ROSEAU, Dominica, Nov 2, CMC – Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has told Dominicans that they must “reflect honestly on the work of nation-building” as the country prepares to celebrate 48 years of political independence from Britain on Tuesday.
Skerrit, who became head of government on January 8, 2004, said that independence calls on every generation to build on the achievements of those who came before, respond to the challenges of its time and prepare the way for those who will follow.
“It requires us to ask what we can each contribute, how we can strengthen our communities, and what kind of country we want to leave our children,” he said in an independence message.
Skerrit said while he remains committed to the work of developing Dominica and “to listening to the people,” nonethless every Dominican has a contribution to make.
“We strengthen Dominica when we support a local farmer or small business, guide a young person, care for an elderly neighbour, protect our environment or carry out our duties with honesty and pride. These everyday acts help build the kind of country we want our children to inherit.
“To our citizens living overseas, thank you for the love, support and commitment you continue to show your homeland. Wherever you reside, you remain part of Dominica’s story and its future.”
Skerrit said that 48 years after gaining independence “through difficult times, Dominicans have continued to care for one another, rebuild their communities, and find the strength to begin again.
“That spirit remains one of our country’s greatest gifts. Independence is a deeply meaningful celebration. It lives in the pride we feel when our flag is raised, in the sound of our music and the beauty of our traditional dress, in our Kwéyòl language, our food and the customs passed from one generation to the next. It connects Dominicans across communities, across generations and across the many countries we now call home.
“I encourage us to cherish these traditions and give our children every opportunity to know and love them. Our cultural practitioners, elders, teachers and families have an essential role in keeping this inheritance alive. They deserve our appreciation and support,” Skerrit said.
He said that the responsibility of the government is to ensure that national development brings meaningful improvements to people’s lives.
“Better infrastructure will make daily travel safer and help businesses grow. Investment in education will prepare our children for a changing world. Stronger healthcare will give families greater confidence that help will be available when they need it. Economic opportunities will allow more Dominicans to earn a decent living and provide for those they love.
“As we look towards fifty years of Independence, let us move forward with confidence, a clear sense of responsibility and respect for one another. We will have differences, but we share a homeland and a common interest in its well-being,” Skerrit said.
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