Ian Pinard resigns

Public Works minister Ian Pinard has resigned over allegations of inappropriate behaviour with a young girl; the matter surfaced in the press and in the public recently.

In a statement that he read on State-owned DBS radio this evening, Pinard said he had a moral and fiduciary duty to address the public on the issue.

"In light of these allegations I consider that my continued presence in the Cabinet can adversely impact the very important work that this Government is doing and must continue to do for the people of Dominica.

" In order to allow me to properly address the allegations against me and also to focus on other important personal matters, I have earlier today tendered to the Honourable Prime Minister my resignation as a minister of government with immediate effect.

"I will continue to serve my constituency of the Soufriere constituency pending what I am confident will be a successful conclusion of this matter."