Opposition leaders within the framework of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) have given their commitment to promoting the Commission’s regional integration work to their stakeholders.
In so doing, they have acknowledged, among other things, the importance of the free movement of people, goods and services for the region’s success.
This formed the crux of the matter at a meeting of the opposition leaders recently, the third of its kind.
The OECS Commission recognizes the opposition leaders represent an important and consequential voice in the diverse and vibrant community of nations within the sub-region.
REPORT:
The meeting was held virtually and Opposition leaders were updated about the Commission’s five strategic priorities – accelerating regional integration, reinventing the economy, valuing the environment, building resilience, and advancing equity and inclusion.
Directors of the Commission presented the projects currently being executed in the 2021-2024 triennium and anticipated plans for the next one set to begin July this year.
OECS Director General, Dr. Didacus Jules, noted the need for deepening the process of consultation at all levels and across all sectors.
Ultimately, according to him, “Regional integration cannot succeed if it does not engage, listen to and respond to what matters most to all sectors – from the citizen in the public street to families, to communities, from the business sector to the civic sector.”
He supported the request for more frequent meetings of the leaders of the opposition to share information and to address matters of urgency that affect regional integration efforts and not political motives.
Grenada’s Opposition Leader, Dr. Keith Mitchell, was represented by Hon. Emmalin Pierre.
