The Dominica Association of Industry and Commerce (DAIC) encourages stakeholders to reconvene discussions to finalize a consensual action plan for the public transportation sector.

The DAIC recognizes the right of the citizenry to protest peacefully on matters of individual and collective concern. Notwithstanding, the Chamber is mindful of the adverse socio-economic impacts of civil disorder. As such, the DAIC encourages stakeholders to take a measured view of these considerations as efforts continue to bring this matter to resolution.

The DAIC encourages stakeholders to resume discussions around a comprehensive action plan for the public transportation sector, a critical sector of the economy, against the backdrop of prolonged economic hardship owing to the global pandemic. While the need for interim financial assistance has been conveyed, the Chamber strongly suggests that stakeholders initiate plans to formalize the structure of the public transportation sector and establish regulations in support of it. Moreover, these efforts will enhance sector representation at the policy level and improve access to formal response mechanisms during future shock events. 

The Chamber also appeals to law enforcement personnel and the general citizenry to exercise restraint during events of protest action. In exercising our rights, we must accept the responsibility not to infringe on the rights of others. Law enforcement personnel have the critical responsibility of limiting, if not eliminating, such infringements. This is a delicate endeavor with the potential to deteriorate into verbal and physical altercations, and personal injury, to the detriment of all concerned. The Chamber urges law enforcement to utilize crisis management and de-escalation principles and encourages the general public to honour the tenets of lawful peaceful protest at all times.

For further comment please contact Lizra Fabien, Executive Director of DAIC at +1(767)235-1962 or [email protected].