The Dominica Water and Sewerage Company Ltd (DOWASCO) has provided clarification in response to statements attributed to the company in a publication on DNO dated February 6, 2024, subsequent to a meeting held in the Kalinago Territory on January 31, 2024. During the meeting on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, representatives from DOWASCO, including General Manager Mr. Bernard Ettinoffe, along with Parliamentary representative for the Salybia constituency and Minister responsible for Kalinago Upliftment, Hon. Cozier Frederick, and Kalinago Chief Lorenzo Sanford, addressed residents of the Kalinago Territory. The discussions primarily focused on enhancing water provision in the territory, particularly concerning the main distribution pipeline along the main road. Challenges such as damage caused by heavy equipment and interruptions in service, particularly related to the international airport project and the Crapaud Hall Feeder Road, were addressed. In terms of financial matters, it was emphasized that customers in the Territory owe $1.9 million to DOWASCO. Mr. Ettinoffe encouraged residents to settle their accounts and assured them of DOWASCO's commitment to facilitating debt collections with the assistance of company personnel. Subsequent meetings are planned for individual hamlets to further discuss these issues and ensure effective follow-up.

Edison James, the former Prime Minister, who is currently on $50,000 bail, was detained in connection with an alleged incitement case involving former opposition leader Lennox Linton and current United Workers Party (UWP) leader Dr. Thomson Fontaine. In an interview with a local radio station , James shared his experience, noting that he spent approximately 20 minutes in holding before being released. The alleged incitement case has been transferred to the High Court for trial.

After fifteen years as CEO/Director of Tourism, Mr. Colin Piper will step down from his role at the Discover Dominica Authority, effective May 5th, 2024. Reflecting on his time as CEO/Director of Tourism, Mr. Piper remarked, "I am grateful for the support extended to me by the Board of Directors, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Government of Dominica throughout my 15-year tenure. The collaborative efforts and shared commitment to the success of our destination have resulted in numerous accomplishments, and I am confident that the Authority is well poised to achieve even greater milestones in the future." Mr. Piper has been pivotal in navigating the tourism sector through significant challenges, including natural disasters and global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. As Mr. Piper transitions out of his role, the Ministry of Tourism, The Discover Dominica Authority, and the Dominica Festivals Committee jointly extend their heartfelt appreciation for his years of dedicated service and significant contributions. They additionally convey their best wishes for his future pursuits. Further announcements regarding the transition of leadership within the Discover Dominica Authority will follow in due course.

Dominica is poised to receive the benefits of Global Environment Facility (GEF) approved projects led by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), totaling $2.9 billion. With $294 million in direct financing and $2.6 billion in co-financing, these initiatives aim to revolutionize agrifood systems, combat hunger, and protect the environment. The projects will impact 4.2 million individuals globally, with a focus on land restoration, improvement of practices on millions of hectares, management of protected areas, mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions, and elimination of hazardous agrochemicals. FAO Deputy Director-General Maria Helena Semedo has praised the projects for their potential to advance Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing collaborative efforts with GEF for global food security. Dominica joins 45 other countries in partnership with FAO to access GEF finance, covering areas such as food systems, oceans, and ecosystem restoration. Flagship initiatives, including the Food Systems Integrated Program (FSIP), direct $252 million in financing and $2.2 billion in co-financing to 32 countries, with Dominica set to benefit from projects promoting sustainable agrifood systems. Moreover, the Clean and Healthy Ocean Integrated Program focuses on reducing ocean pollution in nine ecosystems, including the Caribbean. Dominica's participation will contribute to marine resource management and ecosystem restoration. These FAO-led projects represent a substantial investment in Dominica's agriculture and environment sectors, aligning with national development priorities and global sustainability objectives.

Prominent cultural figure Leroy 'Wadix' Charles has called for a thorough assessment following Carnival, extending the evaluation beyond community-level activities to encompass a national review involving all stakeholders. He highlighted the importance of such an assessment covering various dimensions, including cultural, social, economic, and environmental aspects of Carnival. Charles also emphasized considering any challenges or areas for improvement identified during the festivities. Charles stressed the necessity for Dominicans to reclaim ownership and protect the island's indigenous traditions. He encouraged businesses and the media to participate in this effort, underscoring the importance of restoring Carnival to its roots.

Leroy 'Wadix' Charles, a well-known cultural figure, has expressed apprehensions about the improper use of songs during Carnival events, particularly when children are in attendance. His comments come in response to observations made during the 2024 Carnival festivities, where inappropriate songs were reportedly played in sections designated for children. Charles stressed the significance of entertainers being mindful of their audience and carefully choosing suitable content, particularly in settings tailored for younger participants. Additionally, Charles highlighted the ongoing dedication of the carnival and the 'Thunder Birds' group to celebrate and propagate Dominica's culture and traditions through the lively expression of calypso music.

Trevor Shillingford, Dominica's Sports Coordinator, expressed great satisfaction with the outstanding performance and commitment demonstrated by Stephan Pascal, the Captain of the West Indies U19 team, during the recent tournament in South Africa. Shillingford highlighted that Pascal's leadership, along with the collective efforts of the team, not only brought pride to the Caribbean but also to Dominica. He extended heartfelt congratulations to Pascal for his noteworthy achievement, emphasizing the significance of Dominica's role in producing a leader who has made history by leading a West Indies team. Shillingford advised Pascal not to perceive his role as the captain of the West Indies U19 Team as a final destination but rather as a stepping stone to even greater opportunities. He encouraged Pascal to remain diligent and dedicated, stressing the importance of hard work combined with his existing skills and capabilities, along with support, to achieve the level of success he aspires to reach.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit stressed the urgent need to accelerate the integration of technology in agriculture for Dominica, particularly in light of the environmental challenges posed by climate change. He underscored the global concern of a shortage of agricultural labor amidst significant economic development, asserting that adopting technological solutions in agriculture is crucial for nations like Dominica. Mr. Skerrit conveyed optimism about the transformative possibilities of technology in agriculture, foreseeing a future where farming can take place in any location. He pointed out Dominica's plentiful resources, affirming the country's ability to embrace the utilization of technology in agriculture.

Oscar George, the Minister of State overseeing youth and sports, reaffirmed the government's commitment to promoting sports development on the island. He highlighted various initiatives, including the establishment of a sports academy, and emphasized the ministry's ongoing efforts to evaluate and enhance different sporting facilities, with plans for upgrades or implementing measures for improvement. Additionally, he underscored the significance of acknowledging local talent, using Sharma Joseph as a notable example. George delivered these remarks during a reception ceremony for West Indies U19 Team Captain, Stephan Pascal. George offered guidance to Pascal, stating that his role as the captain of the West Indies U19 team not only reflects on him personally but also holds significance for the entire nation of Dominica. He expressed confidence that Pascal will serve as an inspiration to younger generations, encouraging them to follow similar paths in sports.

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