ROSEAU, Dominica (CMC) — The Dominica government has delayed passage of legislation to establish a sperm whale reserve due to concerns raised by some local stakeholders, according to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit.

Instead, the government moved the first reading of the Sperm Whale Reserve Act of 2025, with Prime Minister Skerrit telling legislators, “We don’t quite believe that there will be any injury…caused with us going through all three readings, because we believe that the Bill captures a very salient point.”

Prior to the Parliament meeting, Prime Minister Skerrit had told a news conference that his administration is proud to table the legislation to formally establish the Dominica Sperm Whale Reserve, which he described as a “historic initiative aimed at protecting this iconic marine species while advancing our sustainable development goals”.

He said that the legislation builds on the commitment first announced by the government in 2023 to designate a protected area off the west coast of Dominica, “where our unique population of resident sperm whales has lived and thrived for years”.

“These magnificent creatures, who are among the largest animals on earth, are a critical part of our marine ecosystem,” Skerrit told reporters adding, “The creation of the Sperm Whale Reserve is our way of addressing the mounting threats facing these endangered species from noise pollution to ship strikes. Climate change and unsustainable fishing practices also pose a risk.”

He said that the reserve will serve as a sanctuary that prioritises marine biodiversity, regulates human activity and ensures that Dominica continues to be a safe haven for the sperm whales.

He said that the proposed legislation will introduce a comprehensive management framework for the reserve, including clearly defined navigation protocols and oversight mechanisms to ensure responsible use of the designated area.

“It will also safeguard the livelihoods of local fishers by preserving traditional fishing practices and ensuring that their voices are included in the reserve’s long-term management.

“Furthermore, the Sperm Whale Reserve is expected to significantly enhance Dominica’s position as a premier destination for eco-tourism. By promoting low-impact, high-value marine tourism such as whale watching, scientific research and educational exchanges, we aim to increase economic opportunities for coastal communities while reinforcing our image as the nature island of the Caribbean.”

Skerrit, who thanked “our partners at National Geographic-Pristine Seas”, told legislators that it is only fair that the passing of the Bill should be stood down, to allow the Ministry of the Green and Blue Economy to engage the stakeholders one more time, so that their concerns can be placed on the table and given some consideration.

“It is crucial that the country gives due consideration to this Bill. And not only from an economic standpoint, but I believe we have a duty and obligation to preserve and conserve what we have enjoyed these existing generations so that future generations can have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this mammal in our seas.”

“It is a choice that we have to make, but the reality is as it is being done now, it is not in the interest of the whales and therefore it is not in the interest of the stakeholders and therefore not in the interest of the country,” he told Parliament.