Joseph Isaac

Joseph Isaac, born on January 14, 1969, in Roseau, Dominica, has established himself as a significant figure in Dominican politics, serving as Speaker of the House of Assembly since February 10, 2020. The former Roseau Central Member of Parliament took over from Alix Boyd-Knights, who stepped down in 2019 following four terms in office as Speaker of Parliament. Isaac’s career is marked by diverse roles in education, government, and business, substantially contributing to Dominica’s development.

Educational Background and Early Career

Isaac’s educational journey began at the Dominica Grammar School (DGS), where he later returned as a teacher, demonstrating his commitment to giving back to his community. He pursued higher education at New Mexico State University, where he studied Economics, and further advanced his education at Georgia State University, obtaining an MBA. His academic background in economics and business laid the foundation for a successful public and private career.

Professional Career and Government Positions

Isaac’s professional journey includes key roles such as Operations Manager at P.W. Bellot and Company Ltd. and Purchasing Manager at Colgate Palmolive-Dominica. He also served as the Programme Manager of the Business Gateway Project at the Dominica Export Import Agency (DEXIA) and held a directorship at the Eastern Caribbean Fund. His career in government began in 1993 when he joined the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Commerce, where he gained valuable experience that would later inform his political career.

As an elected Member of Parliament (MP) for Roseau Central, Isaac was known for his active engagement in parliamentary debates and his dedication to his constituents. He was appointed as the Minister for the Ministry of Environment, Climate Resilience, Disaster Management, and Urban Renewal, where he played a pivotal role in shaping Dominica’s policies on environmental sustainability and disaster management.

Leadership as Speaker of the House

In 2020, following the general elections, Isaac was nominated and elected as the Speaker of the House of Assembly, succeeding Alix Boyd-Knights. As Speaker, Isaac is responsible for overseeing parliamentary proceedings, ensuring fair debates, and maintaining the integrity of the legislative process. His tenure as Speaker has been marked by a focus on balanced discourse and upholding parliamentary standards.

Personal Life

Joseph Isaac is married to Dr. Gilda Noreen Isaac, a respected medical professional in Dominica. The couple is deeply involved in community and social initiatives, reflecting their shared commitment to the well-being of the Dominican people.

Isaac’s diverse career, from education and business to his pivotal roles in government, underscores his significant impact on Dominica’s development. He continues to be a central figure in the country’s legislative process, ensuring that the Parliament remains a robust institution in the governance of Dominica