Roosevelt Skerrit, the Prime Minister of Dominica attended the OECS (Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States) Youth in Agriculture (YIA) Symposium Opening Ceremony on August 7 in Dominica. He highlighted the importance of easing the restriction on the free movement of Agri-products across the region.
On the first day of the three-day event, PM expressed his happiness over the involvement of a large number of young people. However he expressed his concern that the main objective of the Symposium will not be served if trade barriers continue to exist.
These trade barriers are the biggest obstacles to the free movement of Agri-products between the countries of the OECS (Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States) and CARICOM (Caribbean Community). PM Skerrit strongly advocated the easing of these barriers among the countries of these groups.
PM Skerrit also said, “It is surprising to see that we can export our products to many European countries but not to countries which are part of OECS and CARICOM with ease. The Governments of all these countries need to give immediate attention to this problem through a display of strong political will.”
The PM also urged member countries to examine their trade policies regarding the free trade of Agri-products. According to PM, we cannot approach the World Bank or IMF (International Monetary Fund) unless we introduce structural changes in the policies of OECS and CARICOM. It is to be noted that the OECA’s Youth in Agriculture symposium is being organised by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy of the Commonwealth of Dominica.
On the occasion, Didacus Jules, the Director General of OECS stressed the role of youth in future agricultural practice. He stated, “As we have been facing many crises related to health, climate, food, and politics sectors, the future agricultural practice requires the creativity and enthusiasm of the young mind.” According to him the Symposium can play a significant role in bringing together different stakeholders especially the youth who are passionate about revolution in the agricultural sector.
In addition to Dominica the other countries in the group include Anguilla and the British Virgin Islands, Grenada, St Lucia, Antigua and Barbuda, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Kitts and Nevis, and Montserrat.