Justice Dr. Irving Andre has raised serious concerns about the international standing of Dominica’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programme, warning that growing scrutiny from foreign governments could have wider economic consequences for the country.
Andre argues that the programme has attracted significant international attention and criticism, particularly from major global partners. He suggested that the manner in which the programme has been managed may place Dominica in a vulnerable diplomatic and economic position.
According to Andre, one of the most immediate consequences of this scrutiny has already begun affecting Dominican travellers. He noted that visa restrictions imposed by the United Kingdom have created new challenges for citizens. As he explained, “Dominicans have struck Dominica with a double whammy. You can only get a three-month visa. You have to apply for it at significant cost. And when it expires, you have to apply for it again.”
Andre argued that these measures, along with broader international concerns, represent what he described as the consequences of the country’s approach to the programme. “So this is the problem. This is the fruit of the poisoned tree,” he stated, adding that ordinary citizens, rather than programme beneficiaries, may ultimately bear the burden of these developments.
He further claimed that the CBI initiative has increased Dominica’s exposure to international pressure, suggesting that foreign governments now possess significant information regarding the programme’s operations. Andre stated, “But worse, the CBI program has made Dominica vulnerable.”
Expanding on that position, he warned that international agencies and governments are closely monitoring financial transactions linked to the programme. “Because the Americans have the goods on our leaders. They know where the money, the financial bodies are buried,” he said.
Andre also cautioned that heightened scrutiny could affect everyday financial services used by Dominican citizens. He warned that if international regulators tighten oversight of financial transfers, services such as remittance agencies could face restrictions that would directly affect families who depend on overseas support.
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