rising for change

TEAM

DOMINICAVOTE UWPVOTE UWP

www.uwpdominica.com

Rising for BESTCHANGE

Sustainable Programmes

√ Tourism offices established in New York, London and Paris.

√ Established Diplomatic Ties with Cuba

√ UWP hosted International Tourism Conferences such as The Caribbean Eco-Tourism Conference in 1997. The Caribbean Agenda 21 Conference in 1998 and The Conference on World Heritage Sites, 1998.

√ Morne Trois Piton National Park enlisted as a World Heritage Site- A first in the Caribbean.

√ Tourist facilities at: Trafalgar, Emerald Pool & Cabrits.

√ Built Tourist Reception Center at Indian River

√ Organized World Creole Music Festival

√ Upgrading Soil Laboratory

√ More than $50 Million was made available to the Banana Industry by way of direct cash to farmers, input to farmers and support to the DBMC.

√ Markets for non-banana crops were expanded, export figures moved from $12 Million to $27 Million and expanded markets.

√ Successful lobbying missions to Europe, the United States, and in the region to save the Banana Industry.

√ The purchase of Geest Banana business.

√ The involvement of Dominica and the Windwards in the shipping and marketing of Bananas.

√ Returns on investments in Geest Bananas.

√ Sustained and reasonable prices for bananas.

√ Agriculture modernized through the expansion of irrigation systems and greenhouses

√ Livestock Breeding Operation at Savanne Yorke, Salisbury

√ Groundwork for abattoir to boost livestock sector has been laid down

√ Animal feed Processing and mixing plant, Jimmit

√ Coral producing Facility at Longhouse

√ Marine Hatchery at Donkey Beach, Canefield

√ New Mahaut market

√ New Belfast Bridge

√ Mahaut Fisheries Jetty

√ Microtrim Slice control and Titou Gorge

√ Penville/Blenheim Road Rehabilitation

√ Layou River control works

√ Pte Michel Sea defense wall and Road Expansion

√ Trafalgar- Wotten Waven link road

√ Campbell to Despor road

√ Delices to Petit Savanne Road

√ Jimmit to Warner road

√ Construction of Fab Road (Petite Savanne)

√ New Caliste Bridge.

√ White River Bridge.

√ New Bath Estate Bridge.

√ New Bridge joining Watty’s Lane and Leblanc Lane (Goodwill)

√ Michael Douglas Boulevard

√ Thibaud retaining wall

√ 84 acres of land for the expansion of Thibaud

√ West coast road retaining wall. (Coulibistrie, Mero, Massacre)

√ Water supply for: Carib Territory, Galion, Glasgow, Petite Soufriere, Good Hope, San Sauveur.

√ Layou Housing Project

√ Bath Estate Housing Project

√ New Health Centres in: Warner, San Sauveur, Morne Prosper and Woodford Hill.

√ New Public Conveniences

√ New Cricket Pavilions: Dublanc, Castle Bruce and Grand Bay playing fields

√ Mahaut, Sineku and Wotten Waven schools extension.

√ School Feeding Program.

√ Basic Education Reform Project.

√ Provision for free Text Books.

√ Increased access to Secondary School education

√ New wing for Clifton Dupigny Technical College (now DSC)

√ Extension of Weirs Marigot School.

√ Construction of Castle Bruce Secondary School.

√ Construction of Grand Bay Secondary School.

√ Construction of new wing of the Portsmouth Secondary School.

√ Construction of Public Library in Portsmouth.

√ Construction of Food Pavilion at Ross University

√ Increased Scholarships for tertiary education- Cuba

Island Scholarship increased from 1 to 4 and included one for technical studies.

√ Budget allocation of financial support for scholarships etc. moved from $300,000 to more than $3 Million.

√ Developed Dominica Unity Trust Corporation (DUTC)

√ Reintroduced Live Broadcast of Parliamentary proceedings

√ Liberalized the regional Telecoms Market

√ Revitalization of the National Youth Council

UWP IN GOVERNMENT - Jun 1995 to Jan 2000

A 4 1/2 year record of getting the job done

3For Jobs. Equal Rights, Justice & First Class Elderly Care

Vote UWPChange is a

Sustainable Programmes

UWP in Government - 1995-2000 Major Achievements in 41/2

years

North-East Comprehensive School Pierre Charles Secondary School Castle Bruce Secondary School

• Schools • Bridges • Roads

World Creole Music

Festival (currently in its

18th year)

UNESCO World

Heritage sites (first in Dominica)

4 For Jobs. Equal Rights, Justice & First Class Elderly Care

Change is a Vote UWP

Liberalized the Regional Telecoms Market


years

Petite Savanne to Delices Road Michael Douglas Boulevard Jimmit to Warner Road

• Tourist Reception Center at Indian River • New Mahaut Market

Water for the

TerritoryGlo

wivé Gallion

FreeTextbooks


Vote UWPChange is a

Table of ContentsForeword : Party Leader’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Our Vision, Mission, Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7The Economy & Job Creation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Agriculture & Fisheries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Manufacturing, Agro-processing & Natural Resources . . . . . . . . . . 18Construction, Housing & Infrastructural Development . . . . . . . . . . . 20The Blue - Green Economy = $$ for Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22Water Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25How the Jobs Add Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Cultural Industry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28The Kalinago - Our Indigenous People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Information Communication Technology (ICT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32Meet the Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34-35Market Access & Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36Youth Empowerment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38The Public Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Education & Human Resource Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46Elderly Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48The Diaspora . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Foreign Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51Financial Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53Governance, Law, Justice & Human Rights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55National Security & Disaster Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57Partnerships for Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59Living in Dignity with Disability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60Gender Affairs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61Our Children, Our Future . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63UWP ready to make Dominica the Best . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65Better Days are Coming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Liberalized the Regional Telecoms Market


years

• Tourist Reception Center at Indian River • New Mahaut Market



The UWP Team Dominica Vision for our “Isle of Beauty” is sustainable, harmonized growth and development in which every Dominican has an opportunity to have an education; proper health care; a job; an affordable home; a reasonable standard of living and quality of life, in a peaceful and secure social environment .

With the largest Cabinet of Ministers in the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union over the last 15 years we have been last in economic growth, last in agriculture and tourism

performance, last in job creation, last in foreign exchange earnings and last in attracting Foreign Direct Investments . But we have been first in selling our passports to international crooks and criminals and first in employing non-nationals to do jobs that nationals are capable of doing .

We are a much better country than that .

UWP TEAM Dominica is committed to making Dominica the best place to live, the best place to work and the best place to enjoy

Putting Dominica First


Vote UWPChange is a

life . To this end, our long-term economic plan will build a stronger, more competitive economy; a fairer society; create more jobs; and secure a better future for Dominica by:

• making Dominica a low-tax jurisdiction open to increased investment dollars across all economic growth drivers from at home and abroad

• backing small business and enterprise with better infrastructure and lower job taxes in an environment of strong, market driven revival of agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing;

• boosting the activities and performance of the construction sector; maximizing the economic benefits of our water, music and cultural resources;

• ensuring on-time and complete implementation of renewable energy projects; and embracing ICT as the backbone of our bid to earn a profitable place in the global trade of goods and services .

• condemning to the dustbin of history the governance disgrace of having the largest and most inefficient government in the OECS and officially unplugged from the responsibility to green, renew and grow the economy .

• adjusting taxes and duties to reduce the cost of living and help hardworking people be more financially secure

• ensuring welfare based on merit and prioritizing employment opportunities for Dominicans first so the economy delivers for citizens who want to work hard and play by the rules

• delivering the best schools, skills and apprenticeships for young people so the next generation can succeed in the global race

This is our UWP TEAM Dominica invitation to join Dominican hearts and minds around the world so that together, WE THE PEOPLE will rise up from this long night of pessimism and broken dreams imposed by a corrupt, incompetent Dominica Labour Party regime .

We rise to put 5,000 Dominicans in new jobs within the first three years of a UWP Team Dominica government; we rise to reduce the cost of living; and we rise for the exit of beggar days and the entry of better days,

UWP TEAM Dominica

LENNOX LINTONPolitical Leader



Our VisionTo make Dominica the best place to live, work and enjoy life in the global community

Our MissionTo create in the Commonwealth of Dominica a globally recognized Nature Island democracy of the people, by the people, for the people through the engagement of citizens and investors at home and abroad utilising their talents, knowledge, skills and appropriate technologies to grow the economy, protect the environment and ensure social equity

Our ValuesInnovative Leadership

Care

Honesty

Integrity

Accountability

Pursuit of Excellence

Continuous Improvement

Global Teamwork


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The UWP Team Dominica’s strategy for immediately rekindling growth in Dominica’s Economy, is to build a strong partnership with our other two very important Development Partners, that is, the Private Sector and the NGO sector, and together, identify and fix the most serious problems in our most important growth sectors.

Background - Situational analysis

The Economy and Job Creation

Dominica Currently faces major economic and social hardship; while we have the largest cabinet in the region unemployment among the youth is estimated at 75%.

Low and falling GDP growth has contributed to high and increasing unemployment, which is most severe among the highly productive ---the young.

Unemployment has deepened with the long term employed joining the ranks of unemployed

According to Central Statistics record on External Trade between 1968 and 2010 Dominica’s top two highest export performances were EC$167.5 and EC$150.5 million in 1998 and 1999 respectively, when the United Workers Party (UWP TEAM DOMINICA) was in office. The records also show that the estimates for visible trade exports in 2010 was EC$83.3 million under the Dominica Labour Party government. This is equivalent to a decline of 50% and 45% as compared to 1998 and 1999 respectively when the UWP TEAM DOMINICA was in office

The balance of visible trade showed a deficit of EC$ 222.8 million in 1999 the year when UWP TEAM DOMINICA left office; In 2010 it climbed to a staggering half a billion dollars (EC$505.7 million) under the Dominica Labour Part, effectively worsening the performance by 127%.

Furthermore, Dominica is currently trailing the OECS region in economic performance and is its poverty rate is among the highest in the region.



Key Economic Objective

Create a new economy that grows by 5 – 7% per year and delivers 5000 new sustainable jobs within the first three year of a UWP Team Dominica Government through creatively rebuilding 10 major pillars/drivers of the economy .

Figure 1: UWP TEAM DOMINICA proposed economic pillars for increasing productivity and economic growth

The United Workers Party (UWP TEAM DOMINICA) job creation strategy/approach will:

Be rooted in stimulating economic growth;

Place emphasis on key sectors of agriculture, construction, manufacturing , tourism and services and natural resources;

Encourage and facilitate entrepreneurship development across the productive sectors;

Drive the export market through robust product development and marketing;

Grow the Tourism Sector by increased marketing, increased visitor spending, and reduced taxes .


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Ensure supporting fiscal and monetary policies;

Encourage, Facilitate and Incentivise Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) .

Provide supporting infrastructure .

Embark on a comprehensive air and sea access initiative to include the development of an International Airport, a Dominica based airline and a shipping industry to include a high speed ferry service and reliable, competitive cargo service .

Key Policy Initiatives for Job Creation

• Review and improve the existing tax regimes (Income, Corporate and VAT) with a view to making business more competitive and reducing the cost of living .

• Removal of duties and taxes on construction materials .

• Reduction of VAT on Hotels from high of 15% to flat 7.5%

• Take the lead role in the OECS in advocating for monetary policy to play a major role in the management of the economy .

• Reduce the “Cost of Doing Business” to ensure local and Foreign Direct

Investment (FDI) increases by 50% within the first 3 years.

• Establish a Venture Capital (VC) Fund, provide low interest financing, and Technical Assistance (TA) support to the private sector, particularly small businesses .

• Enact Small Business Legislation .

• Review and amend the Fiscal Incentive Act and Hotel Aid Act in order to make them more relevant and to ensure transparency in the administrative process .

• Strengthen consular offices to facilitate export, engage in investment promotion and establish trading houses in appropriate targeted markets .

UWP TEAM DOMINICA approach

Initiate a comprehensive fiscal reform programme to include reducing existing tax rates

Immediate removal of all duties and taxes on construction materials

Initiate discussion with ECCB and OECS member states to lower interest rates



Implement legislative and administrative reforms and improve access into and out of Dominica, aimed at improving ease and cost of doing business

Provide Technical and VC and financing support to new and existing Small and Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs)

Ensure effective debt management and restructuring of the economy

Introduce initiatives aimed at increasing productivity and sustainable jobs .

Economic and Social Impact

Outcome:

Money in your pocket and food on your table

Education for your children

Significant reduction in poverty

Independent people

Improved quality of life


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UWP TEAM DOMINICA believes agriculture is central to Dominica’s short and long term development strategy . Agriculture offers the triple advantage of enhanced productivity, food security and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions . Thus, tremendous effort will be placed on the revitalization of this sector in order to stimulate the rural economy . This will involve improved land management, direct support to farmers and fishermen, technology deployment, and improvement in agricultural

and fisheries infrastructure in order to enhance productivity and production volumes .

In addition to revitalizing our traditionally successful agricultural products, we will reopen the sector for successful niche business in select global markets for high value products like coconut oil; cocoa; essential oils – bay oil, vertiver, patchouli, lemon grass and wellness herbs like industrial & medical marijuana, ginger, mint, cumin and basil .

Agriculture and FisheriesSustainable Agriculture and

sustainable Tourism go hand in hand



Goal

To double agricultural production and earn-ings within three (3) years in order to ensure food security and increase export earnings .


The Problem: In the Agricultural sector, disor-ganized markets, high production costs, and inadequate technical support to the farmers are the most critical problems leading to low profitability on investment, abandonment of farms and eventual sale of lands .

Solution: (a) UWP Team Dominica will increase its investment of the financial, technical and other resources in agriculture, including direct support to farmers, in order to double agricultural production in the shortest possible time .

(b) UWP Team Dominica will work with the Hucksters, DAPEX, Fairtrade, Winfresh and other stakeholders, to organize the local, regional and international market for Agricultural Produce, to ensure that when the farmers produce, their produce are bought .

(c) UWP Team Dominica will rapidly implement the $54M Agricultural development program under the EU-BAM, which has been delayed too long by the DLP .

Additionally• We will guarantee purchase of

targeted agriculture produce and fish of commercial value .

• Engage agricultural technicians, physical planning division and regional agricultural institutions to develop policies and implement plans, which will outline guidelines and best suited location for respective agricultural produce to maximize production .

• Implement agricultural land management programmes .

• Establish district young farmers entrepreneurship projects .

• Reduce or eliminate where necessary taxes on fisheries and agricultural inputs, tools, equipment and vehicles .

• Provide necessary technology and training to technicians and farmers in the use of appropriate technology to combat pest and diseases .

• Collaborate with local and regional research and development entities (IICA, CARDI, UWI and DSC) .

• Provide access to land and financing and operationalize a land bank to


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bring suitable idle farm lands into production .

• Establish production of animal feed, breeding facilities for livestock and fresh water fish and the upgrade and certification of new and existing production and slaughtering facilities .

• Implementation of contract farming programs .

• Provide at least five fleets of three fishing trawlers in major fishing

communities and improve landing sites for fishermen.

• Establish an immigration policy aligned to the demand for agricultural labour and encourage the establishment of farm labour groups in order to increase labour productivity in the agricultural sector .

• Establish a national agricultural and fisheries insurance programme



UWP TEAM DOMINICA’s tourism policy and strategy for Dominica focuses on an inte-grated inter- sectoral approach to the de-velopment of tourism . The strategy is aimed at maximizing the benefits of tourism without compromising our social values while ensur-ing the preservation of our environment and ecosystems . Tourism married to agriculture is one of the major economic development ini-tiatives . An international airport is considered to be crucial to the overall success of the tourism sector .

Goal To increase the hotel occupancy rate and cruise passenger spending by 100% within the first three years of coming into government

UWP TEAM DOMINICA approach The Problem:- In the Tourism sector, low room occupancy, and high taxes are the most se-rious problems leading to low profitability on investment, run down properties and eventu-al closure .

TourismSustainable Tourism and

sustainable Agriculture go hand in hand International

Airport

Tourism


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Solution:

a) UWP will Cut Taxes across the production sectors .

(b) Reduce VAT on Hotel operations to 7 .5% .

(c) Remove government transfer fees on land .

(d) Construct an International Airport and introduce a high-speed ferry service to neighbouring islands

(e) Increase the Tourism marketing budget from the low of $5 million to $10 million

(f) Establish a well equipped Marketing Agency in French Islands:-

Additionally:

Develop a tourism strategy and policy framework, focused on high-end tourism in the areas of eco, cultural,

heritage, sports, cruise ship, yachting, and health and wellness tourism

Develop the international airport, facilitate the establishment of a Dominica based airline and a high speed ferry service to ensure reliable market access .

Conduct tourism sector skills needs assessment, embark on a major human resource alignment initiative, and provide access to finance for businesses and communities involved in tourism

Ensure that state institutions serving the tourism sector are adequately staffed and financed

Provide tax incentives to existing establishments creating sustainable new jobs

International

Airport

Tourism



UWP TEAM DOMINICA AIR ACCESS IMPROVEMENT STRATEGY

Inadequate air access continues to have a strangle hold on Dominica’s economic development, particularly in the tourism, agricultural and manufacturing sectors . UWP Team Dominica, therefore, recognises that construction of an international airport is indispensable to sustainable development of our isle of beauty, isle of splendour .

Since gaining independence, every administration has advocated intentions to construct an international airport . However, the UWP is the only party that has taken material steps towards implementation of this important economic infrastructure .

By the end of our 4 1/2 years term of office in 2000, the UWP had taken the following action towards construction of an international airport:

Purchase by private treaty approximately 448 acres of land from 161 land owners in the Woodford Hill to Wesley area for runway and airside facilities

Allocation of agricultural land to settle displaced farmers

Purchase of Londonderry Estate (approximately 900 acres) for hotel development and resettlement of displaced farmers in particular

Preparation of detailed design and related studies for construction and international certification of the international airport

Negotiation of grant funding totalling over US$35 million dollars towards construction of the airport .

Additionally, reputable international financiers and development companies, including the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC), Geest Industries and Four Seasons Hotels had given firm commitments to construct high end hotels and related tourism development projects to coincide with completion of the international airport .

Notwithstanding promises in the DLP manifestos from 2000, the Prime Minister’s 2010/2011 Budget Address to construct an international airport, and the PM’s pronouncement at St Joseph Rally in May 2014, to date no meaningful action has been taken by the DLP after almost fifteen (15) years in office to fulfill this promise to the citizens of Dominica .

Recognizing the urgency and great importance of improved air access and an international airport to sustainable economic advancement of Dominica, UWP Team Dominica will immediately, upon taking office, institute the following measures:

Facilitate establishment of a


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Dominica based airline to provide express and direct air services between Dominica and the thirteen (13) existing international airports located north (San Juan) and south (Caracas) of Dominica; along operational models developed by past and present operators such as Cardinal Airways and Coastal Air .

Establish the Dominica International Airport Development Project Management Office with responsibility for the following:

Update detailed studies

commissioned by the UWP administration for construction of the international airport

Settlement of all issues surrounding lands purchased by the UWP for construction of the international airport and related developments

Mobilize financing and finalise arrangements for construction and commissioning of the international airport .



UWP TEAM DOMINICA recognizes the untapped potential of Dominica’s agricultural and natural resources and its light manufacturing sector . In seeking to attain our true economic potential, we will diversify the economy through innovation, the nurturing of infant industries, and value added initiatives . In addition, we will facilitate import substitution business initiatives aimed at reducing the country’s massive trade deficit while at the same time creating much needed jobs .

Goal

Increase Dominica’s export earnings by 100% within the targeted economic subsectors in the first 3 years of a UWP Administration.

Key Policy Initiatives

• Provide access to low cost and venture capital financing, training and technical assistance support, to new and existing businesses in light manufacturing, agro processing, quarrying, and water export .

• Review the fiscal incentive act (1984), quarry related legislation and regulations as deemed necessary, and enact Small Business Legislation

• Streamline the application process for new business start-ups to result in a one stop shop thus improving efficiency

• Develop a comprehensive human

Manufacturing, Agro-processing and

Natural Resources


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resource development program aligned to the priority industries .


Set criteria for the selection of start-up and existing companies within the essential oil, fruits, root crops, renewable energy, light manufacturing and quarry industries, and provide appropriate financial, business development and technical support .

Embark on a comprehensive product development, branding and market access program .

Identify, develop, and assist existing private sector firms involved in light manufacturing and agro-processing and embark on the exportation of bulk and bottled water to targeted markets .

Rebuild local furniture Industry

Determine priority areas and train individuals for the effective development and management of enterprises within the priority industries .

Provide tax credits to new and existing companies involved in creating sustainable new jobs .



UWP TEAM DOMINICA is fully committed to the revitalization of our construction industry, through the development of an affordable and climate resilient housing stock and infrastructure, in a transparent and responsible manner . We will rehabilitate and expand Dominica’s infrastructure through our government Public Sector Investment Program (PSIP) and Public- Private Sector Partnership (PPP) . Furthermore we will help stimulate the construction sector through policy reform in order to boost economic growth, generate new jobs, improve housing conditions, instil pride and ensure the health and safety of our people .

Goal

• Improve housing conditions nationally by building and repairing 1,000 houses in 3 years .

• Develop, repair and enhance road networks, modernise the sea ports, create a modern industrial park using renewable energy, and build climate resilient supporting structures such as bridges, sea and retaining walls


• Removal of duties on construction and building materials .

Construction, Housing and Infrastructural Development


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• Develop a Housing Market to enable easy purchase of a house

• Develop and implement a housing policy with particular attention to so-cial and affordable housing .

• Development and implement an in-dustrial development policy .

• The provision of low interest rate loans for housing, commercial and industri-al development through the AID bank and other financial institutions.

• Engage in foreign policy initiatives with friendly governments and donor agencies in order to finance public in-frastructure development projects .

• Enforce transparent public sector pro-curement procedures .


• Adopt a proactive maintenance pro-gramme of public buildings, bridges, walls, public and feeder roads

• Implementation of the Roseau Road Reinstatement Project

• Rehabilitation of dilapidated housing stock

• Review of rent control legislation

• Review of utility services providers’ pol-icies with respect to housing develop-ment .

• Adoption of a sustainable and trans-parent squatter regularisation pro-gramme .

• Review and strengthening of public assistance housing programmes .

• Lowering of interest rates and increase of housing mortgage financing.

• Review of current land use policies, legislation and regulations .

• Rehabilitation and expansion of the agricultural feeder road network .



Climate Change, Environmental Preservation, Reforestation, Water Resources, Organic Agriculture and Renewable Energy, Marine Resources = Basket of Sustainable Development and is the area with the most financial resources for the development of Small Island States (SIDS) like Dominica.

Key Policy Intiatives

The Clean and Green Policy . The Change we Need .

Dominica, the Nature Island of the Caribbean has as much as 60 percent forest cover; however, recent study by Consultant Romelli warned that while Dominica is fortunate to be in a position of being carbon-neutral, it is losing forested areas because of natural and human events .

The New Clean and Green Economy, which

UWP has been developing and articulating since 2009 puts people and good paying jobs at the Centre . It is lead by a clear, consistent policy which will be the guiding principle for The Change We Need. Dominicans at home and abroad will know, foreign investors will know, and tourists will know clearly what Dominica and Dominicans stand for:

• Adherence to World Heritage Guidelines .

• Adoption of Green Globe Standards .

• Holistic Development of a Sustainable Tourism Integrated plan with Sustainable Agriculture, Healthy Food, and Fresh Juices produced here in Dominica .

• Fresh fish, farmed or caught here in Dominica .

The Blue – Green Economy = $$ for Development


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• Enhanced Sports, Hot Mineral Spas, into a total Health and Wellness experience


UWP will maximize Dominica’s access to sustainable development Financing

Increase the Human Resource and Technical Capacity of Environmental Ministry, Ministry of Finance and National Authorising Office (NAO) to enable them to rapidly develop sustainable projects to position Dominica to access, within UWP’s first term, up to EC one billion dollars in Official development assistance (ODA) and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from the various green financing institutions and governments, including World bank, Norway, EU, US, Japan, Canada, and NGOs which have pledged resources for development of Blue-Green Economy in SIDS

Expand the Dominica Low Carbon Climate Resilient Development Strategy to include the Guyana Model of sustainable forest management in exchange for Carbon credits .

Tap into the US$2 .5 billion Norway Fund to limit emissions from deforestation

at low levels and further decreasing forest degradation

Establish a $100M Reforestation and Natural Resouce Restoration and Renewable Energy Dev . Fund (RRREF)

RENEWABLE ENERGY

PEOPLE’s SAFETY FIRST

In the matter of Dominica’s renewable energy and natural resources development, UWP TEAM DOMINICA puts the overall health and safety of our people and sustainable development of the country of Dominica first. We are fully committed to the development of cheaper alternative energy from renewable sources to meet 100 percent of Dominica’s energy needs . At the centre of Dominica’s approach will be a comprehensive environmental impact and cost-benefit analysis in order to consider and select the best and safest options .

Goal

Make Dominica the world’s premier clean and green destination where competitive energy costs encourage local and foreign investment by ensuring that 100% of Dominica’s energy needs is produced from sustainable renewable sources within 5 years in a safe and sustainable manner .



Key Policy Intiatives

• Review, legislate and implement the National Energy Policy .

• Remove all taxes on equipment and spare parts used in the generation of power from sustainable renewable sources .

• Develop a sustainable energy industry which will include, but not limited to, research and development, manufacturing and export of technical services in the area of renewable energy .


Facilitate the private sector in the establishment of businesses to engage in the design, fabrication, installation, maintenance and enhancement of renewable systems .

Introduce an Associate Degree programme in Renewable Energy Systems at the Dominica State College .

Facilitate partnerships with these energy companies that will see young Dominicans trained in the design, service and maintenance of clean systems .

Critically and thoroughly assess the development of geothermal energy to ensure its safety to our people, ecosystem, and the environment .

Establish small hydro plants in the South East, North East and North West of the island, supported by an integrated, forest soils, water and other natural resource restoration and management program .

Develop the right mix of the production of sustainable energy using hydro, wind, and solar to optimize energy output .

Provide fiscal incentives and tax credits to companies creating sustainable new jobs in the renewable energy sub-sector .

Encourage communities in sustainable energy usage initiatives through the establishment of several model eco villages .


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“Water is life.” UWP TEAM DOMINICA recognizes the importance of water to Dominica and the rest of the world . Thus, we will work to ensure the sustainable use, restoration and preservation of this valuable resource . UWP Team Dominica has already begun discussions with a view to forming an alliance with the Blue Economy Initiative of Canada to build the business case for water sustainability . The Blue Economy Initiative is a project founded by the Royal Bank of Canada, the Canadian Water Network, and the Walter and Duncan Gordon Foundation . The mission of the Blue Economy Initiative, is to catalyze well-informed water management decisions, policies and practices that ensure maximum social, environmental, and economic benefits to current and future generations .

Goal

Increase the exportation of bulk and bottled water by 100 percent within the first three years.


• Prepare, develop and implement a water resource management policy and development strategy .

• Conduct studies to determine current water usage by people and habitats .

• Review and make amendments to existing legis-lation to ensure effectiveness and sustainability .

Blue Economy Initiative

Water Industry




Provide incentives, technical and business support to private sector and statutory bodies involved in water resource exportation and preservation in order to enhance their productivity and effectiveness .

Utilize Dominica’s forest reserve as col-lateral (carbon credits) for attracting financing for environmentally con-scious international institutions like the World Bank .

Embark on a massive reforestation program, encourage environmentally friendly practices and conduct technical studies/ research to inform decision making .

Develop and implement a Human Resource Development (HRD) programme targeting public and private sector institutions and firms to enhance productivity .

Marine Resources and Law of the Sea

As Small Island Developing State, (SIDS), Dominica has more marine territory than its land area . Although our marine resources provide us with food in the form of fish, as well as tourism revenue from our diving, Dominica has hardly begun to exploit the potential of its marine resources .

UWP Team Dominica will take all necessary actions under The UN Convention of the Law of the Sea, to protect Dominica’s Exclusive Economic Zone and its marine resources for the economic benefit of the people of Dominica .


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The UWP TEAM DOMINICA will re-ignite the development of our cultural industry to create more economic opportunities for musicians, writers, artists, Kalinago people and other craftsmen, dancers, and to enable them to take advantage of the export opportunities being offered under the European Partnership Agreement (EPA), ALBA, CARICOM and North America .

Goal

To create a vibrant cultural industry which would double earnings from performances and sales in local and overseas markets


• Ensure the protection of intellectual property rights through the strengthening of legislation consistent with the provisions of the UNESCO convention for safeguarding of the intangible cultural heritage

• To provide financial, technical, administrative, HR and infrastructural support to the private sector to ensure their competitiveness

• Position Dominica to become the cultural capital of the Francophone and OECS countries

Cultural Industry


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• Review, legislate and implement the National Cultural Policy

UWP TEAM DOMINICA approach:–

Strengthen the WCMF & Jazz Festival brands, improve and diversify products

Establish a Festival City to include a modern center for the performing arts and a state of the art recording studio

Form “The Dominica National Steel Band Orchestra” and “The Dominica National Jing Ping Orchestra”

Develop new marketing channels including a Dominican music channel geared to showcasing local dance, poetry, musical talents in the region and francophone countries

Ensure the preservation of our historical heritage in order to take advantage of film making and tourism opportunities

Expand the Film Commission Office into a fully staffed and equipped unit that turns Dominica into a major film destination and facilitate the development of the Writers Guild

Incorporate Creole Language and culture into the primary and secondary school curriculum

Develop a National Human Resource

Development(HRD) programme for culture to include training in sound engineering, videography and animation



Goal

To advance the economic and social well-being of our Kalinago people and preserve and build their cultural heritage .


Ensure that the rights and privilege of Kalinago people are protected and preserved

Take measures to ensure that Kalinago people are empowered to take advantage of jobs and business opportunities

To preserve and advance cultural heritage of our indigenous people


Review and make appropriate amendments to the Carib Act of 1978 in oder to make it relevant to modern day Dominica

Establish the Kalinago Development Corporation (KDC) to work in collab-oration with the chief and council to develop social and economic devel-opment programmes such as:

o A Five Star Eco-tourism Resort

o Official “Chief House”

o Cassava factory and process-ing facility

The Kalinago - Our Indigenous People


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o Sporting facilities and other projects that will create jobs and uplift the community

Establish the Kalinago Development Fund or Trust which would finance the development of the Kalinago people in the absence of the use of land as collateral

Encourage and facilitate cultural exchange programmes with other indigenous people, develop and trade mark the “Kalinago Brand” and establish sales outlets in strategic locations in Dominica and overseas market

Engage in a comprehensive Human Resource Development (HRD)

programme for the Kalinago Territory which will include scholarship, general management and special technical training to ensure that the business and job opportunities that will be created are embraced by the Kalinago people

Encourage use of development agreements to attract investment into the Kalinago Territory

Facilitate exploitation of renewable energy resources in the Territory for the benefit of residents

Increase investment in agricultural diversification



The global socio-economic advancement has shifted because of ICT . It has changed the pattern of production, the knowledge of employees and investors; while increas-ing yield and adding value . The UWP TEAM DOMINICA government will move ahead to facilitate increased utilization of the available fibre optic, voice and video capacity for an attractive mix of value added internationally competitive services .

Goal

To develop the ICT sector as a lead growth engine powering a range of high value jobs opportunities in the Dominican economy .


• Introduce new legislation to make Dominica an attractive domicile for ICT development

Information Communication Technology (ICT)


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• Provide specialized training, incentives and financial support to private sector for the establishment and development ICT related companies

• Embark on a Human Resources Development (HRD) plan to create a vibrant and well-trained workforce in ICT and promote local and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the sector


Proactively engage the private sector in the establishment of ICT firms

serving medical, online music store, accounting and financial services and other high end fields

Facilitate the establishment of an Application Service Center (Micro-soft, oracle, Dell etc) and attract more ICT outsourcing job opportunities

Strengthen existing CALL Centers and facilitate the establishment of at least three(3) more CALL Centers in the North, South and East of Dominica



5000 JOBS

www.uwpdominica.com

UNITED WORKERS PARTYTEAM

DOMINICA Pledge:

In the 1st Three Years

VOTE UWP

Hector JohnSalisbury

Alex BirminghamVieille Case

Urban BaronPetite Savanne

Joshua FrancisRoseau South

Claudius SanfordSalybia

Joseph IsaacRoseau Central

Lennox LintonMarigot

Higgs AdamsSoufriere

Ronald CharlesRoseau Valley

Ezekiel Bazil Wesley

Eunica Anthony-VictorPaix Bouche

James AlexanderGrand Bay


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5000 JOBS

www.uwpdominica.com

UNITED WORKERS PARTYTEAM

DOMINICA Pledge:

In the 1st Three Years

VOTE UWP

Daniel LugayRoseau North

Ronald GreenLaplaine

Stewart BurtonCottage

Monell WilliamsSt. Joseph

Isaac BaptisteCastle Bruce

Dr. Thomson FontaineMorne Jaune/Riviere Cyrique

Felix ThomasMahaut

Nicholas GeorgeColihaut

Jefferson JamesPortsmouth



The United Workers Party (UWP TEAM DOMINICA) administration recognizes that in order for any Island State to attract significant Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and significantly improve its stay over and cruise tourism economic situation, it must ensure that the infrastructure for facilitating market access and connectivity is in place .

Goal

To facilitate and /or provide the relevant infrastructure to stimulate Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and tourism arrivals to Dominica, thus having a major economic impact on Dominica


• Embark on the mobilization of resources for the establishment of an International Airport and introduction of a high speed vessel for bringing in people and facilitating exports in targeted regional markets

• To provide special incentives package to the private sector for improving Information Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure and development of Business Models that would enhance connectivity in and out of Dominica

Market Access and Connectivity


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• Embark on the establishment of an International Airport through accessing resources through bilateral relations, Development Banks, Economic Citizenship Programme and the Dominican Diaspora

• Introduce a high speed vessel for bringing people and facilitating exports in targeted regional markets through bilateral relations, Development Banks, Economic Citizenship programme and the Dominican Diaspora

• Provide direct financial and technical support to the private sector to provide world ICT connectivity in and out of Dominica



The UWP TEAM DOMINICA understands the pain and the struggles of the young people growing up in the state of our current society . A UWP TEAM DOMINICA administration will facilitate job creation and business opportunities, provide and improve sports and recreational facilities, assist in the development of youth creativity and talents, to ultimately improve the quality of life of our young people .

Goal


• Provide sustainable jobs for youth across all sectors

• Provide sports and academic Scholarships which involves transparent selection criteria based on merit and need

• Diversify subject areas in primary, secondary, and tertiary schools to include Technical Vocational Training

• Development of a comprehensive sports policy and action plan

• Provide exposure, business opportunities, technical and financial support for youth

• Further advancement of ITC integration in schools and workplace

Youth EmpowermentJobs • Education • Sports

– Love, Understanding, Support


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• Increased social safety netting for youth which would give young people facing social and academic challenges a second chance

• Provision of job and housing opportunities for youth in city, sub- urban and rural areas


Develop a transparent system for accessing sporting and academic scholarships based on merit

Prepare and implement sports facilities development plan and training program targeting youth across the nation

Establish a youth village which would provide specialized training, recreational facilities for specialized sports . A state of the art musical facility for recording and rehearsing studio will form part of this .

Review and enhance existing entrepreneurship programs and establish business incubators in Key Market locations for housing and technical advice for small business growth .

Initiate a comprehensive adoption of Internet Communication Technology

(ICT) at schools, government institutions, and workplaces to improve productivity and speed up services and empower youth

Support the National Youth Council

Facilitate participation of youth in local, regional, and international sporting tournaments and conferences

Work with educational institutions to include and expand on curricula to include entrepreneurship studies, as well as sports management, music, dance, culture, technical and vocational skills .

Greater emphasis placed on the acquisition of technical and vocational qualifications than currently exist.



In the leadership responsibility for a better Dominica, UWP TEAM Dominica values caring, honesty, integrity, accountability, the pursuit of excellence, continuous improvement and world class teamwork . These values will drive our commitment to manage the public servants and services of Dominica to the highest levels of professional success in the public interest .

As a first order of business, we will improve the quality of governance by eliminating waste and inefficiency in government spending and optimizing public sector investment resources . We will pay salary increases to public servants at the level of 1 .5 % for 2012/2013; 1 .5% for 2013/2014; and 3% for 2014/2015 .

These increases will be funded by savings derived from eliminating wasteful spending on an oversized Cabinet of ministers; an army of useless advisors and political appointees;

excessive travel; and unnecessarily high utility bills .

UWP Team Dominica will correct the injustice of the five percent removed from the salaries of public officers by the Dominica Labour Party in respect of which reimbursement for two years remains outstanding .

Cabinet will be downsized from 16 to 10 ministers and all politically created advisor positions will be eliminated . Otherwise, there will be no reduction in the current head count of the public service . With the reduction in ministries, staff will be retrained and redeployed as appropriate to important areas of government responsibility for greater public sector efficiency overall.

UWP Team Dominica will appoint a Parliamentary Commissioner (Ombudsman) pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution.

The Public Service


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Everyone has the Right to Education. “Education is a catalyst for development . It contributes to economic growth, reduces poverty, improves health, nutrition, income and livelihoods, and promotes good citizenship and democracy .” (Article 26, Universal Declaration of Human Rights).

Together we will educate our sons and daughters to become successful global citizens capable of competing and winning in the varied fields of human endeavour.

UWP to Create “A New Deal” for Teachers

Lifelong Education for Jobs

The UWP TEAM DOMINICA Philosophy of lifelong learning and outlook on economic performance and global competition will guide the development of the necessary principles of learning, policies and practices in the education system in Dominica . Most importantly, the UWP TEAM DOMINICA will reposition its education focus to be in sync with the needs of the Dominican economy

Education and Human Resource Development



and to take advantage of regional and global opportunities .

Goal

To develop a robust internationally competitive education system aligned to the economic, social, cultural and sporting needs of Dominica


• A New Deal for all teachers including Preschool Teachers and Government Assisted Schools .

• In consultation with the Dominica Teachers Association (DTA) and the Dominica Catholic Teachers Association, (DCTA) immediately commission a full review of salaries, benefits, working conditions, professional training opportunities and career development needs of all teachers, including those in Government Assisted Schools .

• Create more posts for graduate, and trained or qualified teachers at both primary and secondary school .

• Engage stakeholders in maximizing the benefits of the Education Act and in developing a comprehensive education policy framework to best serve the needs of the economy and

people of Dominica . This involves the reformation of Dominica’s early childhood, primary, secondary and tertiary education system in order to get the best mix of technical, academic and artistic curriculum at the different levels

• Re-engineer the Universal Secondary Education system to ensure that the intended objectives and benefits are optimally met

• Move towards more personalised learning to improve support for low-achieving pupils .

• Place greater emphasis on technical/vocational education training and strengthen the technical division

• Strengthen the regime of accreditation of the Dominica State College (DSC), expand bachelor’s degree programmes into selected field of study at DSC and develop the institution to conduct and publish research in selected fields

• Develop and establish a comprehensive after school Human Resource Development (HRD) programme targeting public and private sector personnel


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The Problem: In the area of Sports, the most serious problems facing the youth of Dominica are that the present Government does not see or treat sports as a high national priority . As such, the national resources allocated to Sports are woefully inadequate . Thus, there are insufficient trained sports teachers, coaches, doctors and managers . Inadequate time is allocated to sports in schools and college program . This is compounded by a lack of sporting facilities in the communities, at the schools and at the Dominica State College (DSC) .

Best Solution: The people must take the first step and UWP will take these 6-Steps to rebuild Youth Pride and Glory of Sports .

1. First Step: Change the Government.

After fifteen years, the sports policy of the present government is hampering rather than advancing sports . The people of Dominica must now put in office a government which is committed to make sports a national priority and rebuild the Youth pride and glory of sports .

Sports



2. Establish a Sports Academy at DSC

A solemn Mission of UWP Team Dominica is to establish a State of the Art Multi-discipline Sporting Academy at the Dominica State College well equipped, and fully staffed, with the necessary facilities to ensure that the State College becomes a major route to National, Regional and International fame in sports

3. Problem: Students at DSC show low interest in sports

Best Solution: Establish Associate Degrees in Sports at DSC.

(a) Immediately upon entering Government, Team Dominica will work with the State College and other stakeholders to establish an Associate Degree in Sports and PE, at the State College, to meet our needs for trained coaches, sports managers, administrators, therapists and PE teachers . In this way, together we will reduce the ratio of Sports and PE teachers from the present ineffective level of 1:2500 to an effective ratio closer to 1:500 .

4. Problem: Our rainy weather makes all year round sports a challenge

Best Solution: UWP Team Dominica will build a Gymnasium for indoor Sports and a Synthetic track for athletics, as were originally designed by the UWP for the Windsor Park Stadium as

well as a swimming facility.

5. Problem: Too many Youth in the Communities are either not involved or underperforming in sports.

Best Solution: UWP will upkeep, upgrade and transform Community Sporting Facilities and engage more trained sports development officers. In every community that UWP Team Dominica visited during its Historic Coast to Coast 21 in 25, Scots head to Capuchin and Bagatelle to Paix Bouche, it was the same depressing sight . All the community playing fields were in a state of abandonment by the DLP Government . The Roseau Community and Grammar School playing field located behind the Stadium, is a top priority .

6. Problem: The return on the investment in the Sports Stadium is too low .

Best Solution: Just as the UWP Government established in 1997 the Dominica Festivals Commission to develop The World Creole Music Festival, immediately upon resuming office, the New UWP Government will establish The Dominica Sports Development Corporation (DSDC) . The DSDC will be a Joint venture between the major Sports Associations, sports clubs, Dominica Lottery, Private Sector, Government, general public, &other stake holders . The Dominica Sports Development Corporation, will be mandated to manage the Windsor Park Stadium in


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a manner that ensures a proper balance between the development of our young athletes, and our hosting of international sporting and other events .

United Workers Party (UWP TEAM DOMINICA) recognizes the importance of sports in building youth character, the impact on health of our nation, the economic benefits, the national pride and publicity that can be derived from successful performances of a nation on the world stage . To this end, sports development will be at the center of our effort in youth development .

Through initiatives like the introduction of an annual World Kweyol Football Tournament or a World Kweyol Sports Festival, UWP Team Dominica will enable our youth to realize world excellence in sports . Together we will lift our youth to make the West Indies Cricket Team . Together we will lift our youth to become international stars in cricket, soccer and basketball . Together we will lift our youth to compete successfully in the Olympics, and together we will build a healthier, happier Nation .



UWP TEAM DOMINICA predicates its approach health on strengthening the vital links between food, nutrition, agriculture, public health and the environment .

This integrated approach to health places a high value on connecting traditional with new technologies such as telemedicine and new surgical and diagnostic techniques that reduce morbidity and lengths of stay in hospitals for residents while extending the stay of visitors seeking to make use of our wellness services .

Goal

To reduce the incidence of communicable and non-communicable diseases, improve the quality of health services and develop health related infrastructure


• Remove duties and VAT on equipment and goods which promote healthy lifestyle

• Develop a health policy HRD plan and introduce a medical services development act

• Develop a national health insurance scheme

• Design and implement a national health and nutrition programme for pre-primary, primary and secondary schools

• Provide incentives to existing medical schools, private hospitals and explore possibility of diversifying offshore

Health


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school programs to include nursing and dentistry .

• Upgrade and modernize existing hospitals and health care services in Portsmouth and Marigot; give the Kalinago territory its own hospital; and develop a new modern National hospital to provide world class tertiary medical care .

• Develop and implement a drug use prevention and mental health policy and implementation plan

• Develop a health, wellness, medi-tourism strategy


√ UWP Team Dominica’s No.1 priority will be to address the concerns and the needs of the nurses, in order to raise the low staff morale, rebuild the status of the nursing profession and make nursing in Dominica a happy profession again .

√ To develop a blue print for a “New and Better Deal” for nurses, UWP will, in consultation with the Dominica Nurses Association (DNA), immediately commission a full review of the report dealing with job reclassification, salaries, professional training opportunities and career

development needs of nurses . This includes transparency and fair treatment in promotions, Health Insurance, nurse-patient ratios and midwife-patient ratios, transportation for nurses to get home safely and timely after leaving work at 8pm . The review will deal with other workplace issues as, the issue of bullying of nurses, SOS – Speak out Safely Network; so that nurses can raise nurse/patient/healthcare concerns without being victimized and marginalized .

√ Build and operate a drug rehabilitation center

√ Implement health policy which includes incentives for health workers, free healthcare for elderly, physically challenged, students, and health service providers . Furthermore, specialized training for doctors and nurses and review of their remuneration

√ Upgrade buildings and equipment of all public healthcare facilities

√ Strengthen environmental health programs and primary and secondary healthcare system

√ Implement an indigenous dietary plan at all primary schools through school feeding programme



It is the responsibility of government of the people, by the people, for the people to pay attention to continuous improvement in the living conditions of all citizens especially our seniors . In this regard, we will protect the spending

money of our retired citizens by significantly reducing the VAT on food and utilities . Additionally, incomes will be reviewed regularly to ensure that they are able to cope with

cost of living increases .

UWP TEAM Dominica will establish six Senior Care Centers, each with

the capacity to accommodate up to 100 residents, in strategic locations around the

country . The Senior Care Centers will provide food, clothing, shelter, medical attention, nursing

care, companionship and social interaction for our senior citizens ordinarily condemned by circumstances beyond their control to lives of isolation and aloneness .

In partnership with Non-Governmental Organizations and charitable institutions dedicated to 1st class care for elderly citizens, a UWP Team Dominica government will utilize emerging best practices at home and abroad to develop standardized facilities that meet and exceed

Elderly CareFor wellness, preservation of dignity and the continuing

pursuit of happiness


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the requirements of our seniors in safe, clean, properly maintained and efficiently managed care centers . Each Center will have an outreach program comprising specially trained elderly care professionals dedicated to providing care as needed (especially at night and on weekends) for seniors living alone or living with family members, relatives or friends .

Residence in the Senior Care Centers and service from the outreach facility will be based solely on merit with priority going to those most in need based on assessments by the welfare professionals of the state .

This elderly care model will allow for easier ownership, sponsorship and participation

by civil society . It will also give youth and children, through visits with our seniors as part of their family life curriculum, the opportunity to learn valuable history and cultural lessons that drive successful living . The self esteem the elderly will derive from sharing their experience, knowledge and wisdom will help preserve their dignity and add value to their continuing pursuit of happiness .

Team Dominica congratulates and thanks The Council on Aging, DORCAS, the Dominica Infirmary, The Mahaut Home for the Elderly, the Grange Home for the Elderly, and all other persons and institutions for the assistance they give to the elderly .



The UWP TEAM DOMINICA government will create a ‘Dominica First’ environment of caring, mutual respect, trust and commitment in which nationals at home and abroad, can participate fully with their unique talents and backgrounds in achieving and sharing the fruits of our success .

The Diaspora policy developed by Dominican patriots and presented to the DLP government many years ago will be reviewed and implemented to ensure that the diaspora is engaged in national development in a meaningful manner . There are a number of Dominicans in the diaspora who are well positioned to assist with the growth of our productive sector through strategic planning and execution for global business development; investments; construction of homes; and operating their own businesses .

Goal

To pro-actively engage our citizens in the diaspora to become a major component of Dominica’s socio economic development


• Streamline legal and administrative procedure in order to facilitate resettlement, small business development and investment from our citizens living abroad

• Develop a strategy for engaging the diaspora in major infrastructural and business development projects such as airport, marina, high-speed ferry and other national development projects

UWP TEAM DOMINICA approach -

Establish the Dominica Diaspora Development Fund for capital mobilization by “Dominicans building Dominica $100 at a time”

Establish consular officers in countries with high concentration of Dominicans to facilitate trade and engage Dominicans in the overall development thrust

Ensure that all diplomatic positions are held by Dominicans

The Diaspora


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The Foreign Affairs policy of UWP TEAM DOMINICA will be guided by; the highest moral principles and not solely by short term economic considerations .

This policy of enlightened, responsible global citizenship will move away from a 15 year obsession with aid to a tight focus on trade that will build our productive capacity and world market competitiveness . Our sincerity of purpose and responsible world view will consolidate our relationships with traditional partners in development, win new friends and influence new support for our commitment to be the best .

Goal

To establish and strengthen diplomatic relations with friendly nations based on mutual respect, national interest and values


• Review, strengthen and revitalize relationships with our traditional allies

• Identify countries with whom we share similar values and principles and establish diplomatic relations on the basis of our commitment to develop globally competitive human resources and build capacity for international trade

Foreign Affairs




Align our foreign policy with national development strategy for continuous improvement in human resource development, cultural exchanges, sharing of information, research and development, technology transfer, trade, infrastructure and business development .

Ensure that when funding for development projects is negotiated through bilateral agreements, at

least 50% of the jobs on grant funded projects and 75% of the jobs on loan funded projects will be done by Dominican nationals . In addition, we will ensure that there is knowledge transfer through counter-parting and sub-contracting .

Ensure that the conduct of our foreign affairs effectively drives increased foreign direct investment, foreign trade and foreign exchange earnings .


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With a firm sense of purpose a United Workers Party (UWP TEAM DOMINICA) administration will restore the Financial Services Sector to its position of unparalleled economic opportunity through legislative reform and the active recruitment of reputable financial services companies to our shores

Goal

To develop a vibrant financial services sector driven by renewed approaches to the Economic Citizenship Program, offshore banking and Intellectual Property (IP) Management, resulting in the creation of high-end job opportunities


• Embark on a comprehensive legislative reform program of the financial services sector

• Examine and re-structure the criteria, process and implementation of the Economic Citizenship Program

• Integrate Intellectual Property (IP) matters as a major component of the development of Dominica’s Foreign Direct Investment(FDI) Strategy

Financial Services

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), Offshore Banking, Economic Citizenship and

Intellectual Property (IP) Management




Problem: Low Foreign Direct Investment (FDI):

(a) Corruption in Government’s administration of the Economic Citizenship Programme which has negatively affected the image of Dominica as a worthwhile location for the international business operations of serious investors operating with honesty and integrity in world markets

(b) Corrupt practices by government officials and their agents, and a lack of transparency and accountability in awarding of government supply contracts and fiscal incentives, are the most serious problems leading to low returns on FDI .

Solution:

(a) UWP Team Dominica will stamp out corruption in government by setting the example of leadership and management with honesty, integrity and zero tolerance for corruption in public life .

(b) Revise the Economic Citizenship Programme to purge it of loop holes for corrupt activities and bring it in line with the best practices of the most successful and reputable programmes around the world . This

revision will entail the development of a comprehensive policy and reform document clearly outlining the type of investors, priority investment initiatives for financing under the programme and a breakdown on the proposed use of funds received . Additionally, the process will ensure that all proceeds go directly to the Dominica Treasury in a development fund from which agents and legal practitioners will be paid .

(c) Ensure full transparency and accountability in government procurement .

(d) Review and enact legislation that is in harmony with international practice and requirements that would ensure the sustainable development of offshore financial and banking sub-sector

(e) Develop and implement a strategy for the enhancement of the registry for

o Offshore and onshore companies

o International Ship carriers

o Intellectual Property matters (copyright, trademarks, patents, industrial design and Geographic Indicators)


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A United Workers Party TEAM DOMINICA government will take the necessary actions to improve the quality of governance and to bring the conduct of our affairs in line with the requirements of the constitutional rule of law . In this regard, we will strengthen democracy in government institutions and civil society organizations while purposefully reducing the size and cost of government .

OUR COMMITMENT

United Workers Party Team Dominica, is committed to guarantee every citizen, the protection of their full rights as enshrined in the Constitution of Dominica and the United Nations Charter on Human Rights .

Goal

To embark on the implementation of good governance best practices, the modernization of the legal system and process and to ensure that the rights of all citizens are respected


• Engage parliament in making legislative changes to secure term limits for holders of the office of Prime Minister; a fixed date for elections every five years; the strengthening of Integrity legislation and procurement legislation in order to eliminate corrupt practices within the government

Governance, Law, Justice and Human Rights



• To pursue and implement legislative and administrative reform to ensure that law and order become a critical component to making Dominica the best place to live and do business

• To improve governance efficiency by optimally aligning ministries and reducing the number of ministries to a maximum of 10 (ten) ministries

• Enact into law the Legal Professional Bill .


Secure appropriate constitutional amendment and enact legislation for a maximum of two(2) consecutive terms for anyone serving in the office of Prime Minister

Secure appropriate constitutional amendment and enact legislation for a fixed date for general elections every five years

Enact Freedom of Information and Whistle Blower Protection legislation within the first year.

Review, strengthen and implement integrity, procurement, Intellectual Property (IP) and business legislation and regulations to significantly improve Dominica’s legislative system

Make all necessary legislative, administrative and infrastructural arrangements to ensure that the youth rights and challenges are dealt with as a priority . This involves the building of a modern drug rehabilitation center .

Construction of a hall of justice to house two high courts, one masters court and four magistrates courts

Recruit magistrates and judges from within Dominica, the region and internationally to ensure that justice is not delayed and the backlog cases are dealt with immediately

Ensure the effective functioning of an independent Legal Aid Clinic to alleviate the plight of the less privileged when faced with legal challenges


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UWP TEAM DOMINICA recognizes that living in a safe environment is a prequisite to attracting and retaining investment in a country . In order for Dominica to be the best place to live we must ensure that we minimize the impact of crimes and natural disasters on our people and infrastructure through proactively planning and implementing systems and processes that would ensure that we meet set goals .

The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force is the country’s primary Law Enforcement Institution . In today’s situation in addition to the usual petty and violent crimes, the police find themselves having to deal with such crimes as, Territorial Aggression, Terrorism,

Illegal drug Trafficking, Human Trafficking/Smuggling, Illegal firearms and ammunition, importation/ exportation and possession, Money Laundering, as well as Cyber Crimes .

Similarly, we the citizens of Dominica rely on the Fire and Ambulance Services for assistance in traffic and other accidents, fire and natural disaster situations, and the prison officers to keep dangerous prisoners from roaming about .

UWP Team Dominica believes that these officers ought to be remunerated, and outfitted in such a manner that they are able to discharge their duties in a fully professional manner, at all times .

National Security and Disaster Management

New Deal for Policemen, Firemen and Prison Officers



Towards Developing the blue print for a New Deal for Police and Fire Service and Prison Officers:

√ UWP Team Dominica will, in consultation with, the Police Welfare Association and leaders in the Services, set up a Commission to inquire into matters affecting the Police, Fire and Prison services, including such matters as:

o Adequacy of fighting equipment

o Training requirements of officers

o Improvement of conditions of service, such as low salaries and unhealthy working environments, living quarters

o Modern telecommunication network

o Fully functional Intranet

o Advanced Fingerprint System

o Properly equipped Police vehicles

o Impartial promotion considerations

Goal – A Safe Society with Equal Rights and Justice for all

To maintain public confidence in the justice and legal system, reduce crimes significantly and ensure that the impact of natural disasters on people, property and public infrastructure is minimized .


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Partnerships for Growth - Non Profit Sector (NGOs)

Dominica needs a vibrant non profit sector, more than ever before. The non profit sector in Dominica experienced rapid expansion, both in numbers and in areas of activity, from the 1950s up to independence in 1978 . As a result of the change in government policy towards the non profit sector, from one of encouraging and facilitating, to one of politicizing and marginalization there has been a rapid decline in the non profit sector activity in Dominica . To reverse this untenable situation, the poor must be organized and mobilized to create sustainable solutions to more of their socio-economic problems .

The Most Serious Problem: Eligibility for non-profit status. With the passing of the Company’s Act, 1994, Laws of Dominica, a non profit company must have the prior approval of the Minister of Legal Affairs before articles of incorporation can be accepted for filing by the Registrar . The retention by government of the subjective prerogative for the minister to determine whether an organization should be granted non profit status or not ,

and whether contributions to it should be tax deductible, serve as a deterrent to the development of nonprofits which seek to hold the government accountable, or which are being proposed by persons politically opposed to the government .

BEST Solution:

(a) UWP Govt will amend the laws to provide for clear criteria in law to determine non profit status of organizations, and clarifying what contributions are tax deductible

(b) UWP Team Dominica will build genuine Partnership For Growth with the Non State Actors to include: the private sector, community based organizations, women’s groups, human rights associations, non government organizations (NGOs), religious organizations, farmer’s cooperatives, trade unions, universities and research institutes, the media, informal groups such as grass roots organizations and informal private sector associations .



UWP Team Dominica hears the cry of the Dominica Association of Persons with Disabilities (DAPD) on behalf of its members for permanent services like more jobs for persons with challenges and disabilities, legislation demanding rights for persons with challenges and disabilities in the workplace, banks, utility companies, and facilities like ramps, wheelchair accessible toilets in public places, sidewalks, schools and churches . UWP Team Dominica guarantees these basic human rights to all persons with disabilities . UWP Team Dominica reaffirms its commitment and readiness to work in consultation and partnership with DAPD in effective implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons Living with Disabilities.

Living in dignity with

disability – DAPD


Vote UWPChange is a

We will strengthen partnership between the Legal Aid Clinic and Women’s Bureau to deal with child maintenance issues . Adequate finance and human resource will be placed in these departments to ensure that the needs of vulnerable women are well catered to .

We will also strengthen the partnership between Women Bureau and National Development Foundation of Dominica (NDFD) . A special facility for single women to access small business loans at very low interest rate will be created and administered by the NDFD after assessment for qualification by the NDFD and Women’s Bureau .

We will create a partnership between the Welfare Division and the Women’s Bureau which will empower the Welfare Division to make decisions concerning the most vulnerable women, give them the autonomy to employ the most competent staff and provide staff with better remuneration . It is inexcusable when Welfare Officers’ field visits are curtailed because they have reached their travel allowance threshold . A new policy will be introduced that will allow a welfare officer to travel anytime a report is made . We have to take care of our families .

Abuse of women can be physical and emotional and it affects the entire family circle . We will provide a special clinic for

Gender AffairsUWP Team Dominica Brings Prosperity, Dignity &

Respect to our Women



rehabilitation and support for battered women and battered men . No longer will a battered individual be left on their own without support forcing them to go back into an abused relationship . We will also train more police officers in dealing with report of domestic violence and sensitize them towards the needs of such vulnerable persons . Selected officers will work with the womens bureau, legal aid Clinic and Welfare Division to combat domestic violence . Your Team is dedicated to advancing Gender affairs, and there will be no excuse for domestic violence . Rehabilitation facilities will also be provided for the aggressors as well . Our aim is to address the problem by dealing with the root of the matter .

We shall review Maintenance Act and remove the cap at which magistrates may sanction a father or mother to pay maintenance .

We will provide for a better system at magistrate court to collect maintenance payment and modernize the system so that the magistrate may also provide for compulsory salary deduction .

We will also work with the fathers as well because we recognize that this is not our traditional method of caring for children and as a result we encourage fathers to care for their children because no amount of court payments and money can take the place of the bonds between a father and a child .

We will review legislation such as the intestate Estate Act and review the status of women in common-law relationship . It is not right for society to allow a mother to walk away empty handed where she has been a partner for several years and she has assisted in building a home for her family .

We will review the laws of Maternity Leave and we are proposing at least 1 month (paternity leave) because we recognize the family includes both parents and needs the support of the father .


Vote UWPChange is a

Children will hold pride of place in the best place to live, the best place to work and the best place to enjoy life . UWP Team Dominica wholeheartedly embraces its responsibility to ensure the rights of our children are respected, protected and fulfilled. We agree to comprehensive reviews of the laws relating to the well-being, happiness and development of children . We are fully committed to providing the social services, legal, health and educational systems, and the financing required for these services.

In order to provide a more equitable legal framework in the interest of our children, we will enact legislation for juvenile law reform, child maintenance and other family matters impacting on the rights of the child . Side by side with that, we will establish special training centers to facilitate the rehabilitation of young offenders . A top priority on our agenda to revise existing laws will be the Sexual Offenses act. Specifically, we are committed to ensure that parents, guardians

or caretakers will no longer be allowed to use “hush money” to obstruct justice for our children .

Whether it requires changing existing laws, creating new ones or establishing appropriate systems and facilities, UWP Team Dominica is fully committed to help families protect children’s rights and create an environment where they can grow into the realization of their full creative potential .

UWP Team Dominica fully and without reservation, respect the rights and responsibilities of families to direct and guide their children so that, as they grow, they learn to use their rights properly . We encourage parents to deal with rights issues “in a manner consistent with the evolving capacities of their children” . And we pledge to effectively discharge the responsibility to protect and assist families in fulfilling their essential role as nurturers of strong, healthy, intelligent children .

Our Children, Our Future



UWP Team Dominica recognizes the importance of the Vendors, the Hucksters and the Small Business Sector, in moving our Economy from the present low level of less than 1% growth, to the UWP Team Dominica target of 5-7% . It has been the business method employed by many people, especially single women, to successfully support their households . To this end UWP Team Dominica will work with these sectors to modernize, build and strengthen their businesses .

It is now 10 years since the DLP claimed it has the money, yet the open area at the Roseau Market remains uncovered, leaving the vendors to operate in the rain and in the sun .

We will cover the open area in the (Roseau) Market, establish a world class creole restaurant, and upgrade the market to become an agro-tourism market for both agricultural products and souvenir .

We will also develop additional vendor facilities at the Bay Front and the Old Market .

Partnerships for Growth


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With a well structured plan developed by the entire Team in consultation with a cross section of Dominicans from the Public Sector, Private Sector and the NGO sector, at home and abroad, UWP Team Dominica is ready to rebuild Dominica’s economy, create 5000 jobs in the first three years and rebuild the social and moral fabric of our Society .

In accepting this leadership and management responsibility to ensure a better Dominica for all, we embrace the talents, skills, competencies and resourcefulness of our brothers and sisters committed to the progressive change we so richly deserve .

We are fully committed to working harmoniously and effectively with leaders of industry, com-merce, services and their organizations in the private sector along with all other civil society organizations to improve the socio-economic performance of Dominica .

We welcome the challenge as much as you will welcome the results our of work together for God and country. Accordingly, we ask for your vote to become the next government of the Commonwealth of Dominica.

UWP ready to make Dominica the best



• 5000 jobs in three years

• The return of income from banana and non-banana agriculture

• Reduced VAT on hotel operations and 100% increase in destination marketing budget

• International Airport

• High Speed Ferry Service

• State of the Art Yacht Marina in Portsmouth

• Islandwide town and village enhancements

• High End Eco Resort In the Kalinago Territory

• Removal of VAT on essential foods to reduce the cost of living

• Removal of VAT on raw and packaging materials to boost manufacturing output

• Removal of taxes on construction materials to stimulate the housing sector

• 500 low cost houses in 1500 days

• New State of the art National Hospital

• Upgraded and modernized hospitals for Portsmouth and Marigot

• Salary increases for public servants

• Reimbursement of the 5% taken from the salaries of public officers during the DLP days of austerity

• World class Senior care centers at strategic locations around the country

• Reduction of Cabinet from 16 to 10 ministers

• A fixed election date every five years

• A limit of 2 consecutive terms for anyone serving in the office of Prime Minister

Better Days Are Coming


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√ Tourism offices established in New York, London and Paris.

√ Established Diplomatic Ties with Cuba

√ UWP hosted International Tourism Conferences such as The Caribbean Eco-Tourism Conference in 1997. The Caribbean Agenda 21 Conference in 1998 and The Conference on World Heritage Sites, 1998.

√ Morne Trois Piton National Park enlisted as a World Heritage Site- A first in the Caribbean.

√ Tourist facilities at: Trafalgar, Emerald Pool & Cabrits.

√ Built Tourist Reception Center at Indian River

√ Organized World Creole Music Festival

√ Upgrading Soil Laboratory

√ More than $50 Million was made available to the Banana Industry by way of direct cash to farmers, input to farmers and support to the DBMC.

√ Markets for non-banana crops were expanded, export figures moved from $12 Million to $27 Million and expanded markets.

√ Successful lobbying missions to Europe, the United States, and in the region to save the Banana Industry.

√ The purchase of Geest Banana business.

√ The involvement of Dominica and the Windwards in the shipping and marketing of Bananas.

√ Returns on investments in Geest Bananas.

√ Sustained and reasonable prices for bananas.

√ Agriculture modernized through the expansion of irrigation systems and greenhouses

√ Livestock Breeding Operation at Savanne Yorke, Salisbury

√ Groundwork for abattoir to boost livestock sector has been laid down

√ Animal feed Processing and mixing plant, Jimmit

√ Coral producing Facility at Longhouse

√ Marine Hatchery at Donkey Beach, Canefield

√ New Mahaut market

√ New Belfast Bridge

√ Mahaut Fisheries Jetty

√ Microtrim Slice control and Titou Gorge

√ Penville/Blenheim Road Rehabilitation

√ Layou River control works

√ Pte Michel Sea defense wall and Road Expansion

√ Trafalgar- Wotten Waven link road

√ Campbell to Despor road

√ Delices to Petit Savanne Road

√ Jimmit to Warner road

√ Construction of Fab Road (Petite Savanne)

√ New Caliste Bridge.

√ White River Bridge.

√ New Bath Estate Bridge.

√ New Bridge joining Watty’s Lane and Leblanc Lane (Goodwill)

√ Michael Douglas Boulevard

√ Thibaud retaining wall

√ 84 acres of land for the expansion of Thibaud

√ West coast road retaining wall. (Coulibistrie, Mero, Massacre)

√ Water supply for: Carib Territory, Galion, Glasgow, Petite Soufriere, Good Hope, San Sauveur.

√ Layou Housing Project

√ Bath Estate Housing Project

√ New Health Centres in: Warner, San Sauveur, Morne Prosper and Woodford Hill.

√ New Public Conveniences

√ New Cricket Pavilions: Dublanc, Castle Bruce and Grand Bay playing fields

√ Mahaut, Sineku and Wotten Waven schools extension.

√ School Feeding Program.

√ Basic Education Reform Project.

√ Provision for free Text Books.

√ Increased access to Secondary School education

√ New wing for Clifton Dupigny Technical College (now DSC)

√ Extension of Weirs Marigot School.

√ Construction of Castle Bruce Secondary School.

√ Construction of Grand Bay Secondary School.

√ Construction of new wing of the Portsmouth Secondary School.

√ Construction of Public Library in Portsmouth.

√ Construction of Food Pavilion at Ross University

√ Increased Scholarships for tertiary education- Cuba

Island Scholarship increased from 1 to 4 and included one for technical studies.

√ Budget allocation of financial support for scholarships etc. moved from $300,000 to more than $3 Million.

√ Developed Dominica Unity Trust Corporation (DUTC)

√ Reintroduced Live Broadcast of Parliamentary proceedings

√ Liberalized the regional Telecoms Market

√ Revitalization of the National Youth Council

UWP IN GOVERNMENT - Jun 1995 to Jan 2000

A 4 1/2 year record of getting the job done

TEAM

DOMINICAVOTE UWPVOTE UWP

www.uwpdominica.com

Rising for BESTCHANGE

rising for change

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