Dominica’s Prime Minister indicated that discussions are currently ongoing

ith carnival celebrations to climax merely one month away in Dominica, there still seems to be indecision about whether there will be Mas Domnik this year.  

On his most recent Anou Parle programme, a weekly talk show hosted by Dominica’s Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit, the nation’s leader indicated that “there is no firm decision from the government” on the hosting of Dominica’s carnival this year. 

The calendar of events that climaxes into two days of street jump-up usually starts from late December. Carnival Monday and Tuesday are set for February 28 and March 1. 

However, Skerrit indicated that discussions are currently ongoing. He says stakeholders on every level are currently being engaged. Discussions surround guidelines and protocols most suitable to host events. 

But with discussions still ongoing at this time, it is highly unlikely that any formal event will be hosted virtually or in person. 

One entertainer confirmed to Loop Caribbean that a short-notice meeting was held recently to discuss guidelines and protocols to be enforced for entertainers wishing to host their own events. Two venues have been designated for such activities. Our source is doubtful though that anything much will happen given the timeframe to plan events and ambiguity of the recommended protocols.  

As of January 20, the number of active cases on the island stands at 766, the result of a recent trend representing a rise in the number of infections after the Christmas season. 

PM Skerrit says: “The country is avoiding at all costs going back to lockdowns and curfews”.  

We sought to get comments from the main organisers for festivals in Dominica, but the DFC preferred not to comment on the matter at this point in time. 

Yet while internal discussions are still being held within government, government agencies, and other stakeholders, the Dominica Calypso Association is in great shape and forging ahead with its plans to host Calypso events this year albeit virtually. 

Calypso tent and competitions are a staple of Mas Domnik celebrations and this year patrons will not be disappointed. 

Public Relations Officer of the DCA Emanuel Haxey Salamat informed that eliminations will take place on January 22 and patrons will get an opportunity to view a live stream of the show free of charge.  

He says, “a virtual show will ensure the full participation of members of the association and will also help the DCA remain in compliance with the protocol and guidelines set by the authorities.”  

The semi-finals is carded for February 12 and on the 26 of February, the association will host the calypso grand finals.