Dominica’s Skerrit highlights economic relief, infrastructure gains in Christmas message

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has pointed to wage reforms, cost-of-living relief, and major infrastructure investments as key achievements for Dominica in 2025, while urging national unity and optimism heading into the new year.

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In his Christmas address to citizens at home and in the diaspora, Skerrit described the past year as one of “determined effort, steady progress and meaningful achievements,” despite ongoing global economic uncertainty, climate shocks and geopolitical instability.

Among the government’s major actions in 2025, the prime minister highlighted the implementation of a revised minimum wage, which he said was aimed at restoring dignity to labour and ensuring that working people can meet their basic needs. He also pointed to the removal of VAT and customs duties on essential food items as a concrete step to ease the cost of living for households across the country.

Skerrit said the government continued to invest heavily in housing, healthcare, education and infrastructure as part of its broader development agenda. Across Dominica, he noted, new homes are under construction, roads and bridges are being upgraded, schools modernised and health services strengthened.

A major milestone for the year, according to the prime minister, was continued progress on the International Airport Project, which he described as a transformational investment that will expand tourism, trade and global connectivity. He said the project is providing employment for hundreds of Dominicans and laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth, particularly for young people.

Skerrit stressed that development must go hand in hand with environmental stewardship, reiterating the government’s commitment to protecting Dominica’s natural environment while advancing national priorities.

He also paid tribute to farmers, fisherfolk, public servants, healthcare workers, educators, police officers, entrepreneurs and private-sector partners, describing their contributions as the backbone of the nation. He thanked the Dominican diaspora for its continued support, advocacy and investment, calling overseas nationals “an integral part of the Dominican family.”

Looking ahead to 2026, Skerrit said the government would maintain its focus on further reforms, continued investment and improving quality of life, while acknowledging that challenges remain.

He ended his message by wishing Dominicans a peaceful Christmas and a new year filled with health, hope and prosperity.