The highly anticipated landing gear for the groundbreaking aircraft, Liat 2020, has officially arrived, signaling significant progress in the project's timeline. Despite initial challenges and setbacks, the development team remains steadfast in their commitment to bringing the revolutionary aircraft into operation as scheduled. The arrival of the landing gear marks a crucial milestone in the Liat 2020 project, affirming the continued dedication of engineers and technicians involved in its design and production. With meticulous attention to detail and rigorous testing protocols, the team has ensured that the landing gear meets the highest standards of safety and performance. Despite challenges posed by the global pandemic and supply chain disruptions, the Liat 2020 project remains on course for operations. With key components like the landing gear now in place, the focus shifts towards final assembly, testing, and certification processes. Liat 2020, equipped with cutting-edge technology and innovative design features, promises to revolutionize air travel with its enhanced efficiency and reduced environmental footprint. Anticipation continues to build as the aircraft inches closer to its maiden flight and subsequent commercial operations. With the arrival of the landing gear, the Liat 2020 project takes another significant step forward, reaffirming its position as a pioneering force in the aerospace industry. Stay tuned for further updates as the journey towards operational readiness progresses.

The inauguration of Air Adelphi's maiden flight to George FL Charles Airport (SLU) on April 15, 2024, marked a momentous occasion for Saint Lucia's tourism industry, hailed by the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) alongside key industry partners SLASPA and the SLHTA. This new charter service promises enhanced connectivity between St. Vincent, Saint Lucia, and Martinique, operating thrice weekly on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, catering to travelers seeking seamless journeys across these picturesque destinations. Notable figures present to greet the inaugural flight included Paul Collymore, President of the Saint Lucia Hospitality & Tourism Association; Hassani Neptune, Airport Manager at SLU; Mario Reyes, Chair of SLTA's Airlift Committee; Rosie Augustin, Research and Planning Manager; and Geraine Georges, Public Relations Manager. Collymore underscored the strategic importance of bolstering regional ties, particularly with Martinique, a vital tourism hub for Saint Lucia, highlighting the service's alignment with upcoming events on the 2024 calendar, such as the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival, ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, Saint Lucia Carnival, and the Caribbean Premiere League. Captain Nigel Morton and 1st Officer Simon Reyes accepted the commemorative plaque on behalf of Air Adelphi, symbolizing the airline's commitment to fostering seamless travel experiences. The flight schedule entails departure from Kingstown (SVD) at 7:30 am, reaching Castries (SLU) at 7:55 am. Subsequently, departure from Castries (SLU) at 8:15 am leads to arrival in Fort de France (FDF) at 8:30 am. Another leg departs from Fort de France (FDF) at 9:00 am, with arrival slated for Castries (SLU) at 9:15 am. Finally, departure from Castries (SLU) at 9:30 am concludes with arrival in Kingstown (SVD) at 9:55 am, completing the seamless travel loop.

Dominica is set to welcome two new cruise vessels to its shores within a three-day span. The MV Island Sky is scheduled to arrive on April 20th, followed by the MV Fram on April 22nd. Both ships will dock at the Cabrits Cruise Ship Berth in Portsmouth, marking the 14th and 15th inaugural calls for the 2023/2024 cruise season. A commemorative plaque exchange ceremony will take place aboard each vessel to mark the occasion. The MV Island Sky, owned and operated by London-based cruise company Noble Caledonia, is a 118-passenger cruise ship. Notably, it was the first cruise ship to visit Scotland following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in that country. With a gross tonnage of forty-two thousand (42,000) and a length of ninety-one (91) meters, it offers a unique and intimate cruising experience. The MV Fram is a passenger vessel operated by the Norway-based Hurtigruten Group. Named after the original Fram used by explorers Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen ah-mud-sun, it primarily operates in the Arctic Ocean, Greenland, and Antarctica. With a capacity of two hundred and fifty (250) passengers, a gross tonnage of eleven thousand six hundred and forty-seven (11,647), and a length of one hundred and fourteen (114) meters, the MV Fram offers adventurous and immersive cruising experiences. Dominica's 2023/2024 cruise season has proven to be a success thus far, with two hundred and six (206) cruise vessels having graced the island's shores as of April 9th, 2024. This influx of ships has brought a total of two hundred ninety-eight thousand, three hundred seventy-eight (298,378) passengers to Dominica, with one hundred twenty-four thousand eight hundred eight (124,808) of these visitors participating in organized tours. The Ministry of Tourism and the Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) continue to be committed to providing a memorable and enriching experience for all cruise visitors. Their dedication is evident through ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the cruise visitor experience, including the transformation of the bayfront vending area and the development of the cable car project. These efforts underscore their commitment to elevating the overall cruise experience on the island. The Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) is appealing to all tourism stakeholders to collaborate in fostering a hospitable and enjoyable environment for cruise visitors for the remainder of the 2023/2024 cruise season. Similarly, the Government of Dominica is deeply committed to establishing the island as a top-tier cruise destination. Their goal is to boost the number of future cruise visits and thereby enhance Dominica's reputation within the global cruising community.

Prime Minister Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit met with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic in Belgrade on Thursday to discuss development of bilateral relations in areas of mutual interest, economic cooperation and geopolitical and regional affairs. According to Belgrade’s Tanjug News Agency, the Serbian Leader also invited the Commonwealth of Dominica to EXPO 2027 and thanked the country for supporting Serbia's successful bid to host the prestigious event. “We will continue to develop overall cooperation in all areas of mutual interest, both with the Commonwealth of Dominica and within regional organisations in the Western hemisphere in which Serbia has observer status," President Vucic said. The Prime Minister also met with the Speaker of the National Assembly of the Republic of Serbia, Ana Brnabic. Prime Minister Skerrit is in the region after attending the Our Oceans Conference, which ended in Athens, Greece on Wednesday. On Wednesday, he met with His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco on the margins of the Athens Conference.

ROSEAU, DOMINICA, (April 17, 2024)— Dominica’s Ministry of Tourism is pleased to announce the signing of contracts for two significant projects within the Kalinago Territory: the restoration of L'Escalier Tete Chien and the upgrade of the Kalinago Barana Aute (KBA) Waterfall Site. The contracts, signed on April 5, 2024, are part of the ministry’s ongoing efforts to uplift the island's tourism infrastructure and enrich visitor experience. The KBA Waterfall Site Upgrade, spearheaded by contractor Richard Davis is costed at $24, 334.36 and will revitalize the waterfall area, enhance accessibility, improve safety measures, and increase aesthetic appeal. The site will remain a center for community ceremonies and rituals, further cementing its status as a treasured community asset. The restoration of L'Escalier Tete Chien, led by contractor Lyroy Williams will cost $66,709.32 and aims to restore one of the Kalinago Territory's most cherished landmarks. This effort will draw visitors from around the globe to experience its natural beauty and cultural significance. The initiatives form a critical component of the broader Kalinago Pillar strategy spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism. This strategy aims to foster sustainable tourism and safeguard the cultural heritage of the Kalinago Territory to enhance Dominica's appeal as a prime destination for green-conscious travelers and adventure seekers. Simultaneously, it seeks to stimulate the local economy and ensure the preservation of cultural traditions, aligning with the goals of sustainable development. "Our commitment to the Kalinago Territory goes beyond mere enhancements of physical sites; it is a testament to our dedication to preserving the soul of our island. By revitalizing L'Escalier Tete Chien and upgrading the Kalinago Barana Aute (KBA) Waterfall, we aim to integrate our history and culture into every visitor's experience, ensuring that the legacy of the Kalinago people continues to thrive. These projects contribute to the transformation of the landscape of tourism in the Kalinago Territory that we hope will strengthen the livelihoods in the community,” said Minister of Tourism, Honorable Denise Charles-Pemberton. “I am delighted to be part and parcel of a government that is mindful of the rich cultural heritage  of the Kalinago community. This investment will without a doubt enhance our tourism product,” added the Honorable Cozier Frederick, Minister for the Environment, Rural Modernization, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment. In tandem with these landmark projects, the Ministry of Tourism is diligently advancing other crucial undertakings slated for completion by the end of the fiscal year. These efforts include: ● Rehabilitation of access steps at Trafalgar Falls, costing $22,000. ● Upgrades to washroom facilities at Emerald Pool, totaling $118,318. ● Completion of the Cana Heritage Park restaurant, estimated at $61,759.83. ● Completion of the Caribantic building in Scott's Head, with a budget of $318,000. ● Electricity supply upgrade at Titou Gorge, amounting to $104,578.00. ● Indian River lighting project, costing $44,374. As these projects unfold, they promise to redefine the visitor experience and pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for the Kalinago Territory and Dominica and make Dominica the number one green destination in the world.

ROSEAU, DOMINICA, (April 17, 2024)— Dominica's Ministry of Tourism is proud to announce a significant development for travel enthusiasts and Dominicans living abroad. Thanks to Dominica's strategic efforts at Routes America 2024, American Airlines will amplify its service frequency, offering daily flights from June 5 to August 5, 2024, and from October 7, 2024, to March 31, 2025. This expanded service ensures great convenience for travelers planning their summer vacations, winter escapes, and participation in Dominica's festivals, such as the World Creole Music Festival and Carnival 2025. "I am pleased to announce exciting news on air access into Dominica for summer, Christmas, the World Creole Music Festival, and, of course, Carnival 2025! American Airlines is offering daily flights from June 5 to August 5, 2024, which means it will be easier than ever to visit home this summer. Additionally, after fruitful discussions at Routes America last month, American Airlines has also agreed to offer non-stop flights from October 7, 2024, to March 31, 2025, instead of from November 5, 2024, as previously announced. The Ministry of Tourism continues to maintain our relationships with airline partners as we seek to have more non-stop and same-day travel to Dominica,” said Honourable Denise Charles- Pemberton, Minister for Tourism. Honourable Charles-Pemberton continued, “In order to sustain these daily flights, I am appealing to the accommodation sector to offer attractive packages to guests who want to travel in the summer, winter, and during our festivals. I commend WINAIR, InterCaribbean, and Caribbean Airlines for partnering with us to offer attractive fares for Jazz 'n Creole this year. All roads lead to Portsmouth next month for a long weekend in the North. I urge Dominicans, both near and far, and visitors worldwide to take advantage of these direct flights. Whether you’re coming for adventure, business, reunions, vacation, or for the World Creole Music Festival, secure your seats now!”

In many parts of the world, language is not merely a means of communication but a gateway to culture, identity, and heritage. Creole languages, born out of historical interactions between different linguistic and cultural groups, exemplify this rich tapestry of human experience. Yet, despite their significance, Creole languages often find themselves marginalized, overlooked, or even stigmatized in educational settings. It's time to reconsider this approach and recognize the value of including Creole languages in school curricula. Preserving Cultural Heritage: Creole languages are often deeply intertwined with the history and culture of the communities that speak them. They represent a unique fusion of linguistic influences, reflecting the complex social dynamics of their origins. By including Creole languages in school curricula, we acknowledge and celebrate the cultural heritage of these communities. This fosters a sense of pride and belonging among students, empowering them to embrace their identity and heritage. Promoting Linguistic Diversity: Language diversity is a fundamental aspect of human culture. However, many educational systems prioritize dominant languages at the expense of linguistic minorities. Including Creole languages in school curricula promotes linguistic diversity and recognizes the value of all languages, regardless of their status or prestige. This not only enriches students' linguistic repertoire but also fosters respect for different linguistic traditions and perspectives. Enhancing Communication Skills: Learning multiple languages has numerous cognitive benefits, including improved memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity. By including Creole languages in school curricula, students have the opportunity to develop proficiency in both their native language and Creole languages. This not only facilitates communication within multicultural communities but also opens doors to new opportunities for personal and professional growth in an increasingly interconnected world. Breaking Down Barriers: Language barriers can create social and economic disparities, limiting access to education, employment, and civic participation. Including Creole languages in school curricula promotes linguistic inclusivity and breaks down barriers to communication and opportunity. It enables students from Creole-speaking communities to fully engage with educational resources and participate meaningfully in society, thereby promoting social equity and inclusion. Fostering Intercultural Understanding: Language is not only a tool for communication but also a vehicle for understanding and empathy. By learning Creole languages, students gain insights into the cultural norms, values, and perspectives of Creole-speaking communities. This fosters intercultural understanding and appreciation, cultivating a more inclusive and harmonious society where differences are celebrated rather than feared. Conclusion: Incorporating Creole languages into school curricula is not only a matter of linguistic diversity but also a question of social justice and cultural preservation. By recognizing the value of Creole languages, we affirm the dignity and worth of all linguistic communities and promote a more inclusive and equitable educational system. Embracing Creole languages in schools is not just about teaching language; it's about honoring culture, fostering diversity, and building bridges across communities. It's time to give Creole languages the recognition and respect they deserve in our educational institutions.

ROSEAU, Dominica, (April 17, 2024)– Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), in collaboration with the Outsource Development Center, successfully conducted a conflict resolution training session for Tourism Hair Braiders and Vendors on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, at the National Development Foundation of Dominica (NDFD) Conference Room. The session equipped participants with essential conflict resolution skills tailored to their roles. The topics covered included understanding the root causes of conflicts, communication skills, listening techniques, conflict styles, emotional intelligence, and recognizing and managing emotions to resolve conflicts. Dr. Precious Anthony facilitated the session. Ms. Odile Jno Baptiste, Product Promotions Manager at Discover Dominica Authority, expressed satisfaction with the participants' active engagement and sharing of experiences during the training sessions. She is confident that participants have acquired theoretical knowledge and practical skills that can be applied professionally to improve the quality of service delivered to visitors. Upon completion of the session, each participant was awarded a certificate of participation. DDA remains committed to providing training programs for tourism stakeholders.

Dominica’s first virtual reality arcade, Multiverse Games is here! Located on Long Lane Roseau, Multiverse Games provides a unique and immersive gaming experience. It offers a variety of VR experiences, ranging from gaming to immersive simulations and educational content. What you typically find in a virtual reality arcade: VR Stations: The arcade typically has several VR stations set up with individual booths or areas equipped with high-end VR headsets, motion controllers, and sometimes additional peripherals like omnidirectional treadmills for more immersive experiences. Game Library: Virtual reality arcades offer a diverse selection of VR games and experiences to cater to different interests and age groups. This can include action-packed games, adventure and exploration titles, sports simulations, educational experiences, and more. Comfort and Safety: Staff members ensure that customers are comfortable and safe during their VR sessions. They assist with fitting the VR headsets properly, adjusting equipment settings, and maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, especially important for shared equipment. Booking and Pricing: Customers typically book VR sessions in advance or on-site, either paying for a set amount of time or per experience. Some arcades offer package deals or memberships for regular visitors. Pricing may vary depending on the duration of the session and the complexity of the VR experience. Group Events and Parties: Virtual reality arcades often host group events, birthday parties, and corporate gatherings. They may have dedicated party rooms or event spaces where groups can enjoy VR experiences together. Some arcades also offer special packages for these occasions. Community Engagement: VR arcades sometimes organize tournaments, competitions, or community events to foster a sense of camaraderie among VR enthusiasts. This can include multiplayer gaming sessions, high-score challenges, or themed events centered around popular VR games or franchises. Upgrades and Maintenance: To provide the best possible experience, virtual reality arcades regularly update their equipment and software, ensuring that customers have access to the latest VR technology and content. They also conduct routine maintenance to keep the equipment in top condition. Overall, virtual reality arcades offer a social and interactive entertainment experience that allows people to explore virtual worlds, compete with friends, and immerse themselves in exciting adventures, all without leaving the arcade premises.

Dominica is celebrating Special Needs Awareness Month during April, with activities planned from April 15-30, 2024 Special needs awareness encompasses understanding, empathy, and support for individuals with diverse abilities and disabilities. It involves recognizing the unique challenges they face in various aspects of life, including education, employment, healthcare, and social inclusion. Awareness efforts aim to promote acceptance, accessibility, and equal opportunities for people with special needs, fostering a more inclusive and understanding society. This can involve advocating for policy changes, providing resources and education, and promoting positive representations in media and communities. Ultimately, special needs awareness is about fostering a culture of empathy, respect, and inclusion for all individuals, regardless of their abilities.

Prime Minister Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit will urge world leaders to implement climate-smart initiatives to preserve the ocean’s rich biodiversity when he addresses the 9th Our Ocean Conference, scheduled to take place from April 16-17, 2024, in Athens, Greece. The Our Ocean Conference is being held under the theme, “Our Ocean-An Ocean of Potential,’ and will bring together heads of government, representatives of NGOs, and members of academia and civil society organizations to discuss effective approaches to protect the health of the world’s oceans. The Conference will address the transition to a Blue Economy and threats to the marine environment such as biodiversity loss, climate change, unsustainable fishing practices and marine pollution. The Dominican leader will also deliver remarks at the opening ceremony of the 1st Our Ocean Film Festival, highlighting Dominica’s potential as a viable film and documentary destination. In the Prime Minister’s absence from the state, Hon. Roland Royer, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy is serving as Ag. Prime Minister.

The residents of Dominica are facing yet another blow as fuel prices go up once more, exacerbating concerns about the cost of living in the Caribbean nation. The latest increase, announced by authorities, marks a significant uptick in gasoline and diesel prices, posing challenges for both consumers and businesses alike. This latest surge comes amid a backdrop of global uncertainties, including geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions, which continue to exert pressure on energy markets worldwide. In Dominica, where dependence on imported fuel is high, fluctuations in international oil prices have a direct and immediate impact on the local economy. For residents, the rising cost of fuel translates into higher expenses for transportation, food, and other essential commodities, straining household budgets already stretched thin by the ongoing economic challenges. Small businesses, in particular, are grappling with the prospect of increased operating costs. In response to the escalating prices, calls for government intervention have grown louder, with citizens urging authorities to explore measures to mitigate the impact on the most vulnerable segments of society. While efforts to diversify the energy mix and promote renewable sources have been underway, the transition remains a gradual process, leaving the nation heavily reliant on fossil fuels for the foreseeable future. As Dominicans brace themselves for the financial implications of yet another fuel price hike, the broader implications for the economy and livelihoods remain a point of concern, underscoring the need for sustained efforts to address the root causes of energy insecurity and volatility in the region.