Tear Gas Deployed as Dominica Truckers Demand Fair Contracts on Airport Project

In an escalating dispute over job opportunities, the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force deployed tear gas against truckers protesting in Canefield this week. The protest, organized by the Dominican Tipper Truckers Association, focuses on concerns regarding a lack of employment and low rates for their services on the International Airport Project. Protesters have also voiced frustration over the government’s preference for foreign firms on national construction jobs.

The truckers began blocking roads early Wednesday, using their vehicles to disrupt traffic along the E.O Leblanc Highway, cutting off access to and from the capital. What began as a peaceful demonstration turned tense when police, dressed in riot gear, used tear gas in an attempt to clear the protest. Onlookers criticized the use of force, labeling it as excessive for a peaceful protest.

Several residents in nearby homes were affected by the tear gas, raising concerns about its impact on bystanders.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit responded with a statement reiterating the government’s commitment to resolving the truckers’ concerns. “A consensus was reached to revise the rates for trucking services on the international airport project,” he said, emphasizing the government’s intent to maintain transparency and prioritize local involvement in national projects.

Despite this reassurance, many truckers argue for more equitable distribution of work, demanding that at least 80% of contracts should go to local truckers. While the situation has simmered, growing tension remains between the government and local workers regarding job opportunities and foreign competition.

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