Lennox Linton, who was elected leader of the opposition United Workers Party (UWP) last year, has promised to provide at least 5,000 jobs within three years if his party beats the ruling Dominica Labour Party at the next general election due in 2015. The UWP last won an election in the year 2000.
Linton said his top priority is to reduce poverty which, according to the UN and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), stands at 40 per cent.
He believes the skills of the Dominican diaspora are key to building a successful economy.
“They left our shores years ago for better economic opportunities and in many cases they have been able to do a lot better for themselves,” said Linton during a visit to the UK last month.
OPPORTUNITIES
“These children of Dominica have resources, financial resources, and technical expertise that can be used to build Dominica at a faster rate,” he added.
The former journalist acknowledged that many Dominicans overseas might be worried about coming back home.
He explained: “In many cases they ask the question what are you taking us back home to do? We will find ways of bringing new jobs into the system.
“Not everyone returning would be in need of a job. There are also plans to create investment opportunities.”
In 2008, Dominica had one of the lowest per capita gross domestic product (GDP) rates among Eastern Caribbean states.
Linton accused current Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, who has been in power since 2004, of failing to do enough to improve the country’s economic situation.
