​Former Dominica Ambassador to the United Nations, Crispin Gregoire has expressed deep concern over the current direction of Dominica, stating that the nation has reached a critical turning point resembling a well-known local crossroads.
 
He noted that he has been vocal about the potential dangers of the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program for at least fifteen years, even being cited by international media over a decade ago for his skepticism.
 
Gregoire remains convinced that the program is not a sustainable path for the country's future, pointing to long-standing issues that he believes are now reaching a crisis point.
 
The former diplomat highlighted a specific and pressing risk: the possibility that the number of individuals acquiring citizenship through economic means could soon surpass the natural-born population.
 
He suggested that this demographic imbalance poses a significant threat to the nation's identity and long-term stability. By emphasizing these concerns, Gregoire continues to advocate for a re-evaluation of the nation's reliance on passport sales as its primary economic driver.

​Crispin Gregoire, former Dominica Ambassador to the United Nations.

​A 61-year-old Dominican national living in Antigua and Barbuda for more than two decades is appealing for assistance as he faces urgent medical challenges linked to prostate cancer. Zophar “Tupac” Andrew, who migrated from Dominica in search of better opportunities, was diagnosed with the illness approximately 12 years ago and is now in critical need of surgery estimated at EC$6,000, a cost he cannot afford.
 
His health has reportedly deteriorated significantly, limiting his ability to work and support himself, while the absence of legal identification and medical coverage in Antigua has further complicated access to formal assistance.
 
Andrew has reportedly sought help from several avenues, including churches and community groups, but has so far been unable to secure the financial support required for surgery. With no family in Antigua and relatives in Dominica unable to assist, he currently lives in a small wooden structure on a farm in Jennings, surviving mainly from crops he is still able to cultivate.
 
Although he has received some help with food and basic necessities, his condition continues to worsen, prompting renewed calls for community support as he seeks financial assistance to undergo the life-saving procedure.

​The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (CDPF) is issuing a final warning to the public regarding the use of illegal fireworks and explosives during tonight's New Year’s celebrations. Authorities have stated that officers will strictly enforce the law to ensure public safety and prevent injuries or fires. Law enforcement officials are urging citizens to comply with safety regulations to avoid arrests or heavy fines as the new year begins. The police will maintain a high-profile presence across the island to monitor for unauthorized pyrotechnic displays. 

​Outgoing National Youth Council (NYC) President Phael Lander confirmed elections for a new executive will take place during the first quarter of 2026. This announcement follows the official expiration of the current executive's term, which concluded in May 2025. 
 
The upcoming election cycle aims to refresh the council's leadership as it continues its mission to represent the nation's youth on key social and economic issues. Lander, who led the 2023–2025 executive under the theme "Our Youth, Our Council, Our Future," emphasized the importance of maintaining an active & representative voice for youth.

​National Youth Council President, Phael Lander.

​Incoming Chair of CARICOM, Dr. Terrance Drew, has expressed optimism and a strong dedication to the principles of regional integration as he assumes the role of Chairman of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
 
In his New Year message, Dr. Drew emphasized that his tenure comes at a time requiring reflection, calm leadership, and a renewed commitment to the Caribbean ideal. Dr. Drew’s message underscores his commitment to guiding CARICOM with vision and unity in the year to come.

​Dr. Drew said that through regional trade and economic collaboration, the Caribbean has broadened markets, bolstered local businesses, and strengthened resilience.

Incoming Chair of CARICOM, Dr. Terrance Drew.

​Senator Lorraine Henderson-Reid has appealed for an end to the recent surge in gun-related violence on the island, adding her voice to the growing national call for peace.
 
The senator aligned herself with the social call for peace campaign, stressing that the increase in violent incidents is a serious concern that requires collective action from all sectors of society.
 
She placed particular emphasis on the role of young men, urging them to reject violence and choose positive paths.
 
Henderson-Reid underscored that real strength is demonstrated not through causing harm, but through protecting others and contributing to the upliftment of communities.

​Senator Lorraine Henderson-Reid.

​Justice Dr. Irving Andre shared a message of gratitude and critical reflection, urging citizens to appreciate the basic human capacities of thought, speech, and physical movement that are frequently taken for granted.
 
He remarked that while the holiday season is historically a time for celebrating peace among all people of goodwill, it is also an appropriate moment to examine the essential issues currently affecting the Dominican body politic.
 
By encouraging this dual approach of appreciation and analysis, he highlighted the need for a deeper connection to the nation's shared values.
 
Dr. Andre further clarified that the peace he envisions is not a cynical or superficial gesture performed merely for convenience. Instead, he called for a genuine and heartfelt peace that extends to every individual, regardless of their race or political affiliations.
 
He emphasized that true harmony can only be achieved when it is sincere and inclusive, urging all members of society to move beyond partisan and social divisions to embrace a collective spirit of goodwill.

​Justice Dr. Irving Andre.

​Dominica Association of Teachers (DAT) President Mervin Alexander labels 2025 a landmark success for the nation's educators. He points to the permanent appointment of numerous teachers and the completion of favorable salary negotiations as major milestones. Alexander declared that these achievements have significantly boosted morale within the profession.

The union is now shifting its focus to 2026, where the primary goal is securing better pay for early childhood educators. Alexander insists that preschool teacher salaries must be adjusted immediately to meet the country's new minimum wage standards.

​Dominica Associations of Teachers President, Mervin Alexander.

​Dominica Public Service Union (DPSU) General Secretary Thomas Letang is hailing 2025 as a transformative year for government workers following a major breakthrough in status reclassification. A significant number of non-established employees have officially transitioned to established status, providing them with long-awaited job security and access to full retirement benefits. 
 
The new agreement also introduces substantial improvements to social protections, including the implementation of "bridge pensions" to support retirees before they qualify for social security. Additionally, paternity leave has been more than doubled to allow fathers more time with their newborns.

​Public Service Union General Secretary, Thomas Letang.

​The Caribbean Development Bank, through its Cultural and Creative Industries Innovation Fund, has launched a grant opportunity totaling US$190,000 to support regional events and conferences aimed at strengthening the growth and competitiveness of the Caribbean’s cultural and creative industries.
 
The bank said applications close on January 31, 2026, and the funding targets activities scheduled between March 1, 2026, and February 28, 2027, that focus on policy dialogue, capacity-building for micro, small and medium enterprises, data and market intelligence, trade promotion, and cultural heritage preservation.
 
Fund Coordinator Malene Joseph indicated that the initiative is intended to support home-grown activities that empower Caribbean creative talent and businesses, while also improving the enabling environment and data-driven decision-making within the sector.
 
Six grants will be awarded across three funding streams, with support allocated for policy-focused initiatives, data intelligence activities, and MSME market access and preparation.
 
Eligible applicants include registered organizations such as NGOs, universities, business support and community-based organizations, and government agencies with at least three years’ experience hosting industry events, along with a minimum 10 percent co-financing requirement.