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The public would be aware that legislation has been introduced in the House of Parliament whereby it was proposed to significantly increase the duty on cement imported from outside of the region. This increased duty regime would simultaneously allow the local manufacturer to make the capital investment needed to bring unit production costs down to levels which would allow it to compete when the FTAA takes effect in a few years. Several issues were raised during the Parliamentary debate, including the potential impact on the price of cement locally, the guarantee that the local manufacturer will make the required additional capital investments and the timeframe within which this will be done. Since Tuesday, I have received numerous submissions, both pro and con the legislation, from special interest groups. In order to allow a fuller discussion on the matter, after consultation with the Prime Minister, I have decided to delay taking the legislation through Parliament. In the interim, I will be holding meetings with all the special interest groups including the domestic producer, representatives of the Opposition, the importers, the Master Builders' Association, as well as the trade unions representing the workers, in order to determine the most equitable way forward. Such a solution should simultaneously maintain Jamaica's productive capacity, increase our competitiveness and ensure that the consumers are not penalized. The various special interest groups will be alerted as to the forum at which they will be able to put forward their submissions.
Dr. Omar Davies, MP
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