Green: international observers now

Leader of the Opposition party Ron Green has written to several organisations asking for election observers as soon as possible, not only on the day of the election.

"Small businesses... backbone of economy"

PM Skerrit said small businesses were the backbone of economy, and said the setting up of a small business unit has helped 300 people. He was speaking at the launch of a Labour Party candidate last night.

Kiwanis give wheelchair

The Kiwanis Club of Roseau is to donate a wheelchair to the D/a Association of Disabled People. Dion Green will be the recipient of the chair.

PM Hacked

The Prime Minister is seeking outside help to investigate a possible hacking of his personal email. This follows the reading of a speech announcing the election date ahead of official notification. He blamed the Opposition, calling it 'wicked and malicious'

Better Air Access at end of year

Night landing for Melville Hall airport is on track and due by the start of next year. So said Minister for Ports, Charles Savarin. He said the runway will be lit by the end of the year, and the first night flights early in 2010.

Election monitors?

PM Skerrit has said he has called for election monitors. He said he has written to the OAS and CARICOM to send official observers to the December 18th elections.

Media Workers call for political debate

Dominica's Media Workers Association has called for a formal debate between the leaders of all political parties ahead of the December 18th General Election. Thalia Remy, President of MWAD said the debate will help the public make an informed decision, and would be willing to organise the live debate in the first week of December.

Nicholas resigns

UWP senator Marcel Nicholas has resigned as UWP Senator in Parliament. He says he is throwing his support behind the Labour candidate for Soufriere.

Mahaut Labour Meeting

A major Dominica Labour Party meeting will take place tonight in Mahaut. The PM is also expected to address the nation from the meeting. His address begins at 9:30pm and will be carried live.

Bannis-Roberts to step down

Minister for Culture and things Lorraine Bannis-Roberts is to step down as Parl Rep. for Castle Bruce after 9 years.

General Election set for December 18th?

Reports are coming in that the Prime Minister will call the General Election in his speech to the nation this evening. December 18th is the date suggested. The elections are due any time before the end of May, 2010.

For future election analysis see our coverage here.

DFP: come clean, PM

The Dominica Freedom Party has told PM Skerrit to come clean, or resign, on the issue of corruption. This follows allegations the PM took illegal gifts and things from the one-time Chinese ambassador. Leader Judith Pestaina called on the PM to resign or call elections, otherwise she'll spill the beans on the PM's corruptions.

AID bank's 5 year plan

The AID Bank has outlined it's 5 Year Plan. Chairman Ambrose Sylvester told a news conference that a focus on first-time home buyers is one of several priorities. EC$1 million is also to be provided for home improvements to people close to retirement age.