To God be the glory...Great things he has done!

A few days ago, on the island of Nevis, a young man congratulated me on what he saw as two recent regional and international successes for Dominica.
He referred in particular to Jerelle Joseph, the 2012 Valedictorian at the recent Graduation Ceremony of the Cave Hill Campus of the University of the West Indies and the elections of Dr. Carissa Etienne as Director of the Pan American Health Organisation headquartered in Washington D.C.

I graciously accepted his very kind remarks, but it set me thinking, Ladies and Gentlemen, about the other unheralded achievements of Dominica over the past few years, as well as the factors that would have contributed to Dominica assuming the image as a centre of excellence, in several respects, in the Caribbean and farther afield.
Fellow Dominicans, on this the occasion of the celebration of our 34th year of National Independence, I believe it is important that we pause and reflect upon God's rich blessings and mercies to us as a nation.
We may not be where we had hoped to be 34 years ago but no country in the world that I know of, is. What is evident for all to see however, are the vast strides we have made as a developing nation; in infrastructure, social services and most importantly, in human resource development. Dominica has come a long way in 34 relatively short years!

Fellow Dominicans, it has been said, that were Christopher Columbus to return to the Caribbean and the Western Hemisphere, Dominica is one country he would instantly recognise. In fact, this has been used by some as our stain for years. Today, on the 3rd day of November, 2012, I challenge anyone, anywhere in the world, to make that claim. Christopher Columbus, were he to come back today, would probably wish to purchase property and settle in Dominica.
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, I do not limit my judgment of development and modernity only in terms of high rise buildings and four lane highways. Nor do I believe that having a modern airport facility or the ability to dock large mega ships is the most reliable indicator of a nation’s progress.

Like all of you, I am proud of these achievements as a Dominican, but nothing pleases me more, than the scenario a couple weeks ago in Barbados, when, out of hundreds of graduates, drawn from every nation of the Caribbean and farther afield, the person considered best suited to speak for and on behalf of the student body was none other than a Dominican of humble origin, Ms. Jerelle Joseph who happens, coincidentally, to be from the beautiful village of Vieille Case.
In her remarks, she proudly promoted the virtues of her island, Dominica, and highlighted the outpouring of love and assistance she received during a very trying year of personal tragedies. This morning, I have personally invited Ms. Jerelle Joseph, who majored in Mathematics and Chemistry, to attend this event and be the toast of this National Ceremony, at this particular time. However due to circumstances beyond her control, she is unable to be here with us.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, I have reflected upon the term and the meaning of ‘Independence’ and I believe accomplishments such Ms. Joseph's, are precisely what the architects of our political independence intended for our people when they took that giant step 34 years ago.  I submit, ladies and gentlemen, that what we celebrate today is our struggle and triumphs against adversity, and the progress and success we have recorded in the process of forging an identity that is truly Dominican.
Interestingly, during my address in Nevis last weekend, I saw the look of astonishment on the faces of my audience, when I made mention of the fact that, in addition to Dr. Carissa Etienne being installed as the head of the Pan American Health Organisation, the Secretary General of CARICOM, Ambassador Irwin Larocque, is also a distinguished Dominican. Shortly thereafter, one very prominent businessman on Nevis said to me: "sorry, Prime Minister, I actually thought he was St. Lucian".
What that told me, Ladies and Gentlemen, was that as a people and as a nation, we are not beating our chests loudly enough. We are not heralding enough the successes and achievements of our country and its people.
As far as Geneva in Switzerland, Dr. Cleopatra Henry, another Dominican national, holds the position of Director of the International Labour Organization.

For example, we whisper very softly the fact that Dominica has more Centenarians per capita than perhaps any other country in the world. This fact, Ladies and Gentlemen, speaks volumes to our quality and natural way of life.  It says much about our food, grown right here on the island of Dominica. It is also a reflection of our caring attitude towards each other; particularly the elderly. It speaks volumes about our environment; about the clean air that we breathe and about the scope for healthy and natural living that we often take for granted.

Dominica is also acclaimed for its ecology and topography. There are raving reviews regarding our scuba diving and underwater experiences, and about our natural and man-enabled tourism attractions. Some travelers visit Dominica simply to experience its peace and tranquility. Fellow Dominicans, when last have we stopped and reflected upon all these attributes?
I have taken this course this morning, Ladies and Gentlemen, because I knew many of you came to this stadium expecting to hear me speak economics....about dollars and cents; about projects and new jobs; about efforts at reducing the cost of living; and about what this government is doing for the various sectors.

Distinguished ladies and Gentlemen, it would seem that as a people, we may have fallen into the global trap of gauging and perceiving progress and development through the materialistic eye.
In response, I could boast this morning about the great strides we are making on the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the island’s main roads, particularly since the recruitment of local contractors to assist in the completion of the Roseau to Melville Hall Road project and the recently completed Edward Oliver Le Blanc Highway and the Point Mitchel Sea Defense Project.  I could point as well to the spectacular State House currently under construction, or the continuing work at the community level to improve road surfaces, expand utility services and generally upgrade the living conditions of many of our citizens all over the Island.

Fellow Dominicans, were I to point to emerging designs for a new state of the art hospital, I would be applauded.  I would be congratulated as well, if I spoke of the emphasis we have placed on early childhood education and our most ambitious goal to attain universal tertiary education; Of the enhanced learning facilities at the Dominica State College and the strides we are making at the primary and secondary level to prepare our children for the life that lies ahead.
I could use this occasion, to remind you of the special fund access windows we have put in place at institutions like the AID Bank, the National Bank of Dominica and the Dominica Youth Business Trust for the nurturing of small enterprises; Or of our quick response mechanisms in the aftermath of hurricanes and storms, to assist in particular our farmers, fishermen and vendors.  Then there is the record of the tremendous advances we have made in the area of housing, reflected in the hundreds of families who now own a roof over their heads, as a result of the enlightened policies of your Government.

Fellow Dominicans, our progressive foreign policy has seen us establishing diplomatic relations with scores of countries around the world and developing very close ties with nations that have demonstrated genuine friendship and a keen interest in the forward movement of Dominica.  Some of these countries are represented here this morning and I would wish to thank them once again for the continued support of our efforts.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, these are all areas of achievements that the Government could point to as reflective of the strides that have been made, even in the midst of the worst global economic recession known to modern man.
But, if I were to remain in this mode of material accomplishment, at what time would we as a people pause to muse upon our true blessings as a nation? When would we reflect upon our human development achievements, individually and collectively?
Dominica is today a country with a proud and unique identity! Within the last few years, we have made our way back into the West Indies senior cricket team...and I take this opportunity to again congratulate Mr. Shane Shillingford from Dublanc on his remarkable achievements, and for the pride and joy he brought to all Dominicans with his phenomenal performances during the recent home series.

I am also compelled to single out from among the list of ‘Dominica’s finest,’ another distinguished son of the soil, Dr. Lennox Honychurch, who was recently recognized by the University of the West Indies for his sterling contribution to our region. I wish to therefore congratulate Dr. Honychurch for the receipt of an Honourary Doctorate for the accumulation of his work over the years, in archaeology, anthropology and community education.

Fellow Dominicans, were we to speak politics and economics this morning, when then would we speak of the still relatively low crime rate here in Dominica? There have been a few aberrations in recent times, but I am pleased to report that the Dominica Police Force has made significant progress in bringing such antisocial behaviour under control. Still, let this not minimize or distract us from the reality of Dominica remaining one of the safest and most peaceful places on earth in which to reside.

The advent of the internet and acceleration of information technology has made it possible for persons who are only now hearing of Dominica for the very first time to use the various search engines to discover this gem in the Caribbean. But, when they go in search, Ladies and Gentlemen, what exactly do they find? What do we post about our country on the internet?  Have we all been promoting this country as Jamaicans, Trinidadians and Barbadians do theirs? Do we all reflect that pride in our achievements and natural attributes? We need to stop, as a people, and think Dominica! We need to believe in Dominica and truly love and appreciate this fair land of ours.  At a meeting last week with potential investors, I was touched by the comments made by people who had never visited the Caribbean, far less Dominica, but who were in love with the Nature Isle, because of the continuous boasts by Dominicans living abroad whom they had encountered.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, the reality is that there are Dominicans holding citizenships of other countries and residing permanently elsewhere, who speak far more proudly and positively of this country, than some who reside here and who have nowhere else to go; whether life here becomes better or worse.  Why are some of us not marketing our country? Why are we not boasting of our attributes and exploits? Why are we not speaking with greater pride about our own…. those among us who have excelled and are held in high esteem by the international community?  I have had many overseas encounters in recent months, since the intended retirement of our former President, Dr. Nicholas Liverpool, was made public. I was amazed by the number of people, the world over, who knew of and valued the enormous scholarship and other personal attributes of our esteemed former Head of State. Dr. Liverpool is known, loved and respected the world over! He has flown the Dominican flag with pride and with humility. He has done well for this country.

Fellow Dominicans, I am not pointing fingers at any specific person or group of persons this morning, but I would like those who have made it their favourite past time to bludgeon the name of Dominica at home and abroad, to stop it! We have to close ranks as a people. We have to close ranks as a nation. We need to bridge the gap as citizens. Dominica has a story to tell! Ours is a Success Story!!!

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, General Elections are held in Dominica, as in many other countries, every five years. In most of those countries, for the ensuing four and a half years, there is one nation, one people, one destiny that is being pursued.
For some of us here in Dominica, the campaigning season seems never ending. We could not even install a new President without rancour! This is not what 34 years of National Independence should produce. Ladies and Gentlemen, we can and must do better.
We need to separate campaigning for an election from the governance of a country. Ladies and gentlemen, there is a level of statesmanship that is required from both the elected government and the opposition during a period of governance.
But first, we must pursue a common purpose. We need to wrap more of our thoughts and actions in our national flag; in our national emblems; in our national interest! We need to think and talk Dominica more!
Some of us would do better taking a page from the practice of thousands of Dominicans living abroad who market and sell this country day in and day out, as if it was their only domicile option.
For some of us, Dominica is all that we have. Yet we take pride in seeing ourselves quoted at home and abroad as saying the vilest, disparaging and degrading things about her and life therein. I want all of us on the occasion of this 34th Anniversary of Independence to stop and take stock.

Dominica is a blessed land. Dominica's sectorial performances continue to be strong. We are no longer the underprivileged sibling in CARICOM. Indeed, Dominica assumes a leadership role, at every level, in most things regional or sub-regional. Internationally, we are recognised and respected, as a former Caribbean leader would say, as 'friend of all, and satellite of none'. Indeed, in many respects, we are the bridge between north and south, left and right.

Fellow Dominicans, we need as a people to cherish what we have, celebrate our achievements, and unite behind the goals we have set ourselves. In keeping with this year’s theme, this is truly a people partnership, a partnership for progress and development.
I believe in this nation and I want each and every one of you to do the same!

This is the 34th Anniversary of National Independence. In six years, we will be 40. What type of political, social and economic DNA would we like Dominica to have at age 40? Think for a moment about this!
I urge you this morning to reflect upon this and join the journey towards that 40 year objective, today!

Let’s go forth and serve our God and Country. May God bless each and every one of you. May God Bless beautiful Dominica.
Happy Independence to all.
I thank you.

His Excellency Mr Eliud T Williams President of the Commonwealth of Dominica, Hon. Roosevelt Skerritt Prime Minister, Hon (ag.) Minister for Education, Kelver Darroux, Chairman of the BOG Brian Meade and members of the BOG, Professor Dean Robinson key note speaker, members of the diplomatic corps, Rev. Bill Daniel, Government Ministers, other government representatives, specially invited guests, faculty, staff, students, parents and relatives of graduates,

Graduands, Ladies and Gentlemen.

Good Afternoon and welcome to our 2012 Commencement Exercise.

This year marks the colleges 10th anniversary and each year since 2004 ,we have been educating students to become the vanguards of a new Dominica. On this 10^th anniversary we are graduating more than 400 students to join the thousands of other Dominica State College graduates who are already contributing to the Nation’s economic and social development. It is remarkable that in such a short time that this college has been able to accomplish so very much.

It is perhaps fitting that one of the founders of the College who was given responsibility by  Prime Minister Douglas in 2000 to establish the College,the then Minister of Education Roosevelt Skerritt  is here with us today  as Prime Minister of our country, and on behalf of the entire College community, I would like to thank him for his vision, his perseverance and his tenacity in getting this college established. Thank you sir, today on our tenth anniversary you can witness the fruits of your labor as we graduate the highest number of students in the history of the College.

It is with sincere pleasure therefore that I take this opportunity to address you graduands on such a momentous occasion in your life.  Today should be an exciting and very special day for you. It is in fact the beginning of the rest of your life.

You, have completed all assignments, stayed up late at nights preparing for exams, passed all those exams and today you stand here at this commencement exercise, a testament to your perseverance and hard work, and you are now a college graduate.  But, you could not have done that without the help and support of your parents, family and friends, so I think that while you celebrate this milestone in your life, we should take this opportunity to recognize all of the people who made this day possible for you.

Will all parents of graduating students please stand.  How about the wives, husbands, boyfriends, girlfriends, grandparents, aunts, and uncles? Please all stand. We thank you and congratulate you on a job well done.  (You may be seated).  I could not go on however if we did not recognize those who were the very architects of your learning.  The faculty (will all members of the faculty please stand and be recognized).  Thank you.

As we gather here to celebrate and applaud your success as a college graduate, you should take a moment to reflect on your achievement.  In today’s knowledge economy a college education is absolutely essential if one is to enjoy a high quality of life, and in the Caribbean in particular a college education has never been easily attainable.

You are therefore indeed a member of a very small fraternity.  But as you reflect on your new status as a college graduate I want to think of yourself as an agent of change, a graduate who is going to take Dominica to developed status.

1. You are graduating at a time when the world is just barely getting out of the most severe financial crisis in modern history
2. When our country is in need of professionals with new ideas and energy to run our Agriculture and Tourist Industries.
3. When Caribbean leaders are planning to offer free movement of peoples across the region.
4. At a time, when the need to educate our people to become independent and take responsibility for their own lives is even more critical.

 

These times can be challenging but also presents unique opportunities for you as a graduate to either find meaningful employment, go on to further education or create your own jobs.

Against this background dear graduate much will be expected of you.

You are entering a Dominica work force that is in dire need of your young mind and energy, a Dominica looking for new solutions to old problems, A Dominica still mired in the old ways of working as little as we can and getting paid as much as we can.

So what will you have to do to move Dominica forward? You have to shift the work paradigm, from one of complaining to one of doing.

Today the country loses thousands of man hours per year in sick time either real or imagined. You need to change that. You need to show the nation how to develop through work. and for you, work:-

Means arriving at your work place on time and helping the people you serve reach their objective each day.

Work means ‘doing not “talking”

Work means setting personal goals and meeting those goals

Work means, saying thank you and, waiting your turn in a line,

Work means always helping your customers with a smile.

Work means being responsible, if you must work a shift on carnival day, you should show up for work and don’t call in sick and then go jump up in the band.

And finally work means continuing your education, never stop learning, knowledge will serve you well in the future.

Last year I reminded the graduates of their responsibilities and

The kind of character they should build and I want to advise you to do the same.

In a world characterized by monumental diversity each individual, degree or no degree is important to the welfare of the nation in building a  strong safe society, where your family can enjoy a quality of life without the threat of violence and crimes.

You will be well advised as college graduates to share your knowledge with those around you and take the time to learn from them.  If as educated individuals, you can take time at work and in your community to donate some of your time and knowledge to helping others succeed, then you would have used your education wisely and would have contributed to the development of your nation.  As you listen to your radio talk shows each day in Dominica, you will recognize that there are a lot of our citizens who need to be educated and need your help.  You are now a college graduate, so please share your knowledge with others who are less educated than you.  United State President, Thomas Jefferson once said and I quote “A Nation cannot be ignorant and free and it therefore follows that societies will become more democratic and civil as citizens become more knowledgeable and educated.”

Consequently, for every nation, education should be at the top of its priority list and for every family education and – not the acquisition of a blackberry “should be the objective

Education is not a degree or certificate; it is a process of accumulating knowledge and experience that prepares us for life. Never stop learning –

Never assume that you are better than your neighbor because they do not have a degree, instead throughout your life you should always respect those around you who were not fortunate as you were to go to College

So at DSC, we want to encourage our students to choose careers that will excite them and at which they will be very good. We are gearing to educate, the Plumbers of Tomorrow, the professors of tomorrow, the lawyers of tomorrow, the health providers of tomorrow, the surveyors of tomorrow and the Doctors of tomorrow, the Auto mechanic of tomorrow, the energy mangers of tomorrow, the food providers and processors of tomorrow, and all of the necessary professions that can help build our nation.

So my message to you graduates as you move on to careers,  is please select the career that truly excites you and make you want to go to work each day, if you do that you will end up with a career  that also pays well

You should also know graduates that your College the DSC is new; yes we are only 10 years old but have already produced over three thousand (3300) graduates. For ten years now our graduates have been distinguishing themselves at all levels of work in Dominica and beyond as IT Technicians,  Business managers, health providers,teachers ,Police Officers and others. Our Graduates have used the academic credits and associate Degrees that they have received here to transfer to some of the top colleges in the world including, The University of North Carolina, University of Minnesota, University of Pennsylvania, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Arkansas, Columbia University,and after this ceremony I will be negotiating with my own Alma Mater the University of Mass to transfer our students with their credits to that institution.

We believe that DSC graduates will always standout, because   we have also given you an education that is global in content and second to none.

We are also proud to be meeting the workforce needs of the country.  We want to be the Institution that the industry turns to when they need professionals and trained technicians.  In the future, DSC will be focusing on taking on a new national responsibility namely to become the primary higher education and training institution for Energy management In addition we would like to continue our plan to develop programmes in Health Education, water resource management, public administration, mass communication and develop Associate Degrees and Certificate programmes in other areas of the Performing Arts and Interior Decorating and Design.

The new facilities which will be ready for the fall of 2013 will present significant new space and opportunities to develop the programmes that we have planned.

The future for us is exciting.  We have already outgrown our current Stock Farm Campus and the number of new applicants to our programs is increasing every day. This year we admitted 808 new students.  Fortunately, the Government of Dominica commitment  to build  a new and innovative campus promises to make us one of the largest and most modern campus in the OECS and we plan to utilize that facility to graduate even more Dominicans to help our country grow.  The work is going on at a tremendous pace and it is expected that the new campus   will be on stream by October 2013.

But while the future looks good, I cannot help but reflect on the kind of society that you will be entering as a graduate, and I could not end this address if I did not draw your attention to the similarity and perhaps the timelessness of a quote taken from the pages of literature by Charles Dickens.  In Dominica and indeed the world it would seem that though these words were written during the French Revolution in 1789, it could easily have been written today, and I quote:  “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity.  It was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope…” from the tale of two Cities. By Charles Dickens.  So the world is not perfect, in Dominica we still have daily radio talk shows as forms of entertainment and hate mongering instead of education. However if we at DSC did our job in preparing you with the relevant education that you need to educate our people, then you will be more than ready to help reduce poverty, defeat crime , reduce violence, and improve the standard of living and civility in our country .  In effect you will be able to handle the best of times and the worst of times.

Finally, I want to extend words of thanks to our entire staff and faculty at the college for your effort, commitment, support, and hard work in helping our students succeed

and to the parents, family, friends, and partners of all graduates..  You have every right to be very proud and very happy for them. (applause)

I would like to also thank the government of Dominica for their continued funding of the State College and look forward to their continued support. In 2012, the Government continues to provide 85% of the colleges expenditure and a time when most Governments and States internationally can only fund 68% their institutions(unesco), so we are indeed grateful to this government whose policies supports the very survival of our college.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank former chairman of the Board of Governors His Excellency Mr.Eluid T Williams now president of our country, former acting Chair Mr Steve Hyacinth, the new chair Mr Brian Meade and all of the Board members for the leadership and support that they have brought to the institution.

As for the graduates, before I close, I would like to share five short tidbits that I always give to graduates:

1. Wherever your travels may take you, call home often;
2. Always be street smart; don’t be fooled by con artists. do not buy the Brooklyn Bridge – it is not for sale
3. Never forget your bag or your cell phone on a bus, you won’t get it back.
4. Never pay your Visa bill with your MasterCard.
5. Do not tatoo any part of your body you cannot hide in a job interview;

The future is yours!  Take hold of it.  Follow your dreams; and do not forget to share your talents with your communities, your institutions, and your country.

Once again congratulations.  I wish you all the best for your very bright futures, for which The Dominica State College has prepared you so well.

Have a good celebration with your friends and family and when you get very rich don’t forget to make donations to your college.

The 16^th of October is celebrated every year as World Food Day.  Although this date also coincides with the anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) which was founded in 1945, World Food Day is intended to heighten awareness of the plight of the worlds hungry and malnourished and to encourage people worldwide to take action against hunger.

The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations has chosen "Agricultural Cooperatives: Key to Feeding the World" as the theme of this year's World Food Day.  According to Director General of the FAO – José Graziano da Silva “This theme was chosen to highlight the many, concrete ways in which agricultural cooperatives and producer organizations help to provide food security, generate employment, contribute to the eradication of hunger, and lift people out of poverty”.

FAO reports that nearly one in seven people suffer from undernourishment, despite the fact that the world has the means to eliminate hunger and fuel sustainable development. There is broad agreement that small farmers will provide much of the extra food needed to feed more than nine billion people by 2050. One of the necessary steps to achieving food security is to support and invest in cooperatives, producer organizations and other rural institutions. Numerous success stories around the world have shown that rural institutions like producer organizations and cooperatives contribute to food security by helping small farmers, fisher folk, livestock keepers, forest holders and other producers to access the information, tools and services they need. This allows them to increase food production, market their goods, create jobs, improve their own livelihoods and increase food security in the world.

As is the case in Dominica, most small producers in developing countries face numerous difficulties which include access to high-quality inputs, access to credit, transportation, or the absence of proper infrastructure in rural areas.  The good news is however, that research and experience has shown that small farmers acting collectively in strong producer organizations and cooperatives were better able to take advantage of market opportunities and mitigate the negative effects of food and other crises.

One might ask “What is a cooperative?”  It starts when a group of people believe in themselves and get organized. Agricultural and food cooperatives can be registered cooperatives, or they may take other names and forms such as producer organizations, self-help groups as is the case with our traditional “Coude main”, unions and federations of producers, or Chambers of agriculture, to name a few.

Cooperatives are present in all countries and all sectors, including agriculture, food, finance, health care, marketing, insurance and credit. It is estimated that one billion individuals are members of cooperatives worldwide, generating more than 100 million jobs around the world. In agriculture, forestry, fishing and livestock, members participate in production, profit-sharing, cost-saving, risk-sharing and income-generating activities, that lead to better bargaining power for members as buyers and sellers in the market place. The International Year of Cooperatives in 2012 celebrates the unique role that this “business model with a social conscience” plays in our modern world. World Food Day 2012 shines a light on agricultural cooperatives in particular, and their contribution to poverty and hunger reduction. After all, of the estimated 925 million hungry people in the world today, 70 percent live in rural areas where agriculture is the economic mainstay. Agricultural and food cooperatives are already a major tool against poverty and hunger, but they could do much more. It is time to strengthen these organizations and facilitate their expansion while creating a favourable business, legal, policy and social climate in which they can thrive.

Despite the successes of producer organizations and cooperatives in helping small farmers overcome different constraints, they often remain limited in scale and scope. The main challenge is to build on these success stories, in order to achieve sustainable rural and agricultural development. It is for this reason that the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry in collaboration with IICA, the Cooperative Development Division and other support institutions will bring relevant stakeholders together as one of the activities in observance of World Food Day 2012, to review and define the enabling environment for the development of producer organizations. This is in recognition of the fact that government, development agencies, non-governmental and inter-governmental organizations, and research and academic institutions all have a role to play in supporting the development of strong, efficient and equitable cooperatives and producer organizations.

On this occasion of World Food Day 2012, it is an opportune time to re affirm governments resolve to give producer groups, organisations and cooperatives a helping hand, to enable them to overcome constraints and play their full role in the drive to end hunger and poverty. World Food Day and the International Year of Cooperatives provides us the opportunity to acknowledge the extensive work done by cooperatives in Dominica, and to express our profound gratitude to the members of these organisations for their contribution to food and nutrition, employment, and poverty reduction.

 

 

Thank you.

 

 

 

 

Mr. President

Secretary-General

Distinguished Delegates

Excellencies

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

On behalf of the Government and People of the Commonwealth of Dominica, I would like to congratulate you on your election to the Presidency of the 67th Session of the United Nations General Assembly and wish you every success. We also express appreciation and gratitude to your predecessor, His Excellency Mr. Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser, for the able manner with which he presided over the Sixty-Sixth Session.

 

Mr. President,

We are convening this 67th Session of the United Nations General Assembly at a time when we are faced with a myriad of challenges – the impact of climate change, civil conflicts, hunger and starvation, poverty, HIV/AIDS and Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases.  These challenges however, are equally matched with the tremendous opportunities created by the rapid advancements in science and technology and the unprecedented level of international cooperation.  What we need therefore, is the political will to harness these opportunities for the benefit of our peoples.  This, would, of necessity, require the transformation of multilateral institutions like the United Nations - its organs and agencies, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund, to reflect equity, fairness and inclusion.  These changes must be supported by a shift in our systems of production and consumption, in a new economic system that is built on the principle and differentiated treatment based on the unique challenges of countries, especially on the vulnerability of Small Island Developing States.  I am confident that with this approach, in a functioning multilateral system, we will be able to overcome these challenges.

 

Sustainable Development

Mr. President,

The unsustainable consumption and production systems that continue to deplete the world’s resources and simultaneously contribute   to global warming, remains a major threat to the survival of those of us who live close to the world’s oceans.  The Rio +20 Conference on Sustainable Development was a commendable effort by the international community to take stock of the human impact on the earth’s resources and to commit to reversing the present trend.  The outcome document: “The Future We Want,” falls short of our expectations.  However, it remains a work in progress and presents a useful platform for continued discussions for multilateral resolutions to the growing concern of sustainable development. Yet more importantly, The Outcome Document is indicative of what the international community can achieve when collective energies are harnessed to present an international response.

 

 

 

Mr. President,

Dominica is pleased that Rio +20 reaffirmed an international commitment to support Small Island Developing States (SIDS). We especially welcome the agreement to convene the Third International Conference for the Sustainable Development of SIDS in 2014 in the Pacific. In fact, we are of the view that the Third SIDS Conference will provide an opportunity for the implementation of the outcomes of Rio +20, the Barbados Program of Action (BPoA) and the Mauritius Strategy of Implementation

 

As a small island developing state, Dominica is committed to the foundational principle of environmental sustainability. This is clearly demonstrated by our Nature Island approach to sustainable development.  The sustainable use of our natural resources have contributed to our tourism product while at the same time, blessing our citizens with  the most beautiful place on earth to call home.  That notwithstanding, our many vulnerabilities continue to place us at the mercies of those countries that promote and employ unsustainable practices.  This includes an international economic system dominated by the strong and powerful that pay little or no regard to the vulnerable.  If multilateralism is to survive, we need to focus on correcting this lopsided system that is destined to annihilate SIDS.

 

Climate Change

Mr. President,

The very vulnerability of Dominica to the effects of global warming underscores our commitment to a multilateral approach aimed at combating climate change.  The impact of climate change continues to manifest itself in a number of ways resulting in greater challenges to the survival of SIDS.  The failure to date to reach a legally binding outcome on climate change is cause of grave concern.  While the debate continues, the challenges to our islands are becoming greater.  We are encouraged, however, that the recently concluded climate talks in Bangkok has “prepared a fertile ground” for the Doha Talks later this year.  Nevertheless, Dominica continues to stress the importance of extending and amending the Kyoto Protocol, before it lapses. The timely creation of a roadmap for a new legally binding document must be treated as a matter of urgency.  We look forward to the Doha Talks with great expectations.

 

Renewable Energy

Mr. President,

One of the major contributors to climate change is the consumption of fossil fuel for the production of electricity.  The importation of fossil fuel also has the greatest impact on the economic vulnerability for many Small Island Developing States.  Energy, therefore, is central to responding to the challenges of climate change and sustainable development.  Today, there is still a significant portion of many remote and rural island communities with little or no access to modern and affordable energy services.

 

Low-carbon economies in SIDS, therefore, provide an opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emission while decreasing dependence on imported fossil fuel.  By generating their own energy from natural renewable sources, SIDS will be able to achieve energy security.  The savings realized from the avoided cost of importing fossil fuel, could be used for adaption and developmental needs. It is for this and other reasons that SIDS DOCK was instituted.  SIDS DOCK is currently providing a global platform for SIDS to pursue their renewable energy ambitions by building capacity and providing technical support to member states.  The Governments of Denmark and Japan, the UNDP and the World Bank, continue to play a significant role in making energy independence a reality for SIDS.  The recent partnership with the Clinton Foundation has given new hope to a number of islands that are vigorously pursuing their renewable energy aspirations.

 

Dominica has the honour of serving as Chair of the SIDS DOCK, and in this regard, my Delegation as well as the SIDS DOCK institution fully endorses the Barbados Declaration on Achieving Sustainable Energy for All in Small Island Developing States, signed by AOSIS Ministers and other Heads of Delegation at the Ministerial Conference in Bridgetown, Barbados, last May.  The commitments made and targets set to increase the percentage of renewable energy and increase energy efficiency in their energy portfolios, is a testimony of our Region’s commitment to the Secretary-General’s “Sustainable Energy for All” initiative. We congratulate the Secretary-General for launching the SEFA, which the SIDS DOCK has joined and is committed to actively support.

 

Mr. President,

Dominica, The Nature Island, continues to pursue the development of its geothermal resources.  We are pleased to announce that the recently concluded test-drilling in the Roseau Valley has confirmed that our geothermal resources have the potential to supply domestic needs as well as for export. This will allow us to move away from the importation of fossil fuel for the generation of electricity within the next five years, while also reducing the cost of electricity to our people.  At the same time, the development of a power plant for export to the French Territories of Guadeloupe and Martinique will provide a source of revenue for the island. Negotiations are ongoing and are expected to conclude by the end of 2012.  Work is expected to commence on the first power plant in the first quarter of 2013.

 

Mr. President,

Dominica’s energy initiative has the potential to transform its economy and to improve the quality of life of its people.  The Government of Dominica, therefore, as trustee of the island’s resources on behalf of its people, is ensuring that it manages this process responsibly.  We have sought and are receiving assistance from some of the most reputable consultants in the world.  The support of the Clinton Climate Initiative has allowed us to navigate through the complex challenges of this project.  We wish to express our gratitude to President Bill Clinton for his continued support.

 

We anticipate that by 2017 all of our electricity needs will be met by a combination of sources: hydro and geothermal.  By 2020 we will expect to be exporting electricity to our neighbouring islands via submarine cables.  This, coupled with our sustainable development practices, means that Dominica will, not only be carbon neutral, but carbon negative by 2020.

 

Like Dominica, many SIDS are pursuing national renewable energy initiatives, and more than 20 SIDS have made pledges under the SEFA.  However, unsustainable debt burdens and the lack of technology make it impossible for them to achieve their goals.  We therefore invite other developed countries and international institutions to join the Governments of Denmark and Japan, and the Clinton Climate Initiative in the SIDS DOCK Partnership, and the Government of Norway in its Energy for All initiative, in providing the critical support to SIDS.

 

Global Peace and Security

Mr. President,

The prolonged and in some cases the recent cries of peoples around the world should be heeded by the global community. It should not be done in a selective manner based on narrow national interests.  Injustice anywhere and in any form should not be tolerated.  The so-called “Arab Spring” has been one such expression.  The international community must therefore, support the wishes of the people as they struggle to create their own democratic systems driven by their aspirations.  The recent spate of attacks on the United States Missions and personnel or that of any other country, does nothing to advance the causes of those who may be marginalized and in some cases those who feel offended by other democratic systems. Regardless of what may have led to these protests, the Commonwealth of Dominica condemns these unjustified attacks which resulted in the unfortunate loss of life of the US Ambassador Christopher Stevens and his colleagues.

 

While we are heartened with the attention that has been given to the recent outcries from some corners of the globe, we remain concerned that in other jurisdictions the cries of people who have been suffering for decades are not being received with the same enthusiasm.  The suffering of our brothers and sisters in the Republic of Haiti is allowed to linger much to the concern of Dominica and the CARICOM.  We are grateful to those countries that have responded and others who have and continue   to support the rebuilding efforts in Haiti.  However, we are still far from taking the people of Haiti to a state of normalcy where they can enjoy the basic necessities of life.

 

Our Caribbean region also continues to witness the unheeded call for the discontinuation of the economic, financial and trade embargo on our brothers and sisters in the Republic of Cuba.  We call on the government of the United States to allow the people of Cuba to be fully integrated into the global trading system so as to improve their lives and to allow the world to benefit from their tremendous contributions especially in science and technology.

 

Arms Trade Treaty

Mr. President,

The international trade, transfer and use of conventional arms, weapons, munitions and ammunition continue to threaten international peace and security.  Dominica, like her sister nations in CARICOM, is not immune to this debilitating phenomenon. Our region continues to be affected by an increase in gangs and violent criminal activities born out of the trade and transfer of illicit arms and drugs throughout the Caribbean region from North to South America.

 

Dominica is therefore disturbed that despite four weeks of rigorous deliberations and intense negotiations, the United Nations Conference on the Arms Trade Treaty, (“the UNCATT”), did not result in the finalization of the treaty.  However, like the rest of our CARICOM colleagues we believe that the July 26 text from the Chairman of UNCATT provides a blueprint for a possible final document. As leaders, the task is now ours to finalize a legally binding document in the interest and protection of our people.  Dominica is optimistic that this can be achieved during this Session of the General Assembly and reaffirms its commitment to the realization of a robust Arms Trade Treaty.

 

Mr. President,

Dominica takes this opportunity to applaud the United Nation’s role and efforts in combating the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the global community.  Long-term socio-economic development of many nations particularly SIDS such as Dominica is severely compromised because of the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in our region.

 

Associated with this illicit trade, is the trafficking of narcotics through the Caribbean region from South to North America, which has presented new challenges to the maintenance of peace and security in our region.  This underscores the urgent need for a legally binding international instrument addressing the control and monitoring of the illicit trade in small arms between states and among non-state actors.

 

Conclusion

Mr. President,

Dominica remains committed to collaborating with the United Nations and all its agencies, as well as Member States, to strengthen the Mission of this noble body that, notwithstanding its imperfections, is critical to maintaining world peace and security.  We affirm our confidence in the UN system as the ultimate negotiating and deliberating body for addressing major challenges confronting the world.  May we all rise to the occasion and resolve to bring peace, security and prosperity to every corner of the globe.  Our people depend on us.

 

I thank the General Assembly.