Dominica’s Prime Minister, Hon.Roosevelt Skerrit addressed the nation on the 42nd year of Independence. In his address the Prime Minister mentioned all that the Government has done to keep the people of Dominica safe from the dreaded Coronavirus pandemic presently affecting the world.
He said that the Government has an eight pronged approach to handling the virus and it’s likely effects. They are (1) keep COVID-19 from entering our borders and spreading throughout Dominica; (2) ensure that our health care
system is well equipped for testing, aggressive contact tracing and support for those who get infected; (3) stimulate economic activity through domestic spending led by Government projects to create decent work to boost employment and help the youth and families maintain themselves; (4) support and stimulate various sectors of
the economy; (5) protect public officers especially our frontline workers; (6) provide and maintain a social safety net for the most vulnerable and those who need it (7) prepare our economy and society to bounce back quickly after COVID-19 eases and travel resumes and, (8) continue our quest to build resilience.
The Prime Minister said that Dominica has been praised for its handling of the pandemic which included establishing public health and safety protocols, appropriate quarantine and treatment facilities and sourcing necessary supplies and equipment despite the high cost involved.
According to him, over 12.7 million dollars has been spent in providing direct support to Dominicans most affected by COVID-19. Further, all Government employees as well as NEP workers have been continuously employed.
“Our social welfare programmes, which create an important safety net for our most vulnerable, have also been maintained.
Your Government has mobilized resources, and with the help of our partners we have been able to offer income support to those who lost their jobs in the private sector. We have also provided loans and grants, tax rebates, a tax amnesty and duty-free concessions to assist the private sector. We have ensured that our health system continues to be adequately staffed, well stocked with essential medical drugs and supplies and is fully functional and
capable of managing the pandemic.
“He continued, “Your Government is actively seeking innovative ways to keep the wheels of the economy turning, and to ensure that Dominicans are gainfully employed. One such measure is to stimulate domestic activity and spending, through an aggressive construction programme”.
The Prime Minister urged Dominicans not to let their guard down in the fight against this virus, especially in light of the recent surge in cases.
