Saturday, August 19, 2006

ROSEAU, Dominica: The next major phase of reform in the system of local government in Dominica is set to commence in September 2006. The Government of Dominica is in the final stages of preparation for the launch of a consultancy for a major review, with technical support being provided by the Caribbean Development Bank.

This major reform of the second tier of Government in Dominica will continue the work that was started several years ago, again funded by CDB, and which is contained in a report prepared by Systems Caribbean Limited in March 1999 on Local Government in Dominica.

The consultancy will be undertaken over a period of seven months. It will involve wide-ranging consultations with stakeholders including present and former councillors.

The following outputs are expected from the consultancy:

• Preparation of a policy on decentralized governance
• Formulation of a new Local Government Act
• Draft harmonised by-laws for each group of local authorities

The whole rationale behind this new wave of reform of local government in Dominica is to strengthen the contribution of local authorities to overall national development and to the rural economy in particular. This is to be undertaken mindful of the unique history of local authorities in the country and their impact upon the cultural and social life of households and communities around the island.

Towards that end a comprehensive review of the experience of local authorities in the development of the country, dating back to 1896 will inform the exercise.

In proposing new legislation for local government, the consultancy will consider the suitability of recommending any amendment(s) to the constitution of Dominica as may be appropriate. Whatever legislative amendments are proposed will be consistent with the constitution.

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