By Konnect Media News Desk
News Without Borders. Stories Without Limits.
ROSEAU, DOMINICA — Dominica Labour Party Leader and Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit delivered a spirited defence of his administration’s social intervention programmes and broader development agenda on Saturday, August 29, as he addressed supporters at an executive meeting of the Dominica Labour Party.
The meeting was held at the auditorium of the Goodwill Primary School in the Roseau North Constituency, where Skerrit repeatedly urged Labour Party supporters to defend what he described as the achievements and social programmes of his government.
During his address, the Prime Minister took particular issue with what he described as a double standard in the way government assistance is portrayed by some of its critics.
According to Skerrit, there are individuals and interests who benefit from government incentives while characterising assistance provided to ordinary citizens as “handouts.”
“There are some in this country, when they get, it is called incentives. When you get, it is called handouts,” Skerrit told supporters.
Defence of Social Intervention Programmes
Skerrit pointed to several government initiatives which he said have been designed to improve the lives of ordinary Dominicans, including housing assistance and financial support for senior citizens.
He argued that criticism of such programmes often fails to recognise the impact they have on vulnerable individuals and families.
The Labour Party leader referenced assistance provided to help citizens repair their homes and improve their living conditions, as well as the allowance available to persons aged 65 and over.
At the same time, he questioned whether some critics who oppose these programmes raise similar concerns about incentives and other financial benefits enjoyed by larger businesses and individuals.
Skerrit called on Labour Party supporters to remain vocal in defending the government’s programmes and policies.
“Come and Run Against Me”
The Prime Minister also responded directly to those whom he believes have sought to personally criticise or “talk down” to him.
In one of the more animated moments of his presentation, Skerrit challenged his political opponents to contest him directly at the polls.
“If all you want to take me up, come and run against me,” he declared, stressing that becoming Prime Minister ultimately requires being elected by the people.
The remarks drew attention to the increasingly charged political environment as Dominica moves closer to future electoral contests.
Government Spending and Public Support
Throughout the address, Skerrit maintained that social programmes require significant government investment but argued that protecting and supporting citizens must remain a central responsibility of government.
He referred to housing construction, transportation support for schoolchildren, healthcare initiatives, tertiary education assistance and grants to small businesses as examples of programmes his administration has supported.
Skerrit said the government had provided significant assistance to business owners through its Small Business Unit and continued to invest in education and other social services.
He argued that the overall philosophy of his administration is centred on protecting those who are unable to fully protect or provide for themselves.
“My view on the governance of this country is that we must always protect those who cannot protect themselves,” Skerrit said.
Development Agenda Also Highlighted
Beyond social intervention programmes, the Prime Minister also used the occasion to defend major development initiatives, including the construction of an international airport, hotel development, the proposed marina and other tourism-related infrastructure.
Skerrit argued that these investments are intended to generate greater economic activity and create opportunities for workers, businesses, farmers and other sectors.
He said increased visitor arrivals and investment could create a wider economic ecosystem in which more money circulates throughout the Dominican economy.
A Call to Labour Supporters
The address was also a clear mobilisation call to Labour Party supporters, with Skerrit urging them to remain organised and prepared to defend both the party and the government’s record.
He described the current political environment as one in which citizens must carefully consider the implications of any change in government, particularly for existing social programmes and development projects.
While his address contained sharp criticism of political opponents, the central message of the Labour leader’s presentation was the defence of a government model that he says prioritises social assistance, public investment and economic development.
As Dominica’s political conversation continues to intensify, Skerrit’s remarks are likely to further fuel debate surrounding government assistance, economic incentives and the role of the state in supporting citizens.
KONNECT MEDIA NEWS DESK
News Without Borders. Stories Without Limits.
