Sunday, December 20, 2009
Dominica lost and the buying of the elections
OPINION: By Dr. Emanuel Finn
In 1513 Niccolo Machiavelli wrote one of the most read and influential books on politics- The Prince.
Machiavelli’s observations continue to resonate with politicians, students, and scholars today. The Prince deals with the acquisition, perpetuation, and use of political power in the western world.
Machiavelli justified rule and power by force rather than by law. Accordingly, The Prince justifies a number of actions done merely to perpetuate power. How to get it, expand it and use it for maximum effect.
The political events of the last month which culminated on December 18th with a landside victory by the Dominica Labour Party was a true case of what Machiavelli described in his book.
The campaign and elections was the most unfairly contested elections in the history of our country.
The elections was bought (not won) by Mr. Skerrit and his rich foreign sponsors. When the dust has cleared and the history books written, Roosevelt Skerrit and the 2009 elections will be a shameful mark on our country.
The election was an expensive business transaction, which resulted in a roundup and stampede of the opposition. It threw Dominica into an era which is both frightening and dangerous.
Where did all that money come from to buy the election? and what does our country owe? ‘Yes it is our damn business’ to know that. Dominica is supposed to be a Democracy but it has become a ‘Demo–Krasy’- (T’).
Does Skerrit expect to be respected by fair and independent minded Dominicans who do not need a job or a hand out from his red clinic? I sure hope not. The rule of law and the law of rule must prevail in a normal functioning democracy and no man is above the laws of the land.
When the person who occupies the highest office makes such juvenile statement as ‘ no constitution or law can prevent him from being nominated’ even though there were questions about the possible violation of the law—folks take heed- your country is on a slippery slope and is at the edge of a precipice.
One of the main ingredients of a functioning democracy is the media. Skerrit shut down the media though his handpicked DBS Board and hijacked the radio station, which is owned by a joker who ridiculed the late leader who is most respected by all Dominicans and who Skerrit says is his idol and role model. Yet still Skerrit has not publicly distanced himself from this clown.
Also shame on the DBS Board –you have done your country a huge disservice by not allowing the opposition access to the airways. I suspect in due time you will regret profusely. You owe yourselves and the Dominican people an apology.
In any functioning democracy with mature leadership, before an election there is an opportunity for the leaders to engage in public and civil debate.
Skerrit and his handlers have no interest in that aspect of democracy. Folks our country is like a ship on the high open seas in choppy waters and a viscious storm with ill winds quickly heading its way.
Skerrit has also succeeded in dividing Dominicans to the highest degree. No other place is an example than in my home of La Plaine, my dad’s village of Castle Bruce, the Carib Territory and all points because of the Diaspora airlift.
In La Plaine folks who haven’t been home in more than twenty years were in line voting for Labour.
The Diaspora did not look for politicians but politicians looked for them and used them compliments of Skerrit and Dominica’s UN’s mission in New York City. What a sad story what a sad day. This hurts profoundly and is very painful.
What happened to the churches? What happened to the Bishop? What happened to the good and decent family men and women who not only stood idly by but professed that it is ‘just ok’ to get rich while in office?
What happened to our most decorated scholars who have supported all that madness? I suppose you all will be heading to church this Christmas and praising God. Maybe you all should ask the almighty Father for forgiveness and understanding.
Yes Skerrit you did it- all protocols are observed. Mr. Ron Green not only lost, but the La Plaine people are at each other’s throats in a divided small community—nice job Skerrit and congratulations- Dominica lost and you won convincingly.
Will the lady who arranged the airlift to La Plaine at the mission in NYC and who works ‘personally’ for you, (not for Dominica) still remain on the job? Or will she get a promotion for an illegal and unethical job well done? Either way, if she has any self respect she would ask you for a transfer.
Yes Roosevelt Skerrit-(the Hamid Karzai of the region) will you be still the Minister of Finance guarding the treasury money draws?
Given all the strong corruption allegations against you it might be a classic case of the fox guarding the hen house. Yes my people, Dominica lost the elections and like the corrupt Afghan President Kazai, Skerrit won.
Like the fraudulent recent Afghan elections, Dominica’s elections were a stampede, a farce, a mockery, a big joke, a ' pappy show and a comedy.
Competitions and elections won due to fraudulent, devious, unfair and unlawful advantages amounts to the greatest of all defeats. Dominica lost and Skerrit purchased the elections with big money.
Skerrit do you expect anyone with any sense of self to respect you? Machiavelli warned that politicians will justify a number of actions done merely to perpetuate power-how to get it, expand it and use it for maximum effect. Dominica’s 2009 elections is a perfect case of that fact.
To our people, I know you have heavy hearts, headaches and you are shedding tears as a result of the mid day rape and assault of our country. Hang in there and please don’t give up on our beloved home land. ‘Life is like that some times’.
Tomorrow is a day away and your unabiding love for your country will never die and will see it through. Skerrit and his agents will occupy their rightful place in the trash bin of history.
Enjoy the music and think of simpler days gone by in our cherished land before Skerrit and his gang emerged on the scene. God bless our native land.
In 1513 Niccolo Machiavelli wrote one of the most read and influential books on politics- The Prince.
Machiavelli’s observations continue to resonate with politicians, students, and scholars today. The Prince deals with the acquisition, perpetuation, and use of political power in the western world.
Machiavelli justified rule and power by force rather than by law. Accordingly, The Prince justifies a number of actions done merely to perpetuate power. How to get it, expand it and use it for maximum effect.
The political events of the last month which culminated on December 18th with a landside victory by the Dominica Labour Party was a true case of what Machiavelli described in his book.
The campaign and elections was the most unfairly contested elections in the history of our country.
The elections was bought (not won) by Mr. Skerrit and his rich foreign sponsors. When the dust has cleared and the history books written, Roosevelt Skerrit and the 2009 elections will be a shameful mark on our country.
The election was an expensive business transaction, which resulted in a roundup and stampede of the opposition. It threw Dominica into an era which is both frightening and dangerous.
Where did all that money come from to buy the election? and what does our country owe? ‘Yes it is our damn business’ to know that. Dominica is supposed to be a Democracy but it has become a ‘Demo–Krasy’- (T’).
Does Skerrit expect to be respected by fair and independent minded Dominicans who do not need a job or a hand out from his red clinic? I sure hope not. The rule of law and the law of rule must prevail in a normal functioning democracy and no man is above the laws of the land.
When the person who occupies the highest office makes such juvenile statement as ‘ no constitution or law can prevent him from being nominated’ even though there were questions about the possible violation of the law—folks take heed- your country is on a slippery slope and is at the edge of a precipice.
One of the main ingredients of a functioning democracy is the media. Skerrit shut down the media though his handpicked DBS Board and hijacked the radio station, which is owned by a joker who ridiculed the late leader who is most respected by all Dominicans and who Skerrit says is his idol and role model. Yet still Skerrit has not publicly distanced himself from this clown.
Also shame on the DBS Board –you have done your country a huge disservice by not allowing the opposition access to the airways. I suspect in due time you will regret profusely. You owe yourselves and the Dominican people an apology.
In any functioning democracy with mature leadership, before an election there is an opportunity for the leaders to engage in public and civil debate.
Skerrit and his handlers have no interest in that aspect of democracy. Folks our country is like a ship on the high open seas in choppy waters and a viscious storm with ill winds quickly heading its way.
Skerrit has also succeeded in dividing Dominicans to the highest degree. No other place is an example than in my home of La Plaine, my dad’s village of Castle Bruce, the Carib Territory and all points because of the Diaspora airlift.
In La Plaine folks who haven’t been home in more than twenty years were in line voting for Labour.
The Diaspora did not look for politicians but politicians looked for them and used them compliments of Skerrit and Dominica’s UN’s mission in New York City. What a sad story what a sad day. This hurts profoundly and is very painful.
What happened to the churches? What happened to the Bishop? What happened to the good and decent family men and women who not only stood idly by but professed that it is ‘just ok’ to get rich while in office?
What happened to our most decorated scholars who have supported all that madness? I suppose you all will be heading to church this Christmas and praising God. Maybe you all should ask the almighty Father for forgiveness and understanding.
Yes Skerrit you did it- all protocols are observed. Mr. Ron Green not only lost, but the La Plaine people are at each other’s throats in a divided small community—nice job Skerrit and congratulations- Dominica lost and you won convincingly.
Will the lady who arranged the airlift to La Plaine at the mission in NYC and who works ‘personally’ for you, (not for Dominica) still remain on the job? Or will she get a promotion for an illegal and unethical job well done? Either way, if she has any self respect she would ask you for a transfer.
Yes Roosevelt Skerrit-(the Hamid Karzai of the region) will you be still the Minister of Finance guarding the treasury money draws?
Given all the strong corruption allegations against you it might be a classic case of the fox guarding the hen house. Yes my people, Dominica lost the elections and like the corrupt Afghan President Kazai, Skerrit won.
Like the fraudulent recent Afghan elections, Dominica’s elections were a stampede, a farce, a mockery, a big joke, a ' pappy show and a comedy.
Competitions and elections won due to fraudulent, devious, unfair and unlawful advantages amounts to the greatest of all defeats. Dominica lost and Skerrit purchased the elections with big money.
Skerrit do you expect anyone with any sense of self to respect you? Machiavelli warned that politicians will justify a number of actions done merely to perpetuate power-how to get it, expand it and use it for maximum effect. Dominica’s 2009 elections is a perfect case of that fact.
To our people, I know you have heavy hearts, headaches and you are shedding tears as a result of the mid day rape and assault of our country. Hang in there and please don’t give up on our beloved home land. ‘Life is like that some times’.
Tomorrow is a day away and your unabiding love for your country will never die and will see it through. Skerrit and his agents will occupy their rightful place in the trash bin of history.
Enjoy the music and think of simpler days gone by in our cherished land before Skerrit and his gang emerged on the scene. God bless our native land.
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// posted by TheDominican.net @ 10:11 PM
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Well done Dr. Finn. This election is like a stain on Dominica. Everyone is staying quiet. The crowds I saw in the picture reminds me of the germans before the war, when their leader could do no wrong. We all know how that turned out.
Good luck with governing. Let's see that rag-tag gang run a ministry to generate jobs, and keep Dominicans in Dominica. The country bleeding people and quite clearly those that remain can't think for themselves. Maybe Crazy T can be minister of Education.
Good luck with governing. Let's see that rag-tag gang run a ministry to generate jobs, and keep Dominicans in Dominica. The country bleeding people and quite clearly those that remain can't think for themselves. Maybe Crazy T can be minister of Education.
# posted by 
: December 20, 2009 10:28 PM
: December 20, 2009 10:28 PM
Doomed-inicans wanted their one party dictatorship and they got it! Congratulations DUMB ASSES, Skeritt and his OWNERS won and Dominica lost. I hope the checks all you holding to cash this week, there will be funds available for them. Take all your bags, pillow cases, hand basins and bottles and go to the warehouses to collect all your ration. This is what all you sold Dominica for. Skeritt will continue take what he wants from all you , just like they took Ron’s seat, he will take all you wives, all you husbands, all you daughters just like he is accustomed of doing.. I am giving all you six months for the monster all you created to start breathing fire on all you. The American borders are closed to Dominicans for obvious reasons, all you will have to head for Haiti Venezuela or China! This dictator will have all you sucking his toes and maybe something else to…!!!!! Enjoy. My birthright is for sale $5.00 and you got it. I have changed my status from Dominica democracy watch to Dominica dictatorship watch because whatever tiny particle of Democracy that was left in Dominica died a sorrowful death on Friday December 18, 2009, but when my grand children ask me. Grandma where were you when this was happening to Dominica. I feel so good that I will be able to tell them. Children your grandmother fought like hell, but the evil forces of blood money were stronger !!! To the intellectual prostitutes of Dominica I say. Dominica, the next generation will never, ever forgive or forget you.. I will make sure that it is documented for them for posterity!!!! So my dictator watch begins today!! No opposition, no voices of the ordinary people who want to dissent, no press!!! Skeritt was well trained by Chavez to ensure that there will be no DISSENT! and no Press informing the people of what is going wrong!! Soon newspapers and radio Stations will be targeted! I can just do a check list of the events to occur in Dominica, and tick them as they happen because as sure as the sun raises and sets, they are going to happen. Enjoy Doomed-innicans!! Your owners will start their havoc in Dominica soon. They are coming and you guys will not be able to stop them!!!! Enjoy! For a pound of rice and a slice of ham!
Shirley Allan
Shirley Allan
# posted by : December 20, 2009 10:50 PM
: December 20, 2009 10:50 PM
LOL. lol!!!! Man go sleep and stop using your god given intellect to write garbage on the internet. You sound like you ready to burst. You were probably steaming when results came out and then you got the cherry cake the day after. When learned Ron lose his seat.
# posted by : December 20, 2009 10:51 PM
: December 20, 2009 10:51 PM
No wonder so many thousands of Dominicans throw stone behind their back when the leave DA never to return. Now I am beginning to understand....
# posted by : December 20, 2009 10:54 PM
: December 20, 2009 10:54 PM
This is the worst piece of analysis after an election I have read anywhere. And this guy actually has DR. in front his name?
The intellectuals in Dominica are worse than I thought. Dr. Finn has sunken himself into the 'intellectual ghetto.'
The intellectuals in Dominica are worse than I thought. Dr. Finn has sunken himself into the 'intellectual ghetto.'
# posted by : December 20, 2009 11:47 PM
: December 20, 2009 11:47 PM
Dr. Emmanuel Finn
I wish to paint a realistic scenario to you.
Election Campaigning ended at midnight on December 17 2009. UWP's rally at Salibia went well pass that time.
Dominicans went to sleep and woke up on December 18th. All polling stations opened on time at 7am. The day was very quiet with a slight drizzle and sometimes sunny.
The Dominican people went to their respective polling stations undisturbed, unhindered and was under no threat or duress to cast their ballots. Earlier that day the poll clerks ensured in the public view that all ballot boxes were empty before they were sealed in public view.
The Dominican public cast their ballots under the watchful eyes of international observers peacefully for the candidate and party of their choice. There were no guns held at the head of any one. The Dominican people cast their vote freely and fairly without interference.
The poles closed at 5pm, the ballots were counted under the watchful eyes of international observers. The Dominican People spoke loudly and gave a resounding victory to the Dominica Labour Party. Why is it Dr. Emmanuel Finn that you want to frustrate the will of the Dominican people. What type of Democracy that you are expousng?
What you fail to understand Dr. Finn and you must get down from your high horse to understand that. The Dominica Labour Party is a grass roots institution well embeded into the heart and soul of the Dominican People. Therefore with or without Skerrit defeating the Dominica Labour Party at this point in time is highly impossible.
The UWP could have all three radio stations 24-7 they would still loose the elections. The Dominican People were fed up and angry with the constant bashing of one individual and they demonstrated that anger in the ballot boxes.
How then was the election Bought? Last election the UWP had Kairi FM and Q 95FM full time 24-7. UWP also shared DBS and they still loose the elections. This election the opposition had Q 95FM 24-7 and Labour had Kairi 24-7 All of a sudden Krazy T is a clown. Last election he was no clown.
How on earth can you compare Dominica with Afganistan? Why is it you can so destroy the image of your country that have just complete one of the most peaceful election in the history of Dominica? Why cant you congratulate the People of Dominica and wish them well. Why you want to bring fire and brimstone on an innocent people who have just excercise their democratic right freely. Why DR. Finn. WHY?
When will you show some respect to the Dominican People? Clearly it was not Barbadians or St. Lucians or Antiguans who voted. The Dominican people excercised their right to vote freely and was under no duress an you refuse to accept the outcome.
This is Shameful and disrespectful. Your article can be deemed as an act of high treason against the People of Dominica.
The Dominican People have Spoken and the voice of the people is the voice of God. Accept the Voice of God
Jude Nicholas
Stock Farm
Dominica
I wish to paint a realistic scenario to you.
Election Campaigning ended at midnight on December 17 2009. UWP's rally at Salibia went well pass that time.
Dominicans went to sleep and woke up on December 18th. All polling stations opened on time at 7am. The day was very quiet with a slight drizzle and sometimes sunny.
The Dominican people went to their respective polling stations undisturbed, unhindered and was under no threat or duress to cast their ballots. Earlier that day the poll clerks ensured in the public view that all ballot boxes were empty before they were sealed in public view.
The Dominican public cast their ballots under the watchful eyes of international observers peacefully for the candidate and party of their choice. There were no guns held at the head of any one. The Dominican people cast their vote freely and fairly without interference.
The poles closed at 5pm, the ballots were counted under the watchful eyes of international observers. The Dominican People spoke loudly and gave a resounding victory to the Dominica Labour Party. Why is it Dr. Emmanuel Finn that you want to frustrate the will of the Dominican people. What type of Democracy that you are expousng?
What you fail to understand Dr. Finn and you must get down from your high horse to understand that. The Dominica Labour Party is a grass roots institution well embeded into the heart and soul of the Dominican People. Therefore with or without Skerrit defeating the Dominica Labour Party at this point in time is highly impossible.
The UWP could have all three radio stations 24-7 they would still loose the elections. The Dominican People were fed up and angry with the constant bashing of one individual and they demonstrated that anger in the ballot boxes.
How then was the election Bought? Last election the UWP had Kairi FM and Q 95FM full time 24-7. UWP also shared DBS and they still loose the elections. This election the opposition had Q 95FM 24-7 and Labour had Kairi 24-7 All of a sudden Krazy T is a clown. Last election he was no clown.
How on earth can you compare Dominica with Afganistan? Why is it you can so destroy the image of your country that have just complete one of the most peaceful election in the history of Dominica? Why cant you congratulate the People of Dominica and wish them well. Why you want to bring fire and brimstone on an innocent people who have just excercise their democratic right freely. Why DR. Finn. WHY?
When will you show some respect to the Dominican People? Clearly it was not Barbadians or St. Lucians or Antiguans who voted. The Dominican people excercised their right to vote freely and was under no duress an you refuse to accept the outcome.
This is Shameful and disrespectful. Your article can be deemed as an act of high treason against the People of Dominica.
The Dominican People have Spoken and the voice of the people is the voice of God. Accept the Voice of God
Jude Nicholas
Stock Farm
Dominica
# posted by : December 21, 2009 12:22 AM
: December 21, 2009 12:22 AM
I have a certain brother who supports "red Pepper", and the things that hurts me is,here is my other brother who supports "Green pepper",and whose son is employed with the surveyors dept or what ever it is called,and "red pepper" is questioning the surveyors authority,asking "what qualifies my brother's son to have this job".I cannot understand how can a brother sit by and watch mister "pepper" try to destroy his own nephew and keeping his mouth shut...Is he expecting to be the minister of FIG in "pepper's" ministry...I am silently waiting to hear in a matter of months that the job was stripped away from my nephew.In time to come the whole world is gonna know,and there will be a new kid on the block to weed out the dictatorship.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 12:22 AM
: December 21, 2009 12:22 AM
Not all Dominicans voted freely, some were given stuff and some were promised stuff.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 12:40 AM
: December 21, 2009 12:40 AM
For you Dr. Finn only one result was possible and probable that is Ron Green and the UWP had to win at all cost. For you Skerrit and the DLP could not and should not have won. The Labour Party was accused, tried and condemmed by you.
You were acuser, prosecutor, Judge, Jury and executioner all at the same time. However, the People of Dominica gave a different verdict and I am afraid that you cant accept this.
Therefore, the election in Dominica had to be compared like Afganistan's. Are you truly a DOMINICAN Dr. Finn? Where your allegiance rests. Does it have to be your way or no way?
Did you read over your article and consider the untold harm you can create for the country you claim to love so dearly? Why would you want to burn down the entire house to kill the rat?
Brotherman the Electorate of Dominica have spoken loud and clear. No crying foul and no acrimony can change that.
I simple wished you would congratulate the people of Dominica for the peaceful manner in which the entire election was conducted and wish your country well. But no as a Prophet of Doom and Gloom your hatred of the people of Dominica must continue.
You must continue to sing the song of your bosses in Washington who wanted a regime change in Dominica. Not this time Dr. Finn Not This Time. The people of Dominica is on the Night Guard. We Know what is Good for us.
Jennifer Symmes
Grand Bay
Dominica
You were acuser, prosecutor, Judge, Jury and executioner all at the same time. However, the People of Dominica gave a different verdict and I am afraid that you cant accept this.
Therefore, the election in Dominica had to be compared like Afganistan's. Are you truly a DOMINICAN Dr. Finn? Where your allegiance rests. Does it have to be your way or no way?
Did you read over your article and consider the untold harm you can create for the country you claim to love so dearly? Why would you want to burn down the entire house to kill the rat?
Brotherman the Electorate of Dominica have spoken loud and clear. No crying foul and no acrimony can change that.
I simple wished you would congratulate the people of Dominica for the peaceful manner in which the entire election was conducted and wish your country well. But no as a Prophet of Doom and Gloom your hatred of the people of Dominica must continue.
You must continue to sing the song of your bosses in Washington who wanted a regime change in Dominica. Not this time Dr. Finn Not This Time. The people of Dominica is on the Night Guard. We Know what is Good for us.
Jennifer Symmes
Grand Bay
Dominica
# posted by : December 21, 2009 12:45 AM
: December 21, 2009 12:45 AM
OVERSEAS DOMINICANS, I hope you feel real proud of yourselves now for the devilish act you committed on Friday! You have now saddled us with a dictator! You were BOUGHT hook, line and sinker and sold Dominica lock, stock and barrel to an evil man who for the past 9 years has been bringing misery upon misery upon his own people and keep lowering them every week at his 'red clinic'. Don't think now that you're back in your luxury outside of Dominica that you're safe. God is everywhere. You reap what you sow! Woe upon woes will fall on you and your household even to your future generations because people reap what they sow. Don't be surprised if you lose your job and have to come back to this mess you left behind....Remember, you heard it here first. God is not blind. God IS Real and He will show His Power and Might soon! My conscience is clear.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 12:49 AM
: December 21, 2009 12:49 AM
Dr E Finn and Shirley Allan i can understand you guys frustration, dreams of one of you being Dominica's ambassadors to the U N was denied on Dec 18th 2009,time 18mins to 3:00.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 1:06 AM
: December 21, 2009 1:06 AM
The OECS should take whoever wants to get out and kick Dominica out of the unoin, the rest can go with ALBA.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 1:07 AM
: December 21, 2009 1:07 AM
Anonymous wrote "Dominicans are one of the most stupid people in the world."
Very poor grammar. Whoever wrote this, is on the stupid train. Go check your grammar before you come and call people stupid.
Its sad that so many people are saying many bad things about Dominica just because their party ran a poor campaign and lost.
Mr. Finn should realize that smart people, whenever they lose something, they do a self analysis on why they lost. Write an article on the UWP's poor organization during the campaign, its lack of a consistent message on issues and policies for the development of Dominica, its focus on corruption that could not be substantiated and so on.
Come on Mr. Finn write us an article, not on how and why the Labor Party won but on how and why the UWP lost. Come on, I dare you.
Very poor grammar. Whoever wrote this, is on the stupid train. Go check your grammar before you come and call people stupid.
Its sad that so many people are saying many bad things about Dominica just because their party ran a poor campaign and lost.
Mr. Finn should realize that smart people, whenever they lose something, they do a self analysis on why they lost. Write an article on the UWP's poor organization during the campaign, its lack of a consistent message on issues and policies for the development of Dominica, its focus on corruption that could not be substantiated and so on.
Come on Mr. Finn write us an article, not on how and why the Labor Party won but on how and why the UWP lost. Come on, I dare you.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 4:03 AM
: December 21, 2009 4:03 AM
It is with sadness i recognise that there are folks who claim to love but realy hate. Dr.Finn claim to have a PhD. and to have studied Machievellian theory, well he is not the only one.
I too studied Machievillian theory at University in England and under that theory the masses were made unemployed. Skerrit is not using Machevllian theory he is helping the poor, but world economic is using Machievellian theory and that is why we have a few rich nations and the trickle to the emerging nations.
That is why the Dominican people chose Skerrit and the DLP because he want ALL not just a few to benefit.
So Dr. Finn you and your associates in America thought u would impose Machievilian theory on Dominica, with the intellectual few ruling it over the masses. If Dominicans had been foolish enough to vote for UWP you would have soon put Ron Green aside as they did with Compton in ST.Lucia, use Ron to win the election but after the election we would have a leadership war.
Well the prayers of the people were heard, Ron Green is a good man in the company of evil. That is why he lost the seat. The good Lord opened the eyes of the Dominican people and they saw the evil in your campaign of hate.
If you were a espouser of demorcracy you would recognise that the campaign was over on the 17th the election was held peacefully on the 18th and the Dominican people spoke.
If you loved Democracy and was an intelligent civilised individual you would behave like a gentleman and congratulate the winner of the election.
In both America and England the bastions of demorcracy after the election the will of the people is respected and the candidates shake hands and get on to doing the work of the people.
You and Shirley Allan keep up the campaifn of hate and Skerrit will have not one more term but two and yes you will get your desire Dominica will have one party because the people of Dominica will rally behind the PM and the Labour Party.
Keep up your hatefull campaign and Dominicans will pray for you and Shirley Allan.We hand you over to Jesus let him judge you two.
The Lord will bless and protect our PM from the evil of you people. NO weapon will prevail against HIm for he is blessed by the Dominican people.
I too studied Machievillian theory at University in England and under that theory the masses were made unemployed. Skerrit is not using Machevllian theory he is helping the poor, but world economic is using Machievellian theory and that is why we have a few rich nations and the trickle to the emerging nations.
That is why the Dominican people chose Skerrit and the DLP because he want ALL not just a few to benefit.
So Dr. Finn you and your associates in America thought u would impose Machievilian theory on Dominica, with the intellectual few ruling it over the masses. If Dominicans had been foolish enough to vote for UWP you would have soon put Ron Green aside as they did with Compton in ST.Lucia, use Ron to win the election but after the election we would have a leadership war.
Well the prayers of the people were heard, Ron Green is a good man in the company of evil. That is why he lost the seat. The good Lord opened the eyes of the Dominican people and they saw the evil in your campaign of hate.
If you were a espouser of demorcracy you would recognise that the campaign was over on the 17th the election was held peacefully on the 18th and the Dominican people spoke.
If you loved Democracy and was an intelligent civilised individual you would behave like a gentleman and congratulate the winner of the election.
In both America and England the bastions of demorcracy after the election the will of the people is respected and the candidates shake hands and get on to doing the work of the people.
You and Shirley Allan keep up the campaifn of hate and Skerrit will have not one more term but two and yes you will get your desire Dominica will have one party because the people of Dominica will rally behind the PM and the Labour Party.
Keep up your hatefull campaign and Dominicans will pray for you and Shirley Allan.We hand you over to Jesus let him judge you two.
The Lord will bless and protect our PM from the evil of you people. NO weapon will prevail against HIm for he is blessed by the Dominican people.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 4:18 AM
: December 21, 2009 4:18 AM
Dr. Emmanuel Finn
I do not know you but asked What happened to the churches? What happened to the Bishop? What happened to the good and decent family men and women...What happened to our most decorated scholars. I will tell you where we were. While you were instigating violence and propaganda we were praying for our Beloved Dominica.
You said about the Diaspora Airlift. I thought only one person could vote in voting booth at one time? No one force anyone to vote for DLP.
You seem to be insinuating that Dominicans are fools. If we are fools then you are the biggest one. I have never seen a biggest jackass like you. You are even worst then Don Quixote when he went to fight against the windmills.
The only thing I can tell you Dr. Finn is to give back the degree you purchase and procure common sense, since you are clearly lacking some.
I do not know you but asked What happened to the churches? What happened to the Bishop? What happened to the good and decent family men and women...What happened to our most decorated scholars. I will tell you where we were. While you were instigating violence and propaganda we were praying for our Beloved Dominica.
You said about the Diaspora Airlift. I thought only one person could vote in voting booth at one time? No one force anyone to vote for DLP.
You seem to be insinuating that Dominicans are fools. If we are fools then you are the biggest one. I have never seen a biggest jackass like you. You are even worst then Don Quixote when he went to fight against the windmills.
The only thing I can tell you Dr. Finn is to give back the degree you purchase and procure common sense, since you are clearly lacking some.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 4:25 AM
: December 21, 2009 4:25 AM
I hope Dr. Finn has a good memory, because he should remember that when there was labour and freedom in politics motorcades would cross paths with no incidents. As soon as the UWP was formed on the foundation of anger by Edison James, then Dominica political behaviour changed for good. So Mr Finn, it is not labour that caused division in LaPlaine, it is the UWP. And always remember that the Dominicans who voted for labour this time around, are the same Dominicans UWP will come to next elections. Our memories are short, but some of us will be there to remind them what you and others are saying. Like Shirley, I am documenting the happenings today by saving a clip of this article, it may come in handy five years from now.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 9:26 AM
: December 21, 2009 9:26 AM
What the owner(s) of this message board does not tell you is the demands that they made to Mr. Skerrit and his Government/party for them to work for or contest elections in Dominica for the Labour Party.
The Doctors, Fountaine, Finn, Christian…. I am personally calling you out.
You know why?
You are FRAUDS, Charlatans, disgruntled individuals whose demands were not agreed to by the Labour Party.
I saw your list of demands….how dare you call anyone corrupt when you asked for these things…..
This is why you allow such rubbish to be posted here.
These guys would sell their souls….
They think that because they went to study in America, they can fool Dominica and rob the country…all you to Damn greedy.
Tie your waist get a job.
Edison James and the UWP will crash under its own weight.....
Dominicans went to the Polls they voted and the Party you now support lost.
What’s next…the election was rigged….
The Doctors, Fountaine, Finn, Christian…. I am personally calling you out.
You know why?
You are FRAUDS, Charlatans, disgruntled individuals whose demands were not agreed to by the Labour Party.
I saw your list of demands….how dare you call anyone corrupt when you asked for these things…..
This is why you allow such rubbish to be posted here.
These guys would sell their souls….
They think that because they went to study in America, they can fool Dominica and rob the country…all you to Damn greedy.
Tie your waist get a job.
Edison James and the UWP will crash under its own weight.....
Dominicans went to the Polls they voted and the Party you now support lost.
What’s next…the election was rigged….
More shameful than the bitterness expressed in Dr Finn's article is the fact of his having graduated from a university of any sort.Here is a man who lives in the US and revels in its version of Democracy rallying for eccliastic intervention of the electoral process and chiding the intellectual elites for acknowleging the clarity of mission of the Labour Party.
It is an affront to the Dominican voter to assume that the margin of victory was all paid for. And you should take that back Dr Finn! because the Labour bandwaggon is a runaway train, running full speed ahead, downhill to the valley of prosperity and the parvenus bourgeoisie will not halt that run.
If you are searching for an Utopian idyll in Dominica or imagine that one existed in prior times, then your allegiance to the non-progressive politicians who have failed to articulate their platforms, is ill-founded. For that reason you have painted a very evil picture of our country and our leader from a foreign berth. However, Machiavelli states " a man who wishes to act entirely up to his professions of virtue soon meets with what destroys him among so much that is evil". The operating word here is PROFESSIONS.
It is an affront to the Dominican voter to assume that the margin of victory was all paid for. And you should take that back Dr Finn! because the Labour bandwaggon is a runaway train, running full speed ahead, downhill to the valley of prosperity and the parvenus bourgeoisie will not halt that run.
If you are searching for an Utopian idyll in Dominica or imagine that one existed in prior times, then your allegiance to the non-progressive politicians who have failed to articulate their platforms, is ill-founded. For that reason you have painted a very evil picture of our country and our leader from a foreign berth. However, Machiavelli states " a man who wishes to act entirely up to his professions of virtue soon meets with what destroys him among so much that is evil". The operating word here is PROFESSIONS.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 10:32 AM
: December 21, 2009 10:32 AM
Dr Finn, You sound like a scorned "Gal" who got dumped at the Altar. To be such an educated man as you claim, you are rather an Educated embarassment.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 10:34 AM
: December 21, 2009 10:34 AM
The most vocal supporters of labour seem unable to articulate any kind of position so they resort to attacking good people like Dr Finn Fontaine etc. At least Dr Finn puts his name to what he says.
All I see is a pack of cowards attacking good people and not even having the decency to attach their names. PUT YOUR NAME DOWN LIKE DR FINN_ COWARDS: No wonder you guys don't have a clue as to what is happening in DA. Your inteligence quota leaves much to be desired so you do the only thing you know attack people and not face the issues.
Let's see the jobs and economic development. I will tell you this, EVERY YOUNG PERSON in DA is right at this moment dreaming of leaving Paradise ...go figure, if you can nameless cowards!!!!
All I see is a pack of cowards attacking good people and not even having the decency to attach their names. PUT YOUR NAME DOWN LIKE DR FINN_ COWARDS: No wonder you guys don't have a clue as to what is happening in DA. Your inteligence quota leaves much to be desired so you do the only thing you know attack people and not face the issues.
Let's see the jobs and economic development. I will tell you this, EVERY YOUNG PERSON in DA is right at this moment dreaming of leaving Paradise ...go figure, if you can nameless cowards!!!!
# posted by : December 21, 2009 10:44 AM
: December 21, 2009 10:44 AM
To all the Finn bashers, I challenge you to write a reasoned piece in support of your God Skerrit and have it published on the web. You guys have no substance no wonder you are unable to see through Skerrit's charade.
Now answer this all you ANONYMOUS FOLK:
(1)How many new jobs were created in Dominica since 2005?
(2) How many people left DA for good since 2005.
(3)What are the qualifications of the police being promoted.
(4)How many murders andviolent crimes have been committed since 2005.
(5)How many countries are laughing at Dominica?
(6) Which country is SECOND only to Haiti in the Caribean?
(7) How much Venezuelan drugs are being transhipped through Dominica?
You see, you anonymous folkare the reason why DA is as it is. Unable to think, act or do, but rather can only attack the messengers.
Now answer this all you ANONYMOUS FOLK:
(1)How many new jobs were created in Dominica since 2005?
(2) How many people left DA for good since 2005.
(3)What are the qualifications of the police being promoted.
(4)How many murders andviolent crimes have been committed since 2005.
(5)How many countries are laughing at Dominica?
(6) Which country is SECOND only to Haiti in the Caribean?
(7) How much Venezuelan drugs are being transhipped through Dominica?
You see, you anonymous folkare the reason why DA is as it is. Unable to think, act or do, but rather can only attack the messengers.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 10:51 AM
: December 21, 2009 10:51 AM
Dr Finn is no fool. He heads the Washington DC Department of Oral Health!!!
# posted by : December 21, 2009 10:53 AM
: December 21, 2009 10:53 AM
I know that the thing some Dominicans hate the most is a book, but at the risk of being torn apart, I am going to quote something from one of the many books that I read.. "The MYTH of the RATIONAL VOTER< by Bryan Capland.."Like most things enthusiasm comes in degrees. Many who feel no need to convert others take offense if you politely argue that there religion is mistaken... They often want it so badly that they avoid counterevidence, and refuse to think about whatever evidence falls into their lap. As Nietzsche puts it "faith means not wanting to know what is true."" They were taking about Dominicans and their faith in their dictator..
This blanking out, as Anne Frank calls it;the willfull suspension of ones consciouness, the refusual to think, the refusal to see, the refusal to know, is going to cost Dominica's next generation their land!! This present Dominican generation is failing the next generation, our forefather's who fought to protect this land for us, must be weeping in graves. All because we surrended our minds, and our souls for a pound of rice and a slice of ham!! What is disgrace??
Shirley Allan
This blanking out, as Anne Frank calls it;the willfull suspension of ones consciouness, the refusual to think, the refusal to see, the refusal to know, is going to cost Dominica's next generation their land!! This present Dominican generation is failing the next generation, our forefather's who fought to protect this land for us, must be weeping in graves. All because we surrended our minds, and our souls for a pound of rice and a slice of ham!! What is disgrace??
Shirley Allan
# posted by : December 21, 2009 11:26 AM
: December 21, 2009 11:26 AM
Get off it Shirley!! What land did our forefathers fight for? You are suffering from delusionary transmogrification. It's over! You lost! Much reading hath made thee mad!
# posted by : December 21, 2009 11:33 AM
: December 21, 2009 11:33 AM
Laplaine Tax riot aganist the Bristish more than a 100 years ago!!!!!
You only know what Krazy T, Tony Astaphn, Skeritt and the rest of the cabal tell you!!!! It seems! I know that you think reading books make people mad.. Thus your reason for not reading!! LOL! Nice one! here we have it
Shirley Allan
Shirley Allan
You only know what Krazy T, Tony Astaphn, Skeritt and the rest of the cabal tell you!!!! It seems! I know that you think reading books make people mad.. Thus your reason for not reading!! LOL! Nice one! here we have it
Shirley Allan
Shirley Allan
# posted by : December 21, 2009 11:38 AM
: December 21, 2009 11:38 AM
Have laugh on me!!!
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?v=feed&story_fbid=211348363654&id=707915412#/olive.emanuel?ref=nf
Shirley Allan
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?v=feed&story_fbid=211348363654&id=707915412#/olive.emanuel?ref=nf
Shirley Allan
# posted by : December 21, 2009 11:51 AM
: December 21, 2009 11:51 AM
Learn your history. A riot in refusal to pay unfair taxes is not defence of a country, which by the way was "owned" by the British. In reality the true owners of the country, the Kalinago were not threatened. Get this. The country was rescued from Patrick John in recent times, but there was no war. SO stop airing your misrepresentations of history and misquoting publications.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 11:53 AM
: December 21, 2009 11:53 AM
Suzan Espirit,
You call this article a 'reasoned piece?' What have you been smoking?
The UWP lost the election for the following reasons:
1. They had no consistent message on issues and policies for the development of Dominica.
2. The UWP made corruption its main issue during the campaign while issues and policies for the development of Dominica (as mentioned above) took a distant second place. Note that these corruption allegations has been substantiated. ..
3. The UWP never connected with the masses because of number two above. They got tired of it, just like the people of the US got tired of the "Obama is not an American citizen" argument preached by the ultra-conservatives during the presidential campaign.
4. The UWP allowed some so called 'journalists' to be their mouth piece during the campaign. These journalist, of all people, should know that opinion should be based, no matter how loosely, on facts. In their "fact free" paradise these journalists felt free to bash anyone who did not agree with them without giving any reason except personal dislike or distaste. All they did was spew negativity. Hate speech, no matter how genteel, is not journalism..
Furthermore the UWP has lost its core political message. The UWP burst on the scene in the waning days of Mamo who had foreseen the fall of the banana industry and was suggesting that the Dominican economy be diversified. Edison James, a banana farmer himself, basically argued that diversification was the enemy of the ordinary working man, the farmer and should be ignored. Being a largely agricultural society and being warm and snug in their banana 'blanket' the masses listened to Mr. James and jumped on his UWP bandwagon en masse.
When Mamo died, the Dominica Freedom Party (DFP) crumbled and the idea of diversifying the Dominican economy went down the drain.
Eventually the banana industry did die, as Mamo had foreseen, when the World Trade Organization (WTO) ruled that the LOME Convention (which gave preferential treatment to bananas from former European colonies), was unfair international trading.
While our banana growing neighbors had diversified or were diversifying, we missed the boat and the effects are being felt to this day.
Since then the UWP has not come up with something that appeal to and grab the masses as it's anti diversification thesis.
The UWP need to go back to the drawing board and rethink its political philosophy. If not they will continue losing elections and eventually join the DFP in the political graveyard.
Adrian Thompson
Salisbury
You call this article a 'reasoned piece?' What have you been smoking?
The UWP lost the election for the following reasons:
1. They had no consistent message on issues and policies for the development of Dominica.
2. The UWP made corruption its main issue during the campaign while issues and policies for the development of Dominica (as mentioned above) took a distant second place. Note that these corruption allegations has been substantiated. ..
3. The UWP never connected with the masses because of number two above. They got tired of it, just like the people of the US got tired of the "Obama is not an American citizen" argument preached by the ultra-conservatives during the presidential campaign.
4. The UWP allowed some so called 'journalists' to be their mouth piece during the campaign. These journalist, of all people, should know that opinion should be based, no matter how loosely, on facts. In their "fact free" paradise these journalists felt free to bash anyone who did not agree with them without giving any reason except personal dislike or distaste. All they did was spew negativity. Hate speech, no matter how genteel, is not journalism..
Furthermore the UWP has lost its core political message. The UWP burst on the scene in the waning days of Mamo who had foreseen the fall of the banana industry and was suggesting that the Dominican economy be diversified. Edison James, a banana farmer himself, basically argued that diversification was the enemy of the ordinary working man, the farmer and should be ignored. Being a largely agricultural society and being warm and snug in their banana 'blanket' the masses listened to Mr. James and jumped on his UWP bandwagon en masse.
When Mamo died, the Dominica Freedom Party (DFP) crumbled and the idea of diversifying the Dominican economy went down the drain.
Eventually the banana industry did die, as Mamo had foreseen, when the World Trade Organization (WTO) ruled that the LOME Convention (which gave preferential treatment to bananas from former European colonies), was unfair international trading.
While our banana growing neighbors had diversified or were diversifying, we missed the boat and the effects are being felt to this day.
Since then the UWP has not come up with something that appeal to and grab the masses as it's anti diversification thesis.
The UWP need to go back to the drawing board and rethink its political philosophy. If not they will continue losing elections and eventually join the DFP in the political graveyard.
Adrian Thompson
Salisbury
# posted by : December 21, 2009 12:13 PM
: December 21, 2009 12:13 PM
Adrian I welcome this analysis although I don't agree totally with you. It is however very good! This is very refreshing compared to the cowards who hide behind anonymous to personally attack the messengers.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 12:19 PM
: December 21, 2009 12:19 PM
I made a typo in my presentation above in point number two. It should have been "Note that these corruption allegations has NOT been substantiated.
Thanks James, appreciate it.
Adrian Thompson
Thanks James, appreciate it.
Adrian Thompson
# posted by : December 21, 2009 12:51 PM
: December 21, 2009 12:51 PM
Check your history! What happened after the riot? Dominica is on the path where it will have to be RESUCED for Skerrit and his OWNERS again, history will repeat itself! but who is going to do the recusing??? Who in Dominica today will not bribed with a pound of rice and a slice of ham, for the poor, and big, big, big bucks for the intellectual prostitues who have already sold their souls? Learn something here my Dominican folk... Fighting does not necessarily mean waging wars!!! Broaden your mind a liitle bit.. Here are some other definitions of fighting : 1.to struggle or work hard in trying to beat or overcome someone or something; contend
2.to argue or quarrel; dispute: often with about or over
Shirley Allan
2.to argue or quarrel; dispute: often with about or over
Shirley Allan
# posted by : December 21, 2009 1:24 PM
: December 21, 2009 1:24 PM
Edison James will kill the party just like Mamo...but the thing is will the remaining members allow him to continue leading.
Hector 'Spags' Neg Bawi John, is a new comer and not skilled to be opposition leader. Prevost seems tired..poor man!
Ron lost his seat and will return home to New Jersey..Norris Charles lost his too... and preparing to move to New York..Timothy crossed over...Earl can not come back....
Who will stay and ask Edison to resign and go back to Barbados and spend some quality time with his wife and family?.....
No One Will...they're All scared of him.
I will tell all those who feel I am attacking people, to remember that all these guys are disgruntled.
All of them.
They were all making demands to the PM for contesting elections or getting Jobs in Dominica....all of them.
Skerrit called their bluff and they are with the opposition hoping they will win the election at some point.....
What a bunch of Hypocrites...
Hector 'Spags' Neg Bawi John, is a new comer and not skilled to be opposition leader. Prevost seems tired..poor man!
Ron lost his seat and will return home to New Jersey..Norris Charles lost his too... and preparing to move to New York..Timothy crossed over...Earl can not come back....
Who will stay and ask Edison to resign and go back to Barbados and spend some quality time with his wife and family?.....
No One Will...they're All scared of him.
I will tell all those who feel I am attacking people, to remember that all these guys are disgruntled.
All of them.
They were all making demands to the PM for contesting elections or getting Jobs in Dominica....all of them.
Skerrit called their bluff and they are with the opposition hoping they will win the election at some point.....
What a bunch of Hypocrites...
The elections are over and a winner was declared. As law abiding citizens we all have accepted that- case closed. But can we as a civilized and educated people vent our anger and discuss some of the irregularities and intentional flaws that occurred during that process—can we? Today we are all Dominicans I hope and not Labour, Freedom, Independents & UWP supporters. The elections are over people!!!!!
Now just remember that there are no permanent friends or enemies in politics- just permanent interests—please remember that. So today you support Labour, tomorrow you may support Freedom, UWP or any other party.
Now let me say to the blogger that I was never seeking a job from the Dominican government in Washington or NYC if Ron was successful. . I am doing just fine and at this stage of my life and career. I have the ability to speak for thousands of Dominicans who cannot, unwilling or afraid to speak truth to the issues.
Also someone suggested that the bourgeoisie will fall or some thing to that extent with Skerrit in charge—well I hope you are not including me on that bourgeois train. My home is in the La Plaine Valley and even today life is a far different reality than the way I grew up in that Valley- my home is and will always be in that Valley- so I am not sure what you are talking about.
And that’s why it hurts so much to see how my folks were used by Skerrit with music, beers, galvanize, plywood, chickens, kitchen sinks and all sorts of stuff’ to buy a vote. This is why I am outraged that he and his gang made our folks who have left La Plaine political mercenaries and stripping their dignities by offering a free trip and a happy meal on a free flight to do his unsavory bidding. Yes I am angry how he used La Plaine and its people. This is a place which nurtured me, taught me the rights and wrongs of life and sent me to the big city. I owe ever inch of my being and where I am today to this rural strip of land.
It hurts to see the way Skerrit unleashed his dirty tricks on Ron Green. Two days before the election Skerrit spent the entire day and slept in La Plaine giving out hand outs and $$$$$$$ to people. What about the arrogant St. Jean who calls God’s name at every turn? Any slight disagreement one has with him he is ready to bite your head off and demonized you. Is this the type of representation we want in La Plaine? St. Jean is very disrespectful and belligerent. He told the Caribbean News Agency that ‘after the recount Mr. Green was a broken man’. If St. Jean the born again Christian has any moral fiber in him he could have said something to the effect that it was a tough race and thank Mr. Green for his service to the community—I am sure he was holding the bible in his left hand when he made that statement. I am sorry St. Jean does not have it and I hope Skerrit knows that. I know I grew up 5 minutes from his home in the Valley. I talk to independent thinking La Plaine folks (and some of the ones who got the free flights) all the time and our consensus is that St. Jean should not represent La Plaine. I am sorry not by any standard he does not ‘cut it’. My only regret is that due to job, family and other professional responsibilities and deadlines, I could not make the trip to help out Ron in La Plaine.
If you have the chance to know Ron, you would quickly find out that he is a very decent and honorable gentleman. Someone you could have an argument and disagreement with and yet still at the end he would break bread with you, give you a handshake and bid you farewell. That is the sort of people who we need in public office –not ‘Pastor’ St. Jean.
So hit me as hard as you can but just remember that the more pressing issue is not me, it is your country and its current leadership and its future- but if you must, ‘fire away.’ I am least perturbed by your negative comments and personal attacks. Lets agree on one thing before I go- we do have a beautiful country and lets all remember that in spite of all of our bitter political differences.
Thanks
Emanuel Finn
Now just remember that there are no permanent friends or enemies in politics- just permanent interests—please remember that. So today you support Labour, tomorrow you may support Freedom, UWP or any other party.
Now let me say to the blogger that I was never seeking a job from the Dominican government in Washington or NYC if Ron was successful. . I am doing just fine and at this stage of my life and career. I have the ability to speak for thousands of Dominicans who cannot, unwilling or afraid to speak truth to the issues.
Also someone suggested that the bourgeoisie will fall or some thing to that extent with Skerrit in charge—well I hope you are not including me on that bourgeois train. My home is in the La Plaine Valley and even today life is a far different reality than the way I grew up in that Valley- my home is and will always be in that Valley- so I am not sure what you are talking about.
And that’s why it hurts so much to see how my folks were used by Skerrit with music, beers, galvanize, plywood, chickens, kitchen sinks and all sorts of stuff’ to buy a vote. This is why I am outraged that he and his gang made our folks who have left La Plaine political mercenaries and stripping their dignities by offering a free trip and a happy meal on a free flight to do his unsavory bidding. Yes I am angry how he used La Plaine and its people. This is a place which nurtured me, taught me the rights and wrongs of life and sent me to the big city. I owe ever inch of my being and where I am today to this rural strip of land.
It hurts to see the way Skerrit unleashed his dirty tricks on Ron Green. Two days before the election Skerrit spent the entire day and slept in La Plaine giving out hand outs and $$$$$$$ to people. What about the arrogant St. Jean who calls God’s name at every turn? Any slight disagreement one has with him he is ready to bite your head off and demonized you. Is this the type of representation we want in La Plaine? St. Jean is very disrespectful and belligerent. He told the Caribbean News Agency that ‘after the recount Mr. Green was a broken man’. If St. Jean the born again Christian has any moral fiber in him he could have said something to the effect that it was a tough race and thank Mr. Green for his service to the community—I am sure he was holding the bible in his left hand when he made that statement. I am sorry St. Jean does not have it and I hope Skerrit knows that. I know I grew up 5 minutes from his home in the Valley. I talk to independent thinking La Plaine folks (and some of the ones who got the free flights) all the time and our consensus is that St. Jean should not represent La Plaine. I am sorry not by any standard he does not ‘cut it’. My only regret is that due to job, family and other professional responsibilities and deadlines, I could not make the trip to help out Ron in La Plaine.
If you have the chance to know Ron, you would quickly find out that he is a very decent and honorable gentleman. Someone you could have an argument and disagreement with and yet still at the end he would break bread with you, give you a handshake and bid you farewell. That is the sort of people who we need in public office –not ‘Pastor’ St. Jean.
So hit me as hard as you can but just remember that the more pressing issue is not me, it is your country and its current leadership and its future- but if you must, ‘fire away.’ I am least perturbed by your negative comments and personal attacks. Lets agree on one thing before I go- we do have a beautiful country and lets all remember that in spite of all of our bitter political differences.
Thanks
Emanuel Finn
# posted by : December 21, 2009 1:46 PM
: December 21, 2009 1:46 PM
You did ask for some things they said no way..... no how...
Now you vex...your pardner lost.
Ron Green may be a nice guy but he is ineffective and inept....even more so now...
What bargaining power does he have now...he lost his seat....and he's going to court....let the judge decide win or lose...
If you loved Dominica so much, why be so damn greedy and make these kind of demands?
All of you who have left and gone away to further your lives....like what you see going on and feel the country owes you something...
With all the infrastructure projects going on, I expect only upside from there....and we will not be using North-East Quarries Ltd to provide any materials for Dominica's development.
Crooks all of you are crooks.
You Made demands, they say 'HELL' No....now you turn apostle for UWP.
The UWP lost their way and until they revamp they will be out in the wilderness....
McCoy Tyner
Now you vex...your pardner lost.
Ron Green may be a nice guy but he is ineffective and inept....even more so now...
What bargaining power does he have now...he lost his seat....and he's going to court....let the judge decide win or lose...
If you loved Dominica so much, why be so damn greedy and make these kind of demands?
All of you who have left and gone away to further your lives....like what you see going on and feel the country owes you something...
With all the infrastructure projects going on, I expect only upside from there....and we will not be using North-East Quarries Ltd to provide any materials for Dominica's development.
Crooks all of you are crooks.
You Made demands, they say 'HELL' No....now you turn apostle for UWP.
The UWP lost their way and until they revamp they will be out in the wilderness....
McCoy Tyner
If Dominica lost its way and on path to destruction, stop wasting time here, form your party and run.
Otherwise be Quiet.
I am fed up of people tojous kwazaying Dominica.
We poor, small, green... but look at the election...civilized and violence free.
When the roads/bridges are built don't drive on it, because it leads to destruction.
When was the last time you went to Dominica?
1. Do you own land there?
2. Do you plan to retire there or come ever back?
3. Who in your educated estimation would be better than the DLP now?
4. The Party that can not afford print a manifesto? Or the other run by a disinterested lady?
5. Have you read the manifesto?
How many Dominicans or UWP supporters went to the Internet to print out the manifesto?
The UWP gave a general idea of what they intend to do but nothing specific on they will get there...Who would provide funding, what vehicles...loans/grants/bonds...
I own two acres in Dominica, trying the pineapple program and anything else to help myself and country.
I never knew a man could love his country so....this country gave me so much...I can never repay her...
God Bless Dominica and have mercy on those who despise her.
McCoy Tyner
Otherwise be Quiet.
I am fed up of people tojous kwazaying Dominica.
We poor, small, green... but look at the election...civilized and violence free.
When the roads/bridges are built don't drive on it, because it leads to destruction.
When was the last time you went to Dominica?
1. Do you own land there?
2. Do you plan to retire there or come ever back?
3. Who in your educated estimation would be better than the DLP now?
4. The Party that can not afford print a manifesto? Or the other run by a disinterested lady?
5. Have you read the manifesto?
How many Dominicans or UWP supporters went to the Internet to print out the manifesto?
The UWP gave a general idea of what they intend to do but nothing specific on they will get there...Who would provide funding, what vehicles...loans/grants/bonds...
I own two acres in Dominica, trying the pineapple program and anything else to help myself and country.
I never knew a man could love his country so....this country gave me so much...I can never repay her...
God Bless Dominica and have mercy on those who despise her.
McCoy Tyner
'In coming Fire' from McCoy--I am ducking I have hit the ground- I am safe. No need to return fire he ran away'
Men..... have a decent discussion please if you can.
Finn
Men..... have a decent discussion please if you can.
Finn
# posted by : December 21, 2009 2:32 PM
: December 21, 2009 2:32 PM
Dominica was advised to diversify from bananas as early as the time of Patrick John. That is why Patrick John was wanting to develope the cabrits as a tourism resort on the lines of Monoco. But the people were mislead by the opposition the then Freedom Party. It took Miss. Charles being in power for her to recognise the reality. The WPU was formed opportunistically as a result of greed. It continues to be the party of the greedy. Those who think that they have some right more than others. Now we as a people can examine the reality and do the best for our small island nation.
Will the opposition respect the Dominican people please. We dont have phd, but common sense beat book learning everytime, as common sense s not very common among the book intellectuals. They cant see what is staring them in their faces. They lost because they had the wrong motives,they were disorganised and out of touch with the electorate. and the people saw through them. Accept and move on.
Will the opposition respect the Dominican people please. We dont have phd, but common sense beat book learning everytime, as common sense s not very common among the book intellectuals. They cant see what is staring them in their faces. They lost because they had the wrong motives,they were disorganised and out of touch with the electorate. and the people saw through them. Accept and move on.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 4:38 PM
: December 21, 2009 4:38 PM
I applaud Dr Finn and all the intellectually savvy commentaries in here. Keep in mind that in every dictatorship ruling country, the Government has a way to seduce the people into submission.
By reading some of the comments in here, I see a unified arrogance in support of the blatant bribery by providing Airplane Tickets to import voters. There are electoral laws and language in constitution that clearly states,” If you provide a benefit to someone in exchange for their vote is a violation of the election laws". You cannot come in here and launch your attacks towards Dr. Finn and others who disapprove of these voting irregularities, and refuse to address this issue.
If a Dominican who resides overseas within the allotted time wants to pay their own fare to come home and vote, it's their right! No one disputes that. But to be out of the country for over ten years and accept a free ride just to cast a vote is beyond basic moral standards. (My people it's wrong).
I have not seen any of the DLP supporters denounce this behavior. If you want to be fair and impartial in your comments, why don't you address the nucleus of this forum discussion which is the illegal transportation of voters?
Finally, Dominicans leaving abroad, SHAME ON YOU! You have your job, your family, and your bank accounts in a foreign Country where you enjoy economic stability and prosperity, and to accept a free ride for three days to cast a vote, you just sold your INTEGRITY for a VEP.
By reading some of the comments in here, I see a unified arrogance in support of the blatant bribery by providing Airplane Tickets to import voters. There are electoral laws and language in constitution that clearly states,” If you provide a benefit to someone in exchange for their vote is a violation of the election laws". You cannot come in here and launch your attacks towards Dr. Finn and others who disapprove of these voting irregularities, and refuse to address this issue.
If a Dominican who resides overseas within the allotted time wants to pay their own fare to come home and vote, it's their right! No one disputes that. But to be out of the country for over ten years and accept a free ride just to cast a vote is beyond basic moral standards. (My people it's wrong).
I have not seen any of the DLP supporters denounce this behavior. If you want to be fair and impartial in your comments, why don't you address the nucleus of this forum discussion which is the illegal transportation of voters?
Finally, Dominicans leaving abroad, SHAME ON YOU! You have your job, your family, and your bank accounts in a foreign Country where you enjoy economic stability and prosperity, and to accept a free ride for three days to cast a vote, you just sold your INTEGRITY for a VEP.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 5:47 PM
: December 21, 2009 5:47 PM
Because No one gave you a ticket you grudging...
If you doing so 'Well' in America...
You should have used your plastic and buy a ticket to come to vote that way no one can say anything...if you so concerned.
Frauds...
If you doing so 'Well' in America...
You should have used your plastic and buy a ticket to come to vote that way no one can say anything...if you so concerned.
Frauds...
# posted by : December 21, 2009 6:43 PM
: December 21, 2009 6:43 PM
You're still beating around the bush...that often happens when someone is brainwashed...good luck cuz you're going to need it to get out under the Skerrit spell.
# posted by : December 21, 2009 8:39 PM
: December 21, 2009 8:39 PM
Thank you Finn for writing an article of substance. It is always fascinating how people choose to completely ignore the real issues when they have nothing constructive to say and try to defend the undefendable. I am brought back to the rediculousness of the US elections of last year with the likes of Sarah Palin and Joe the Plumber. I am saddened that we seem to have become a nation of "Joe the Plumbers."
How can we ever justify only a few, hand selective Dominicans from oversees having the opportunity to vote and allowing just one day for local voters to register before registration is closed? In the US voter registration campaigns are months and months long and that is how we were able to mobilize the common folk to elect our first black president, President Obama. Thank God that regardless of all the criticism made against the US, that it is still a democracy. I am saddened that I cannot say the same for the country that I love so much Dominica and visit so often. This is not democracy and this can never prevail long term.
K. Phillips
How can we ever justify only a few, hand selective Dominicans from oversees having the opportunity to vote and allowing just one day for local voters to register before registration is closed? In the US voter registration campaigns are months and months long and that is how we were able to mobilize the common folk to elect our first black president, President Obama. Thank God that regardless of all the criticism made against the US, that it is still a democracy. I am saddened that I cannot say the same for the country that I love so much Dominica and visit so often. This is not democracy and this can never prevail long term.
K. Phillips
# posted by : December 21, 2009 8:52 PM
: December 21, 2009 8:52 PM
I hope that Skerrit has an unlimited supply of rice, ham and money to keep his supporters in a trance of unquestioned, blinded support. Then I guess it won't even be noticable to them when the VAT is raised to 25% in the coming months!
Concerned Dominican
Concerned Dominican
# posted by : December 21, 2009 8:57 PM
: December 21, 2009 8:57 PM
Those of you who are trying to belittle Mr. Finn based on the fact that he is clearly an educated man, should be ashamed. This is the first I have heard that people's opinions are invalidated because they have struggled to receive the highest level of education, the doctoral degree.
All I have to say is that leadership with no higher oversight, opposition or accountability is a recipe for disaster and dictatorship. Let a man, like Skerrit, believe that he can do no wrong and regardless of what he does he will be unconditionally supported, and don't be suprised when he begins to truly believe that he is not only above the law but above his people.
Daughter of Grand Bay
All I have to say is that leadership with no higher oversight, opposition or accountability is a recipe for disaster and dictatorship. Let a man, like Skerrit, believe that he can do no wrong and regardless of what he does he will be unconditionally supported, and don't be suprised when he begins to truly believe that he is not only above the law but above his people.
Daughter of Grand Bay
# posted by : December 21, 2009 9:16 PM
: December 21, 2009 9:16 PM
Shirley Allan,stop your Nazi era propaganda and unite with our people toward a better future. Every election I know of, people have been given gifts as bribes by the contending parties. I will say that the Freedom Party usually is a lesser participant, particularly this year because of subdued circumstances; but Papie did not bribe anyone because he did not foresee a chance of winning. Politics and electioneering are two different things. You first have to win; and there's where those who are realists make early inroads into fund raising and oiling the machinery for getting the votes out. If you have no money as a party, you will not win; period.
# posted by : December 22, 2009 1:43 AM
: December 22, 2009 1:43 AM
Dr Finn, read my comments again. I did not say that the bourgeoisie will fail under Skerrit or "something to that extent". This type of misquotation sounds familiar to that of another prolific anti-Skerrit contributor. Dominica has had only two good leaders (E.O.LeBlanc and Eugenia Charles) until now since it attained autonomy. Why are we upset when no one from the Diaspora dared to contest the election for fear of leaving their comfortable circumstances abroad? Why can we not see the trend in world politics? We need young, vibrant, intelligent, operatives who can engage bold initiatives. The leaders of England,France,Australia, Canada, Germany,most of South America, China, are all relatively young people, and our party officials should pass the torch to a younger generation of Dominicans if they expect to overcome the groundswell of support for the Labour Party.
# posted by : December 22, 2009 2:08 AM
: December 22, 2009 2:08 AM
DA is now under the Venezuelan Dictator Chavez's thumb for a good while.
Chavez goal is to create a large communist confederation of South/Central America and Carribean states that will oppose itself to the USA and Europe
Chavez has now a solid allied in the region, besides his good friends, the Iranian Dictator and the Russian leader!
Most of the voters don't know much about that threat ; they just consider what they get today : free stuff, assistance, ...and "sell their votes" !
People should look further than their nose tip !
Chavez goal is to create a large communist confederation of South/Central America and Carribean states that will oppose itself to the USA and Europe
Chavez has now a solid allied in the region, besides his good friends, the Iranian Dictator and the Russian leader!
Most of the voters don't know much about that threat ; they just consider what they get today : free stuff, assistance, ...and "sell their votes" !
People should look further than their nose tip !
# posted by : December 22, 2009 4:28 AM
: December 22, 2009 4:28 AM
It is truly sad to see educated person carry on in this manner. It is obvious Dr Finn is against the present administration. Grown people need to get beyond themselves and make positive contributions to their country. I see Dominica today and what it was years ago and the blind mind too can see it has progressed. The administration have not done everything perfect but to go as far as pretending they did nothing for the country is a slap in God's face. Labour have moved Dominica from the Slums and today you have more average persons rising up and taking their positions, there is more Dominicans abroad incline to return home or even invest in their country. That is progress positive progress. For a minute if people would set politics aside they would see beyond greed, their own agenda and stop being wicked. Why destroy what is a product of your country. Skerrit is a Dominican remember that he is young but he have vision and he have been putting it in action.
Even certain media houses is against Skerrit and it is so obvious but all in the dark shall come to light. They need to be a little more professional and stop chosing sides. Shame on you guys. Shame Shame Shame
On the sidelines observing
Even certain media houses is against Skerrit and it is so obvious but all in the dark shall come to light. They need to be a little more professional and stop chosing sides. Shame on you guys. Shame Shame Shame
On the sidelines observing
# posted by : December 22, 2009 6:35 AM
: December 22, 2009 6:35 AM
On the side lines observing wrote: ‘It is obvious Dr Finn is against the present administration’.
Well you could have also mentioned that Dr. Finn will probably support this administration if transparency is the order of the day. You can have also written that Dr. Finn clearly supports Dominica and is not afraid to do so if even he knows he will be hammered. You could have also written that Dr. Finn does not work in the Ministry and does not have a job to protect in Dominica and is not afraid or intimidated. He is not afraid that that his children may be denied a scholarship because that is not his reality---he appears to be a very independent and patriotic Dominican who speaks for those who cannot speak.
In other words, stop that ‘superficial crap and nonsense’ and applaud people like Emanuel Finn who by virtue of their love and affection for their homeland are willing to expose themselves. Dr. Finn can stay in Washington and don’t give a dam about Dominica and come down to hike and play on the beach and take the next out bounding flight until next time.
The more economically independent, educated and politically enlightened we become as a people; the better will our country become. In order words rum, ham, free stuff and a free Morgan Heritage concert and all will not get us blind and ‘Tebaey’. That is what Emanuel Finn appears to be saying. But as you said ‘You are on the sidelines’ and may be that’s where you belong’---
Well you could have also mentioned that Dr. Finn will probably support this administration if transparency is the order of the day. You can have also written that Dr. Finn clearly supports Dominica and is not afraid to do so if even he knows he will be hammered. You could have also written that Dr. Finn does not work in the Ministry and does not have a job to protect in Dominica and is not afraid or intimidated. He is not afraid that that his children may be denied a scholarship because that is not his reality---he appears to be a very independent and patriotic Dominican who speaks for those who cannot speak.
In other words, stop that ‘superficial crap and nonsense’ and applaud people like Emanuel Finn who by virtue of their love and affection for their homeland are willing to expose themselves. Dr. Finn can stay in Washington and don’t give a dam about Dominica and come down to hike and play on the beach and take the next out bounding flight until next time.
The more economically independent, educated and politically enlightened we become as a people; the better will our country become. In order words rum, ham, free stuff and a free Morgan Heritage concert and all will not get us blind and ‘Tebaey’. That is what Emanuel Finn appears to be saying. But as you said ‘You are on the sidelines’ and may be that’s where you belong’---
# posted by : December 22, 2009 12:09 PM
: December 22, 2009 12:09 PM
Miss Allen
You are an intelligent woman. I have listened to your contribution on radio (Matt and Angelo)and have also read with interest, your comments on line. Dominicans are not cognizant of the monster they have created on the 18 December 2009.
After the ham, turkey, building material, etc; it will be gnashing of teeth!
Welcome to the one party state created my Prime Minister Roosevelt Skeritt.
The outcome of the election is a clear indication of the bibery and blatant daylight robbery that took place in Dominica over the past 3 weeks, especially on the 18thth!
Goodbye Democracy!
Welcome Venezula!
Welcome China!
Welcome dictatorship!
Thank you very much Prime Minister!
I suppose you may have heard about the positive move by the UWP of boycotting Parliment and demanding the cleansing of the voters lists. Guess lwhat? My sister has been residing in the UK for 15 years now. She was trained as a nurse in DA and then migrated to the UK. 15 years on, her name is still on the voters lists as a Student.
What is the election commission doing?
How efficient is this commission in ensuring that there is a revised voters list? Clearly someone is not doing their work!
There have been so many irregularies in this years election.
All I can say Dominicans will not accept the current political situation in Dominica!
Shirley, you are a strong,intelligent, and positive black woman.
You are as solid as a rock!
You are invincible!
You are untouchable!
You are unstoppable!
Please maintain a positive mental attitude, and forget about these negative people with their negative comments!
Pristine Rivers (Dominican)
You are an intelligent woman. I have listened to your contribution on radio (Matt and Angelo)and have also read with interest, your comments on line. Dominicans are not cognizant of the monster they have created on the 18 December 2009.
After the ham, turkey, building material, etc; it will be gnashing of teeth!
Welcome to the one party state created my Prime Minister Roosevelt Skeritt.
The outcome of the election is a clear indication of the bibery and blatant daylight robbery that took place in Dominica over the past 3 weeks, especially on the 18thth!
Goodbye Democracy!
Welcome Venezula!
Welcome China!
Welcome dictatorship!
Thank you very much Prime Minister!
I suppose you may have heard about the positive move by the UWP of boycotting Parliment and demanding the cleansing of the voters lists. Guess lwhat? My sister has been residing in the UK for 15 years now. She was trained as a nurse in DA and then migrated to the UK. 15 years on, her name is still on the voters lists as a Student.
What is the election commission doing?
How efficient is this commission in ensuring that there is a revised voters list? Clearly someone is not doing their work!
There have been so many irregularies in this years election.
All I can say Dominicans will not accept the current political situation in Dominica!
Shirley, you are a strong,intelligent, and positive black woman.
You are as solid as a rock!
You are invincible!
You are untouchable!
You are unstoppable!
Please maintain a positive mental attitude, and forget about these negative people with their negative comments!
Pristine Rivers (Dominican)
# posted by : December 22, 2009 12:12 PM
: December 22, 2009 12:12 PM
Pristine, your sister's name being on the list is not illegal. As long as she has voted in DA before she still qualifies to vote..what part of that you guys are not getting?
# posted by : December 22, 2009 12:35 PM
: December 22, 2009 12:35 PM
Thanks Pristine, it's all for the love of my country, and I am happy to learn that this blatant assult on Dominica's democracy will not go unchallenged, I know that it is a daunting task going up aganist this dangerous and powerful machinery that is not established in Dominica, but let's see where it goes. I don;t trust any of the civil society instutution is Dominica they have all been corrupted by this system.. I have point to make, it has to do simple logic, from what I read, and heard from the absentee obsevers the process of the election was flawed, right? If the process was flawed basic logic would conclude that whatever the results of the flawed process is, it is also flawed!! For thoe who suggest that I am angry, yes I am angry at the travety that my country has become!! These people have no idea what they have gotten themselves into. They are not looking past their elbows, and instant gratification they got from whatever it was that Skeritt gave to them.. Honestly, very honestly I pity them. I hope the people from the diaspora who took the free ticket bribe to go to Dominica to help in istalling a dictatorship will be ready, willing and able to come and help remove it.
Shirley Allan
Shirley Allan
# posted by : December 22, 2009 1:24 PM
: December 22, 2009 1:24 PM
I also would like to commend Adrian Thompson for his comment.
I was born and bred in Salisbury,I came to the U.S 29 months ago and I don't know this Adrian Thompson.
He is absolutely right about Mr James and how the UWP came into existent. I can remember my brother Vanoulst use to sing the song with Mr Edison James.
"The only way farmers can my money is if they are shipping their own fruits to the UK".
He also accuse the four Prime Ministers of the Windward of having sold themselves to Guest. But do you know under the UWP, THE WINDWARD ISLAND BANANA GROWERS ASSOCIATION was involve in shipping and we are yet to see the money they talked about.We don't know what became of the boat and estate in Costa Rica.
I take issue with him for saying "NOT THAT THESE CORRUPTION ALLEGATIONS HAS BEEN SUBSTANTIATED"
Is he saying that the PM who is finance minister does not Know when he hire a lawyer to apply for a certificate of Title on his behalf, he have to pay 2 1/2% vendor's fee.4%stamp duty.1%assur. fund.2 1/2 jud.fee.Title form.Deed paper and solicitor's fee?
He went through the back door and pay back the registry $50.000. The bin fiasco he was directly involved,pay back again $400.000,and all the others, if these are just allegations GIVE ME A BRAKE.
Julius John Charles
I was born and bred in Salisbury,I came to the U.S 29 months ago and I don't know this Adrian Thompson.
He is absolutely right about Mr James and how the UWP came into existent. I can remember my brother Vanoulst use to sing the song with Mr Edison James.
"The only way farmers can my money is if they are shipping their own fruits to the UK".
He also accuse the four Prime Ministers of the Windward of having sold themselves to Guest. But do you know under the UWP, THE WINDWARD ISLAND BANANA GROWERS ASSOCIATION was involve in shipping and we are yet to see the money they talked about.We don't know what became of the boat and estate in Costa Rica.
I take issue with him for saying "NOT THAT THESE CORRUPTION ALLEGATIONS HAS BEEN SUBSTANTIATED"
Is he saying that the PM who is finance minister does not Know when he hire a lawyer to apply for a certificate of Title on his behalf, he have to pay 2 1/2% vendor's fee.4%stamp duty.1%assur. fund.2 1/2 jud.fee.Title form.Deed paper and solicitor's fee?
He went through the back door and pay back the registry $50.000. The bin fiasco he was directly involved,pay back again $400.000,and all the others, if these are just allegations GIVE ME A BRAKE.
Julius John Charles
# posted by : December 22, 2009 2:57 PM
: December 22, 2009 2:57 PM
It is very disheartening that people out there who are enjoying the luxuries of the “first world” are still trying to disrupt the country after the people have spoken unanimously on December 18.
Let me get to the point. In my opinion, all these engineers, doctors, lawyers, MBAs etc. out there in the diaspora writing all these articles against the government despite the election result only have their self interest in mind and not DA. I believe if the people have spoken, we should be calling for national unity to move the country forward. The so call experts are quoting philosophical and political books to make their. The people in DA do not need to hear what Machiavelli or Plato has to say. In Machiavelli days, they had enemies just like the PM has today. Do not quote Machiavelli to Dominican, tell them what the Constitution of the great country of Dominica says. The Constitution is what governs us; not the Uk, not Machiavelli or even Chavez .
We are out there giving our opinions as if they are facts and trying to scare the people of Dominica. Sometimes I wonder if all these engineers, doctors, lawyers, MBAs etc. ever took the time out to read and understand the Constitution of DA. If we did, I wonder if that would change our opinions.
I am very proud of my country and the great leaders had the vision for DA when they gave us this great document called the constitution and gave us independence as a Republic. The same Niccolo Machiavelli that is being quoted divided governments into two types, principalities ruled by a monarch and republics ruled by the people. The current DLP government was elected unanimously by the people on December 18th and that is the true definition of a republic as stated by Machiavelli himself and a real democracy as understood in modern political language. The government is legitimated both by the constitution and the popular vote. Until we understand that as a people, it will be us bringing down DA and instead of the “corrupt” PM and his administration
The people of DA have spoken and if the opposition think the DLP will or is destructing DA, then the constitution gives them five years to develop a strategy and vision and to communicate this vision. If the people believes in that vision they a new government will be elected into office in 2015. Until then, as citizens of DA we need to work with the government to get DA to moving forward.
Let me get to the point. In my opinion, all these engineers, doctors, lawyers, MBAs etc. out there in the diaspora writing all these articles against the government despite the election result only have their self interest in mind and not DA. I believe if the people have spoken, we should be calling for national unity to move the country forward. The so call experts are quoting philosophical and political books to make their. The people in DA do not need to hear what Machiavelli or Plato has to say. In Machiavelli days, they had enemies just like the PM has today. Do not quote Machiavelli to Dominican, tell them what the Constitution of the great country of Dominica says. The Constitution is what governs us; not the Uk, not Machiavelli or even Chavez .
We are out there giving our opinions as if they are facts and trying to scare the people of Dominica. Sometimes I wonder if all these engineers, doctors, lawyers, MBAs etc. ever took the time out to read and understand the Constitution of DA. If we did, I wonder if that would change our opinions.
I am very proud of my country and the great leaders had the vision for DA when they gave us this great document called the constitution and gave us independence as a Republic. The same Niccolo Machiavelli that is being quoted divided governments into two types, principalities ruled by a monarch and republics ruled by the people. The current DLP government was elected unanimously by the people on December 18th and that is the true definition of a republic as stated by Machiavelli himself and a real democracy as understood in modern political language. The government is legitimated both by the constitution and the popular vote. Until we understand that as a people, it will be us bringing down DA and instead of the “corrupt” PM and his administration
The people of DA have spoken and if the opposition think the DLP will or is destructing DA, then the constitution gives them five years to develop a strategy and vision and to communicate this vision. If the people believes in that vision they a new government will be elected into office in 2015. Until then, as citizens of DA we need to work with the government to get DA to moving forward.
# posted by : December 22, 2009 4:54 PM
: December 22, 2009 4:54 PM
It is very amazing that all of a sudden politicians and journalist are invoking the name of Rosie Douglas as a hero. These were the same people in the 80’s calling him communist because he had a vision for the country. These were the same people in the 80’s calling him communist because Castro was his friend. These were the same people who had problems with him having relations with Libya and sending young people to Cuba and study.
While others saw Rosie that way, other people saw him as a man with a vision:
- A vision of taking care of the poor man by advancing their children with tertiary education.
- A vision of self reliance and independence and not dependent on any one country for assistance.
- A vision of forming diplomatic ties with other nations that can help advance our nation.
- A vision of providing services (schools, roads, sports, government services, Meville Hall etc.) to the rural areas of Dominica, Services which were once enjoyed only by the citizens who live city.
Now Rosie is dead we are acting like hypocrites saying so many good things about him to advance our personal agenda.
I hope I am alive 20-30 years from now to see, hear or read about Roosevelt Skerrit. We tend to forget our own history that took place in 1960/1980s but easy to quote Machiavelli from 1513. The great visionary E O Leblanc was once chastised, defamed and ridiculed because he wanted to serve the people instead of bowing to the few political and business elite. We forgot that DA was pushed off its political and economic development trail soon after its independence because we were scared of a Freeport, because we were afraid of Canefield airstrip that would be used by the “corrupted” government to hide their corruption. At that same tiwme:
- no one was scared of the Roseau to Portsmouth road,
- no one was scared of the deep water habour,
- no one was scared of the National and AID bank so that people from Grandfond to Grandbay, Bioche to Bense or Marigot to Mahaut could work at without having a “last” name.
- no one was scared of the government headquarters building which basically provided a one-stop shop.
- No one was scared of the Grammar school building so that “country” children could have access to secondary education like the elite.
We were so scared of “corruption” that we demonstrated, we went on strike and we protested. What we got in the end?
- A country that ended up in political turmoil followed by two hurricanes and
took almost a generation to recover.
- We got a country where it took 30 years to get an international cricket match.
- We got a country that has not seen the repair of its main commercial route (Roseau to Portsmouth) in more than 30 years.
- We got a country where one of its main educational institution (DGS) was deteriorated to the point where the roof was collapsing
- We got a country which may be the only independent nation in the Americas without an international airport
- We got a country where its people had to migrate en masse to other islands. Islands where they were shamed, ridiculed and made to eat their pride in foreign lands.
-
Do I want all opposing voices to keep quiet? No I do not, because I am a strong advocate of democracy and the Constitution of Dominica. But I a calling for a political discourse that are in the best interest of the country as stated in the constitution. What DA needs are citizens who have its best interest at heart. We all have the right “to freedom of conscience, of expression and of assembly….” as guaranteed by the Constitution of DA but this same constitution also ensure that “the enjoyment of the said rights and freedoms by any person does not prejudice the rights and freedoms of others of the public interest.” The public interest is key.
While others saw Rosie that way, other people saw him as a man with a vision:
- A vision of taking care of the poor man by advancing their children with tertiary education.
- A vision of self reliance and independence and not dependent on any one country for assistance.
- A vision of forming diplomatic ties with other nations that can help advance our nation.
- A vision of providing services (schools, roads, sports, government services, Meville Hall etc.) to the rural areas of Dominica, Services which were once enjoyed only by the citizens who live city.
Now Rosie is dead we are acting like hypocrites saying so many good things about him to advance our personal agenda.
I hope I am alive 20-30 years from now to see, hear or read about Roosevelt Skerrit. We tend to forget our own history that took place in 1960/1980s but easy to quote Machiavelli from 1513. The great visionary E O Leblanc was once chastised, defamed and ridiculed because he wanted to serve the people instead of bowing to the few political and business elite. We forgot that DA was pushed off its political and economic development trail soon after its independence because we were scared of a Freeport, because we were afraid of Canefield airstrip that would be used by the “corrupted” government to hide their corruption. At that same tiwme:
- no one was scared of the Roseau to Portsmouth road,
- no one was scared of the deep water habour,
- no one was scared of the National and AID bank so that people from Grandfond to Grandbay, Bioche to Bense or Marigot to Mahaut could work at without having a “last” name.
- no one was scared of the government headquarters building which basically provided a one-stop shop.
- No one was scared of the Grammar school building so that “country” children could have access to secondary education like the elite.
We were so scared of “corruption” that we demonstrated, we went on strike and we protested. What we got in the end?
- A country that ended up in political turmoil followed by two hurricanes and
took almost a generation to recover.
- We got a country where it took 30 years to get an international cricket match.
- We got a country that has not seen the repair of its main commercial route (Roseau to Portsmouth) in more than 30 years.
- We got a country where one of its main educational institution (DGS) was deteriorated to the point where the roof was collapsing
- We got a country which may be the only independent nation in the Americas without an international airport
- We got a country where its people had to migrate en masse to other islands. Islands where they were shamed, ridiculed and made to eat their pride in foreign lands.
-
Do I want all opposing voices to keep quiet? No I do not, because I am a strong advocate of democracy and the Constitution of Dominica. But I a calling for a political discourse that are in the best interest of the country as stated in the constitution. What DA needs are citizens who have its best interest at heart. We all have the right “to freedom of conscience, of expression and of assembly….” as guaranteed by the Constitution of DA but this same constitution also ensure that “the enjoyment of the said rights and freedoms by any person does not prejudice the rights and freedoms of others of the public interest.” The public interest is key.
# posted by : December 22, 2009 4:56 PM
: December 22, 2009 4:56 PM
It is a shame and an embarrassment to the nation to compare DA to Afghanistan and that deserve an apology to the people of Dominica. Dominica is a functioning democracy and an exemplary one at that. Dominica has a constitution that pass the test if we put it side by side with any other constitution in the world. We all have our disagreements, but to make such comparison is outrageous and downright irresponsible or ignorant of Afghanistan historical past. We need to understand that the things we are saying and writing no longer stay within the confines of Dominica but are there on the internet for all to access. Such articles give the impression to people that DA is a land of lawlessness and this I think is more of a estructive to DA than a “corrupt” government.
We may be enjoying these freedoms afforded us by our constitution, which may be healthy for a democracy like DA. But the true test of that freedom is whether or not it is for the betterment of the country both in the short run and in the long run or for the betterment of one own political and selfish gains.
I want to congratulate and wish the government and people of Dominica well in the next five years. I hope that each person of Dominican citizenry does not define himself or herself as a Labourite, Freedomite or UWP but truly define oneself as a Dominican. Once we understand that basic concept then I believe we will be on the road to national unity and prosperity.
We may be enjoying these freedoms afforded us by our constitution, which may be healthy for a democracy like DA. But the true test of that freedom is whether or not it is for the betterment of the country both in the short run and in the long run or for the betterment of one own political and selfish gains.
I want to congratulate and wish the government and people of Dominica well in the next five years. I hope that each person of Dominican citizenry does not define himself or herself as a Labourite, Freedomite or UWP but truly define oneself as a Dominican. Once we understand that basic concept then I believe we will be on the road to national unity and prosperity.
# posted by : December 22, 2009 4:57 PM
: December 22, 2009 4:57 PM
I can only feel sorry for our people. For it is said that a Government is a reflection of the intellect of the nation, ANd if thats the case then May God have mercy on the isle of beauty.
# posted by : December 22, 2009 10:17 PM
: December 22, 2009 10:17 PM
To Shirley Allen and Dr. Finn
The statistics from the Electoral Office revealed the Following
DLP 62% of votes cast
UWP 35% of votes cast
DFP 2% of votes cast
Others 1% of votes cast
I guess you will agree that 62% of the Dominican voting public are Dummies and were bribed by the Labour Party.
It seems to me that for some people the will of the minority must prevail over the vast majority. To some that is Democracy. However in my school of things that is classical dictatorship.
Are you Shirley Allen and Dr. Emmanuel Finn and others trying to impose the dictatorship of the minority on the vast majority? Surely the vast majority does not accept your type of democracy.
The minority will always have its say but the majority must have its way
Shirley Alcid
Economist
Dominican working in St. Kitts
The statistics from the Electoral Office revealed the Following
DLP 62% of votes cast
UWP 35% of votes cast
DFP 2% of votes cast
Others 1% of votes cast
I guess you will agree that 62% of the Dominican voting public are Dummies and were bribed by the Labour Party.
It seems to me that for some people the will of the minority must prevail over the vast majority. To some that is Democracy. However in my school of things that is classical dictatorship.
Are you Shirley Allen and Dr. Emmanuel Finn and others trying to impose the dictatorship of the minority on the vast majority? Surely the vast majority does not accept your type of democracy.
The minority will always have its say but the majority must have its way
Shirley Alcid
Economist
Dominican working in St. Kitts
# posted by : December 22, 2009 11:17 PM
: December 22, 2009 11:17 PM
First of all Shirley Alcid, Democracy is more about protecting the rights of the minority. The democracy that I know. Let's check how Dominicans were Haitians and Chinese given citizenship for that very same reason, lets check how many thousands were tranported from every country even China, when you have the figures come back and report, then we can talk. I see that you are implying people were not bribed and bought for all kinds of things.. But there are people in my village right now already on Peter's step! there are people (disabled)who got building materials and he did not vote for Skeritt and they took them back from him.
Shirley Allan
Looking forward to it!!
Thanks
Shirley Allan
Looking forward to it!!
Thanks
# posted by : December 23, 2009 8:14 AM
: December 23, 2009 8:14 AM
To Shirley Allan
It seems to me that you are in a severe state of denial which is seriously affecting your sense of reason.
Let us examine the figures.
In the 2005 elections UWP got 17,000 votes which gave them eight (8) seats. The DLP received 20,000 votes and got thirteen (13) seats.
Therefore the UWP had to increase its votes if it were to receive the additional three (3) seats this election to form the Government. Assumining they could maintain their eight (8).
This election the UWP instead of increasing its popular votes only received 12,000 votes while the DLP on the other hand increased their votes to 23,000. It shows therefore, that the UWP lost 5,000 of its popular votes. How can that party win an election when it popular votes was sliding down hill. Miss Allan the Labour Party received over 10,000 more votes that the UWP this election.
The Reason:
For over two years the opposition took the strategy to destroy one individual - Roosevelt Skerrit. This did not resonate with the Dominican voters.
In fact people got fed up and angry with Lennox Linton, Angello Allen, Matt Peltier, Athie Martin and the rest. I am aware that key supporters of the UWP were pleading with the leadership of the UWP to disassociate the Party with those individuals and what was going on at Q95 FM. I Know because my father is a strong member and financier of the UWP although he gave no money this election.
The leadership of the UWP took no heed, they supported the attempted destruction of Skerrit with Allegations after allegations without a shred of EVIDENCE. Then Ron Green stated on the BBC interview that there was no EVIDENCE to support those allegations. You yourself formed part of the discredited gang on Q95 FM.
The Dominican voters went to the poles angry and taught the UWP a good lesson by inflicting a crushing defeat. Thanks to Lennox Linton, Angelo Allen, Matt Peltier and others. Including yourself
I can tell you for this election my father witheld funding for the UWP. He gave them nothing. He did not vote.
Let me indicate to you Miss Allan although I work at the ECCB in St. Kitts I am in Dominica every other week and I have first hand Knowledge of what is going on there.
Any politiccal party that emerges has to look towards 2020 to defeat the Skerrit and the DLP.
Shirley Alcid
Economist
It seems to me that you are in a severe state of denial which is seriously affecting your sense of reason.
Let us examine the figures.
In the 2005 elections UWP got 17,000 votes which gave them eight (8) seats. The DLP received 20,000 votes and got thirteen (13) seats.
Therefore the UWP had to increase its votes if it were to receive the additional three (3) seats this election to form the Government. Assumining they could maintain their eight (8).
This election the UWP instead of increasing its popular votes only received 12,000 votes while the DLP on the other hand increased their votes to 23,000. It shows therefore, that the UWP lost 5,000 of its popular votes. How can that party win an election when it popular votes was sliding down hill. Miss Allan the Labour Party received over 10,000 more votes that the UWP this election.
The Reason:
For over two years the opposition took the strategy to destroy one individual - Roosevelt Skerrit. This did not resonate with the Dominican voters.
In fact people got fed up and angry with Lennox Linton, Angello Allen, Matt Peltier, Athie Martin and the rest. I am aware that key supporters of the UWP were pleading with the leadership of the UWP to disassociate the Party with those individuals and what was going on at Q95 FM. I Know because my father is a strong member and financier of the UWP although he gave no money this election.
The leadership of the UWP took no heed, they supported the attempted destruction of Skerrit with Allegations after allegations without a shred of EVIDENCE. Then Ron Green stated on the BBC interview that there was no EVIDENCE to support those allegations. You yourself formed part of the discredited gang on Q95 FM.
The Dominican voters went to the poles angry and taught the UWP a good lesson by inflicting a crushing defeat. Thanks to Lennox Linton, Angelo Allen, Matt Peltier and others. Including yourself
I can tell you for this election my father witheld funding for the UWP. He gave them nothing. He did not vote.
Let me indicate to you Miss Allan although I work at the ECCB in St. Kitts I am in Dominica every other week and I have first hand Knowledge of what is going on there.
Any politiccal party that emerges has to look towards 2020 to defeat the Skerrit and the DLP.
Shirley Alcid
Economist
# posted by : December 23, 2009 11:05 AM
: December 23, 2009 11:05 AM
You are an economist right? Please go a deeper than that for me.. Give me figures. How many Chinese voted in this election? How many Haitians? How many people who got paid tickets for wherever they were in the diaspora. I don't care about your credentails, where you work, and how many times you go to Dominica.. Give me the figures please. Then we can really put things in perspective! Don't tell me about what your opinion about who did what is, I have some of my own that I would like to share, but I will withhold them for now..
I am not one of the people who will by shied away by your credentials of who you work for. I know very well that economists can manipulate statistics to make it show what they want it o show.
Unless you cannot present the figures that In asked you for, I will left to conclude that you are deliberately manipulating the statistics to make it show what you and your people want it to show.
Shirley Allan
I am not one of the people who will by shied away by your credentials of who you work for. I know very well that economists can manipulate statistics to make it show what they want it o show.
Unless you cannot present the figures that In asked you for, I will left to conclude that you are deliberately manipulating the statistics to make it show what you and your people want it to show.
Shirley Allan
# posted by : December 23, 2009 11:55 AM
: December 23, 2009 11:55 AM
Shirley u are making sure Skerrit stays in power infinitum. Continue the good work. Bye the way what did your therapist say to you at your last visit. Why are you displacing your anger towards Skerrit. He is not the man who betrayed you. Have u ran out of medication for your depression, did u have to share your meds with the rest of the group, because the people of Dominica rejected your party.
Hey Skerrit is a forgiving young man, he will welcome you if u return home to Laplain. He is interested in ALL Dominicans especially those who have been abused, and marginalised by society and looking for a place. Those who have suffered the same accusations of thief falsely he understands, because u have done it to him so much, he will listen to you and give u a listening ear.
Hey Skerrit is a forgiving young man, he will welcome you if u return home to Laplain. He is interested in ALL Dominicans especially those who have been abused, and marginalised by society and looking for a place. Those who have suffered the same accusations of thief falsely he understands, because u have done it to him so much, he will listen to you and give u a listening ear.
# posted by : December 23, 2009 7:10 PM
: December 23, 2009 7:10 PM
Oh! Dominians, you don't know how much you amuse me.I am not the one who will make Skeritt remain in power infinitum!! Don't start looking for scape goats! Skeritt and his owners have their plan for you all well worked out! It is only ignorant people like those who abuse me here well equate dissent with hate for someone, I don;t know..
Skeritt won, you have a one party state now, what more do you want? Aren't you happy? You said too many things here it is difficult for me to address all of them, maybe if you had said indicate who you were, I would be able to deal you appropriately, so it's difficult to deal with phantoms it could be Charles calling me a murderer I wouldn't know it! It could be John Gotti accusing me of being a mafia and I wouldn't know, so please do me a favor when you feel the need to come and blast me again, just sign your name please, show you face, don;t lurk in the dark like a coward, be bold like Shirley Allan!! Could you guy come up with the another line, the come home to Laplaine if you can is getting a little boring even for me.. Get some more sexy, more salacious!!
Guess what pea brains Skeritt's staying in power does not affect me one way or the other, Skeritt is a diety to you pea brains, but he just another dictator to me. We differ so what? I don;t understand? Do you want me to be at the altar worshiping Skeritt with you? All you not easy nuh!
I just got a buyer for my birthright,I even discounted it it is going for $3.50. Looking forward to next round!! Merry Christmas!
Skeritt better do what you guys expect him to do, and not what I expect him to do, because seiously I will have a jolly laugh when the fire falls on your dumb ass!
Shirley Allan
Skeritt won, you have a one party state now, what more do you want? Aren't you happy? You said too many things here it is difficult for me to address all of them, maybe if you had said indicate who you were, I would be able to deal you appropriately, so it's difficult to deal with phantoms it could be Charles calling me a murderer I wouldn't know it! It could be John Gotti accusing me of being a mafia and I wouldn't know, so please do me a favor when you feel the need to come and blast me again, just sign your name please, show you face, don;t lurk in the dark like a coward, be bold like Shirley Allan!! Could you guy come up with the another line, the come home to Laplaine if you can is getting a little boring even for me.. Get some more sexy, more salacious!!
Guess what pea brains Skeritt's staying in power does not affect me one way or the other, Skeritt is a diety to you pea brains, but he just another dictator to me. We differ so what? I don;t understand? Do you want me to be at the altar worshiping Skeritt with you? All you not easy nuh!
I just got a buyer for my birthright,I even discounted it it is going for $3.50. Looking forward to next round!! Merry Christmas!
Skeritt better do what you guys expect him to do, and not what I expect him to do, because seiously I will have a jolly laugh when the fire falls on your dumb ass!
Shirley Allan
# posted by : December 23, 2009 8:00 PM
: December 23, 2009 8:00 PM
A little something to think about!! Forget Shirley for one second if you can and focus!
When Ignorance Isn't Bliss: How Political Ignorance Threatens Democracy
by Ilya Somin
Democracy demands an informed electorate. Voters who lack adequate knowledge about politics will find it difficult to control public policy. Inadequate voter knowledge prevents government from reflecting the will of the people in any meaningful way. Such ignorance also raises doubts about democracy as a means of serving the interests of a majority. Voters who lack sufficient knowledge may be manipulated by elites. They may also demand policies that contravene their own interests.
The American electorate does not have adequate knowledge for voters to control public policy. Scholars have long documented the limits of voter knowledge about the institutions and policies of the government. That ignorance is not a moral failing. The rational voter has little incentive to gain more knowledge about politics because his or her vote is unlikely to affect the outcome. Since gaining more knowledge offers few benefits and substantial costs, the average citizen remains ignorant, though rationally so. Some scholars have argued that citizens use "shortcuts" to gain enough knowledge to participate in self-government. The evidence does not support the "shortcut" argument.
Ilya Somin is an assistant professor of law at George Mason School of Law. His research interests are constitutional law, property law, and popular political participation and its implications for constitutional democracy.
More by Ilya Somin
The size of modern government is often so great that it is impossible for voters--even the most knowledgeable among them--to be adequately informed about its operations. Smaller government may actually be more democratic than that which we have now: voters would be more likely to exercise informed control over policy. Voter ignorance also suggests the value of decentralized federalism. In a decentralized federal system, citizens may "vote with their feet" by moving out of jurisdictions with policies they dislike and into those that have more favorable ones. Because each person decides whether or not to move, there is a much greater incentive to acquire relevant information with "foot voting" than with traditional voting at the polls.
When Ignorance Isn't Bliss: How Political Ignorance Threatens Democracy
by Ilya Somin
Democracy demands an informed electorate. Voters who lack adequate knowledge about politics will find it difficult to control public policy. Inadequate voter knowledge prevents government from reflecting the will of the people in any meaningful way. Such ignorance also raises doubts about democracy as a means of serving the interests of a majority. Voters who lack sufficient knowledge may be manipulated by elites. They may also demand policies that contravene their own interests.
The American electorate does not have adequate knowledge for voters to control public policy. Scholars have long documented the limits of voter knowledge about the institutions and policies of the government. That ignorance is not a moral failing. The rational voter has little incentive to gain more knowledge about politics because his or her vote is unlikely to affect the outcome. Since gaining more knowledge offers few benefits and substantial costs, the average citizen remains ignorant, though rationally so. Some scholars have argued that citizens use "shortcuts" to gain enough knowledge to participate in self-government. The evidence does not support the "shortcut" argument.
Ilya Somin is an assistant professor of law at George Mason School of Law. His research interests are constitutional law, property law, and popular political participation and its implications for constitutional democracy.
More by Ilya Somin
The size of modern government is often so great that it is impossible for voters--even the most knowledgeable among them--to be adequately informed about its operations. Smaller government may actually be more democratic than that which we have now: voters would be more likely to exercise informed control over policy. Voter ignorance also suggests the value of decentralized federalism. In a decentralized federal system, citizens may "vote with their feet" by moving out of jurisdictions with policies they dislike and into those that have more favorable ones. Because each person decides whether or not to move, there is a much greater incentive to acquire relevant information with "foot voting" than with traditional voting at the polls.
# posted by : December 23, 2009 8:17 PM
: December 23, 2009 8:17 PM
To the Editor, Mr Thompson
why many of the articles written on this website is so negative about DA? It is indeed frustrating to read such articles about my beloved Dominica.
I visit DA twice a year and I see progress on the island. Dominica is beeter off than many islands in terms of the tranquility, no major job losses, no high crime rate..etc.
Come Dr Fontaine, please encourage Dr Finn, the Christians and others to be more positive. All these were once supporting the government but then turned sour grapes. If you cannot say anything positive about DA, please do not say anything.
Frustrated wuth this website!
why many of the articles written on this website is so negative about DA? It is indeed frustrating to read such articles about my beloved Dominica.
I visit DA twice a year and I see progress on the island. Dominica is beeter off than many islands in terms of the tranquility, no major job losses, no high crime rate..etc.
Come Dr Fontaine, please encourage Dr Finn, the Christians and others to be more positive. All these were once supporting the government but then turned sour grapes. If you cannot say anything positive about DA, please do not say anything.
Frustrated wuth this website!
# posted by : December 23, 2009 8:55 PM
: December 23, 2009 8:55 PM
http://da-academy.org/digdem.html#finn
This article was written by Dr. Finn some 10 years ago. Cheak out the link
This article was written by Dr. Finn some 10 years ago. Cheak out the link
# posted by : December 23, 2009 8:57 PM
: December 23, 2009 8:57 PM
To the person who said that Dr. Finn hasn't made any contributions to Dominca. This is what I found on the net.
Dr. Emanuel Finn hails from the eastern community of La Plaine and attended the La Plaine Government and (DGS) Dominica Grammar Schools. In his last year of High School in 1978, he was the editor of the DGS magazine, the Clarion, and a Corporal in the Dominica Cadet Corps. He holds a bachelor's degree in Chemistry, doctorate in Dentistry and a masters in Health policy and Healthcare Adminstration.
In 2000, he was selected as the Congressional Heath Policy fellow of the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. (AAAS). He spent the congressional year in the United States Senate office of Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon in Washington DC. He dealt with health, environment, and social and economic and budgetary policy issues. Prior to his fellowship, he was the Dental Director of the Family Health Center in the Hudson Valley Region (just outside of the U.S Military Academy at West Point) of New York State.
In September 2001, Finn lead a team of U.S dentists to Dominica and provided Free dental care to students at the La Plaine, Boetica and Delices Schools as well as adults and children at the La Plaine Health Center for a week. He looks forward to the future where he will be able to make more policy (not political) contributions to Dominica. Finn's advice to his countrymen and compatriots is try to contribute as much as you can to our island home inspite of the discouraging, petty and divisive politics. Dominicans should always remember that Dominica belongs to Dominicans where ever we find ourselves and regardless of the length of time we have been away from our island.
We owe a dept of gratitude to our communities in Dominica for the love, compassion, caring and discipline, which they afforded us. Finn says, to whom much is given, much is expected. As expatriates, we have a right to speak out and meddle in the affairs of our island home. At the same time, it is imperative that we offer and assist with concrete solutions and not just offer criticisms and condemnations of our political, police, trade union and civilian leaders. In fact, we should strive to work with the democratically elected government, opposition and trade unions. We need them all in order to ensure that our country continue to function as a democracy in spite of tough challenges.
Dr. Finn is a practicing dentist and a National (United States) Oral and General Health policy consultant. No matter how long he stays away from his island home, he will always want to spend one more lazy afternoon at Laronde bay watching and negotiating waves of the Atlantic Ocean, sightseeing through the Carib Territory or hiking in the Northern Forest Reserve. Dr. Finn resides in Washington DC with his wife Chrissie and daughters Sari and Alana.
Dr. Emanuel Finn hails from the eastern community of La Plaine and attended the La Plaine Government and (DGS) Dominica Grammar Schools. In his last year of High School in 1978, he was the editor of the DGS magazine, the Clarion, and a Corporal in the Dominica Cadet Corps. He holds a bachelor's degree in Chemistry, doctorate in Dentistry and a masters in Health policy and Healthcare Adminstration.
In 2000, he was selected as the Congressional Heath Policy fellow of the American Dental Association (ADA) and the American Association for the Advancement of Science. (AAAS). He spent the congressional year in the United States Senate office of Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon in Washington DC. He dealt with health, environment, and social and economic and budgetary policy issues. Prior to his fellowship, he was the Dental Director of the Family Health Center in the Hudson Valley Region (just outside of the U.S Military Academy at West Point) of New York State.
In September 2001, Finn lead a team of U.S dentists to Dominica and provided Free dental care to students at the La Plaine, Boetica and Delices Schools as well as adults and children at the La Plaine Health Center for a week. He looks forward to the future where he will be able to make more policy (not political) contributions to Dominica. Finn's advice to his countrymen and compatriots is try to contribute as much as you can to our island home inspite of the discouraging, petty and divisive politics. Dominicans should always remember that Dominica belongs to Dominicans where ever we find ourselves and regardless of the length of time we have been away from our island.
We owe a dept of gratitude to our communities in Dominica for the love, compassion, caring and discipline, which they afforded us. Finn says, to whom much is given, much is expected. As expatriates, we have a right to speak out and meddle in the affairs of our island home. At the same time, it is imperative that we offer and assist with concrete solutions and not just offer criticisms and condemnations of our political, police, trade union and civilian leaders. In fact, we should strive to work with the democratically elected government, opposition and trade unions. We need them all in order to ensure that our country continue to function as a democracy in spite of tough challenges.
Dr. Finn is a practicing dentist and a National (United States) Oral and General Health policy consultant. No matter how long he stays away from his island home, he will always want to spend one more lazy afternoon at Laronde bay watching and negotiating waves of the Atlantic Ocean, sightseeing through the Carib Territory or hiking in the Northern Forest Reserve. Dr. Finn resides in Washington DC with his wife Chrissie and daughters Sari and Alana.
# posted by : December 23, 2009 9:04 PM
: December 23, 2009 9:04 PM
And this one was written by Shirley Allan 7 years ago!!!
Souls of Dominican Folk: The Ties That Bind Us
by Shirley Allan
"Historically, our people have had and sustained characteristics that profoundly bind us together. We tenaciously preserve our culture, our heritage, our history, our values, our resilience, our concern for each other’s welfare, a treasured value that dominates the core of our nation’s unique personality.
The last trait is true to the concept of none of us succeeds until all of us succeed, both as individuals and our beloved exceptionally beautiful nation. Lovely Dominica where exotic flowers bloom, and 366 rivers flow through 289 square miles.
Dominica is the only land where the agouti, the manicou (Oposum) and the mountain chicken roam freely.
SEE MORE HERE http://www.thedominican.net/articles/ties.htm
There was no person I know to be as passionate and in love with Dominica more than Shirley Allan. She has every right to express her opinion and critize any Givernment if she does not agree with the POLICIES and the direction the country is taking. Give the woman a break!!
Souls of Dominican Folk: The Ties That Bind Us
by Shirley Allan
"Historically, our people have had and sustained characteristics that profoundly bind us together. We tenaciously preserve our culture, our heritage, our history, our values, our resilience, our concern for each other’s welfare, a treasured value that dominates the core of our nation’s unique personality.
The last trait is true to the concept of none of us succeeds until all of us succeed, both as individuals and our beloved exceptionally beautiful nation. Lovely Dominica where exotic flowers bloom, and 366 rivers flow through 289 square miles.
Dominica is the only land where the agouti, the manicou (Oposum) and the mountain chicken roam freely.
SEE MORE HERE http://www.thedominican.net/articles/ties.htm
There was no person I know to be as passionate and in love with Dominica more than Shirley Allan. She has every right to express her opinion and critize any Givernment if she does not agree with the POLICIES and the direction the country is taking. Give the woman a break!!
# posted by : December 23, 2009 9:51 PM
: December 23, 2009 9:51 PM
There has been much talk lately of Dominica being or becoming a "one party state" after the tremendous win of the Dominica Labor Party at the recent poll.
From a political science perspective a one party state is "a type of party system government in which a single political party forms the government and no other parties are PERMITTED to run candidates for election."
Note the operative word "permitted" in the above quote.
Single party states use a variety of intimidating methods or impose certain laws to prevent other parties from legally gaining power while others only outlaw opposition parties, while allowing subordinate allied parties to exist as part of a permanent coalition such as a popular front.
From observation the situation in Dominica does not meet the requirements to be a one party state.
Winning an election by a huge margin does not constitute a one party state. Mamo won a similar victory in 1980 and our democracy went on marching full speed ahead. Look at the once powerful Freedom Part now. In the US, there were varying times when either the Democratic Party or the Republican Party controlled Congress, the House of Representative and the White House all at the same time. And the US was never seen as a one party state.
All of this just shows that democracy is a beautiful thing.
Adrian Thomson
From a political science perspective a one party state is "a type of party system government in which a single political party forms the government and no other parties are PERMITTED to run candidates for election."
Note the operative word "permitted" in the above quote.
Single party states use a variety of intimidating methods or impose certain laws to prevent other parties from legally gaining power while others only outlaw opposition parties, while allowing subordinate allied parties to exist as part of a permanent coalition such as a popular front.
From observation the situation in Dominica does not meet the requirements to be a one party state.
Winning an election by a huge margin does not constitute a one party state. Mamo won a similar victory in 1980 and our democracy went on marching full speed ahead. Look at the once powerful Freedom Part now. In the US, there were varying times when either the Democratic Party or the Republican Party controlled Congress, the House of Representative and the White House all at the same time. And the US was never seen as a one party state.
All of this just shows that democracy is a beautiful thing.
Adrian Thomson
# posted by : December 23, 2009 10:14 PM
: December 23, 2009 10:14 PM
We may not think that what (our democracy) we have won can be lost. But it can, in particular if those of us who have had the good fortune to live under democratic rule for sometime slip into forgetfulness about what it means for us. Democracy can be taken away, of course, that is always a danger. It could disintegrate into a despotic reality WITHIN DEMOCRATIC FORMALITY... the despotisme doux that Alexis De Tocqueville warned aganist in the 1830s ... People could into a trap of unfreedom while still believing themselves to be free." Have we arrived at a state of despotime doux in Dominica?
# posted by : December 23, 2009 10:46 PM
: December 23, 2009 10:46 PM
Dear All
I am a Dominican and its rather pathetic to see such derogatory statements made about each other over political matters. While we all have our own political views and partisan leanings, there is absolutely no need for personal attacks,name callings and character assassinations.
Can't we have a decent and constructive debate on the issues highlighted while refraining from personal attacks? This unsavory behavior being exhibited on the Internet will send the wrong signals to the world that Dominicans seem not to be able to have any interllectual discourse on issues of national importance.
Lets use our respective individual interllectual capital to provide reasonable and productive reasonings to further develop Dominica.
Bentom
I am a Dominican and its rather pathetic to see such derogatory statements made about each other over political matters. While we all have our own political views and partisan leanings, there is absolutely no need for personal attacks,name callings and character assassinations.
Can't we have a decent and constructive debate on the issues highlighted while refraining from personal attacks? This unsavory behavior being exhibited on the Internet will send the wrong signals to the world that Dominicans seem not to be able to have any interllectual discourse on issues of national importance.
Lets use our respective individual interllectual capital to provide reasonable and productive reasonings to further develop Dominica.
Bentom
# posted by : December 25, 2009 12:01 AM
: December 25, 2009 12:01 AM
Hi Shirley
You dont have to respond to these allegations since your response simply fuels further reactions. Dont dignify these remarks with an answer - just turn the other cheek and continue your discourse on the issues.
The Bible teaches us that righteousness exalts a nation but sin is a reproach to any people. No government comes to power without the Sovereign knowledge of God who rules ultimately in the affairs of men. God simply allows us some leeway to choose the government we want but His purposes will be fulfilled irrespective of who is in power.
God hates injustice, unrighteous and oppression and though it may seem that evil prevails for a time, righteous will eventually win. Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela showed that these ideals can be possible.
Be strong and lets be constructive.
Bentom
You dont have to respond to these allegations since your response simply fuels further reactions. Dont dignify these remarks with an answer - just turn the other cheek and continue your discourse on the issues.
The Bible teaches us that righteousness exalts a nation but sin is a reproach to any people. No government comes to power without the Sovereign knowledge of God who rules ultimately in the affairs of men. God simply allows us some leeway to choose the government we want but His purposes will be fulfilled irrespective of who is in power.
God hates injustice, unrighteous and oppression and though it may seem that evil prevails for a time, righteous will eventually win. Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela showed that these ideals can be possible.
Be strong and lets be constructive.
Bentom
# posted by : December 25, 2009 12:36 AM
: December 25, 2009 12:36 AM
Come on Edith, dispute what I am saying in the sane way I can dispute all the crap you are saying about me, becuase they are not fatcual, but can you? I dare you to deny it!! But I can and I will!! You evil, concubine! You and you GED! LOL!! From the day I entered college have been an honor student on the dean's list!! I am not ashamed to say that I am still in college doing a post graduate program!!! Stay in you little apartment paid for by Ron's Sister;s husband and look at your GED certificate!! You want to compare yourself with me woman? JEL Coushie? You have a long way to go!!
# posted by : December 25, 2009 2:09 AM
: December 25, 2009 2:09 AM
most mercyful God why in the world should people come on here and talk so much trash about one another? isnt this site a place to enrich our minds? well at least so i thought.Seeing Dominicans like my self doing such,sickens my entire being.As a Dominican am so much ashamed of the way we act. Dose it me that the editor dont over look whats being post on before publishing it?
Come on editor please take some time to look into the messages before they go public.My heart aches to see such aticles on line.We Dominicans are not the only ones reading on here,so lets all stop the name calling and help in any way we can to build our friendly island/country Dominica.
Most i say to the people that come here to bash our sister Shirley Allan,its high time that you all stop such things.Why dont you all say the GOOD THAT SHE DID FOR HER VILLAGE AND HER COUNTRY? come on people as i say its high time that all this should be stoped.
Am not from the sisters village but can atest of how she worked hard to build her village from the good i have read about her,BUT the nasty things always get to make it on the net and leave the GOOD behind or covered with dirt.
STOP IT PEOPLE!!!!i mean please STOP IT.I heard of the charles Lawrence project through my brother that lives in NewJersey and she is the main person at the back of it ,so why is her credit for all she is doing for her love of her people?PLEASE GIVE HER ...HER DUES!!!! ONE LOVE SISTER SHIRLEY KEEP A POSITVE HEAD FOR NO ONE CAN DETEST THE GOOD YOU HAVE AND YOU CONTINUE TO DO...MAY GOD BLESS YOU RICHLY AS WE ALL LOOK FORWARD TO A NEW YEAR
Come on editor please take some time to look into the messages before they go public.My heart aches to see such aticles on line.We Dominicans are not the only ones reading on here,so lets all stop the name calling and help in any way we can to build our friendly island/country Dominica.
Most i say to the people that come here to bash our sister Shirley Allan,its high time that you all stop such things.Why dont you all say the GOOD THAT SHE DID FOR HER VILLAGE AND HER COUNTRY? come on people as i say its high time that all this should be stoped.
Am not from the sisters village but can atest of how she worked hard to build her village from the good i have read about her,BUT the nasty things always get to make it on the net and leave the GOOD behind or covered with dirt.
STOP IT PEOPLE!!!!i mean please STOP IT.I heard of the charles Lawrence project through my brother that lives in NewJersey and she is the main person at the back of it ,so why is her credit for all she is doing for her love of her people?PLEASE GIVE HER ...HER DUES!!!! ONE LOVE SISTER SHIRLEY KEEP A POSITVE HEAD FOR NO ONE CAN DETEST THE GOOD YOU HAVE AND YOU CONTINUE TO DO...MAY GOD BLESS YOU RICHLY AS WE ALL LOOK FORWARD TO A NEW YEAR
# posted by : December 25, 2009 11:24 AM
: December 25, 2009 11:24 AM
TO ALL OUR READERS
We at the Dominican.net apologize to you for the many personal attacks that were allowed to be printed here on our website.
Our sole aim is to provide a means for discussing issues affecting Dominica, but some people have instead used it to settle personal scores and for that we are sorry.
It was our hope that our readers would be mature enough to keep the discussion on the issues but this clearly is not the case.
Please don't confuse the comments with what the Dominican.net stands for.
We have tried our best to maintain a certain quality of reporting, but this is in danger of being undermined.
As such, in the future we will immediately delete all posts of personal nature. If that continues, we will have to review posts before they are published.
Thank you for your understanding and patience.
EDITORIAL STAFF - TheDominican.net
We at the Dominican.net apologize to you for the many personal attacks that were allowed to be printed here on our website.
Our sole aim is to provide a means for discussing issues affecting Dominica, but some people have instead used it to settle personal scores and for that we are sorry.
It was our hope that our readers would be mature enough to keep the discussion on the issues but this clearly is not the case.
Please don't confuse the comments with what the Dominican.net stands for.
We have tried our best to maintain a certain quality of reporting, but this is in danger of being undermined.
As such, in the future we will immediately delete all posts of personal nature. If that continues, we will have to review posts before they are published.
Thank you for your understanding and patience.
EDITORIAL STAFF - TheDominican.net
DOMINICA NET.Im' happy that you guys decided to clean the mess on this site but there's much more to be done.I was reading this morning and there are still some comments that look more like personal attacks especially those by shirley allan about some one paying for an apartment.That has nothing to do with dicussing the issues of our country.
# posted by : December 26, 2009 4:51 PM
: December 26, 2009 4:51 PM
WHY IS IT WHEN PEOPLE HAVE NO CAPACITY FOR USEFULNESS THEY SHOULD BE SO ANXIOUS TO SERVE THE PUBLIC?
# posted by : December 27, 2009 2:23 PM
: December 27, 2009 2:23 PM Links to this post:
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