It is most definitely an unfortunate incident of mention here, one that has been portrayed to date as “being under control”. On the side of caution, Athie’s insertion is commended and certainly is required as a cau tionary balance from an environmental synopsis on this situation. 

I have been a strong advocate for the oil refinery (which has not come to fruition to date) as a sustainable means to the Dominican people from an employment and economic point of view. This is a much-needed sustainable base of revenue generation for the governments coiffure in combating the ongoing demise of the banana industry.  

I have had  differences of opinion with Athie, Mahala and other that are opponents to such a venture; an opposition which is primarily  based on their environmental bias, based on an impact study (which has yet to be fully completed and released for dissemination) and the “potential” conflict of interest to Dominica’s promotion as an eco friendly destination.

These are very valid and constructive opposition objectives to the Perto-Caribe initiative under consideration for Dominica, and they are welcomed as an equilibrium base in the assurance that Dominica’s environment is at the foremost, protected from any scrupulous and second hand industrialization that may, or may not impact our environment, negatively.

Now with that being said, it is important to understand the consideration of such industry must be based on its location and the worse case scenario as to an accidental impact on our environment in combination with the economic benefit to the people of Dominica. A balance of which must be studied in its entirety, weighed in full, as to the beneficial impact to our economy and environment.

 I consider it an honor to have someone like Atherton Martin in our corner evaluating and instructing us on the cons to such a venture. We know his bias will be against such a venture, but his motivational insight will surely be driven by his love and passion for his country, which can only serve to be an advantage in our overall understanding and determination of the environmental impact.

 Dominica’s future for sustainable growth hinges on the balance between industrialization and eco-tourism. This by no means should be considered as, an unrealistic request, or one that should be dismissed because of fear mongering by environmentalist and their lobbyist based on worse case scenario innuendos.

A balanced and researched approach of such an understanding must be considered by both sides during a negotiated evaluation of the available information.

 The prime directive of the Prime Minister is to deliver an improved standard of living to the people of Dominica. As citizens is our responsibility to inform and assist him in this deliverance regardless of or political bias; the elections are over and we must now collectively serve the greater cause, Dominica!

We need to work together in achieving this common goal. Through communication of the facts based on studies and dialogue, a common resolve is certainly achievable.

The question is; are our political indifferences surmountable, are we willing to overlook them and focus on the common goal, Dominica?

My opinion.