Dr. Irving McIntyre

Dr. Irving Francis McIntyre (born October 2, 1963) is a Dominica politician, medical doctor, and public servant who has played a significant role in Dominica’s healthcare system, governance, and economic development. Currently serving as the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience, and Social Security, Dr. McIntyre has been instrumental in shaping Dominica’s economic and healthcare policies, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dr. Irving McIntyre’s Early Life and Education

Dr. Irving McIntyre was born and raised in Fond Canie, Saint George Parish, Dominica, in a farming family. His upbringing in an agriculture-focused household instilled a passion for sustainability and rural development, which he would later integrate into his political career.

He attended Saint Mary’s Academy (SMA), one of Dominica’s most prestigious schools, where he developed an early interest in science and medicine. After completing his secondary education, he pursued his medical degree at Indira Gandhi Medical College in India, graduating in 1996. His education abroad allowed him to gain global medical insights, which he later applied to Dominica’s healthcare sector.

Medical Career and Contributions

After returning to Dominica, Dr. McIntyre began his medical career in 1999 as a medical officer at the Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) in Roseau. Over the next 11 years, he served in the Accident and Emergency Department, providing critical emergency care to Dominicans.

From 2010 onwards, he transitioned into private medical practice, becoming widely recognized for his community-oriented healthcare services. Dr. McIntyre was known for:

• Offering free clinics to underserved communities.
• Acting as the medical doctor for national sports organizations, including the Caribbean Amateur Boxing Association, Dominica Cricket Association, and Dominica Football Association.
• Supporting public health awareness initiatives, particularly in chronic disease prevention and sports medicine.

His extensive medical background made him one of the most respected doctors in Dominica, eventually leading to his transition into public service.

Political Career of the Honorable Dr. Irving McIntyre

Dr. Irving McIntyre transitioned into politics in 2019, leveraging his medical expertise and community service background to win the Roseau Valley seat. He later became a key figure in Dominica’s governance and policy-making.

Entry into Politics and Parliamentary Success

Dr. McIntyre entered politics in 2019 as a Dominica Labour Party (DLP) candidate for the Roseau Valley constituency in the general elections. His healthcare and community service background resonated with voters, leading to his election as a Member of Parliament.

He was appointed Minister for Health, Wellness, and New Health Investment after his victory in December 2019. His tenure in the health ministry coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic, making him a key figure in Dominica’s pandemic response.

Leading Dominica’s COVID-19 Response

As Minister of Health, Dr. McIntyre played a critical role in:

• Implementing nationwide COVID-19 protocols and restrictions.
• Overseeing the vaccination rollout and ensuring Dominica received adequate supplies.
• Strengthening public health infrastructure to handle pandemic-related challenges.
• Coordinating regional and international partnerships for pandemic management.

His calm and science-driven leadership was widely praised, as Dominica maintained one of the lowest COVID-19 death rates in the Caribbean.

Appointment as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance

In December 2022, following the general elections, Dr. McIntyre was appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience, and Social Security. This expanded his responsibilities to:

• Overseeing national budget allocations and economic growth initiatives.
• Managing Dominica’s climate resilience strategy, particularly in sustainable development projects.
• Enhancing social security programs to support vulnerable communities.
• Promoting foreign direct investment (FDI) and fostering economic diversification.

His background in medicine and governance has allowed him to take a holistic approach to economic planning, integrating healthcare, sustainability, and social welfare into Dominica’s long-term development goals.

Personal Life of Irving McIntyre

Dr. McIntyre was married to Akinyi McIntyre, who tragically passed away in January 2023. Her passing was met with widespread condolences from government officials and the Dominica public.

Outside of politics and medicine, Dr. McIntyre is an avid sportsman. He:

• Represented Dominica’s national basketball team in regional and international tournaments.
• Supports youth basketball clubs and encourages sports development.
• Enjoys hiking, swimming, and farming, maintaining his agricultural roots.

Future Outlook and Contributions to Dominica

As Deputy Prime Minister, Dr. McIntyre is expected to play a key role in Dominica’s economic future, particularly in:

• Expanding Dominica’s renewable energy sector, including geothermal energy projects.
• Improving healthcare infrastructure, focusing on preventative medicine and modernized hospital facilities.
• Developing tourism and agriculture-based economic initiatives to create sustainable employment.
• Strengthening Dominica’s climate resilience efforts, particularly in disaster preparedness.

His medical, economic, and governmental expertise makes him one of Dominica’s most influential policymakers, shaping national and regional development strategies.

Dr. Irving McIntyre continues to shape Dominica’s future, using his medicine, finance, and governance expertise to drive long-term national progress.