Dominica makes headway in OECS integration

Dominica is said to be making headway where the issue of OECS integration is concerned.

A six-person delegation of public and private sector representatives returned home earlier this week after what is being described as a timely forum on the OECS Integration.

Labour Commissioner Mathew Leblanc was one of those who attended the one week workshop in Grenada.

He said there are tremendous benefits to be derived from OECS Integration.

According to Leblanc, citizens will now be granted indefinite entry into various territories.

“The Economic Union understands the movement of goods, services, persons and capital. In the case of our OECS, both skilled and unskilled persons, as well as professionals are moving freely within the OECS,” he said. “Never before were we able to move with our driver’s license or any card issued by the state as a travel document. We should no longer be asked how long we are going to stay…what it is that we come to do.”

Leblanc further stated that there will be no more requirements for work permits neither a work exemption certificate.

“Our citizens can move, reside and go to and from the countries as they wish,” he said.

Meantime Leblanc says there is also a common strategy is in place for education, agriculture and cultural development among the territories.

“There is work underway in sea and land management and development of a comprehensive policy for manufacturing and exports,” he said.

The Labour Commissioner believes with sufficient education on the OECS integration process will be smoother.