Dominica Marks Independence

(ROSEAU DOMIBICA) DOMINICA is celebrating its 38th anniversary of political independence from Britain on Thursday with President Charles Savarin reflecting on the progress made since the devastation of Tropical Storm Erika one year ago.

In his message to Dominicans, Savarin said although great strides have been made, he urged citizens not to be complacent, as a lot of work still needs to be done to recover fully from the impact of the storm.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit said Dominicans have faced challenges and overcome several obstacles.

“It is my dearest wish that the joy and excitement that is now widespread, will overflow into zeal for working together at the community and national levels on the many projects, to rebuild sections of our collapsed roads, our destroyed bridges and feeder roads, and to restore all our affected businesses to viability and profitability.”

He urged Dominicans to continue building positive relationships.

“It is so true that a house divided against itself cannot stand. So let us strive to set aside the negatives and through loving and caring, strengthen our relationships within our families.”

For his part Leader of the Opposition Lennox Linton said with each year, the leadership of the country continues to undermine democracy.

“…by disrespecting the Constitution and manipulating the rule of law, the gap between expectations and results widens. The hypocrisy stares us straight in the face…”

Linton also said the government ignores “serious nation building” problems.

“The nation’s highest decision making body has been reduced to a total farce with the hijacking of Parliamentary oversight of government operations by the government majority in Parliament.