Dominica has joined its regional counterparts in implementing the Caribbean Local Economic Development (CARILED) program.
The programme which commenced in 2011 is a new initiative that was introduced to spearhead a change in economic fortunes in the region using the strategy of local economic development.
At a recent press conference, Jahisiah Benoit, Officer for CARILED projects, explained that CARILED works by employing the concept of local government.
He revealed that the project which was put forth by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and approved by the Canadian international Aid Agency (CIDA) was developed to the tune of 23.2 million Canadian dollars.
According to Benoit, the Caribbean Local Economic Development Program aims to work with a total of fifty local government bodies in seven Caribbean countries to achieve its goals. Benoit further indicated that one of the main aims of CARILED in working with these local government bodies is to “enhance, develop or create 500 micro, small or medium sized enterprises.
Benoit, in his remarks also gave credit to Honourable Gloria Shillingford, Minister for Local Government for her significant role in bringing the programme to Dominica.
While emphasizing the efforts of Government, Benoit made special mention of the role played by community development Honorable Minister Gloria Shillingford. .
“Dominica is not involved by chance or by way of natural selection but by the advocacy of persons like the Minister herself and I think that underscores the commitment of Government towards ensuring that the local government in Dominica is always strong,” he stated
The CARILED programme will be focused on the communities of Woodfordhill, Wesley, Scotts Head, Soufriere and Gallion.