Norris Charles
Norris Charles is a Dominican political figure known for his long-standing representation of the Roseau Valley constituency and his role in national governance during the United Workers Party era. His career spans several general election cycles, ministerial responsibilities and sustained engagement with issues affecting agriculture, environment and rural development.
Electoral Contests and Parliamentary Service
Charles entered elective politics during the 1995 general election, contesting the Roseau Valley constituency for the United Workers Party during a pivotal shift in Dominican politics. He won the seat and became one of the key figures in the new administration. His victory marked the beginning of a parliamentary career that extended across multiple election cycles.
He contested the 2000 General Election, securing re-election for Roseau Valley. During this period, he served as a senior UWP parliamentarian, contributing to debates on infrastructure, community needs and the broader economic challenges facing the island in the post-hurricane recovery years.
In the 2005 General Election, Charles again represented the UWP in Roseau Valley and retained the seat, extending his political influence in the constituency. His representation continued until 2009, completing more than a decade of parliamentary service across three cycles.
Charles contested his fourth consecutive election in the 2009 General Election, where he received substantial support but was narrowly defeated. This ended his formal tenure as the Parliamentary Representative for Roseau Valley, concluding a significant chapter in the constituency’s political history.
Ministerial Portfolio and National Responsibilities
While in government, Charles served as Minister for Foreign Affairs from 1998 to 2000, a position that involved managing Dominica’s diplomatic relations, representing the country in regional forums and guiding external policy during a period of shifting regional dynamics. His work included engagements with international partners and oversight of matters related to foreign representation and cooperation.
Before entering national politics, Charles gained experience in the agricultural sector through his managerial role within the Dominica Banana Marketing Corporation. This background equipped him with insight into farming livelihoods, export challenges and the pressures facing rural producers, which informed his national portfolio and parliamentary advocacy.
Constituency Development, Advocacy and Public Commentary
Roseau Valley is known for its mix of natural attractions, agricultural communities, hillside settlements and geothermal features. Charles’s representation centred on improving road access, strengthening community housing areas, expanding tourism infrastructure and addressing village-level concerns in Trafalgar, Laudat and nearby communities.
Throughout his tenure, Charles frequently raised issues affecting farmers, crop yields, pricing, market access and the conditions faced by households dependent on agriculture. His background in the banana industry made him a strong advocate for modernising agricultural practices and supporting small farmers during periods of decline.
After leaving office, Charles continued to participate in public discussions relating to government policy, agriculture and community development. He remained vocal about the need for stronger support systems for farmers, investment in extension services and the importance of maintaining agricultural self-reliance in a changing economy.
Although some aspects of his early life, including detailed education history and date of birth, are not publicly documented, his public record reflects substantial representation in Parliament, ministerial leadership and long-standing engagement in national conversations about development, agriculture and foreign affairs.