AGP Executive Report

Child Protection Push: Circle of Friends Inc. is calling for a stronger, coordinated child protection network after the death of 16-year-old Jerbiah Paul, urging civil society to check whether reporting, safety, and support systems reach the most vulnerable. Murder Case Update: Police have charged serving officer Jean-Luc Langlais with the murder of Jerbiah Paul; the case follows her disappearance on July 24 and the later discovery of remains in Capuchin, with forensic identification expected to guide the next steps in court. Police Well-Being Plan: National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmoore says Dominica will strengthen police support by placing a psychologist inside the force and creating a dedicated personnel function to help officers manage stress. Family Law Reforms: Blackmoore also highlighted a strengthened legal framework for domestic matters, including faster protection orders and expanded police powers. Regional Child Policy: OECS, with UNICEF support, unveiled a regional child policy and strategic plan for 2026–2032, stressing a whole-of-the-child approach and action beyond the document. Watersports Regulation: The Dominica Watersports Association wants clearer, more transparent rules for watersports operations, including licensing and guidance tied to the Sperm Whale Reserve framework. Infrastructure Works: Work has started on rehabilitating Pointe Ronde Bridge, with a temporary bypass to keep traffic moving while crews clear land and begin major repairs.

Murder Case Update: Dominica police have charged serving officer Jean-Luc Langlais with the murder of 16-year-old Jerbiah Paul, after her decomposing body was found in Capuchin; Chief of Police Lincoln Corbette called it “truly heartbreaking,” while National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmoore says a Canadian forensic pathologist is expected to assist and that the investigation is ongoing. Police Welfare Push: Blackmoore also announced plans for a specialised police unit to monitor officers’ social and professional well-being, including placement of a psychologist. Family Law Reform: Minister Rayburn Blackmore says Dominica has strengthened its domestic and child protection framework through a package of family legislation passed in 2023, including faster protection orders and expanded police powers. Missing Child Clarification: Blackmore addressed public comparisons in the Kernisha Etienne disappearance case, stressing the investigation remains open. Governance & Justice Debate: The Caribbean Court of Justice crisis continues to spill into the region, with CCJ President Winston Anderson rejecting “panel fixing” claims amid leaked correspondence fallout. OECS Child Policy: OECS launched a regional child policy and strategic plan for 2026–2032 with UNICEF support, aiming for whole-of-the-child protection across member states. Watersports Regulation: The Dominica Watersports Association says clearer, transparent rules are needed for watersports operations under the Sperm Whale Reserve Act, including licensing and swim-encounter guidance. Infrastructure: Work has started on rehabilitating Pointe Ronde Bridge, with a temporary bypass to keep traffic moving.

Murder Case Update: Police charged serving officer Jean-Luc Langlais with the murder of 16-year-old Jerbiah Paul after her decomposed body was found in Capuchin; Chief of Police Lincoln Corbette called it “truly heartbreaking” and said the investigation is ongoing with no stone left unturned. Police Welfare Push: National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmore says the force will add support for officers’ mental and emotional well-being, including a psychologist and a dedicated personnel function. Missing Child Clarification: Blackmore also addressed public comparisons in the Kernisha Etienne disappearance case, stressing that Kernisha’s investigation remains open. Family Law Reform: Blackmore highlighted a strengthened domestic and family protection package passed in 2023, including faster protection orders and expanded police powers. Regional Child Policy: OECS, with UNICEF support, unveiled a 2026–2032 regional child policy and strategic plan aimed at safer, more empowered children across the sub-region. Watersports Regulation: The Dominica Watersports Association urged clearer, transparent rules for operators, citing gaps around the Sperm Whale Reserve Act and calling for streamlined licensing. Infrastructure: Work has started on rehabilitating Pointe Ronde Bridge with a temporary bypass to reduce disruption.

CCJ Fallout: Caribbean Court of Justice President Justice Winston Anderson has rejected “panel fixing” claims and says allegations of improper influence are “wholly untrue,” after leaked internal correspondence sparked a regional leadership crisis. Police & Justice: Dominica’s police chief says an Amber Alert system isn’t needed, citing existing missing-person notification channels; meanwhile, the Jerbiah Paul case has escalated with a serving officer charged with murder after remains were found in Capuchin, and the probe is drawing international forensic support. Family Protection Laws: Minister Rayburn Blackmore says Dominica’s 2023 family legislation package strengthens protections for children, victims of domestic violence, and maintenance enforcement, with faster protection orders and expanded police powers. Local Governance & Resilience: Kalinago households received tools, seedlings and training under a UNDP/India-funded resilience project to boost backyard food production. Watersports Regulation: The Dominica Watersports Association is pushing for clearer, transparent licensing rules tied to the Sperm Whale Reserve Act as it prepares for the 2026/2027 season. Infrastructure: DOWASCO apologizes for service interruptions and low water pressure in Water Area 1 after rainfall-related network works. Roseau North By-Election: Finance Minister Dr. Irving McIntyre urged Roseau North voters to back Ashma McDougall ahead of the September 7 by-election.

CCJ Crisis Response: CCJ President Justice Winston Anderson has rejected claims of “panel fixing” and improper influence after reports of internal tensions, saying the allegations are “wholly untrue” while acknowledging some decisions could have been handled differently. Police & Justice: In Dominica’s Jerbiah Paul case, police charged serving officer Jean-Luc Langlais with murder; the investigation continues with international support, and officials say details are being withheld to protect the case. Children’s Safety: Minister of State Dr. Cassandra Williams mourned Jerbiah Paul and renewed calls for stronger parental responsibility and protection for girls and young women. Missing Child Clarification: National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmoore addressed the Kernisha Etienne disappearance, stressing the investigation remains open and correcting public comparisons to the Jerbiah Paul case. Regional Child Policy: OECS, with UNICEF support, launched a Regional Child Policy and Strategic Plan 2026–2032, aiming for safer, empowered children across the OECS. Elections Watch (Roseau North): The Electoral Office clarified voter ID rules for the Sept. 7 by-election during voter confirmation, while UWP candidate Danny Lugay alleged irregularities and duplicate entries on the voters’ list. Infrastructure: Work has started on rehabilitation of Pointe Ronde Bridge, with a temporary bypass to reduce disruption. Water Update: DOWASCO apologized for low water pressure and interruptions in Water Area 1 due to network works after heavy rainfall.

Murder Case Update: Police charged serving officer Jean-Luc Langlais with the murder of 16-year-old Jerbiah Paul after her decomposed body was found in Capuchin; Chief of Police Lincoln Corbette called it “truly heartbreaking,” while National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmoore said Dominica is bringing in international forensic support and will not spare anyone involved. Police Well-Being: Blackmoore also announced plans for a specialised police unit to monitor officers’ social and professional well-being, including a psychologist and confidential support channels. Local Governance & Services: DOWASCO apologised for unscheduled water interruptions and low pressure in Water Area 1 after works tied to recent heavy rainfall. Infrastructure: Work has started on rehabilitation of the Pointe Ronde Bridge, with a temporary bypass to keep traffic moving while crews clear land and rebuild. Elections Watch (Roseau North): The Electoral Office clarified voter ID rules for the Sept. 7 by-election, while UWP candidate Danny Lugay alleged duplicate and incorrect entries on the voters’ list. Regional Policy: OECS and New Zealand-backed work wrapped up on disaster-resilient schools in indigenous communities, and OECS unveiled a regional child policy and strategic plan for 2026–2032.

Murder Case Update: Police Commissioner Lincoln Corbette says the investigation into 16-year-old Jerbiah Paul remains ongoing after the discovery of her remains in Capuchin and the formal charge of serving officer Jean Luc-Rudy Langlais with murder; authorities say details are being withheld to avoid compromising the case, but the probe is being supported by regional and international partners including the FBI and embassies. Police Welfare Push: National Security Minister Rayburn Blackmoore announced plans to create a specialised police unit focused on officers’ social and professional well-being, including a psychologist placement and a confidential personnel function. Infrastructure: Work has started on the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Pointe Ronde Bridge in Portsmouth, with a temporary bypass being prepared to keep traffic moving while crews clear land and begin major works. Roseau North By-Election Admin: The Electoral Office clarified that voters without the new ID card can still vote using approved alternative identification during the confirmation period, while UWP candidate Danny Lugay alleges irregularities including duplicate and triplicate entries on the register. CBI Politics: Former critic Kenneth Rijock publicly praised CBI-financed infrastructure progress under PM Skerrit, even as the debate over CBI oversight and alleged discounting continues. Tourism Numbers: The tourism minister reported an 18% rise in visitor arrivals to 527,728 for the last fiscal year, with growth across key markets.

Murder Charge in Jerbiah Paul Case: Police confirmed 16-year-old Jerbiah Paul of Portsmouth was murdered and charged serving officer Jean Luc-Rudy Langlais, who has been dismissed and remanded, as investigators continue with support from regional and international partners. Social Services Statement: Minister of State Cassandra Williams urged Dominicans to treat violence against girls and young women as unacceptable, calling for protection and an end to silence. Climate-Resilient Schools: Atkinson Primary in the Kalinago Territory received upgrades under an OECS climate resilience project, including drainage works, hurricane-protection doors, and emergency communications and power. Roseau North By-Election Rules: The Electoral Office clarified that voters can’t be turned away without the new Voter ID card, and outlined acceptable alternative ID combinations while confirmation and registration continue ahead of the Sept. 7 vote. CCJ Political Fallout: Dominica’s PNP hit back at Senate President Tom Tavares-Finson over remarks on Jamaica’s CCJ position, arguing the debate is really about equal access to justice. Creative Sector Push: PM Skerrit says Dominica will appoint a dedicated minister to oversee the creative industry under a new creative economy agency. Tourism Update: Tourism Minister Denise-Charles-Pemberton reported an 18% rise in visitor arrivals to 527,728.

Roseau North By-Election: Finance Minister Dr. Irving McIntyre urged Roseau North voters to back Ashma McDougall ahead of the September 7 contest, warning the constituency “cannot take a chance” as costs rise and the economy shifts. Electoral Rules & IDs: The Electoral Office says voters won’t be turned away for lacking the new Voter ID card during confirmation, but must show approved alternatives like a Dominica passport, or a driver’s licence or Social Security card plus a birth certificate. Voter List Dispute: UWP candidate Danny Lugay alleges irregularities on the Roseau North register, including people registered at addresses they don’t live at and duplicate or triplicate entries. Creative Sector Push: PM Roosevelt Skerrit says Dominica will appoint a minister specifically to oversee a new Creative Economy Development Agency. Tourism Numbers: Tourism Minister Denise-Charles-Pemberton reports an 18% rise in visitor arrivals to 527,728, with stayovers up 20%. CBI Under Fire: Businessman Gregor Nassief calls for a formal inquiry into Citizenship-by-Investment, alleging widespread illegal discounting and revenue loss. US Visa Bond Update: Washington makes its visa bond program permanent for 50 countries, including Dominica, raising fresh concerns for travel and tourism.

Roseau North By-Election Watch: Dominica’s Electoral Office says voters won’t be turned away if they lack the new Voter ID card during the confirmation period ahead of the September 7 by-election, but they must show approved alternative ID at the polling station. Voter List Dispute: UWP candidate Danny Lugay alleges “duplicate and even triplicate” entries and addresses that don’t match where people live, after complaints to the Electoral Office. Eligibility Rules Update: The Chief Elections Officer also clarified expanded eligibility for people properly registered up to the day the writ was issued, following amendments to the Registration of Electors Act and the 2025 Elections Act. CBI Under Pressure: Businessman Gregor Nassief renewed calls for a formal commission of inquiry into Citizenship-by-Investment, alleging widespread illegal discounting that he says is eroding trust and draining revenue. Creative Sector Push: PM Skerrit says a dedicated minister will oversee a new Creative Economy Development Agency to give the creative industry more direct support. Visa Policy Ripple Effects: The U.S. made its visa bond program permanent, listing Dominica among affected countries, while the UK’s English-test exemption list includes Dominica for settlement and citizenship applications.

Visa Policy: The U.S. has made its visa bond program permanent, meaning consular officers can require certain B-1/B-2 applicants to post a financial bond before getting a visa; Dominica is among the four Caribbean countries currently on the list. Local Finance & Budget Dialogue: The Dominica Business Forum says its recent online budget forum showed strong participation, with calls for more public education on how the national budget affects everyday life and development. Immigration Rules (UK): UK guidance lists Dominica among nationalities exempt from submitting a separate English-language qualification for 2026 settlement or citizenship applications. Tourism Numbers: Tourism Minister Denise Charles-Pemberton reports an 18% jump in visitor arrivals to 527,728 for the last fiscal year, with stayover arrivals exceeding targets. Creative Sector Push: PM Roosevelt Skerrit says Dominica will appoint a minister specifically to oversee the creative industry under a new creative economy development agency. CBI Under Scrutiny: Businessman Gregor Nassief renews calls for a commission of inquiry into Dominica’s Citizenship-by-Investment program, alleging illegal discounting is eroding trust and revenue. Politics (By-Election): Roseau North will hold a by-election on September 7, with nomination day set for August 21.

Roseau North By-Election: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has set the Roseau North parliamentary by-election for September 7, with Nomination Day on August 21, after Miriam Blanchard resigned on June 12. CBI Under Fire: Businessman Gregor Nassief is pushing for a formal commission of inquiry into Dominica’s Citizenship-by-Investment programme, alleging widespread illegal discounting that he says is eroding public trust and draining lawful treasury revenue. Creative Economy Push: Skerrit says Dominica will appoint a dedicated minister to oversee the creative industry under a new Dominica Creative Economy Development Agency, aimed at giving the sector more direct support and funding. Tourism Numbers: Tourism Minister Denise Charles-Pemberton reports an 18% rise in visitor arrivals to 527,728 for the last fiscal year, with strong growth from the US and cruise markets. Indigenous Peoples Day: Kalinago Upliftment Minister Cozier Frederick marked Indigenous Peoples Day, spotlighting Kalinago resilience and the UN theme honouring Indigenous midwives. Local Politics & Services: Opposition Leader Jesma Paul-Victor renewed calls for better waste collection in Salisbury and urged workforce preparation for emerging industries. Sports & Youth: Clement Marcelin thanked cricket sponsors after Dominica’s Windward Islands Super 50 win; and Cara Shillingford was selected as the UWP candidate for Salisbury.

Creative Economy Push: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit says Dominica will appoint a minister specifically to oversee the creative industry under a new Dominica Creative Economy Development Agency (DCEDA), aiming to give musicians, filmmakers and creative entrepreneurs more coordinated support. Tourism Numbers: Tourism Minister Denise Charles-Pemberton reported an 18% rise in visitor arrivals to 527,728 for the last fiscal year, with stayover arrivals up to 102,659 and cruise arrivals up 20%. CBI Under Pressure: Opposition Leader Jesma Paul-Victor warned that declining Citizenship-by-Investment revenue could hit major national projects, while separate coverage highlights EU moves that could threaten Schengen visa-free access for CBI states by 2028. Roseau North By-Election: PM Skerrit set the Roseau North by-election for September 7, with nomination day August 21, after Miriam Blanchard’s resignation. Local Governance & Services: Paul-Victor also renewed calls for better Salisbury farm access roads and a modern, climate-resilient upgrade to the Salisbury Health Centre. Youth & Community: I Have A Right Foundation wrapped its 2026 Girlhood Summer Leadership Bootcamp, and the Waitukubuli Artist Association completed a Dominica–Martinique artistic exchange with a lasting mural and school workshops.

Roseau North By-Election: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has set September 7, 2026 for the Roseau North by-election after Miriam Blanchard’s resignation, with nomination day on August 21. CBI Pressure on the Budget: Opposition leader Jesma Paul-Victor says Citizenship by Investment receipts are falling—about $605m last year to a budgeted $514.9m this year (down ~15%)—warning this could hit CBI-funded schools, hospitals, roads and water projects. Salisbury Infrastructure Push: Paul-Victor also demands a full programme to rehabilitate and maintain Salisbury farm access roads, with proper drainage, slope stabilisation and routine maintenance to protect perishable crops. Creative Economy Moves: Skerrit says a minister will be appointed specifically to oversee Dominica’s creative industry, alongside plans for a new creative agency. Population Renewal & Citizenship: Senator Oscar George backs the National Population Renewal initiative, including citizenship through a Dominican grandparent starting January 1, 2027, plus a “Live in Dominica” visa for remote workers and a returning one-stop service. CCJ Turmoil: A regional scandal at the Caribbean Court of Justice has judges accusing the court’s president of interference, raising fresh questions about judicial independence. Public Safety: Police confirm one person is in custody in the Jerbia Paul disappearance investigation. Sports Spotlight: Dominica’s Addison James won bronze at the World Athletics U20 javelin championships, while the wider week also highlighted major regional sports events like the upcoming Special Olympics Caribbean Beach Games.

Roseau North By-Election: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has advised President Sylvanie Burton to issue the writ for a Roseau North by-election on September 7, with nomination day set for August 21, following the resignation of Miriam Blanchard. Police Investigation: Police confirm one person is in custody as investigators intensify the search for missing 15-year-old Jerbia Paul of Portsmouth, while refusing to say whether the detained person is a police officer. CBI Controversy: Businessman Gregor Nassief says a leaked letter was misunderstood, insisting CBI support has been undermined by alleged unlawful practices—especially the housing/social infrastructure pathway—and he clarifies he is not calling to end CBI. US Sanctions: The US Treasury and OFAC sanctioned a Georgia-based crypto firm and its operator, alleging links to Iran’s IRGC and illicit crypto transfers; Georgia’s National Bank says the targeted entity was not properly registered as a VASP. Regional Courts: CCJ President Winston Anderson urged nuclear states to adopt no first use of nuclear weapons, while a separate CCJ judge rift report in Guyana raises questions about judicial independence.

Budget Debate & Governance: Opposition Leader Jesma Paul-Victor backed the government’s overall capital spending but warned ministries show uneven execution, arguing strong PSIP delivery must translate into consistent results. Health & Local Services: She also urged a modern, climate-resilient upgrade to the Salisbury Health Centre, with expanded primary care, maternal/child services, mental health support, and resilient utilities. Electoral Reform: Dominica’s Electoral Office says printing of new voter identification cards has begun by constituency, as part of the House of Assembly Elections Act 2025 voter confirmation process. Community Development: Jungle Bay Resort will hand over the Dominique Marchand Pre-School in Soufrière to the Ministry of Education on Aug. 11 after years of displacement following Hurricane Maria. Economy & Cost of Living: Paul-Victor pressed that “governments alone cannot build a dynamic economy,” while families still feel pressure at the supermarket, gas station, pharmacy, and bills. Regional Spotlight: CARICOM reparations talks face a political snag as eight member states still answer to the British monarch. International Policy Impact: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit warned Dominica will not be singled out as the U.S. extends visa bond-style rules across the region.