Talk o the Block - October 27th 2026

Summary

The program focused on the possible loss of Dominica’s visa-free access to the Schengen Area because of its Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program. The host discussed a reported EU choice facing Caribbean CBI countries: continue their programs and risk losing visa-free access, or suspend them by 12 November to retain that access. Antigua and Barbuda’s prime minister had indicated that suspension was likely, while OECS leaders were expected to discuss a regional response.

Callers repeatedly urged Dominica’s Prime Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit, to explain the situation publicly and outline what the country would do if CBI were suspended. Several criticized his silence, argued that the public deserved greater transparency, and raised concerns about the program’s scrutiny and the consequences for travel, trade, and livelihoods. Some callers also criticized the government and urged voters to consider political change; these were callers’ opinions, not independently established claims.

One caller, Clarence Christian, argued that residency by investment would not serve people seeking a passport for visa-free travel.

Gregor Nassif’s remarks

In an interview, Gregor Nassif said either option would be damaging. Keeping CBI while losing visa-free access could sharply reduce the passport’s value and change its market, while suspending the program would cut government revenue.

Nassif argued that Dominica had become overly reliant on CBI and recommended considering a transition to residency by investment (RBI). Under that model, investors would live in the country for a period before becoming eligible for citizenship. In his view, this would create a stronger connection to the country and make the program more acceptable to international partners. He also called for greater transparency and consultation with stakeholders.

Thompson Fontaine’s remarks

Thompson Fontaine emphasized that Dominica is much more dependent on CBI than Antigua and Barbuda. He gave figures indicating that CBI accounts for a far larger share of Dominica’s revenue and said the program’s growth was closely tied to Schengen visa-free access.

Fontaine warned that either suspension or visa restrictions could create a major fiscal gap, affecting public-sector wages, the National Employment Program, public services, debt payments, and construction projects. He argued that successive governments had failed to diversify the economy or invest CBI proceeds in sustainable production, and said his party had planned for a possible decline in CBI revenue. He also said his party’s court action sought the return to Dominica of CBI funds held offshore.

Other discussion

The discussion included differing expectations about election timing. Callers and Fontaine speculated that financial pressure could affect when elections are called, while other callers argued that the government should address the CBI issue first.

The final caller questioned claims about how major projects, including the international airport, were being financed and urged investment in domestic production and exports.

Presenters and Contributors

• Matt — host; surname unclear from the subtitles
• Gregor Nassif — interview guest
• Thompson Fontaine — interview guest
• Clarence Christian — caller who identified himself
• Other callers — several, mostly unidentified

An embedded promotional segment for Global View on Q names Sheridan Grego, Judge Dr. Irving Andre, Simeon Joseph, Leroy Charles, and Annette Sanford as presenters or panelists on that program.