Social Security benefits are set to increase for self-employed people, including maternity benefits, but will come at the cost of an increase in contributions. The changes could come in Jan 1 but depend on Govt. approval.

Leader of the People's Democratic Movement Para Riviere said they are looking for candidates for the next General Election. He said they may also form an alliance with the opposition Parties in order to oust the DLP. Meanwhile, leader of the UWP Ron Green said a union may be on the cards.

The IPO commission's office will be upstairs the Tropicraft building, it was announced. The Commission begins Sept. 1st.

Jan 2009 may see an increase of 1% in the Employee contribution rate, DSS announced. The retirement age could be increased from 60 to 61. The changes need to be approved by Parliament.

A campaign has begun to force Govt. to reverse the license recently issued to a foreign company to develop geo-thermal energy here. Clean Energy Corporation has launched the petition; they want a local company to develop for maximum local benefit.

Gustav Willaims was elected to the Pointe Michel Village Council, and said Govt. cannot dictate who is the chairman of the council.

Ambrose George has called for patience while the Canefield to Pond Casee road improvements take place. He said the Warner road has been upgraded to provide an alternate route.

Head of the tourism body Steve Bornn has resigned from his position as Director of the Discover Dominica Authority, effective Sept. 1.

Former regional head lawyer Sir Brian Alleyne has been nominated to sit on the Integrity in Public Office commission, which starts Sept. 1st.

Dominica's IT legislation is being developed. This week sees a seminar for lawyers, magistrates and judges.

Acting PM Ambrose George said the improvements to the Pond Casse - Canefield road will have major economic benefits, including jobs and better access to the airport and for agriculture. He said improvements have been made to the Warner road which will provide an alternative route.

PM Manning of Trinidad was in D/a touting yet another single economic space, this time between his country, St Lucia, Grenada and St Vincent.

PM Manning of Trinidad & Tobago was in Dominica to discuss an economic union between his country and the OECS.

The first part of the Canefield to Melville Hall airport will begin next month. Phase I is from Canefield to Pond Casse. The total cost is EC$29.4 million.

Govt. said they were seeking to address the issue of a lack of magistrates. Presently there are only 4, when there should be 6.

Media Workers' leader Thalia Remie said the proposed Broadcast Act was of concern to all citizens, not just the media.

A press conference was held today to launch the 40th anniversary of the founding of the Dominica Freedom Party.

H Sabaroche, deputy leader of the Freedom Party has called for ID cards to be issued for the next Election.

Concerns have been raised about a proposed Broadcast Act. Former senator Swanston Carbon said the Act would attack press freedom. He was surprised the media weren't more vocal on the Act.

Over 140 people have benefitted from the summer Adult Education programme. Many of their works are being displayed at an exhibition of arts, crafts and cooking.