Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has announced the appointment of Her Excellency Loreen Bannis-Roberts as Dominica’s new High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, marking her return to diplomatic service after a three-year absence.
At a press conference Thursday, Skerrit highlighted Bannis-Roberts’ career, including her tenure as Dominica’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 2016 to 2022.
“Mrs. Bannis-Roberts brings a wealth of experience and distinguished service to this important diplomatic role,” Skerrit said. “She was a strong advocate for sustainable development, disaster resilience, and the unique challenges of Small Island Developing States.”
Bannis-Roberts has held several ministerial portfolios over the years, including community development, culture, gender affairs, information, tourism, industry, and private sector relations. She also served twice as Acting Prime Minister.
Her new appointment, however, revives questions about a 2022 controversy when, as UN representative, she signed an agreement establishing diplomatic ties with Syria. The move drew public backlash because of Syria’s alignment with Russia and its human rights record.
Skerrit later clarified that the decision had been made without the knowledge or consent of Cabinet or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Bannis-Roberts resigned from her UN post soon after, effective May 31, 2022.
Acknowledging the episode Thursday, Skerrit described it as a lapse in judgment but stressed that it was not unlawful.
“At some point, we have to move on,” he said. “We all have to recognize that the country needs all of us at its disposal to do what we have to do for the country. And let us move on.”
Reaffirming his support, Skerrit added: “She has some talents and she has some skills. As Prime Minister, I believe that I should have her at the disposal of the country in assisting the country in advancing its national interests.”
According to the prime minister, Bannis-Roberts is expected to travel to London in the coming days to present her credentials to King Charles III. Her appointment has been formally endorsed by Dominica’s President, Sylvanie Burton.
