Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment
The Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernisation, Kalinago Upliftment and Constituency Empowerment plays a targeted support role in Dominica’s evolving governance system, assisting the line Minister in key policy implementation. As of 2024, this position is held by Hon. Darron Lloyd, who supports wide-ranging portfolios tied to sustainable development and indigenous empowerment.
Role and Responsibilities
This Parliamentary Secretary focuses on constituency-level empowerment, environmental coordination, and rural modernization policies. The post is directly aligned with Dominica’s broader objectives of inclusive development, climate resilience, and Kalinago integration into national planning. Responsibilities typically include:
- Representing the Ministry in community engagements and stakeholder consultations.
- Coordinating parliamentary interventions around environmental protection and rural upliftment.
- Supporting Kalinago-focused projects including the Strengthening Community Resilience in the Kalinago Territory (SCR-K).
- Liaising with departments under the Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernization and Kalinago Upliftment.
- Promoting collaboration with agencies such as the Kalinago Upliftment committee and Kalinago Barana Autê.
Ministry Focus Areas
The Ministry serves as a focal point for programs that address Dominica’s rural-urban divide and environmental vulnerabilities. Under this umbrella, the Parliamentary Secretary’s duties also align with:
- The Kalinago Development Fund, created to finance infrastructure and capacity-building in indigenous territories.
- National efforts around Constituency Empowerment, providing tools, micro-project funding, and administrative oversight to local communities and councils.
- Inter-agency support with the Ministry of Housing, Ministry of Finance, and Ministry of Tourism, especially in rural infrastructure development.
Broader Political Structure
Parliamentary Secretaries in Dominica are non-cabinet members of government appointed to assist ministers with departmental responsibilities. Though not Ministers themselves, their presence bridges field engagement and parliamentary duties. Other current Parliamentary Secretaries serve in areas such as education, sports, agriculture, and labour, creating a network of support across national ministries.