These include emphasis on a specific “review clause” to take care of implementation problems that may arise, as well as “extra aid for trade” and focused attention on the Caribbean’s “development goals”.

The resolution endorsing the EPA with conditions, was passed by MEPs (Members of European Parliament) last week with 460 votes in favour to 82 against and 43 abstentions.

The parliamentarians “welcome the fact that a review of the EPA will be undertaken no later than five (5) years after the date of signature and at subsequent five yearly intervals in order to determine the costs and consequences of implementation…”

The draft resolution was initiated by the United Kingdom parliamentarian, David Martin, who said, according to an official press statement, that the EPA in its present form can only be described as “satisfactory, if it offers the CARIFORUM countries support for their economic development, promotes their participation in world trade and strengthens the regionalisation process…”

The perceived necessity for a specific or mandatory review clause in the EPA and a more focused approach on development objectives, were advocated by the Guyana government, leading regional economists and the network of major non-government organisations in the Caribbean Community.

The MEPs also urged that they and fellow Caribbean parliamentarians be involved in any revision of the EPA. Further, that an “independent monitoring mechanism within CARIFORUM”, be created, “endowed with the necessary resources, to determine the extent to which the EPA is achieving its objectives…”

In a statement that followed approval of the resolution, tabled by parliamentarian Martin, the MEPs asked for clarification from the European Commission (executive arm of the EU) on the distribution of funds in the region within the “aid for trade” budget.

These funds, it was noted, represent additional resources and are not merely a repackaging of the European Development Fund (EDF funding). The MEPs also call on EU member states to outline additional funding beyond current 2008-2013 budget commitments.

With a view to encouraging intra-regional trade stimulation, the MEPs called for “selective application” of the MFN (more favoured nation) treatment to the EU by CARIFORUM and other sub-regional groups.

Meanwhile, the Georgetown-based CARICOM Secretariat is in the process of completing arrangements for the establishment of an EPA Implementation Unit while discussions continue with the Dominican Republic in relation to its involvement.

The DR is the only non-CARICOM member of the region to have signed the EPA with the EU as part of the CARIFORUM group of countries.