I rise at probably the most challenging hour this evening, Mr. speaker right after dinner when the natural biological functions would be digestion and it might be difficult to gain your attention but I will do my best Mr. Speaker [laughter] but Mr. Speaker, it's with a deep sense, profound sense of conviction that I rise in absolute support for this budget. I extend greetings to you, to the honorable prime minister, to all my colleagues in this distinguished chamber, um, everyone invited, those listening, those abroad, and most importantly, Mr. speaker, the wonderful people of the great Mao constituency that I have the honor and privilege to represent. Indeed, Mr. Speaker, every generation is tested in one way or another. Some generations have been tested by war, some by economic collapse, some by diseases, storms. For us, it somewhat seems like we've been tested by all. These are uncertain times indeed, Mr. Speaker. Perhaps the most persistent test is that true uncertainty that we all face. I speak of the price of food, the cost of fuel, Mr. speaker. Uh whether it's a small business trying to survive, whether it be a single mother trying to meet the cost of goods and hoping that the salary that she gets can take her throughout the entire month. Mr. Speaker, these are the challenges. These are the challenges that our people face. Young people trying to find jobs. those who have returned from school, studying abroad or even locally trying to find that satisfaction, Mr. Speaker, after they have made huge sacrifices. These are the challenges. But Mr. Speaker, this government has proven time after time, year after year, its ability to endure. You've heard the chronology of events from honorable Dr. Vincent listen earlier, Mr. Speaker, and if anybody who listen, Mr. Speaker, without a doubt, they would have been convinced. This is the true test of endurance. This is the perseverance, the persistence of this great Dominica Labor Party administration. The question before us, Mr. Speaker, it's not whether these times are uncertain or whether uncertainty really exists, but it's how we navigate and we respond in these uncertain times. And this budget is therefore government's answer to these uncertainties. This budget is a statement of values. It is what the government believes is protecting our people. It is what we believe is worth fighting for. And I support this budget wholeheartedly. Mr. Speaker, the economy that we speak of is the farmer in Warner, the one in Campbell, the one in Bells. And I know Bells is not part of our constituency, but many of our farmers in fact farm in Bells. That's right. Hendle. That is right. Or even worse, Mr. Speaker, when we speak of the economy, I think of my dear friend, a farmer who spoke to me as recently as last week and he said, "Paler, I have to farm for the Guty, too." And I say, "What you talking about?" Well, I know the Guy eats my pumpkins, but what are you talking about? He say, "The Guuty eating everything, Par. The only thing it doesn't eat is the yellow twine, the quad that tie in his fig." So I say okay and he say you know why it not eating it because the guty climbing the rope the twine to eat his fig. Mr. Speaker these are the challenges that we face. It's not just climate it's pest. Uh it's all types of various circumstances that our hardworking people are up against in these times. And that's why I see this budget as an answer a profound response to many of the challenges that our people face. And I was very excited on Tuesday after hearing the address by the honorable minister for finance and I was so moved I proceeded to have a meeting at 6:00 with some of the farmers of my constituency. We left there in the afternoon by 6:00 I had a meeting and it was my pleasure and distinct privilege to tell them that this government by way of this budget strategic interventions we are able now to afford crop insurance valued at $1.5 million for them in the next year at no cost to them. The this Mr. Speaker is a strategic intervention. Mr. Speaker, the economy is for the elderly citizen who has worked hard and now has to decide to make decisions that affects mere dignity. This is what this is about. A few weeks ago, I spoke to a fisherman in my constituency who wakes up very early before sunrise to go out at sea, having to spend quite a bit for fuel, $20 there about for fuel for one gallon. And he is trying to juxttopose having to go out having to recover the cost of fuel and trying to understand whether after making that huge sacrifice he will be able to recover cost. It's not that the fish the the sea does not have fish. That's not the issue. But will his catch be sufficient to recover his cost? These are the everyday challenges. So we are not talking about someone who is not willing to work, who is not willing to endure, who is not willing to show up. It is someone who has to take calculated measured risks. Mr. Speaker, in the interest of work, in the interest of providing for his family, but having to ensure that he does not end up poor. So we understand, Mr. Speaker, but for us, Mr. Speaker, this is why we have responded in this way with this budget. It is a budget where through our measures, our strategic interventions and measures, Mr. Speaker, we are able now to pro provide a financing facility of $19 million at the bank, a 3.5% six months grace period for micro small businesses and our entrepreneurs. And this has proven to work. the last facility in the last fiscal period over 500 people benefited, Mr. Speaker, and we're able to see that many of them are able to have new buses on the roads right now and to have serious capital injections into their businesses, having better quality products on their shelves. This is what this is about. This is how we are responding. So to my dear friend, one of the he was a former NEP beautifification team member, a a swiper operator as we call him, Mr. Speaker, was able to save his money over the last period and to purchase a bus, young man from Mau to elevate and buy his bus. And this is graduation. This is someone, Mr. speaker who's been able to take what he's been afforded to save it and make strategic decisions, Mr. Speaker, to invest and to own his business today because having a bus is really in fact operating a business. But he faces a challenge as recently as two weeks ago. Having an issue with the transmission of his bus, $4,500 the the bill to repair and having to make that decision as to whether it makes sense to repair that bus for $4,500 and how long would it take to recover that cost. These are the challenges that some of our people face. And not only that, it's a 15y old bus. Third party coverage. He has 15y old bus. Third party coverage. Having that fear, Mr. Speaker, embedded in his consciousness as to what could one mistake, error or accident mean to the sustainability of his business. This is what this budget responds to. So, Mr. Speaker, through the interventions through this budget, by way of the measures removing the compounding, Mr. Speaker, of that, a young man like this now may have the option to consider having a bus, Mr. Speaker, that is younger, one that will be cheaper to operate on the road. one that by virtue of its age he can now approach an insurance company and have it covered fully comprehensive. Mr. Speaker, this is what we affording to our people. An opportunity to have a better life, a better future, more security and remove that sense of uncertainty that pervades. This is what this is about. Mr. Speaker, the world is becoming tighter. It's difficult for small island developing states. We all know that, Mr. Speaker. And when we speak of global shocks, exogenous shocks, these are words we have heard in here. Mr. Speaker, it's not something that's distant at all for us. We feel it right away. The cost of goods, cost of services, Mr. Speaker, spare parts, fuel, everything. We feel it right away. And the the government, while we, Mr. speaker cannot order or dictate these prices, the cost of freight, the cost of oil. Mr. Speaker, what we can do is to reduce the cost on our end by way of reducing the pressure, adjusting our systems, Mr. Speaker, the taxation reforms, and this is what we are doing. We can protect essential goods, Mr. speaker and have to the opportunity to afford our people more disposable income that they can make decisions to empower their families and secure their future. And this is what we are doing. And this is significant, Mr. Speaker. The customs reform that was announced in this budget is something that is truly moving. Mr. Speaker, removing tax upon tax, Mr. Mr. Speaker, that compounding effect reduces the amount of the the price, Mr. Speaker, on the shelf ultimately and this is something that can transcend directly translate directly to cost savings for people, money in people's pockets. And not only that, Mr. Speaker, as you have heard, we are continuing for another two months the zero rating of VAT for the the basket of goods about 13 or so as you would have heard household items that are essential that we have deal essential for survival. Mr. Speaker, and this is something we're continuing because we have seen how this has helped people. How immediately after issuing this measure, Mr. speaker by waving this this tax that this has translated to cost savings for people and this is what this government is about. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, I I would like to speak directly to the importers. Of course, um like you've heard from the spot checks that Honorable Henderson have spoken about, there's a a high degree of compliance, and I sincerely appeal to the greatest sensibilities to to continue to translate this cost savings to all people. It it is it should not be seen as an opportunity for intermediaries to to then add this major markup um just below a particular threshold but it is an opportunity to to secure people and ensure that you know people can afford the goods and they benefit from this measure truly that which the government has made available to them. So we sincerely plead to their sensibilities to cooperate like they have done so that the people can truly benefit and we we really look forward to their participation and the engagement in fulfilling that responsibility. Mr. Speaker, equally important is the flat tax where personal income tax rate will now be reduced to 10% across the board. That is something that is transformational. Mr. speaker. And this, as you would see, is continues in the spirit of reducing income tax over the years, broadening or widening that threshold, that period of grace up to $30,000 and reducing the tax beyond that 30,000 threshold. Mr. Speaker, that translates to more money in people's pockets. Not only that, it is fair. It is a demonstration of equity when a nurse Mr. Speaker decides that she has to work sessions or she is required to work sessions additional time and to have that sense that after you have left your home you have sacrificed your family you have worked in the day required to work in the night and then you feel that sense of having a tax burden as opposed to a reward. These are the wrongs that we are trying to fix, Mr. Speaker, and to rectify at this point so people can feel that sense that they're getting a fair keep for their hard work. This is what this is about. Mr. Speaker, the responsibility of government requires a profound sense of balance. Compassion without discipline can create promises that sometimes are difficult to be maintained. But also discipline without compassion can afford you the opportunity to balance your books. But then you can have the erosion of families. Mr. Speaker, the task of leadership is to hold both truths. And we sincerely believe that this is possible to do both at the same time. And this budget truly inspires that great sense of hope, Mr. Speaker. And and we see that we understand the challenges. We understand, Mr. Speaker, that there are businesses based on regardless of the market research that they do, the business preparation, the business planning by virtue of some forces that were up against the population that they at risk inherently. And this bold announcement by the Minister of Finance, I embrace wholeheartedly that by 2040 would like the population to increase to 100,000. That is in fact positive, Mr. Speaker. That is showing and demonstrating that we have a true understanding, Mr. Speaker, of the entire economy and what progress should truly truly look like, Mr. Speaker, a few years ahead. And not only that, it's just not merely a statement, but he has highlighted clearly the path in which he proposes we will get there and it is something really positive and progressive. One of them, Mr. Speaker, the first I think he announces the opportunity to have citizenship by virtue of your direct relationship to your grandparent. That is something that many people have lobbied for over a long time. Other islands have done it. We have seen in this recent World Cup there are some teams who more than 80% of the people representing their national team is by virtue of citizenship through a grandparent or even more distant relatives. giving them national attention on the one of the biggest sporting stages and that's why I recognize you know highly the a few people who have who have lobbied for that and and Kenneth Espri comes to mind you know who was championed for that for a long long time recognizing that you know we have some people playing at the highest professional leagues in Premier League and other leagues By virtue of this measure, many of them who may not be able to qualify for say probably England, who is the number four team FIFA rank, may not qualify for Dominica. This opens doors. I know someone who's 30 years old, Mr. Speaker, who's been to Dominica 31 times. His grandmother is Dominica. His mother was born in the UK. He's been to Dominica 31 times. He owns land in Dominica. Mr. Speaker, imagine the excitement, the calls that we have received already. This person now feels that he can continue to invest in the development of Dominica. This is what this means. Mr. Speaker, the Dominica Labor Party has a history of intervening when people are under extraordinary pressure. We have proven that time and time again in the most difficult storms, disasters. We have shown that showed that through education, various reforms, education programs, employment programs, we have seen this and this is what we continue to do even at this present moment. Mr. Speaker, the purpose of a safety net really is to catch people when they fall. Many people criticize us for social safety nets, but this is in fact what we're doing. Showing a side of government that really is steeped in humanity, basic. And Mr. Speaker, we have recognized that many of our social program programs work well. We also recognize that there are some of them that need to be reviewed and that we will do in the next uh fiscal year to strengthen what works. Mr. Speaker, to remove duplication, to improve where necessary, to have them even more targeted, to ensure that no vulnerable person in Dominica is missed. This is what this is about. And to create pathways, Mr. speaker through which those who are able can graduate and reach levels of even greater independence. These are some things that we're seeking to do going forward. Mr. Speaker, compassion is not merely measured by the number of people who benefit from our social programs. We we know that it's it's measured by the the dignity that we're able to restore. And we recognize that some people will require long-term support by virtue of the age, the level of vulnerability, risk factors, Mr. Speaker, and some will be short-term. Some people require less, just a little push, a nudge, an incentive. That's it. A training. But, Mr. Speaker, this budget speaks to everyone at every stage of life in one way or another, Mr. Speaker. And that is why last year we would have set aside at least $22 million for children to be educated. Not just that, we're talking about children at risk. Children who need uniforms who may not be able to afford school shoes, school books, school feeling feeding programs. Mr. Speaker, this is what this government is about. To ensure that despite the circumstance of a Dominican child, they are not limited. Their success is not hindered in any way possible. This is what this government is doing. And we'll continue to invest even with more, Mr. Speaker, by virtue of our allocations in this budget. Mr. Speaker, this budget speaks directly to my portfolio and the investment in health, Mr. Speaker, is not isolated to merely a sectoral allocation. It's it's more than that because a a family who cannot afford healthcare, Mr. Speaker, is at risk. A country with a population that is unhealthy cannot fulfill our true economic potential. we will not find prosperity as a nation. And that is what I mean when I say a budget is not measured simply by by lies, not by ledgers, by lines or not by ledgers. Mr. Speaker, a line estimate in this budget, Mr. Speaker, becomes a nurse who's able to provide care to someone at risk. a a capital allocation for us is a child playing on a field somewhere in in a constituency, Mr. Speaker, who who now can stay out of trouble and feel engaged, Mr. Speaker, or or remain healthy, Mr. Speaker. This is what this means. A a tax reform for us is a worker being able to take home greater pay. This is what this is about. And we are not simply building projects here. What we are in fact doing is building people and that must be the measure of this budget. It must be the measure of our service. Mr. Speaker, it it this must not be seen as whether this government should get credit for what we have done although we should. Um but it really must be measured by whether citizens can really feel progress or or re realize that improvement in their lives. This is what this is about about people. Mr. Speaker, the strength of this Dominica Labor Party philosophy and is is really steeped in that type of belief that belief in people. It is it is stories that we hear from struggling people and and children. Mr. Speaker, we hear them at our constituency offices when we grieve with them when we celebrate with them. We hear their stories, their concerns, their challenges, even where they see opportunities. And Mr. Speaker, having established that that human perspective from them, we able to craft policies that can respond directly to that. Mr. Speaker, every Minister of Health eventually discovers a simple truth, the same truth. The most important work of a healthcare system is helping people to need it less. It took me a short time to understand that, but when I understood that, it humbled me. Mr. Speaker, when I assumed role the role as minister for health, wellness and social services, I earnestly thought the focus would have been on hospitals and ambulances, big budgets, medicine and so on. Mr. Speaker, that experience, like I said, it it has humbled me because today I understand, Mr. speaker clearly that health begins way before long before a patient ever enters an emergency department. Mr. Speaker, it begins with the choices that we make at the dining table. It begins with education. It begins at schools in communities, the elderly and how they cared for, Mr. Speaker, at the village health center. The choices that we make, Mr. Speaker, it may be simply that blood pressure check that someone is able to access at a health center or community clinic on a Saturday at a market where based on their reading, Mr. Speaker, that in itself prevents a stroke. Even just this morning, Mr. Speaker, the Ministry of Health, we started off with a scare where one of our staff had to be admitted to the A&E. Mr. Speaker, these are things we face every day. Health begins in offices, education, even in chambers like these. Mr. Speaker, that is where it resides. It it it begins with someone managing diabetes effectively to the point that they can avoid kidney disease and diialysis for the rest of their life or even a kidney transplant. Mr. Speaker, these are the difficult situations that we face. It begins with the pregnant mother, expecting mother accessing prenatal care in time to ensure that they she avoids complications. Mr. Speaker, this is the responsibility that we have. This is the responsibility of our people. That realization has transformed the way we operate. Mr. speaker in public service I understand the responsibility is great and in a ministry such as this m Mr. Speaker there there is no other there is no other and this is what underpins the way in which we will spend the 75.4 million allocation for recurrent expenditure and the 5.1 for capital expenditure Mr. Mr. Speaker, this is what underpins that that realization. Mr. Speaker, no citizen wakes up in the morning hoping or praying to come face to face with our ministry in any way. No one. No mother, Mr. Speaker, wants their child to go to the A&E any given day. No one wants to receive that dreaded news of a diagnosis of stage three cancer, Mr. Speaker. No one. The people who come face to face with the ministry are most vulnerable indeed. It's when they face their greatest fears, greatest vulnerabil vulnerabilities, Mr. speaker and what they expected to be met with is true compassion, true competence and be given hope. That expectation is absolutely sacred because these are people who place their trust in our hands. They place their future in our hands. And for that reason, I've never believed that the success of the health care system should be measured by the amount of hospitals we build, the amount of health centers we build, or by the equipment that we have. And we have quite a few. Mr. Speaker, buildings do not comfort frightened families at all. And machines do not reassure you or reduce your anxiety in any way. Concrete does not heal, even though we need it. We need good infrastructure. We have good infrastructure. But people heal people. Mr. Speaker, >> the strength of any health system has always rested upon the men and women in this ministry who have dedicated their lives time and time again. Mr. Speaker, it is the nurse, the orderly, the cleaner, the laboratory technician, the engineer, the doctor. These people who show up every day. Mr. Speaker, to meet the needs of our people and they, in fact, Mr. Speaker, deserve our gratitude. But more importantly, Mr. Speaker, they deserve our continued investment. This is why over the past year, we have continued to invest in them. We have continued to invest in increasing and expanding various hospital services because this really and primary care services as well because truly this is in fact the foundation of our health system because a country that invests only in hospital Mr. Speaker all it does is to continue responding to illnesses. A country that invests in communities in primary health care then prevents illnesses Mr. Speaker and that is in fact our focus. That is what we are building. This is the future of healthcare that we are creating here in Dominica. Mr. Speaker, I often say that the hospital should be the last line of defense and certainly not the first. And if we truly wish that one day to be one of the healthiest nations that exist, Mr. Speaker, our victories certainly will not operate or occur inside our operating rooms and operating theaters. They will occur quietly. That diabetic foot that we are able to treat with or even before that diabetic patient that we are able to manage effectively before it gets this bad, Mr. Speaker, or the child who is vaccinated, Mr. speaker. Um it's the elderly who we are able to provide that profound sense of dignity. Mr. Speaker, this this is really where it starts and the best operation is often the one that never becomes necessary at all. It is for this reason that the government has continued to make substantial investment in primary healthcare. Just last year, we invested over $7 million um in various health and wellness centers, expanding some. We have seen that happening in Mau, in Casabus, in Wesley, in many others. Health centers have opened in this period. Mr. Speaker, we have seen that and we expect to continue doing the same throughout this next fiscal year. Mr. Speaker, um there there are we were hoping that grand 4 would have started um you know, as soon as the procurement process is wrapped up, which will soon happen, Mr. Speaker, we are hoping that this is something that we can complete. Um there there are other health and and wellness centers, Mr. Speaker. Um while these won't be done this year, uh there are many of them that as part of our overhauling process, our health and wellness facilities, ensuring that healthcare is brought closer to home, Mr. Speaker, that we'll continue to work on and focus on. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, one project particularly close to my heart of course is the renovation, the expansion of the Espri Murphy Murphy Health and Wellness Center in Maho. Um, this is something a transformation indeed that we are proud of. What you have seen is this morphing from really a health and wellness center type one to a type three almost like a poly clinic. It looks like a a mini hospital now. We're very proud of that and um we we are now able to prepare to expand services to have dental, pharmacy, prenatal care and so on happening there and and what we are doing in fact is to lay that foundation so that we can have Maho being its own health district. Mahu is now part of Rosa Health District. It's the biggest health district where we have 40,000 people. Can you imagine the inequity in this Mr. Speaker? 70,000 population, 40,000 people in one health district. This is something we need to fix. So we are p paving the way for for this transformation, this shift. So so we are pleased about that. Mr. Speaker, people do not judge our health systems by policies. Um they often judge them by moments. That is something we have seen. And the moment a the doctor explains difficult news or shows compassion, this is what we are often judged by. The moment a frightened child feels comforted by a nurse, this is what truly resonates. Or the moment an elderly patient feels respected or feels loved. They appreciate that, Mr. Speaker. And these moments, that's what defines public confidence and um far more than any report that I give. These moments, these are what truly matters. And while medicine may cure disease, Mr. Speaker, compassion is what really heals our people. And and that philosophy is one that's important. And um you know I I really in fact hope that while we are doing well in this regard we can continue to improve in that area that so that every single person within our ministry can exude that profound sense of humanity and compassion to impress the lives and affect the lives of our people. Mr. Speaker, this year the consultancy to advance national health insurance will move into a new phase. Um this is something that we would have spoken of um in the past. The government would have initiated a pilot program in the past, Mr. Speaker, particularly focused on children um on the 13 particularly we've seen that move into areas where people require critical care particularly overseas care coordination and transfer. We've seen that happen. But we want to ensure that in fact, Mr. speaker, we have a system that is much more sustainable, one that, you know, people can have, you know, even greater confidence in, Mr. Speaker. Um, one that gives people that sense of security that that even before they fall ill that they they know that they're covered. And this is something that we'd like to explore um not only for uh public officers, Mr. Speaker, but all our citizens in some way or another. And it's not our intention to create any type of new system and displace private sector in any way, Mr. Speaker, but the possibility possibility exists for um you know greater collaboration and cooperation with them and um look at ways and means where this will be affordable to the people of Dominica. So Mr. Speaker, I'm very optimistic and excited about that for the good people of Dominica. Mr. Speaker, the burden carried by our health care professionals is tremendous. It is deep. One decision can change their life. One decision can impact the lives of people. And this experience, it certainly humbles you. And Mr. public service is serious and our hospitals are sometimes judged only by our most difficult days. That's what we see sometimes, Mr. speaker and and that is understandable. When something goes wrong in healthcare, it deserves attention. We must never be defensive. We must never be closed to that. Uh but we must never fear accountability. We must be honest and we must always be prepared to improve the way in which we deliver care. But neither should we allow, Mr. Speaker, these difficult days to become the only story that we tell because every single day, Mr. Speaker, hundreds of dedicated professionals show up for duty 24/7, 365 days a year. Mr. Speakers, this is where we see babies delivered safely, mortality rates, infant mortality rates decreasing. Mr. Speaker, lives are being saved, broken bones being repaired. Mr. Speaker, strokes being treated, Mr. Speaker, grandparents returning to their families, Mr. Speaker, patients receiving comfort. Mr. Speaker, this is the Dominica China Friendship Hospital we have. We have seen the most gruesome injuries, Mr. Speaker. Yes. even bike fest not not many though not many they've been getting better and Mr. Speaker we've been able to treat these people and provide care never before could we have done that this is the Dominica trying the friendship hospital that we have Mr. Mr. Speaker, these stories really make headlines. We see instead what takes root on Facebook and Instagram and Tik Tok. We see it is very sad, very unfortunate that only the bad stories, Mr. Speaker. But interestingly we have seen that most recently that wind is changing in some way and the stories are being told about what is happening on a frequent basis every day. The stories are not that of ministers. You won't hear me defending that much even though I'm asked to. People tell me I should go out and defend. People out in the communities defend. Mr. Speaker, the voices that often take root are the voices of those who receive care. We receive that saving grace from our health care professionals at the hospital, Mr. Speaker. And they are speaking up. They are the ones saying that they've received compassion from the nurses. They're the ones saying, Mr. speaker that they had good experiences at the hospital. Mr. Speaker, they are the ones saying that they got that absolute care and due process was done. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, they are the ones who encounter our professional staff on a daily basis and they are volunteering to tell their stories and this is happening right now. Mr. Speaker, there's no greater endorsement than the stories of the people, Mr. Speaker. and I thank God for them and their stories. The truth is, Mr. Speaker, all stories deserve honesty. The good ones, the bad ones, the in between, but they deserve balance. It deserves fairness. Mr. Speaker, real progress is really dramatic. Many times it's invisible. Many times it's almost intangible. But it is the quiet accumulation of thousands of great decisions that are being made in this ministry. It is recruiting one more specialist, training one more nurse, expanding our clinics, Mr. Speaker, purchasing one more equipment, Mr. Speaker. This is what this is about. But all in all, it's a collective, Mr. Speaker. We are getting better. And that has been our philosophy. not seeking overnight miracles but lasting in institutions and our investment is in people Mr. Speaker and this in fact is our greatest achievement. Hospitals do not become excellent because of its architecture. They become excellent because of the talented people who choose to work within them. Mr. Speaker, and we have therefore continued strengthening our workforce. Uh just this year we have added and recruited various specialists. Um and there's been continuing professional development and we have been developing our international partnerships with various agencies and countries. >> 20 more minutes. 2020 20 minutes. >> Mr. Speaker, we're continuing to grow from strength to strength in this hospital. Mr. Speaker, where we see that there are better opportunities for all who work within our walls. Mr. speaker, our allied workers, our nurses, doctors, everyone. Mr. Speaker, we are not perfect. We are by no means a perfect health system, but we are one that continues to improve every year and grow from strength to strength. Mr. Speaker, today more Dominican families can access specialist care here in Dominica more than any other time in our history. And we are living in a time now, Mr. Mr. Speaker, when complex neuro neurooological conditions are being treated right here in Dominica, Mr. Speaker, that means that not everyone has to leave, Mr. Speaker, and access care overseas anymore. Today, this story of people leaving and accessing care every time. This is changing radically. And for the first time in our nation's history, Mr. Speaker, we are witnessing a spinal surgery in Dominica. Mr. Speaker, we are witnessing brain surgery in Dominica, Mr. Speaker, performed right here in Dominica. And it's not just a Ministry of Health uh milestone, Mr. Speaker. This, in my view, is a national milestone. Mr. Speaker, we've seen the transformation continuing to happen. We welcome a neurosurgeon in Dominica in this last period. Excellent guy, Dr. Kande, I must highlight him. We we have a a psychologist, a psychiatrist who returned, Dr. Nestie Tong, an internist, Mr. Speaker, who we welcomed as well, Dominican, and we are pleased to have our people returning to their shores after they have specialized. And even and even some, Mr. speaker who have left. We have two expressing interest in returning because we often think that the grass is greener on the other side, Mr. Speaker, but when we get there on the other side, that's when we start to taste the hints of the pesticides in the grass on the other side and we realize that the organic grass is better on this side, Mr. Speaker. So we welcome everyone back with with interest in serving or re reserving I'm inventing a word here Mr. Speaker to our shores and to our healthcare system. So with open arms we we welcome everyone Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker in our A&E department at least 64 people arrive every day uh seeking some type of urgent care. Mr. speaker 64. Uh Mr. Speaker, every minute matters and and that is why I'm particularly proud that during this year we have been able to uh open and commission our accident and emergency operating theater right in our A&E department because every minute count, every second counts, Mr. Speaker, and that certainly is is a major advancement that we must celebrate. Mr. Mr. Speaker, we we have seen also investments in uh photovoltaic panels, Mr. Speaker, because for us, you know, while we we sincerely appreciate um all the efforts in renewable energy, Mr. Speaker, and these things um we we we we must highlight this these major shifts, but even for us, the healthc care is so critical, Mr. Speaker. We have to invest heavily in our own backup systems and and and we have done that over a period. And this year we we have um in fact invested um in a a 98 kilowatt um photovoltaic uh system at our hospital to provide um backup support. Mr. Speaker, in the last financial year alone, the Dominico Hospitals Authority cared for uh 47,000 cases and not patients. Not saying that 47,000 people are sick in fact, but um some would have returned more than once. 47,000 cases. But this is still a lot. It is high. It's concerning. Um Mr. Speaker, in terms of the breakdown of that, um it would be from various inpatient admissions, specialists, outpatients, clinics, and emergency services. Uh of this number, 5,700 uh would have been uh required would have required admission uh to one of our wards, Mr. speaker for various types [clears throat] uh of situations whether it be medical surgical invent uh inter interventions or other um Mr. Speaker 41,500 consultations with specialists Mr. speaker and um but that also tells something special something unique that we are able to provide more care to our people and we are able to expand the the realm um type and type of services to our people and many of these uh would have been referred abroad uh back 20 25 26 years ago Mr. speaker. So healthcare has truly been transforming in a radical way in Dominica and we must be very proud of that institution. Mr. Speaker, even in terms of um hemmoiialysis services, we have provided more than 4,600 life-saving treatments um treating people with kidney diseases, Mr. Speaker, keeping them alive. Um there's in one particular case where a gentleman from the north would have been receiving diialysis services at the hospital and for 25 years. Mr. Speaker, even in the the the most advanced countries, uh we don't often see that 25 years of treatment. Sadly, he eventually succumbed. Mr. Speaker, God bless his soul. But this is the type of care that we're providing right here, Mr. Speaker. But again, the the good news they they don't generally carry like the those on that single bad day. U but Mr. Speaker, I have the greatest hope and confidence that that will change and people will get to the point where we love ourselves more. We appreciate what we have more and we are able to have this greater sense of dignity and pride for and respect for what is in fact ours. because this is ours. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, during this period, the last fiscal period, we have seen um a lot of legislative reforms as well. We have taken we've come to parliament a few times uh to pass various bills and medical professional act, nurses and midwiffrey, Mr. Speaker, um laboratories act and so on quite a bit, Mr. speaker because we understand that healthcare has various tiers um of development Mr. Speaker. It's a multi-pronged approach. It's the institutions, the equipment, the people, the personnel, Mr. Speaker, and it's the the framework, the structure in which we provide that care. So, we want to ensure that we have the right backing and legislation to ensure that we allow people to work in an environment, Mr. speaker where where they can thrive and provide good highquality care to our people. Mr. Speaker, so this is what this is about. I want to sincerely thank various partners that we've been working with, PAHO, WH, OCS, CARAC, KA, Direct Relief, WPP, and of course the Republic of Cuba and certainly the People's Republic of China. Mr. Speaker, the Chinese medical team who've been with us for a number of years, they've been providing wonderful health and care to our people and not only that, they've been building capacity and that is what we need. Um, hundreds of Dominicans have benefited from advanced surgery um through the medical mission. And not only that, our health professionals, more than 100 have received um professional training in advanced laparoscopic um procedures and interventions and and we're grateful to them. Grateful to the Guanoo Medical University overseas uh training center which was established recently right here at our hospital. Mr. Speaker, uh this is a true testament of the partnership that exists between our countries. Mr. Speaker, we have had the second medical mission international um uh mission here in Dominica where we've seen over 60 people benefiting from life-saving surgeries, Mr. Speaker, and we certainly welcome that. Um Mr. Speaker, as we grow from strength to strength, uh we we must continue to be aware of the realities which we face, the challenges that we are up against, Mr. Speaker, and we promise that we will continue to improve. >> 10 more minutes. >> Thank you, Mr. Mr. Speaker, every responsibility with every responsibility that I've been privileged to carry in my public life, um the one that I have the greatest honor to carry, Mr. Speaker, is that of being the parliamentary representative of the Mao constituency. Mr. Speaker, that is one portfolios can change, ministries can change, Mr. Speaker, titles come and go, but the people's trust, it truly matters, Mr. Speaker, and I am certainly grateful and honored for the trust that they have placed in me, Mr. Speaker. And the the ability to represent as a power rep is not measured by speeches in this house, in this chamber, Mr. Speaker. It's it's more than that. It's it's the simple things. It's the conversations on the roads, Mr. Speaker. It's attending a funeral in Sanov yesterday with my dear colleague, Mr. Speaker, the representative from Cass. It's that it's grieving with families. It's supporting people even at their most vulnerable times. It's understanding their hopes and dreams, Mr. Speaker, and this is the greatest honor of my life indeed. And Mr. Speaker, this is what inspires this budget. It's the stories that I've listened to, that I've heard from all of these people. Mr. Speaker, it is what underpins every line item in this budget to give these people and afford them a better quality of life. This is what I'm about. It's supporting this fisherman or fisher folk or the farmer with crop insurance or Mr. Speaker, it is the the bus driver who now buy through through this measure of removing compounding, Mr. Speaker, that my dear friend can now afford to buy his new bus. is these simple measures that are life-changing. It's bringing dignity to the elderly through yes, we care, Mr. Speaker. To come here today and say I support this m these measures, Mr. Speaker, this is what representation in my view is all about. Mr. Speaker, it's it's not about what we build only, but it's who we build. And Mr. Speaker, um communities cannot be transformed by government alone. And that's why I continue to ask my people and plead for their support in collaboration, cooperation to work together to have development within our constituency. Mr. Speaker, this is what I am all about. I support development and I'm all about partnering with my people from our great constituency to continue to build together. Mr. Speaker, there are few projects, Mr. speaker that I must highlight in my short time Mr. Speaker the vulnerable families in Campbell are now in a safer place now knowing that we have purchased the land um we have yeah we have purchased the land Mr. Speaker for them um we have procured um we have gone through the various stages of planning and approvals for the relocation Mr. Speaker, we have heard their cries for a long time and um we are we are moving rapidly, Mr. Speaker, to the next phase which will be phase one uh where the contractors will actually commence. We have met with the village councils, the resettlement committees. All of this has been done, Mr. Speaker, and we're excited about this. Um we're happy also Kenfield East 11 vulnerable families, Mr. Speaker, will will will very soon this month uh receive the keys to their new homes. Mr. Speaker, this government continues to support housing initiatives because we we have seen the transformation of people's lives. Mr. Speaker, this is what addresses the uncertainty that I spoke about earlier. Mr. Speaker, um I also think of the Dom project, Mr. Speaker, helping the people of Campbell, a $70 million initiative which will in fact help the people directly. I've had the pleasure and privilege of um of of already meeting more people and sensitizing them on the benefits of resilience for them. We we care about Campbell, Mr. Speaker, and we're we're happy to commence that consultation with them already and and we're really excited about that for them and the um the agro processes up there. This is in fact life-changing. This is the sustainability that we are after. Mr. Mr. Speaker, there's there are opportunities in our MA constituency because we are very diverse and we are blessed with many natural assets and other assets. The MA market provides an opportunity for development. The upper floor that is something that um we we are seeking to uh address um at no cost. We have engaged a design firm at no cost um you know to uh provide concepts and designs and we've been meeting with the community the village council to give ideas um and advice on how the space can be better utilized. We see this being this transforming into an innovation hub Mr. Speaker something that uh will create be be more or less like a training ground for some of our people. It is something that will provide uh a space that that can be better utilized, Mr. Speaker, and provide more value to this asset. This should morph this market space into more than just buying and selling, Mr. Speaker. This place has a lot of potential. So, we're excited about that. There are many other areas within our community that that require some type of focus or attention. We can't do all of it this year in this cycle, but notwithstanding, it's my responsibility as par to just plant that seed, that interest and consult with people and see a concept. Mr. Speaker, um many things can spur on from that. Say for example, the Massa shoreline or Rodney's Rock. Mr. Speaker, these are areas with tremendous potential that um you know I am happy to engage on that um we can maybe eventually develop one later. Mr. Speaker, um these are exciting times for us. one of the software initiatives but with great potential STEM girls an initiative that we had started three years ago Mr. Speaker for um girls in science technology engineering and mathematics and we've been able to have them uh doing various experiments in robotics Mr. speaker the use of concrete we have done that we have had the pleasure of visiting the embassy and we have our girls are between 8 and 13 13 where they've been exposed to laparoscopic training and suturing and all of that and we want to thank the embassy of the people's republic of China for affording them this opportunity we also had the great pleasure to take them on a cruise ship um the celebrity ascent we thank the people from HHV church and celebrity ascent and it's not just a ba where you go on a cruise ship but expose them to the technology and the science behind navigation. Mr. Speaker, this is what this is about because when for our country speaks about marinas and this developments and the airport and so on, it's not merely doing that but how do we plan now? So, as a par, I see my role as doing that, planting the seeds for students in STEM so we can take advantage of these wonderful opportunities. Mr. Speaker, I believe in opportunities for young people and that's why we invested in playing fields. You will see, Mr. speaker um in a few weeks the transformation of um the Kanefield ballpark Mr. Speaker and you will see more being done on the edit tool park these are some things that we will soon see Mr. Speaker um I want to highlight in a special way the LA Mr. Speaker for continuing to uh put us from take us from stage to stage tear to tier to tier on the world stage Mr. speaker and she has done a great job. Um she has demonstrated absolute absolute dedication, determination and she has been a flag bearer of us. Mr. Speaker, I also wish to highlight young Delicia Julian. Mr. Speaker, um you know, raised by single dad Delroy Julian, the gentleman special branch who comes here and his daughter participated in the inter schools games recently and was MVP for the basketball team and she received the award in St. Lucia, I must highlight her in a special way. And I know my my my dear friend who left the representative for Kolio is boosting his team in Dubla. But Mr. Speaker, we have a team that's much younger, SOA strikers who really give them a run last year, Mr. Speaker, in the finals. Um, and we are trying our best to do the very same again. Mr. Speaker, I I wish to recognize some people in our constituency who really are some unsung heroes. And um while I'm not just merely uh calling these names but it's because we have highlighted them and this is one of the initiatives that we have had to highlight some people Mr. Speaker unsung heroes like John Sabber and someone like this that we have recognized him Mr. Speaker because we we see these people as doing more than just offering a service but nurturing the young Mr. Speaker giving advice counseling people Mr. speaker, the bus drivers in our constituencies who have been doing well for us and carrying our people home safely. Um people like Mvin Thomas, cricket selectors and and Kenneth uh and Shane Marshall, Mr. Speaker, um these are some people who who show up and do much more than just their jobs. And not only that, one thing that's special about our constituency is the entrepreneurial spirit about our people. Mr. Mr. Speaker, that is something that has been unique to a Mau constituency and um you know people like Gilbert and Musai and Al Mr. Speaker I I had his raisin bun for dessert this afternoon. You you you should taste Al's raisin bun, Mr. Speaker. and and these are some people who have taken the risk to start a business even in difficult moments but by their hard work by their dedication and their persistence they have continued to succeed. Mr. Speaker, I think these are some wonderful times for Dominica. It's an opportunity for people to continue to prosper. Um I know my time is up and I don't wish to ask for extra time. So I will I will end at this point by sinc sincerely saying thank you to many dedicated hardworking people who've been behind me. The accomplishments of Ministry of Health, wellness and social services are not my own. It's the wonderful people, wonderful staff. It's um PS Kira Paul. It is the And this ministry is not easy. It it almost seems like six ministries in one. PS, >> right? Like six ministries in one. Um that is what it feels like. is the the SEO, the director of primary healthcare, the CMO, the the do Dr. Centilian. Yes, it is the CEO at the hospital, Dr. Kenneth Daru, all the managerial staff, Mr. Speaker, every single one from the doctor to the oddly, the nurse, everybody, my wonderful staff in the community, people who who help me. They are my eyes, my ears. They help me to represent people. I say thank you. And to the prime minister, I say thank you sincerely. All my wonderful comrades and colleagues, I thank you sincerely. It has been a distinct pleasure of my life to work with you on behalf of the wonderful people of the Commonwealth of Dominico. And Mr. Speaker, I I thank you sincerely for being patient with me, Mr. Speaker. I I am grateful for your indulgence, Mr. Speaker. I thank my family also for allowing me to serve, Mr. Speaker. I am grateful. May God continue to bless you. May God continue to bless the great constituency of Mao and the wonderful people of Dominique. Thank you. Yes. Honorable Robert, >> you are recognized. You may proceed. >> Thank you, Mr. Speaker. >> Mr. Speaker, the honor is now mine as always to rise to lend my voice in extending my full support to this year's budget. A comprehensive and inclusive budget that speaks to the heart and soul of this Labor Party government. A government that has always shown over the years that it cares for its people. and places them always at the core of its mission. Allow me, Mr. Speaker, to join my colleagues in extending congratulations to the honorable minister of finance for an exceptionally welld delivered budget this year. Mr. Speaker, we all know that creating a national budget is not easy. It calls for dedication to task. It calls for focused attention. And I wish to take the time to thank the people in the Ministry of Finance who have assisted him in preparing this fiscal package. Mr. Speak. I also stand here with great humility and gratitude to salute to the people of Grand Free Team and Fel. Always remember Fel who for almost two consecutive terms have given me the endorsement to be their voice in this honorable house. And Mr. Speaker, truly serving them still remains my ultimate joy. Mr. Speaker, this budget before us is more than just a financial document. It demonstrates an unwavering commitment to our people. A people who have served this government and will consistently continue to support us as a government. It is a b a budget that brings hope to our people, the people of this country. And Mr. Speaker, we will continue to provide the stability and reassurance to our people not withstanding the global economic shocks, the climate crisis and all the other external crisis which continue to derail our efforts and test our resilience. We are government, as Dr. Henderson said before that has weathered every storm and we have emerged stronger and stronger at every time. Mr. Speaker, what we have done and will continue to do is to control our domestic response so that we can respond and protect our progress. And this is why this year the theme protecting our progress, strengthening our independence and securing our future stands as a symbol of hope to every citizen across this island. Mr. Speaker, this budget allocates $13.1 million to the Ministry of Culture, Youth Sports, and Community Development. A budget which will serve to champion all our grassroots projects and programs spread across every one of our nine departments in the ministry. Our ministry has always been termed a people's ministry. Mr. speaker and I wish to briefly briefly as briefly as I can speak about our past successes and our plans for this fiscal year. Mr. Speaker, the Ministry of Culture strives on a daily basis to promote and preserve our culture across the island. Mr. Speaker, we always try to preserve our rich heritage as well. And it was because of this we took our people to demonstrate the talent that we have in Dominica. coordinating a 40 member delegation to Karifesta 15 in Barbados where we proudly showcased Dominica's cultural excellence to our original peers. I want to take time off this evening to thank the minister, the prime minister of Barbados, honorable Mia Mley, who warmly welcomed and hosted 40 25 of our young people and given them a memorable memorable Caribbean cultural experience. Memorable Mr. Speaker, culture has and please excuse me, Mr. Speaker, so I could refer to my notes when I can. >> Permission granted. >> Thank you so much. Culture has and will always continue to play an integral role in national development. our cultural events. Be it Carnival, be it the World Creole Music Festival, be it Christmas, be it um which one we have again? Which one coming up? Independence celebrations, breakfast fet, and now even reunions, Mr. speaker have always resulted in visitor arrivals and a spike in economic activity in our various communities. So this financial year we will continue our efforts towards the promotion of culture as a key pillar of national development, tourism, economic growth and social transformation. We will continue our training in capacity building, building on the natural talent of our young people while we honor our citizens who have dedicated their lives to building Dominica's arts and culture. Mr. Speaker, during the last budget presentation, government announced that they would provide for an annual subvention to our sporting and cultural clubs and organizations. And Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to report that cabinet has approved the annual subvention of $52,500 for cultural groups which are affiliated with the cultural division and who have actively engaged in cultural preservation >> and promotion. They must have been doing that for five years or more for them to qualify for that you for that subvention. So Mr. Mr. Speaker, I am also pleased to announce that cabinet has also for the first time approved the annual subvention in the amount of $60,000 for the national cultural council and this of course is an authorized body under the culture act to develop and promote culture and cultural events in Dominica. This subvention, thank you. Thank you. This subvention of course will be utilized for maintenance, administrative operations, support to artists and organizations, cultural education and outreach, research and documentation among other areas. Mr. Speaker, I wish to say here that I welcome the establishment of the Creative Economy Development Agency, DCA, as stated in the budget. Mr. Speaker, globally, investment in the orange economy has been known to be a multi- trillion dollar industry, generating jobs and adding to the GDP of many countries around the world. Today in the creative economy, it's also contributing to 2% to GDP in several of our Caribbean islands, accounting for a large number of well-paid jobs, linkages with tourism, digital technology, and other value added industries. This sector has proven to be very resilient. A sector that can withstand global shocks and creatives were known to be able to sustain and penetrate international markets even during the pandemic. So, Mr. Speaker, investing in the cultural and creative industries will provide tremendous opportunities for income and revenue gener generation in the areas of music, fashion, cuisine, art, design and other heritagebased sectors. It will stimulate creativity and innovation especially among our youth and most certainly it will help to market Dominica and its rich cultural heritage. The orange economy also has the potential once it is well established and well positioned and supported. It will help in our diversification efforts at a time when we are trying to drive economic and social transformation. Mr. Mr. Speaker, we want to move from seeing culture and art not simply as a hobby, but to ways in which we can put real value to the works of our creatives. monetizing the works and contributions of these artists and cultural entrepreneurs and building strong global cultural brands right here in Dominica. Mr. Speaker, the Ara House of Culture rehabilitation project will continue. I know that's what a lot of people are waiting for. government recognizes that the Aravak House of Culture is a significant part of Dominica's cultural landscape in recognition of the importance and commitment in preserving, promoting, and advancing Dominica's rich heritage. We are of the view, Mr. speaker that this rehabilitation will come as part of a broader effort at building stronger and sustained efforts in the creative sector. It will provide a much needed space for performances for exhibition of cultural goods and a critical space to accommodate artists as they work on holding their craft exploring opportunities for greater success and enterprise development. The government has already approved the establishment of a project steering committee inclusive of all our cultural practitioners so they could provide oversight for its completion. The Ministry of Public Works has also been assisting us with tender preparation process and this is expected to be completed when within the first quarter of the fiscal year. Mr. Speaker, the General Post Office also falls under the ministry and it remains a powerful network that keeps Dominica connected to the world through its filic Yes ma'am. services. It proudly showcases Dominica's culture, heritage, and identity on the international stage. Mr. Speaker, we are happy to report that the ministry is advancing its preparation for the renewal of Dominica's definitive stamps. This of course occurs every five years and within the first quarter of this fiscal year, we will see the issuance of Dominican stamps, all of which will depict our tourist attraction sites. So our stamps are going international, regional and local. Mr. Speaker, we have also commenced preparatory work for the post office ceiling, a project that has been on for a while. But then we are moving forward and we do hope that with the ceiling project that we can provide a more conducive space for officers and for all those who will continue to conduct business at the post office. Mr. Speaker, we all know that local government is the backbone of community governance in Dominica, fostering resilience, participation, and service delivery at the grassroots level. So through our councils and community groups, we empower our citizens. We strengthen local democracy and of course advance development initiatives that enhance the quality of life of our citizens. As we continue to focus and strengthen local governance, the local government division is working with communities of bells. I'm not seeing the parair gloier pen rice ponas and sultan these places have asked to form a council among themselves in the community and they would they are set to become Dominica's 44th local government authority. The recommended demarcation of boundaries has been finalized for cabinet's approval. Mr. Speaker, we believe in putting resources in the hands of our local mini government, our councils and communities. And I'm happy to report that the government has provided every single council across Dominica with a $100,000 so they can continue to work on projects that are of high impact in the communities and to work in communities improving the lives of the people in their respective communities. commities. Given the roles that councils play in communities, in mobilizing communities, we are also collaborating with the Ministry of Health Minister in the implementation of a national healthy village initiative. This seeks to enhance the resilience of communities in the fight against non-communicable diseases, NCDS. Some of these activities include a village healthy living community committee and the establishment of recreational spaces for activities to include physical activity. Mr. Speaker, we are all aware of the high incidence of NCDS among our populace and of course we appeal to all communities across the island to support our councils and the ministry of health in this regard. The ministry through the cooperatives division remains committed to strengthening cooperative the cooperative sector through capacity building and ongoing support for existing and emerging cooperatives. Mr. Speaker, there has been a marked increase in public interest in forming cooperatives, especially in a culture. a positive trend that underscores greater community engagement and confidence in the cooperative model. I tried to get the minister's attention because I'm dealing with epic culture and I and I want him to hear that. >> So, Mr. Speaker, the ministry looks forward to the further investment of $1.5 million that government has allocated in this budget to expand the apriculture industry. We want to commend the government for this initiative given that we have seen an increase in both membership and production in the beekeeping sector where membership in the National Beekeepers Cooperative alone grew from 45 members to 120 members this year alone. and mainly young people. >> Yes. >> Which highlights the expanding opportunities with this nation industry. So, thank you so much, Mr. Minister. >> Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I have come to the section where I must read because this has a lot of numbers that I need to call out carefully. Mr. Speaker, for the 2025 2026 fiscal year, six projects were fully implemented as part of the basic needs trust fund 10 program. Among these pro projects were the daily playing field upgrade which was completed at a total cost of 1 million138,8568 and it is scheduled for commissioning within the first quarter of this financial year. The first component of the Sufrius quartz head fish processing facility project which included the procurement of equipment at a total cost of 360,42821 has also been completed and we will see the actual construction of this facility under BNTF1 program. Under the BNTF10 program, we also commenced the pay bush water enhancement project for which a memorandum of understanding was signed with the Dominica Water and Sewage Company Dasco in the amount of 2 million $167,750. Upon completion, this multi-million project is expected to benefit several communities including MOAC, Dodan, Bourne, Push, and Tibo and will soon be commissioned later this year. >> Mr. Speaker, we have been working steadily with the Caribbean Development Bank and our specialist consultant in advancing our BNTF11 program for eight approved projects this year, >> namely the construction of the Sufria Scots village fish processing facility. $2 million. >> Wow. The House of Hope refurbishment at Deise, $1.2 million. The Roso Youth Center Rehabilitation, $900,000. The Dominica State College food court gazebo and walkway covering, $480,000. The grandfather playing field enhancement $1.124 million. >> The Castle Bruce playing field 1.190 million. the Cana Heritage Park Road Rehabilitation 665,000 and the construction of the Longhouse public washroom facility [snorts] $400,13. Mr. Speaker, these projects are to be undertaken at an overall estimated cost of 6 million769,000 and and $13, sorry. Thus far the process of procurement of technical consultants for the design and supervision of the projects has commenced and we have already have had seven local consultants responding. Mr. Speaker, as Minister for Culture, Youth Sports and Community Development, it would be remiss of me not to register my thanks to this government for implementing measures and reaffirming commitment to improving conditions of employment for public officers. During the past year, this ministry benefited tremendously from the creation of new positions that facilitated the permanent appointment of 24 of our officers from the staff at the local government division, the sports division, the cultural division, and several officers within the youth division and the cooperative division. I want to congratulate all those officers and implore them to maintain the same level of dedication and professionalism that they displayed prior to receiving their permanent appointments. And I do hope that they will continue the same level of commitment to service while encouraging others to do the same. At this time, Mr. Speaker, I wish to express thanks to my PS in the ministry, Miss Laticia Lester White, the staff of the ministry, my secretary, Miss Margaret Bell, cultural consultant, Miss Roslin Paul, all heads of department, the chief cultural officer and staff, the chief youth development officer and staff, sports coordinator and staff of the sports division, local government commissioner and staff, my guys at the local government department know they come out and help so much I have to call them out. These are my people working hard for coordinator the chairman and members of the credit steering committee. You see and everybody okay all right m because I won't finish tonight Mr. Speaker, at this time I wish to give attention to my constituents of the Mon River constituency. I know it is late. >> I hope they are listening, but I'll try my best to reach out to them. Mr. Speaker, I owe them a debt of gratitude for their continued support, unyielding patience and enduring faith in this government. And this is what motivates me to continue to work with them and for them. Very loyal to this government. Mr. Speaker, I wish at this time to salute our latest centinarian, Miss Lucil Pascal, affectionately known as Vit Po because she's always running all over the place. who now joins Joseph and Pascal as the only two living centinarians in Grand Fork. This brings to 16 centinarians that we have already honored in this community over the years. Mr. Speaker, longevity is alive in Grand Fork. As I always say, if you want to live longer, take a trip up there and breathe in some fresh air. And we have started >> we have started our live to 100 cardio jam initiative for the young and the elderly. And we strongly believe this will contribute to our health and well-being of all our people whilst at the same time assisting in driving to reduce the incidence of non-communicable diseases. Mr. Speaker, we also recently concluded the Mon River reunion and it turned out to be a resounding success. The speaker is smiling because he joined us in this >> very good. I also want to thank the prime minister who made an effort to come to celebrate with us as well. This brought economic growth because a lot of our small businesses um really made some money so much so one of them called me and said miss it was because of that reunion that I can take a trip with my children >> for the summer. I hope they don't finish all the money. [laughter] >> But Mr. Speaker, apart from that, it brought new life to the community and this is what made it this is what made it great. So, thank you very much. Thanks. >> I thank all those who came together to organize to put it together the people in the diaspora. I thank those who came from neighboring communities [singing] of grand form. Miss Miss Minister was there as well, Dr. Williams. So, it was just a fun time and everything worked out well. Praise the Lord. >> Yes. What a wow. >> Mr. Speaker, during the year, our concentration was in helping people because we are government of the people, for the people, by the people. And we assisted in every possible way that we could, trying to help with trying to help with um their health, general health, assisting them in every need, helping with schools, support for churches. We did a lot of fun family engagements, supported families in their needs. All this was done so that together we could strengthen our community spirit. We worked tirelessly where it mattered and especially with the schools and the children with the education providing their materials needed. I wish to thank the principal and staff of both of our schools for their successes at the recent grade six national exams. grandfa scholarship and a bree that was very good and I wish to congratulate Ren and Williams and Amina Phillip for obtaining a scholarship and bery respectively. Mr. Speaker, this year we'll continue with our skills training in the community. We have started already with plumbing, electricity, cake making and decorating. Last year we did a wig wig installations. So now I think our young ladies are better able to make some extra income and put some better wigs. And we want to thank the people in the Ministry of Youth and Adult Education who assisted us with those those programs. As we move in the new budget cycle, I am happy to announce that we will proceed with the construction of our health center. The ministry, the minister of health is not present. He's there, right? >> Yes. And he just mentioned it, Mr. Speaker, but this has been a long awaited project and I want to thank him. I had a meeting with the Ministry of Health and they promised me that they have received the tender documents and they are just waiting to review it so they can get their contractor at work. So thank you Mr. Minister. The people of Grand will salute you as always. They love you. I don't know if it's your smile in them because he he came to Grant for during a demonstration and and they were demonstrating for that very same health center and the minister came up and people forget they were demonstrating that they smiling for the man. So I getting the blows, he getting the smiles. So keep coming to let them see that the health center is coming up. And let it not be said that we ignored this physical infrastructure. We have one or two people who are trying to make the people believe that it's not going to happen. But I trust in my God. And as the Bible says in Habac 2, >> the vision is yet for an appointed time. >> Though it tries, it shall surely come. and I was my vision >> and shall surely come. >> Thank you. Thank you so much, >> Mr. Speaker. Habac. Habac [laughter] [laughter] Mr. [snorts] >> Mr. Speaker, excuse me. Yes, I'm sorry about that. Mr. became also thrilled to announce the >> you you can pause for a second. The camera zoom in on you where you blushing. >> Nice. >> You're doing well. You're doing well. >> It's amazing how the the Bible causes people to smile. Bony, honorable minister, can you please tell them where that? >> No, it's not old. It's there. >> Proceed. Proceed. Don't be distracted. I am thrilled to announce the official start and approval of our rehabilitation of our playing field in Grand Fork which I just mentioned under BNTF11 at $1.194 million. This will provide us with um bleachers um washrooms, changing rooms, the whole complete transformation and of course drainage works. So we are going to have almost like a mini stadium when we are completed. Yes. When we are completed in Grand. I think the same applies to Cas Bruce. So minister you can smile as well. >> What I do for myself I do for you. >> I wish to thank the counselors and the other people in the community who helped to support this project. They were there in the preliminary discussions with the CDB officials and of course the BNTF representatives. So we look forward to its com commencement very soon. Mr. Speaker, we invest in people. We have been doing that as a government and we'll look to every way to see how we can make our people better. The same applies for the playing field that um Tam in Rivier we I thank the guys who have started the project. They're actually doing it voluntarily but we are trying to level the field and to give them some lighting so that they can at least play their sports and practice their games even after sun. Mr. Speaker, the water project is going on as I speak. Of course, we had a slight delay, but the storage tanks have been built for both Grand Four and Mon. The distribution lines have been placed, the pipes. Um, it is now going through the testing stage in Grandfall with M John. However, we had some incident to where in carrying the pipes across the hills and valleys to get to Mon some of these pipes fell and went down the valley. Of course, I am happy that we had no loss of life. So, they are trying to retrieve those pipes. So, this has caused a delay for Mon. So I just want the people to know because of course we had to lay off some of the workers because no can be done in the in the meantime. So I just want them to understand that for now. >> Mr. Speaker, I won't forget my farmers. I cannot forget them. These are the people who provide me with food on a daily basis. My vegetables, my dashing, my plantain. So Mr. Speaker, I see that our minister has done a great job in the Ministry of Agriculture and this year we are targeting one of our highly productive areas with our farm access road at Newland. Mr. Speaker, this is a place for the past 40 years. Farmers, you know that farmers have been engaged there. They have never stopped till the soil fed their families sold their crops 40 years and going their children have joined. So it's just a place that needed that from access road you visited when you're there Mr. M um Mr. minister. So we are happy and they will be happy. It will be welcome news to to them. And I also want to say too that this is the very place where we are trying to get the land lease for farmers at a dollar an acre per year. So New Farmland is being highly regarded this year and they deserve it because this is a place where farmers really are stationed. Put it that way. Um any other thing I am also happy for the opening of the ambata of course mom in the pocket of my people because they were the ones providing the pork and the chicken I benefited as well and I'm happy that it is coming through. So thank you very much and of course for the crop insurance scheme because we live in a vulnerable area and most times after a disaster our farmers lose a lot of their crops. So the crop insurance scheme 1.5 million. >> Yes. Fully funded by the government. Thank you so much. Thank you so much. >> So Mr. Speaker, as you can see the budget clearly speaks to people. Everything in the budget relates to our people, the people that we serve, the people who have consistently voted this government. And tonight, I just want to say thank you to everyone. Thank you to my constituents who have been there, my office staff, as someone said earlier, don't call names in case you forget somebody. So my NEP supervisors and their assistants, the people in my groups, the Labor Women Association, the constituency groups, my driver, oh Lord, who is still waiting for me outside every day, every hour, every minute, every other person who assists and supports in trying to build the community. I want to thank you tonight. I want to thank all of you who were patient enough to listen to me. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank you for your smiles. You continue. Thank you so much and I fully >> commend this budget to the house. >> Yes. Yes. Senator Oel Lat. >> Yes. Yes, honor Senator Lat, you are recognized. You may proceed. >> Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Um, I rise, Mr. Speaker, to make my contribution to the 2026 2027 budget and I will say that this budget has my unwavering support. Firstly, Mr. Speaker, I'd like to sincerely commend the honorable minister of finance for the confidence and comprehensive presentation delivered to this honorable house. Mr. Speaker, over the years we have witnessed a deliberate and strategic actions of this administration to place people at the center of national development. While we continue to undertake transformative infrastructure projects that are shaping both the physical and economic landscape of the country, for example, the construction of the international airport, the the cable car project, the marina. We have remained equally committed, Mr. speaker to improving the lives of ordinary Dominicans. Mr. Speaker, every credible economic assessment has pointed to the immense potential that these landmark investments, particularly the international airports. One report concluded that these projects are catalysts for economic transformation for Dominica. They will create new opportunities in agriculture, tourism, trade, investment, employment, and small business, positioning Dominica to compete effectively regionally and on the international stage as well. WHAT IS MOST COMMENDABLE, MR. SPEAKER, is while the government is making these bold investments in our nation's future, it has never lost sight of the immediate needs of its people. This project demonstrates that economic growth and social development are not competing priorities, but we can achieve both at the same time. As we build the infrastructure for tomorrow, we are simultaneously investing in health care, education, housing, agriculture, youth development, and social protection. That, Mr. Speaker, is the characteristic of a responsible and sound governance. And this is exactly what this budget is about. Mr. Speaker, someone called me and said, "Oust this bullet has given me confidence. I see opportunities and it ensures that Dominicans that no Dominican is left behind and and as we continue our journey to sustainable development. This is the type of reaction that we are receiving from people. Mr. Speaker, I'm happy to note that the government will continue to invest in the people of Dominica by maintaining and strengthening its social programs. These initiatives, they have proven their value. They have proven their value. They have been providing meaningful relief for families and helping thousands of citizens across socioeconomic backgrounds. they available to all Dominicans. And when these governments introduced the social programs across different sectors, there was widespread criticism. Critics claimed that we are becoming a welfare state, that everything is for free, and that the government was creating a culture of dependency. And the criticisms, Mr. speaker. They went on and on and on. But what many failed to recognize was that these initiatives were part of a deliberate strategy to ease the financial burden on families and individuals and to reduce poverty. By reducing the cost of essential services and providing targeted support, the government was allowing citizens to keep more of their hard-earned monies in their pockets, improve the quality of life, and invest more in their families and into their future. Just imagine for a moment, Mr. Speaker, a family from Pisua with two children attending Dominica State College. Before the government introduced its tuition free policy, that family would have had to spend well over $1,000 per semester per child just for tuition. On top of that, the daily cost of transportation from Pisua to Roso and back could easily run between 25 and $30 for both students. Today, Mr. Speaker, the transportation grant that we provide to college students has assisted parents in meeting that obligation. The result is simple. families are saving thousands of dollars every year. That money can be used to pro to um purchase groceries, pay utility bills, improve their homes, support their children, and meet other essential expenses. It was never about creating dependency. It was and continues to be about providing meaningful relief to families. Mr. Speaker, no one is denying that families everywhere are feeling the effects of high prices of food, fuel, housing, and essential goods and services. But in the same token, no one can deny that this government has provided policies and programs to cushion the impact. And Mr. Speaker, that is not something that we have started now. This thing started years ago. Mr. Speaker, for example, the free textbooks and free uniforms started in the early 2000s. The year speaker program 2009, the NEP started in 2013. The non-contributo social pension, better known as the over 70 and over, started in 2016. And the list goes on and on. Mr. Mr. Speaker, all programs get at providing relief to our citizens. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, I commend the government on the proposed establishment of a national disability disability affairs unit. Too often, person disabilities have been viewed and defined by their limitations rather than their abilities. The reality is many of them, Mr. Speaker, are highly capable, talented and productive individuals who when provided with the right support and opportunities make invaluable contributions to our society. Mr. Speaker, in the office of the prime minister, we have a colleague, Mr. Loick Charles, who is visually impaired. Yet Loick performs this the same level of professionalism and dedication as any other staff. Mr. Speaker, >> he Yeah, Mr. Speaker, he uses the computer. He sends emails. He travel overseas for work more than me. He communicates on WhatsApp. Mr. Mr. Speaker, he posts on WhatsApp status everything. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, this is a powerful reminder that disability does not equate to inability. What people with disability need is not pity. They need opportunity, accessibility, and environment that empowers them to reach their full potential. Mr. Speaker, what we HAVE DONE IN THE OFFICE, MR. speaker is that we have created a community following and when he first came in you know we introduced him to everybody in financial center from security the police officers everybody and each of us support him so right now he has a community and Mr. Speaker when I enter the office yesterday there were one conversation and he had and he had his phone and he said Mr. Look at um come and come and look at this and when you show me the picture I not say more because you know I cannot talk about business outside [laughter] but Mr. Speaker yeah I said I said Gman looking good [laughter] Mr. Speaker, the establishment of a national disability affairs unit is therefore a significant step towards building a more inclusive Dominica where every citizen regardless of their physical ability has the opportunity to contribute, succeed and live with dignity. And I wholly congratulate the government for this um progressive initiative. And congratulations to the Dominica Association of Persons with Disabilities. Mr. Speaker, the National Employment Program, NEP, continues to be one of government most important initiatives creating employment opportunities allowing thousands of Dominicans to work their income. The speaker, I believe in that saying, you never forget where you came from. And I proudly acknowledge that I too was engaged under the NEP. And because of that, I always appreciate the NEP. I show my appreciation. I promote the program and I support the program. The NEP provides placements across both the public and private sectors, offering opportunities at various levels and across different fields. However, I personally believe that the greatest impact is among the community workers. Why? Because these are predominantly individuals who under normal circumstances would never access stable or full-time employment. Through the NEP, they are given the opportunity to work, the security of full-time monthful income and the pride of earning a government's paycheck. A government paycheck. Mr. Speaker, in the Civerous constituency alone, the government pays 250,800 $485.71 every month in NP salaries. Well, that's a lot of money. $250,000 $485.71 empowering families, allowing them to be consumers of goods and services and making meaningful contribution to to society. This amounts to over $3 million a year. And to be specific, it's 3,5,82852 circulating directly in the constituency. And according to the member of Grand Bay, this is real money in the hands of real people >> in Kibru alone. >> Cas alone. Cas alone. Mr. Speaker, this helped families to buy groceries, pay utilities, support their children, improve their homes, and stimulate the econ economic activities in our villages. This is the true impact of the NP. Mr. Speaker, the support provided to the NP extend beyond individuals. The human resource grant component offered to private sector businesses is another practical way in which government supports economic growth. When a business receive an NP employee, the government assumes the cost of the salary reducing the financial burden on the employer while helping businesses expand their workforce. >> That's right. It is therefore very encouraging to see the um reintroduction of the employment tax rebate for the next two years. When this initiative was first introduced in 2014, businesses were eligible for rebates up to $6,000. But under this budget, the rebate has been increased to $10,000 a year. Mr. Speaker, this is a clear and deliberate incentive for businesses to employ more people. And the government is sending a straightforward message to the private sector. Hire more people, create more jobs, and we will reward you for doing so through meaningful tax relief. This government understands that job creation is not achieve alone. It requires practical policies, partnership with the private sector, and incentives that encourage businesses to invest in people. And that's exactly what this budget is about. Mr. Mr. Speaker, when the Minister of Finance in Grand Style announced the new 10% flats income tax rate, I thought of my many friends and associates who know we have spoken over time about income tax reform and so on and um they have been hearing the prime minister saying repeatedly that he's got he does not like income tax. Mr. Speaker, this is a red letter day for the working people of Dominica. This relief could not come at a better time. Mr. Speaker, this is the largest personal income tax reduction in the country in history. This is real tax relief. This is meaningful support for working families. And that is why I wholeheartedly support this measure. Mr. Speaker, I particularly want to encourage the young people of the Castro's constituency to take full advantage of the community mentorship program. This initiative is an opportunity to learn directly from experienced professionals, skill straight men, entrepreneurs, farmers and other individuals who have spent years mastering their craft. The world is changing rapidly and qualifications alone is not enough. More and more employees are looking for practical skills, discipline, problem solving abilities and a willingness to a willingness to learn. This program provides exactly that. To the young people of the of Castle Bruce, Gurup Sansa Pisua and all the communities, I say this to you, embrace this opportunity. Learn a trade, develop a skill, seek out a mentor, ask questions, and prepare yourselves for the opportunities that will emerge with the international airport, the cable car project, the marina, and all the other transformational investments taking place across our country. Mr. Speaker, preparation. That is the key to success. Preparation. When opportunity knocks, those who invest in themselves through programs like this will be ready and not only to find employment but to become entrepreneurs, employers and leaders in the new Dominica that this government is shaping. This 2026 2027 budget is load of opportunities. There are so much contained in this budget and I cannot do justice, Mr. speaker to highlight every single one of them. It's 2010 and I have half an hour. Mr. Speaker, what I will say, however, is that I intend to ensure with my power rep that the CRU's constituency receive its fair share of the pie. >> Mr. Speaker in the cast of this constituency we deserve our fierce share and colleagues will be coming at you to ensure that we get that congress you will again appeal to the young people for the constituency to position yourself to take advantage of these opportunities because you cannot sit back and expect success to come looking for you. You must come forward. You have to ask questions. You have to knock on doors. You have to apply to the programs and prepare yourselves. Opportunity favors those who are ready to the farmers and agrop processors in the constituency. The budget has opportunities for you. The crop insurance will be fully paid by the government as a direct benefit to the farmers. To the small business owners, the additional $19 million made available at the aid bank for unlending is for you as well. The revised custom duties and other business incentives announced in this budget are designed to help your businesses grow, expand, and create more employment. Mr. Speaker, I am personally looking forward to organizing with the PAL rep and preparing for our cross constituency post budget discussions because I firmly believe that every community, every family, every household, every individual should understand what this border means to them. from Shaw to Qua >> to For to Wakama by Douglas to Forl by Natress and and Fing for the entire constituency. Mr. Speaker, we have to sell this budget to them and explain to every Yeah. all our people what is in it for them. Mr. Speaker, before I conclude, I want to sincerely thank the honorable prime minister Roosevelt Scar and his government for the unw unwavering support to the people of the cast constituency when the devastating trough system affected the communities in April. Just the other day, the government responded swiftly. ministers, permanent secretaries, technical teams and other agencies on the ground immediately bringing assistance and beginning the recovery process. >> While the signs of disaster still remains there's a today there's a sense of normaly throughout the communities and we know that work towards the full restoration continues. I advise all residents to remain vigilant and to continue as we continue through the hurricane season. If severe weather threatens, please evacuate your unsafe homes as well as landslide and floodprone areas. Remember the Casu emergency shelter is fully equipped to provide a safe and secure shelter for you and your family should the need arise. Your safety must always come first. Mr. Speaker, no government can claim that everything is perfect. Challenges will always arise. But what matters is having a government that listens, responds, stand with his people in the time of need. And that is exactly what this government has done through this budget and continues to do. The people of the Cas constituency, I want you to know that we remain committed to you. We'll continue to advocate for your interest, advocate on your behalf, and ensure that your voices are heard. You can rely on us. I remain steadfast in my support for the efforts of our parliamentary representative, honorable Octavia Alfred because balancing the responsibilities of both the parl and a cabinet minister is no easy task. It requires tremendous dedication and sacrifice. I commend her for her continued hard work and assure her of my full support as we work together for the best interest of the Casurus people constituency. Sorry. >> I encourage everyone who have not yet completed the voter confirmation to do so. And if you are new reg if you are just in 18 and you have not registered I encourage you to register as well. Mr. Speaker, two weeks ago I I I I met a lady in the territory and she told me >> saying to tell the prime minister she has not confirmed yet because things not hot yet. But um you don't have to wait for me to get hot to confirm. Go ahead and confirm now because our teams are ready and willing to assist you through the entire process. >> So do not hesitate. Reach out to us and as we want to ensure that every eligible voter exercise the democratic right. Mr. Speaker, I am proud of this budget. It is a budget that creates opportunities. reward hard work, invest in people, strengthen businesses, and prepare Dominica for an even brighter future. I therefore give my fullest support. Thank you. >> Yes, Senator Honorable George, you may proceed. You're recognized. >> Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Good evening to you and good evening to my colleagues and listeners both home and abroad. The night is young, Mr. Speaker. So [snorts] I'm taking the opportunity to express uh my support my fully support to the budget as presented by the Minister for Finance and I believe that this budget was a very practical people centered budget Mr. speaker because we understand and appreciate all the external shocks that are happening in the world and what this budget does is that it puts measures into place that will cushion our citizens against all these external shocks. Mr. Speaker, so I want to commend the minister for his presentation. I also want to commend our prime minister and colleagues um for the role they played in compiling this budget as well as the public officers and also the public who had consultations with us in putting this project together. But Mr. Speaker, I listened attentively to the rebuttal of the opposition leader and I must say that she wholeheartedly endorsed many of the projects that this government is doing. the international airport, the geopol, the marina. A matter of fact, she mentioned these projects many times in a presentation, Mr. Speaker, and I suspect that the opposition is on board with the vision of the government in terms of using these projects as a way of empowering and creating opportunities for people. So, I'm very happy for this getting the endorsement from the opposition side in terms of the projects and initiatives that we are doing as a government. But, Mr. Speaker, I believe that the opposition can do a little better. I listened to her and I heard no suggestion or recommendation as to in light of the pro in light of the shocks that we're experiencing, what can a government do to mitigate the shocks. There was no proposal coming from the opposition side as to what we can do as a small island state being faced with all these difficult times. What is the suggestion and what do you think we can do as a country to face to go through these difficult times? And the impression you get from the opposition leader is that these external threats are not something that we should be mindful of or not something that is impacting us in a great degree. So we have the issue of climate change. We have the issue of the rising cost of living and presenting a budget and not speaking to these areas and these issues. Mr. Speaker, I believe that it falls short on many counts. And the impression we get is that the the other side of the house may not be in tune with what is happening on the ground. Mr. speaker. And so I just want to take a few moments before I begin just to shed some light and build some context as to what is happening in the global environment. Mr. Speaker, in the United Kingdom, for example, according to the IMF article 5 consultation, it says the UK is characterized by high inflation, expensive energy bills that leave millions of households struggling to afford daily essentials. In the US, Mr. Speaker, high prices for housing, everyday goods and services continue to strain household budgets. And we know of that, Mr. Speaker, because that directly impacts us because a number of Dominicans receive barriers and other goods from the US. So we can attest to these difficulties. In Canada, for instance, high home prices and surging rental costs make shelter unattainable for many. The ECCU, Mr. Speaker, Dominica, St. Lucia, Grenada, Antigga, St. Vincent, faces economic challenges driven by global inflation, geopolitical, energy tensions, and climate vulnerabilities. Barbados faces interconnected economic, democratic, and environmental crisis. Mr. Speaker, so I'm saying all this to show that all these countries globally, Mr. Mr. Speaker, I could go on with the list. All these countries share same or similar issues and at the core of that is the rising cost of living. Mr. Speaker, and that is why I believe that any budget delivered in 2026 have to address the issue of the rising cost of living. And that is why I believe that this budget delivered by the Minister of Finance is so very important and relevant and practical for the times that we're living in. Mr. Speaker, so the issue of cost of living and just to be clear, cost of living is not an issue that was created by any action of the government. Many times we head on and say that you know it's because of the action or inaction of the government that is why we have so much inflation and the cost of living is so high. But obviously that is not the case Mr. Speaker and we know that the high prices originated from you know following the coid9 pandemic and then we had the the war between the Palestine and Israel and then we had the war in the US and Iran and all these things exaggerated the the the crisis we having in terms of the cost of living. So these things continue to impact our ability to purchase goods and services and of course as a government we have to ensure that we can put things in place um to cushion our citizens against these type of measures. So we have implemented a number of measures and I must say first and foremost that our social programs is one of the ways which we can cushion against the rising prices and many times people believe that our social programs is something that we just do um maybe to get votes or to become popular but if you look at it carefully Mr. Speaker, you would understand and appreciate that when you implement a social program, when you help a family with housing or you help a family to purchase school supplies for for the child or you help a family in meeting medical expenses, all these things can impact the quality of life of the family and indirectly what you're really doing, Mr. Speaker, is that you're reducing the burden or the cost of living on that family. So this is something that's very important and of course all the low-income persons in Dominica, all the vulnerable persons, they have been touched in in one way or the other by the social programs that the government is doing. And that is important for us to note. And what this budget does so beautifully, Mr. Speaker, is that we are not saying that we are only cushioning the vulnerable or we are cushioning the low-inccome persons. We are also putting measures in place to cushion the working class or the middle class. And I believe my colleague say it very well earlier that many times you hear person say and complain that the government is only looking after the less fortunate or the low-inccome people. I mean that's not the case. That's not the case. But that is something that you continue to hear very regularly that the government is only um benefiting low-income people. And what this budget does today, Mr. speaker is that it introduces measures directly targeting the working class or the middle class. And one may say that the income tax reform, for example, might not benefit persons that gain $2,5 a month and less. But what it does, Mr. speaker is that it gives the middle class some leg room and it it kind of balances the the the the approach to reducing the cost of living over time because we understand that the middle class is the one who carries the blunt of the weight for taxes in the country and taxes are very important. That's the way countries operate. That's the way countries run by raising taxes and by implementing taxes. Um and if a government in 2026 acknowledges that yes we need the tax revenue to continue to implement projects and programs but still we acknowledge that the the the cost of living crisis is something that can be very detrimental to the livelihood of people. We are willing to forgo $43.5 million as the case may be to ensure that persons can have decent standard of living and I think that is something that's very very commendable on this government and something that is noble and something that's very practical given the circumstances that we we're going through in the world and then we also speak into the issue of the elimination of compounding. We are small country. We are very dependent on imports. We don't have the capacity to to produce all what we need to survive. Um so there's a a large import bill. And many times you hear young people um crying saying that the custom fees is too expensive and it's it's prohibiting them from importing what they want to import. And through this budget, we're bringing this thing saying that yes, we acknowledge that that is a problem and we're trying to fix it. And we're fixing it by ensuring that we can reduce the amount of custom duties that you pay at at the customs. And I think that's a measure that can impact not just the working class or or or the high income persons, but is a measure that can impact every single Dominican because of the volume of imports um that this country continues to do. And of course, Mr. Speaker, the budget also mentions it also speaks to the extension of the VAT concessions and we have to understand that especially the low-inccome people majority of their income is spent on purchasing everyday items you know the rice and the flowers and the sugars and the cereals that's what they they use on a daily basis and we are saying that because these items attract vat And because the VAT is a a cause of high prices, we are willing to forgo some income and ensure that that becomes more affordable for you. So many young many persons across Dominica, many vulnerable families um will feel a difference and and and and understand the difference when they go to the supermarkets and buy goods. Mr. Speaker, and I think these three measures basically captures the essence of the budget. It shows that the government is understanding. The government is compassionate. The government is very empathetic and we understand that yes, you're going through difficult times because of the external forces, but as a government, we're willing to step in and ensure that your livelihood can be protected and ensure that you can send the children to school. Mr. Mr. Speaker, I'm happy to see in the budget the seriousness placed on the orange economy. And there's no secret, Mr. Speaker, that Dominica is filled with talent, creative talent, creative industries, Mr. Speaker, and we have to position ourselves to maximize on those talent. And one area for example is our buoya music. I think that the Buyer music has evolved over time. Um it's more innovative. It's more creative. Uh and a result of that our buoy music has taken the world by storm. And yes, we want to commend all the musicians that played their part in this, especially the bands from the yesterday WCKS who started the whole Puyo thing and and these days we have new artists like the Isabons and the Rios and the Kenny Jeans and all these guys who continue to play and represent Dominica in the Buyo AD for and what we are saying in this budget is that because of the impact of Buo and because of the tremendous potential that the Buy Music as in the international community. We want to ensure that we can protect the livelihood of the buoy artists and the cultural practitioners because what you don't want, Mr. Speaker, is a situation where an artist or practitioner have a very good season or two seasons or a very good carnival and independence and after that nothing happens and livelihood is lost. So what we're saying is that we're proposing the development of an agency called the Dominica Creative Economy Development Agency. And this agency will lead in putting a framework together to to to work with the boy artists, to work with the creative um industry players, the practitioners and all these persons who engage and involve in in organizing events work with these people to ensure that their rights are protected. they can understand issues such as taxation, issues such as um removing barriers to to to to the their trade, understanding issues of copyrights and royalties and ownership of bits and all these things, Mr. Speaker, play vital role in ensuring that the the industry continues to thrive and with this measure in this budget today, Mr. speaker their rights and their privileges will be protected and that they can better able to exercise and market the trade. Also, Mr. Speaker, in the budget, we made it clear of our intention to implement initiatives to increase our population and that has been a a real issue for us in Dominica for a very long time. And basic economic theory will propose that if you want to increase your your or if you want to grow your economy, if you want to increase your output and production, there are a number of ways you can do that. One of which is to increase your productivity, efficiency and innovation. But also another way is by increasing your population. But when you increase your population, you have greater demand, more consumption of goods and services. Mr. speaker and that is what you want to ensure that there's a a multiply effect in the economy and by increasing your population increasing your demand and supply you can achieve greater growth. So we're taking this very serious um the government has indicated its intention or its goal to increase our population to 100,000 by 2040 and I think this was well articulated in the budget Mr. speaker and this will be done or spearheaded by establishing a national population renewal and global Dominican engagement program and this program will seek to address areas such as rebuilding of the resident population reducing the skills gap and creating practical ways for the wider Dominican family to return invest and settle in Dominica. Mr. speaker and one of the things as mentioned by my colleague earlier that was very well received by the sporting fraternity is that the intention is to advance the necessary legislation to allow persons if at least one grandparent to that was born in Dominica to apply for citizenship and this has been advocated for for many years um through the associations for athletes um through for clubs and groups And the right is that there are descendants of Dominicans out there in the UK, in Canada, in the US, in France that have tremendous talent. Unfortunately, they are not able to make it on their national team, but they have tremendous talent and they would run at any opportunity to represent Dominica. And through that measure, what we're saying is that we are putting legislation in place to ensure that these players are now eligible to play for Dominica and become citizens. Mr. Speaker, and for me personally, this is very important. Um, because one of the things we need to do is to strengthen our national teams. Um, our national team has been performing very well, I must say, especially football. But we need to find a way to take it to the higher level. We need to find a way to progress further in a confe for example. And how do we do that? How do we get to a point where we can qualify for a world cup or at least get close to qualifying for a world cup? The small nations small island did it by using foreign players with roots in Paso and they qualified for the world cup. So how do we get our teams to that level? We can do that by engaging and facilitating Dominicans overseas or second generation Dominicans to return home and represent Dominica. Mr. Speaker, but I we we should not miss the important point, Mr. Speaker, that because of all the transformation that's happening in Dominica, the airport, with the marina, um with all these transformative projects, Mr. Speaker, I think now is the best time for Dominicans to return home, settle and make a serious contribution to the growth and development of Dominica. Come back home and water your grass as indicated by our minister. Mr. Speak, Mr. Speaker, the budget also made provisions as usual for the productive sectors and productive sectors are very important. They are key drivers um to growth. And many times we hear folks indicate that you know there is the issue about debt and try to give the impression that debt is a bad thing or debt is something that will cause us you know to collapse. But it's important to note Mr. Speaker that debt is not always a bad thing. That cannot be a bad thing. Yes, there's there's unsustainable levels of debt, but debt in general is not a bad thing. If you contract debt and you use that money to invest in the productive sector, that cannot be a bad thing. If you use debt to invest in in in rehabilitation following a disaster, that cannot be a bad thing, which was the case after Maria, Mr. Speaker. So I think we are one we are one of the countries we're one of the governments that have a very good record when it comes to managing debt Mr. Speaker. So I don't think that contracting debt is is is should be a form of any concern in Dominica because we have a a policy where we contract debt but we use that to invest in productive sectors to invest in access to invest in agriculture to invest in facilities that will bring returns in the long run. Mr. Speaker and I think that's very important. And I want to commend the prime minister and minister of finance um for the way in which they manage our debt, the way in which they manage the financial affairs of Dom, Mr. Speaker, because if it was not for that level of management, we would find ourselves in some problems. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, as I'm on the issue of productive sectors, I think agriculture continues to be a pillar for our development. Um and again many times you hear this the opposition guys um try to imply that we're not spending or we're not investing enough in agriculture which is not the case from the budget. Mr. Speaker, we heard that from July 2017 to June 2026, $252.5 million invested in agriculture, in livestock, in in fish trees, in in the infrastructure, in food security. And I think this is the kind of investment we need to make agriculture um something very very successful, Mr. Speaker. And these investments they come at a very important time. A time when food security is so important. A time when persons start to look inwards and we have to find a way to feed ourselves. And I want to commend the work of the minister and the minister of agriculture. Mr. Speaker, they have been really they have been working really hard. They have been going out there and meeting the farmers where they are on the on the farms and understanding understanding what is required firsthand. Mr. Speaker, and it's important that we lay the platform for the further advancement of agriculture. You know, we have the Chinese mission in one mile. you know that have been providing great support to us and the sector providing tools and technical advice and I want I want to take some time to commend um the Chinese government for this Mr. Speaker they have been a real good partner to Dominica and the sector over a number of years we have a number of facilities that have provided grants to our agro processors Mr. Mr Speaker, one of the things I have noticed in Dominica is that we we don't value the importance of agrop processing enough because some people still believe that we are not producing or we not manufacturing. But if you go to supermarkets across Domnica, you will see so many things so many things being produced or being sold that are produced in Dominica. Mr. Speaker, we don't market these things enough. But I believe that in terms of agro processing, we're doing very well, very very well in Dominica, Mr. Speaker, and that plays a huge impact um in our economy. And of course, we know of the investment in the abattoire and again food security is important, livestock being able to feed ourselves, being able to ultimately reduce the import bill that is one of the functions of the abattoire. Mr. Speaker, we are seeing we saw investments in the fishing sub sector. We've seen a number of vote of boat boats given to to farmers free of charge to fishermanmen free of charge. Um boots that cost a lot of money um supporting the the fishing sector in a huge way. Mr. Speaker, we seen that we seen the signature the contract signing of the Dunkra project which will support directly 520 farmers across Dominica. Mr. speaker that is significant um for for for developing agriculture. We I'm happy to see that in the budget we have allocations for feeder root development. It's very important. Farmers normally complain that they cannot get to their farms. Um in this budget we have allocation to continue investments in feeder roads. I know that a lot of work was done last year and the year before on feeder roads and we've seen an allocation there for feeder roads. And of course, Mr. Mr Speaker, we also saw uh allocation for the crop insurance which is a very very progressive move Mr. Speaker because we understand that 50% of the time we are subjected to the threat of a natural disaster and at any point Mr. speaker, the entire farm can be washed away. And you know, for a small farmer in a in a small village in Dominica, their farm is their livelihood. And just imagine that being washed away in a matter of hours and not having the capital to to to survive or or to gain revenue for for a livelihood. So what we're doing, Mr. speaker is investing in a crop insurance facility where the government will take the full cost or pay the full cost of that insurance facility. And of course in the event in the event god for god forbid of a natural disaster the government can come in and support our farmers and ensure that they can maintain their livelihood. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, also in the budget, we we saw a huge allocation for tourism, very important sector, another productive sector, Mr. Speaker. And again, we have been recognized constantly over the last year or two as one of the premier tourism destinations around the world, Mr. Speaker, and I want to commend the minister for this. Um, a lot of recognition, a lot of accolades because we're investing in tourism and we're making strides, Mr. Speaker. But access is important. Hence the development of international airport. We have the marina, the cable car. All these projects and of course the numerous hotel accommodation. All these projects, Mr. Speaker, combined seek to improve the whole tourism aspect and of course we cannot forget minister that we have to pay some attention to the sites. And I think if we can have the sites upgraded, we can seek to ensure that the tourists can spend more money while they in Dominica. And if we can capture more of the funds from the tourists while they in Dominica, I think we can be on our way to have a thriving tourism sector. Mr. Speaker, Mr. speaker we also saw a very transformative allocation geothermal and I I I won't go into the technical aspect of geothermal because that was expertly done by the expert but just to say that geothermal exploration gives us a added buffer when it comes to building resilience. We now are able to see that we can be independent when it comes to providing energy and we all know too well of the situation we had some years ago where there was a shortage in gas and and how difficult it was and with geothermal we can see that problem being something of the past Mr. speaker and I think that's very important for us and again I want to put on record our commendations to the minister for energy the member of parliament for grandby for really leading this effort in ensuring that we can have due for in 2026 I know it was a difficult task I know it was a task that brought him a lot of criticism it was something that persons were impatient for um it took some time but we can say loudly in 2026 that we have made it and of course we're going to see the benefits of geothermal going forward. So that's very important Mr. Speaker and of course we have allocations in the budget for geopal to to continue. Mr. Speaker, I want to touch quickly on small business development because I think that's a very important area for Dominica because we have to understand that the government is not able to provide all the employment we need and the private sector then [clears throat] becomes very very important and that is where small business comes in and I I can say with no fear of contradiction Mr. speaker that almost every small business in Dominica can see that they have been touched in some way or other by this party by this government. Mr. Speaker, whether it be grants, whether it be concessionary loans, whether it be technical support, whether it be advice, training for DYBT and other other facilities. Every single small business in Dominica, I am confident, can attest that they have been touched in some way or another by our intervention in the small business sector. And of course, we know that a few years ago, we had placed $27.8 $8 million at the aid bank for un lending to for on lending to small businesses where it was reported that it was reported that this amount was was used up Mr. Speaker um as of March 31st 554 businesses benefited from this facility Mr. speaker and again from this budget we're seeing that the government is committing an additional $19 million to place at the eight bank to ensure that we can unend small businesses. Mr. Speaker, so I just want to say to small businesses that we are we are creating opportunities for them. We are investing in them. We are placing capital and funds at the relevant institutions so that they can tap into and ensure that they have the liquidity to develop their small businesses. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, as it relates to to sports, as I've said before, we continue to invest in sports because we believe that sports is a way for empowering young persons. Um we understand that in order to excel in sports, it's important to start at the grassroots level. Um that's very important at the primary schools in the communities. Um so we have a very vigorous program at the primary school level where we can nurture this young persons, identify the talented ones and of course put them in a structured program um and try to get them up to the national level and regional and international stage. So that's very important for us. We have done quite a bit as it relates to sports infrastructure. I I don't think I should dwell on that that much. We have we have invested in upgrading playing fields and putting lights on playing fields in building pavilions and washrooms um in building multi-purpose courts in lighting of courts. Um we have completed the lights at the Winter Park Stadium, Mr. Speaker, which is a world class lighting facility now. Um and I want to commend I I I want to commend the lotteryies commission for their for their support in this project. Mr. Speaker, as we know the funds were provided by the lottery commission. Um they have they were very helpful in ensuring that this project is completed. I want to commend publicly the efforts of Mr. Vonroy um and the electrical division. He was really involved and instrumental in ensuring that this project is completed. I want to commend um Clive Clive Pelway. Mr. speaker, very hardworking um gentleman at the Windsor Park Stadium um very instrumental in ensuring that this project is completed. I want to commend the the the board of the Windsor Park Stadium, the manager um for the effort. Um of course the contractor um I want to commend him and his and his team for ensuring that he could deliver on this very very important project. Um so we are now placed at a a position where we can host night games. um and not just host night games but we have a facility that's that's one of the best in the in the Caribbean now when it comes to lighting um so so next so it's important that we exit we we make use we make use of this facility Mr. Speaker, going forward, the priority for the for the Ministry of Sports as it relates to infrastructure will be the the synthetic track. I believe that this is one of or if not the only missing piece for sports in Dominica. And I think if we can do that, we can we greatness in sports. Um just this morning, we got some update from World Athletics. Um they're playing in Dominica this month. Um we have begun the process of tendering um for potential contractors. Um very soon we will conclude on that and of course we will take it from there to ensure that we can have a a top class synthetic track at point wrong. Obviously we have decided to include u Olympic size swimming pool. >> We have decided to include some residential homes for the athletes um some recreational areas, administrative complex and stuff like that. So it's a it's a stadium basically minister um basically um Mr. speaker. It's a stadium and that's why that is why this project um takes some time because a a project of that magnitude you have to do the required testing, the required designs, the required certifications. So this last financial year, you would notice that we spend quite a bit of money in in in engaging a consultant to develop the plan, you know, going on site, you know, doing test pits. We did up to 12 test pits on site. um ensuring that the the the concept is is finalized um based on the characteristics of the land and the soil and stuff like that. So this consultancy was was successful. We have a master plan now which will be the basis for us building this facility at point wrong and as I said earlier um very soon we will seek to engage contractors and of course that will coincide with the visit by world of fetics. So I'm very happy for this Mr. speaker and I think that that will be the icing on the cake. Um when it comes to sports, obviously we continue to recognize our athletes. I think that's very important for motivating our athletes. Um you know one of the days where you played sports and you receive new recognition these days when you play sports and you excel and you represent Dominica well you know we recognize you in a huge win. You know we we we we give you financial recognition. um we give you a piece of Dominica in certain instances. Um you're promoted um to ambassadorships. Uh and of course we make you feel good because we need to celebrate our office because they are really representing us um well on the international stage. Mr. Speaker, and as I said earlier, um Mr. Addison James, our gold medalist from the knockup competition earlier this year. Um, we will seek to appoint him as a sports ambassador effective September, Mr. Speaker, and we will also give him a monthly allowance to ensure that they can get prepared for future competitions. And of course, FAF again, I congratulate her for her good mic and Jasmine Scoffield. I also want to to congratulate and recognize the the the contributions of Kav Hodge Kav and Alip Afanas. Um they are now international players, Mr. Speaker, but they continue to represent us and represent us well at international level especially Kim Horge. I also want to recognize um Fountain who represented the West Indies under 19 team Mr. speaker and he performed well and of course the Dominica under 19 cricket team they were champions back-to-back champions in 2024 and 2025 respectively. So Mr. Speaker, the performances of our athletes and teams continue to boost our country on the world stage and that in itself represents a sort of inspiration and of course we congratulate them and of course their coaches, the support staff, the members of the Dominica Olympic Committee, um the various associations, the sports council, the sports division, all those who play an important role in this. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, I also want to I also want to recognize the efforts by by the youth development division. Mr. Speaker, the youth development division continue to play a very important role in developing young persons and young talent in Domniko. reaction. >> So, >> so it's important to recognize their contributions, Mr. Speaker. And over the last over the last year, 238 young Dominicans were trained for programs at the youth development division. Um, obviously that's excluding DYBT. Um, but we continue to implement a number of programs that will build capacity among the young people. For instance, over the last year, we implemented programs in coding and game development, digital device maintenance and repair, videography, online public speaking and leadership presence, heavy equipment and truck operation. I think that that course in particular was very important where we we we got young persons and exposed them to operating heavy equipment. And I must say that this program was heavily subscribed. We actually received over 300 applicants um for that program and we could only take 30. It was it was it was Yeah. So we we decided to do it in this coming financial year. Again, Mr. Speaker, albeit it might be at a different location, but I think persons are very excited in that for that area in terms of operating heavy equipment. Mr. Mr Speaker, a lot of young men across Dominica very keen on getting involved in that aspect and that training, Mr. Speaker, because they see the value and of course they see that there number of projects going around that's demanding um heavy equipment operators. So, they're very interested in that. So, again, we will continue to do that again this year, Mr. Speaker. And of course, we continue to engage um young persons and in the budget, Mr. Speaker, it was mentioned of the community mentorship program where we will seek to partner with the youth division where we can have a structured mentorship program at the community level because there are the number of persons at the committee level that have many good resources to give to young people, you know, retired persons, persons with expertise in different areas. So we're going to bring these people together in one room and expose the young persons to their stories and to their advice and mentorship to ensure that we can build a cgery of young persons um that are integrated into society. So Mr. Speaker, I just want to commend all the players involved in the last financial year. Um it was a relatively good year um for the ministry in terms of implementation. Uh but for me it's more than just implementation because implementation only captures um capital projects that's concrete and motor but a lot of things are happening outside implementation rates. A lot of things are happening um in the skills training and and that is not reflected in implementation right you know mentorship skills training opportunities overseas all these things are not reflected in implementation. implementation is limited to concrete and steel projects Mr. Speaker and I don't think that's a good measure of any ministry uh Mr. Speaker but nevertheless I want to thank the entire ministry for their support the PS has been supportive you know it's a very large ministry a lot going on on a daily basis but she have been able to manage it and manage it very well Mr. Speaker and I want to commend all the heads of departments um for their consistent efforts over the last year um the the the the council, the the Windsor Park Board, the NYC, um JCI, all the youth groups. Mr. Speaker, I want to commend them for the partnership and support um over the last year. And just to say that the reward for good work is more work. So, we continue to work um to deliver all the positive things for young people across Dominica. So, I just want to say, Mr. Speaker, finally, that this budget is a very practical budget. It's focused on people. Um it's focused on addressing the key issue of um the cost of living measure which is a problem that's not just in Domnica but it affects the entire world. Mr. Speaker and this budget puts measures in place to safeguard the livelihoods and the future of people and to ensure that they can have more disposable income so that they can address the everyday needs. Mr. Speaker, so it's very relevant and I fully support this budget. Mr. Thank you very much. >> Mr. Speaker, I move that this honorable house be suspended and adjourned until 10:00 a.m. tomorrow morning. That is the 7th of August. Second. >> It has been moved and seconded that the house be adjourned until 10:00 a.m. Friday 7th August, 2026. Those in favor, >> those against, the eyes have it. House stand ajourned until 10:00 a.m. Friday 7th, 2026. Mr. Speak up.