Dominica showing small business revival following Tropical Storm Erika

Many small businesses which suffered during Tropical Storm Erika have begun getting back on their feet thanks to the efforts of the Ministry of Commerce Enterprise and Small Business Development.

On Wednesday, January 6th GIS News caught up with Minister Roslyn Paul.

“We started with the micro businesses like shopkeepers and vendors who had estimated their losses at $15,000 or less. So far we have to provided assistance to 71 such businesses at a cost of $144,371 so far.

“It is taking approach in phases and subsequently we will deal with estimated losses above $15,000.

Focus was placed first on heavily impacted areas. She listed Coulibistrie, Colihaut and communities in the south.

“Most of the communities in the south which were heavily struck estimated losses above $15,000,” she said.

She notes that her Ministry will ensure that small businesses make their contribution to national development.

The Hon Minister says that so far the feedback has been exceptional.

“The people have been appreciative of that support because it came just before Christmas- they were able to restock their shops.

The Minister assures business owners that those not yet addressed are not forgotten.

Hon Paul says meanwhile the Ministry is currently developing new measures to assist small business owners across the island.

“We have started the rural-based development centres. It is working in Sineku, Paix Bouche and Grand Bay. We have started working as well with a group of women from Dublanc and Colihaut who were trained by the Ministry of Trade and Employment in to establish a new Rural Business Development Centre. We are trying to push to have more women in cottage industries.

“There are a number of new initiatives coming up to boost enterprise in Dominica.”