In response, the ECCB engaged with Republic Bank to address the issue and received assurances regarding remedial measures. Republic Bank has committed to offering affected customers payment plans, reversing any associated overdraft fees, waiving fees for standing orders, and providing credit facilities without additional charges. Additionally, customers requiring bank statements for verification purposes will receive them free of charge. The ECCB remains vigilant in ensuring that financial institutions uphold standards and meet customer expectations, emphasizing the importance of prompt resolution and customer support in such situations.