The Dominica Co-operative Societies League Ltd. (DCSLL), the apex body for cooperatives in Dominica, is very concerned about the Government’s stated intention to impose an astronomical credit union licensing fee as per its 2023 budget address. Whereas the DCSLL recognizes the government’s authority to enforce prescriptions of the Law, the stated fee structure will have a grave impact on the growth, sustainability, and viability of this home-grown credit union movement.
This fiscal measure requiring credit unions to pay a license fee, which is akin to a tax on their assets, is a crippling blow to the credit unions’ efforts to recover from Tropical Storm Erica, Hurricane Maria, the COVID-19 Pandemic, IFRS-9 adoption, and the incidence of high non-performing loans (NPLs). This is especially critical given the important role credit unions play in cushioning the harsh impact of these events. It is also important to note that none of the territories of the OECS or the wider CARICOM region have pursued this course of action, even in light of the prevailing economic challenges. The DCSLL vehemently opposes this fiscal measure, which is anti-growth and stands to have a detrimental impact on credit unions. This draconian measure will take substantial resources out of the hands of credit union members both locally and in the diaspora. The League is therefore calling on the Minister of Finance to rethink this policy measure. While credit unions are not immune to the strong economic headwinds that face our country, taxing credit unions’ assets cannot be seen as a viable alternative to correcting fiscal challenges. It is important to reiterate that no other country in the CARICOM region charges any levy, license, or tax of this magnitude on cooperative credit unions. As of 2021, the credit union movement had disbursed more than EC$571 million in loans to its members, which highlights the economic contribution that the cooperative movement makes to the economy. The DCSLL therefore implores the Government to consider a more enabling and inclusive framework for the future growth of the movement, and we avail ourselves of the opportunity to meet with the Minister of Finance at the earliest opportunity to discuss more viable and equitable alternatives.
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Justice Dr. Irving André emphasizes the urgency of implementing certain electoral reforms that can be achieved with political determination. These reforms include removing deceased and overseas residents, eliminating overseas registration, introducing voter ID cards, limiting electoral spending, granting media access, criminalizing travel expenses, and restricting voting eligibility to Dominican residents. According to Justice André, these electoral reforms are crucial for ensuring a fair, accountable and transparent electoral process in Dominica. Dr. André highlighted additional electoral reforms that may take more time to implement due to their requiring constitutional amendments. Those reforms include restrictions of 2 consecutive terms in office, a fixed election date, limiting the powers of the Director of Public Prosecutions in electoral law prosecutions, setting a fixed date for general elections, and creating two virtual constituencies to represent Dominicans residing abroad in parliament. Justice Dr. Irving André.
Member of Parliament (MP) for the Kalinago Territory, Cozier Frederick, sheds light on the pressing issue of plastic pollution and its far-reaching consequences. Beyond merely harming the physical environment, plastic pollution poses a significant threat to public health and well-being. Frederick draws attention to the distressing state of the oceans, now plagued by plastic waste, leading to the endangerment of marine life and the disruption of entire ecosystems. This global problem also affects Small Island Developing States, with Dominica being no exception. The detrimental impact of plastic pollution knows no borders, and he urging us all to take immediate action to address this critical environmental challenge. Cozier Frederick, Member of Parliament (MP) representing the Kalinago Territory
Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Jesma Paul-Victor says recommendations by Sir Dennis Byron do not ensure the cleansing of the voters list of those persons who have been resident overseas for more than 5 years as Dominica's laws stipulate. She also noted that it does not provide any meaningful campaign finance reform given that the government controlled electoral commission can increase the amount of election campaign spending during an election campaign among. Leader of the Opposition Jesma Paul-Victor Meantime, Foreign Affairs Minister Vince Henderson said, if the opposition has issues with the recommendations made by Sir Dennis Byron, there will be an appropriate time to express their objections. Foreign Affairs Minister, Vince Henderson
As part of an initiative led by the Dominica Bureau of Standards, Ms. Caren Casimir and Ms. Mara Abraham recently took part in a JANAAC training seminar titled 'How to Conduct a Management Review.' The seminar, conducted virtually from June 27 to 28, 2023, aimed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively prepare for and conduct a Management Review meeting.
Management Reviews hold significant importance within Management Systems, as they not only showcase a commitment to the system but also provide a valuable opportunity to assess its effectiveness and facilitate continuous improvement. By participating in this training, the Bureau of Standards demonstrated its dedication to upholding high-quality management practices and ensuring the ongoing enhancement of its systems. The insights gained from the seminar will undoubtedly contribute to the Bureau's pursuit of excellence in its operations and services. Finance Minister Dr Irving McIntyre says the $127Million East coast road from Bois Diab to Hatton Garden through Castle Bruce and the Kalinago Territory is scheduled to be completed by December 31 this year. He states that though it is incomplete, residents of the area can already attest to the improvements in the comfort, safety and driving experience in the completed section. Finance Minister, Dr Irving McIntyre.
Minister responsible for geothermal energy Vince Henderson says the government has started discussions on the final terms of agreement for a geothermal energy plant for Dominica, some 15 years after the project got started. He says they are hoping that in a few weeks, they will be able to sign, and to see construction commence later in 2023. He stated that once this can be achieved, the target date for getting geothermal power on the electricity grid is 2025. Minister responsible for Geothermal Energy, Vince Henderson.
Minister for Agriculture Roland Royer says he presently has about 168 applications for visas for farm owners who want to bring persons to work on their farm. He says these have been under review for the past couple months stating that a structured farm migrant labor program is being explored. He said the labor shortage issue will be solved very soon. Minister for Agriculture, Roland Royer.
Minister for Public Works & Digital Economy Fidel Grant says when talking about Digital, one must be able to ensure that the security and safety of data is on par. He says during this fiscal year a number of bills will be brought to Parliament in that regard. He said it is most important to compliment that with a computer emergency response team. Minister for Public Works & Digital Economy, Fidel Grant.
Justice Dr. Irving André raises an important question regarding the future of the Byron report and emphasizes the significance of conserving the resources already invested in the matter. In the spirit of prudence and responsible use of public funds, he suggests that not only the voter list but also the Byron list undergo a comprehensive cleansing process. By advocating for the cleansing of both the voter list and the Byron list, Dr. André advocates for fairness, transparency, and accountability in the electoral process. This move ensures that Dominica's democracy remains robust and that the residents have the freedom and opportunity to chart their own future through the exercise of their democratic right to vote. A reference to the Attorney General’s contribution to St. Kitts emphasizes the significance of enabling ordinarily resident residents to make informed choices that shape the nation's future. This empowerment of the citizens is essential in maintaining a democratic system that values the collective voice of its people. Ultimately, Dr. André's call to cleanse both the lists align with the principles of good governance and responsible financial management. Upholding the freedom of choice and ensuring the best interests of Dominica's taxpayers and residents are prioritized should be central to any decision-making process in the context of electoral reform. Justice Dr. Irving André .
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