Dominica govt sets up special committee for truckers to resolve problems

Rosseau, Dominica: Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit held talks with dozens of truckers to address their problems. The cordial talks were held at the Goodwill Parish Hall.

PM Skerrit was accompanied by the Minister for Public Works and the Digital Economy – Cassanni Laville, Minister for National Security & Home Affairs – Rayburn Blackmoore, Minister for Tourism, International Transport and Maritime Initiatives – Denise Charles and Chief Technical Officer in the Ministry of Public Works – Emile Lancelot.

He shared the news via his Facebook post and cited, “I assured the truckers my government was sympathetic to their plight,” noting he had recommended the establishment of a committee so that the issues of truckers are dealt with in a more systematic way. This Committee will propose fair and reasonable fares for the services they offer, and will commence its work from Monday, November 22, onwards, and will submit its report by December 15, 2021.

This Committee will be chaired by – the Minister of Public Works Rayburn Blackmoore and comprise representatives of the truckers association, the local contractors association/grouping, representatives of two of the larger foreign owned contracting firms on Dominica & an internationally recognized and respected agency.

“I also requested that the Committee conduct an audit of available vehicles and capacity in Dominica to guide our granting of permission to contracting firms to import vehicles or labour into Dominica. I gave my commitment to truckers to address their concerns in an expeditious manner,” the prime minister further stated.

Various citizens commented on the prime ministers’ post, appreciating the efforts of the Dominican government. One of the residents cited that, “Woow Honorable PM that very Good quick response to the cry of truckers, my prayer is that all the prayers are answered for the truckers and their families. You are a – true leader kudos, may the presence of the Lord continue to cover you, your cabinet & your family, not forgetting the ppl of Dominica Nuff love & respect”.