AGP Executive Report

Voter Confirmation: Opposition groups are urging an extension, citing registry paper shortages, confusing voter information and barriers for disabled, elderly and homebound electors. UPP representative Loftus Durand also called for frank discussions on constituency representation. Electricity Bills: DOMLEC’s new tariff takes effect November 1. The rates have not been disclosed, but off-peak charges will be lower and the regulator plans to monitor bills. Regional Mobility: CARICOM says 939 people were processed in the first year of its four-country free-movement scheme; Dominica processed five applications. Air Links: Contour Airlines has launched twice-weekly direct flights between Trinidad and Dominica, improving travel ahead of the World Creole Music Festival. Diplomacy: Dominica welcomed Swiss Ambassador Pascal Bornoz, with climate action, sustainable tourism and renewable energy among areas for cooperation. Culture and Tourism: Trilla-G’s “Up Next Cypher” is showcasing emerging Bouyon artists, while Dominica earned a place among the top Caribbean and Atlantic islands in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 readers’ awards.

Voter Access: Opposition parties and reform advocates want more time for confirmation, citing barriers for disabled and homebound voters, documentation demands facing some married or divorced women, and questions over how EC$6 million in reform financing was spent. CARICOM Mobility: The four-country free-movement scheme has processed 939 nationals in its first year; Dominica recorded five applications. Tourism & Travel: Dominica’s cruise season opens with 267 calls and 475,521 passengers expected. Contour Airlines has also launched twice-weekly direct flights between Dominica and Trinidad, while new regional data reports 22% tourism growth for Dominica. Electricity: DOMLEC’s new tariff takes effect November 1. The structure includes lower off-peak rates; the IRC says it will monitor customer bills. Roadworks: The Loubiere–Grand Bay project is nearing completion, with the Grand Bay–Bellevue Chopin section about 95% finished. Football: Dominica suffered an 8–1 defeat to Guyana in the Concacaf Nations League.

Voter Confirmation: Opposition parties and reform advocates are calling for an extension, citing paperwork hurdles and difficulties for elderly and disabled residents. UWP leader Thomson Fontaine wants three more months to address problems before an election is called. Electricity: A new tariff approved by the Independent Regulatory Commission takes effect November 1. DOMLEC says it will help cover operating costs, while the commission plans to monitor its impact on customer bills. Tourism and Travel: Dominica’s cruise season opens with 267 ship calls and 475,521 passengers expected, nearly 50,000 more than last season. Contour Airlines has also begun twice-weekly nonstop service between Trinidad and Dominica. Roads: The Loubiere–Grand Bay project is nearing completion, with the Grand Bay–Bellevue Chopin section about 95% finished. Agriculture: The ministry will host an online public discussion on October 8 about Lethal Yellowing Disease affecting coconuts and palms. Public Safety: Police are investigating a Bath Estate shooting that sent a man to hospital with a gunshot wound.

Cruise Season: Dominica expects 475,521 passengers across 267 cruise calls in the 2026–27 season, nearly 50,000 more than last year. Tourism officials say preparations included work at key sites and meetings with industry stakeholders. Public Safety: Police are investigating a Tuesday shooting in Bath Estate that left a man hospitalized with a gunshot wound. Separately, Dominica has launched its first national Missing Person Alert System to speed public searches and coordination. Regional Mobility: CARICOM says 939 nationals were processed in the first year of its four-country free movement arrangement; Dominica processed five applications. Air Links: Contour Airlines has begun twice-weekly nonstop service between Trinidad and Dominica, adding a regional route ahead of the World Creole Music Festival.

Missing Persons: Dominica launched its first-ever National Missing Person Alert System, with police saying the tool will speed up action, standardize information sharing, and mobilize the public without waiting 24–48 hours. Public Safety & Security: National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmoore also used the launch to report 21 illegal firearms recovered so far this year, including rifles and semi-automatic pistols. Police Communications: Sergeant Petrina Dupigny was named the new CDPF Public Relations Officer, tasked with circulating alert flyers and urging residents to stay vigilant. Air Connectivity: Contour Airlines began twice-weekly Trinidad–Dominica service, a boost for tourism ahead of the World Creole Music Festival. Tourism Spotlight: Dominica’s dive sector received international recognition from Scuba Diving magazine, praised as a win for marine tourism. Education & Development: Dominica State College secured four grants to improve technology, infrastructure, and learning, including an ARIN-funded Youth Internet Governance Lab. Sports: Guyana thrashed Dominica 8-1 in the CONCACAF Nations League, while Dominica’s netball team was selected for the Battle of the Isles in St. Maarten. Culture: World Creole Music Festival 2026 runs Oct 23–25 at Windsor Park in Roseau, with major headliners announced by night.

Missing Persons: Dominica has launched its first-ever National Missing Person Alert System, with Deputy Police Chief Jeoffrey James calling it a timely tool to speed up action, standardize information sharing, and mobilize the public—no 24- or 48-hour wait needed. Education & Skills: Dominica State College secured four grants (ARIN, BNTF, Mercy Corps and the Commonwealth of Learning) to boost technology, infrastructure and learning, including a US$20,000 Youth Internet Governance Lab. Justice & Training: Correctional officers across 10 Caribbean countries, including Dominica, are taking part in regional training aimed at safer custody, rehabilitation and reintegration. Community Support: Tropipulp Dominica marked its sixth year of school-supplies support for Newtown Primary School. Diplomacy: PM Roosevelt Skerrit renewed Dominica–China cooperation at the Chinese Embassy reception for China’s 77th anniversary. Youth & STEM: Four Dominicans will represent the island at the 2026 FIRST Global Challenge in South Korea. Tourism & Air Access: Contour Airlines begins Trinidad–Dominica service, adding another route for visitors. Sports: Dominica’s Bouyon Boyz were hit hard in Nations League action, losing 8-1 to Guyana in Puerto Rico. Culture: World Creole Music Festival 2026 runs Oct 23–25 at Windsor Park, with night-by-night headliners including Ne-Yo and Machel Montano.

World Creole Music Festival 2026: The Discover Dominica Authority confirms WCMF returns Oct. 23–25 at Windsor Park Sports Stadium in Roseau, with gates opening 7pm–8pm nightly and music running into the early morning; the guide says the lineup is verified and aims to clear up fake flyers and wrong dates. Nations League shock for Dominica: Guyana’s Golden Jaguars thrashed Dominica 8-1 in Puerto Rico, with Omari Glasgow and Deon Moore scoring twice each and Elliot Bonds adding a brace; Dominica’s only goal came from Reon Cuffy, while coach Kurt Herd took responsibility for the team’s shape and discipline slipping. Public safety upgrade: Dominica launched its first National Missing Person Alert System, with Minister Rayburn Blackmoore saying it will go live this Wednesday and outlining the alert categories. Tourism spotlight: AFAR featured Dominica as a top solo-travel destination, highlighting Batibou, Champagne and Mero beaches and the island’s “Nature Island” appeal. Culture and jobs: The 13th E.O. LeBlanc Memorial Lecture will spotlight traditional crafts, and the government posted vacancies in the judicial and legal service, including a Magistrate post and a State Attorney role for the Legal Aid Clinic.

CONCACAF Nations League: Guyana’s Golden Jaguars hammered Dominica 8-1 in League B Group A in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, with Omari Glasgow and Deon Moore leading the rout and Dominica’s Reon Cuffy scoring the lone goal; the loss leaves the Bouyon Boyz needing a strong response in remaining fixtures. Sports (earlier match): Dominica also suffered a 5-1 defeat to Guyana just days before, underscoring the tough stretch for the national team. Culture & Education: UWI Global Campus Dominica and the Division of Culture will host the 13th E.O. LeBlanc Memorial Lecture, spotlighting traditional crafts under the theme “Traditional Crafts: Traces of Our Terrain.” Legal Appointments: The Ministry of National Security and Legal Affairs posted vacancies for a Magistrate (Magistrates Court) and a State Attorney for the Legal Aid Clinic. Tourism Spotlight: AFAR highlighted Dominica as a top pick for solo travellers, naming Batibou, Champagne and Mero beaches. Diplomacy: Dominica and China renewed long-term commitment to deepen diplomatic relations.

Dominica–China Diplomacy: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit says Dominica and China have renewed their long-term commitment to deepen ties, reaffirming the “One China” principle at a ceremony marking the PRC’s 77th anniversary. Community & Governance: Skerrit met Marigot residents to hear priorities and encourage people to take up government development opportunities. Energy for Seniors: DOMLEC marked International Day of Older Persons by celebrating three Dominica centenarians and giving them electricity credits through its “Credit for Life” programme. Teachers’ Support: Education Minister Octavia Alfred highlighted teacher appointments, PPE and first-aid support, plus a $250 allowance, while Skerrit and the Dominica Association of Teachers marked Teachers’ Week and Teachers’ Day. Sports: Guyana’s Golden Jaguars thrashed Dominica 5-1 in CONCACAF Nations League action in Puerto Rico, setting up another meeting soon. Regional Mobility: CARICOM leaders say small states still face hurdles implementing full free movement, with border control and capacity concerns slowing labour mobility. Connectivity Boost: EllaLink launched its Caribbean Gateway initiative, aiming for service by end-2029, to strengthen regional digital links.

DOMLEC & Seniors: DOMLEC marked International Day of Older Persons by celebrating three Dominica centenarians—Christine White, Matthew St. Rose and James Riley—through its “Credit for Life” programme, which provides a $600 electricity credit on their 100th birthday and every birthday after. Local Governance: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit met Marigot residents to hear community priorities and urged people to take advantage of government development opportunities. Diplomacy: Dominica and China renewed their long-term commitment to deepen diplomatic relations during a ceremony at the Chinese Embassy. Elections & Voting Access: The Dominica Trade Union Congress urged eligible voters to complete voter confirmation/registration before the October 14 deadline amid public scrutiny of the process. Education: Teachers received fresh recognition as the Education Minister highlighted appointments, allowances and ongoing engagement with the sector during Teachers’ Week. Sports: Guyana’s Golden Jaguars hammered Dominica 5-1 in the CONCACAF Nations League, while Dominica’s next match against Guyana is set for October 4.

Marigot Community Engagement: PM Roosevelt Skerrit met Marigot residents this week, urging people to take part in government programmes and development opportunities and to share community priorities directly with officials. Diplomacy with China: Dominica and China renewed their long-term commitment to deepen relations, with Skerrit reaffirming the “One China” principle at a ceremony marking the PRC’s 77th anniversary. Voter List Push: The Dominica Trade Union Congress is urging eligible voters to complete confirmation/registration before the Oct. 14 deadline amid public concerns about delays and scrutiny of the process. Teachers’ Recognition: Education leaders and the Prime Minister highlighted teachers’ role in national development, citing appointments, support measures, and ongoing engagement during Teachers’ Week. Regional Legal Access: The Caribbean Court of Justice will hold itinerant sittings in St Lucia Oct. 7–8, the first time the country hosts the court since it began travelling proceedings. Sports: Guyana’s Golden Jaguars hammered Dominica 5-1 in the CONCACAF Nations League, while Dominica faces Guyana again soon. Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl Support: The Dominica National Lottery contributed $25,000 toward this year’s Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl, backing culture and community programming. Water Notice: DOWASCO scheduled a water interruption in Brentridge, Penrice, Belles, Wet Area and Gleau Gomier on Oct. 2 for system maintenance.

Air Connectivity: Caribbean Airlines says it will resume Trinidad–Caracas passenger service from October 31, add a weekly Tobago–Toronto non-stop from October 25, and run seasonal Trinidad–Panama charters from December 1. Regional Justice: The Caribbean Court of Justice will hold its first itinerant sittings in St Lucia in more than two decades, with hearings set for October 7–8. Elections Watch: The Dominica Trade Union Congress urges eligible voters to complete voter confirmation/registration before the October 14 deadline amid public concerns about the process. Teachers’ Spotlight: Education Minister Octavia Alfred praised teachers for nation-building, noting appointments, support items, and ongoing engagement as Dominica marks Teachers’ Week. Sports: Guyana’s Golden Jaguars hammered Dominica 5–1 in the CONCACAF Nations League in Puerto Rico, taking control of Group A in League B. Culture & Community: Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl is set for October 19–22, with organisers adding a dedicated wellness space and the Dominica National Lottery contributing $25,000.

CONCACAF Nations League: Guyana hammered Dominica 5-1 in League B in Puerto Rico, with Osaze De Rosario and Omari Glasgow scoring before halftime, Deon Moore adding a third after the break, and Troy Jules replying for Dominica before Kelsey Benjamin and Enoch George completed the rout. Local Football: Dominica captain Marcus Bredas said the team’s discipline slipped after Guyana’s first goal and the squad will regroup for the rematch on Sunday, Oct. 4. Air Connectivity: Caribbean Airlines will resume Trinidad–Caracas flights on Oct. 31 and launch a weekly Tobago–Toronto non-stop service from Oct. 25, plus seasonal charters between Trinidad and Panama from Dec. 1, 2026. Education & Community: PM Roosevelt Skerrit thanked teachers across Dominica for Teachers’ Week, while Wesley High School marks 100 years of educating young women this October. Culture & Tourism: Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl runs Oct. 19–22, with organisers adding a dedicated wellness space for locals and visitors. Regional Opportunities: Sherdina Antoine won Dominica’s top spot in a CARICOM climate short-story contest with “Weathering Us.”

Education Milestone: Wesley High School marks 100 years since opening on October 16, 1926, with centennial events starting Oct. 12 and culminating Oct. 16 with a Founder’s Day service and parade. Teachers’ Appreciation: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit thanked Dominica’s teachers for their patience and sacrifice as the country observes Teachers’ Week 2026. Community Engagement: Skerrit met Marigot residents at a community social gathering to hear local concerns and priorities. Culture & Tourism: Dominica National Lottery contributed $25,000 as a platinum sponsor for Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl, and organisers also announced a new dedicated wellness space for the Oct. 19–22 event. Public Service & Safety: Dominica plans a national missing person alert system on Oct. 5, with separate alerts for children, vulnerable people, other adults, and police-related incidents. Football: Dominica’s senior men were heavily beaten 5-1 by Guyana in the CONCACAF Nations League, with the teams set to meet again on Oct. 4. Sports/Regional: Guyana’s Golden Jaguars kept their perfect start in Group A, while the GFF said it will respect Puerto Rico entry rules after Neron Barrow’s detention.

Immigration & Football: Golden Jaguars forward Neron Barrow has retained Canadian lawyer Andrew Werners and is expected to pursue legal action after being denied entry into Puerto Rico while on national duty, with the GFF saying it must follow local immigration rules. Nations League: Guyana thrashed Dominica 5-1 in Puerto Rico to keep a perfect start, setting up another clash with high stakes for promotion and Gold Cup qualification. EU Citizenship by Investment: The European Union has told Eastern Caribbean states to stop selling golden passports by 2028 or risk losing visa-free travel access. Public Safety: Dominica plans to launch a national missing person alert system on October 5, with separate alerts for children, vulnerable people, other missing adults, and police-officer incidents. Local Culture & Community: Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl-‘Tout Biten Domnik is set for October 19–22 at the Dominica Botanic Gardens, bringing food, music, crafts and Creole heritage ahead of the World Creole Music Festival. Climate & Youth: Dominica’s Sherdina Antoine won the 2026 CCCCC Youth Short Story Competition with “Weathering Us,” beating 172 other entries. Water Service Notice: DOWASCO will interrupt water supply in Brentridge, Penrice, Belles, Wet Area and Gleau Gomier on Friday, Oct. 2, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for system maintenance.

Missing Persons Alert: Dominica will roll out a national missing person alert system on October 5, with separate alerts for missing children, vulnerable people, other missing adults, and incidents involving police officers, so the public and media can join searches quickly. Clean Energy for Women Entrepreneurs: A new US$550,000 Caribbean initiative will support women-led businesses in Dominica to develop and commercialise clean energy solutions, with technical help, financing opportunities, and links to regional value chains. Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl: The 5th edition of Ti Vilaj Kwéyòl-‘Tout Biten Domnik is set for October 19–22 at the Dominica Botanic Gardens, bringing Creole food, music, artisan markets and performances ahead of the World Creole Music Festival. Special Education Support: Dominica’s ECAAM and St. Maarten’s SKOS Catholic Education Foundation launch a two-year Project INSPIRE to train educators and improve support for students with special educational needs. Football in the Nations League: Guyana’s Golden Jaguars face Dominica in a Nations League double-header in Puerto Rico, with attention also on the reported detention experience of Guyana forward Neron Barrow. Honouring Mighty Sparrow: CARICOM and the region mourn the death of calypso legend The Mighty Sparrow at 91. Water & Community Notices: DOWASCO schedules a water interruption in parts of Roseau on October 1 for system maintenance.