The Government of Dominica has recently approved funding to the tune of EC$ 6,130,350.00, to purchase equipment and to hire and train personnel for the implementation of a national identification card system.
In a press release this week the Electoral Office informed that it has begun the recruitment of about 15 young persons who, subject to the passage of the enabling legislation, will be engaged as enrolment officers, as part of the process of enrolling new electors and confirming those registered electors, who are eligible to remain on the electors list in accordance with the law.
The release stated further that the Electoral Office has in the last several months, worked closely with the Legal Affairs Department, in ensuring that proposed revisions to the House of Assembly Elections Act and the Registration of Elections Act and accompanying Regulations, are effective in introducing adequate procedures for the implementation of the identification system and cards. This follows several months of review of the proposed bills by the Electoral Commission, in accordance with its constitutional mandate.
Meanwhile the commission has also announced the appointment of Pearl Fontaine-Butler as its new Public Education Officer.
This appointment comes as the Commission prepares to commence its public education campaign to inform the Dominican public about the proposed national identification system and the manner in which its introduction is expected to enhance the electoral process and consequently, democracy in the Commonwealth of Dominica.
Members of the public will have the opportunity to fully appreciate what is being proposed and to air their views in free and open exchanges. The Commission looks forward to the participation of all stakeholders.