UNEMPLOYMENT in CARICOM and the Commonwealth countries is a major issue that needs attention and it is important to partner and collaborate in all areas to address the issue, according to Commonwealth Secretary-General (SG) Patricia Scotland.

She made this statement during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) and the Commonwealth Secretariat to pool efforts and resources to address various issues and problems facing member states and to maximise monies expended, especially in the field of climate change.

The MoU was signed Saturday at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown, between Scotland and CEO of the CARICOM Development Fund, Rondinald Soomer.
Secretary-General Scotland has been meeting with leaders in the Caribbean to explore the Commonwealth’s role in minimising the impact of extreme weather events as the Region’s hurricane season approaches.

Scotland said that with a combined force, the MoU is aiming for practical and quantifiable results in the joint efforts between agencies.

She said that the CDF is already doing a fantastic job in providing assistance to CARICOM countries and in areas where the Commonwealth is endeavouring to give assistance.
Underscoring that the agreement will allow the agencies to work in key areas, Scotland said this will build capacity to boost economic development which involves advocacy and high-level ministerial meetings.

The secretary-general said that it is expected that the agreement will avoid duplications in many areas, while looking at climate change mitigation and adaptation with initiatives that the Commonwealth toolkit can aid practitioners in applying for funds which may be available for assistance in climate change projects.

Meanwhile, Scotland also noted that the issue of cost-effective, clean and renewable energy generation is essential within the CARICOM Region.
CEO of the CDF, Rondinald Soomer, said that the agreement runs for five years with the option of renewal.

He said initiatives must complement each other for development to progress, especially in the field of climate change. He said too that the partnership allows for the strengthening of all areas to tackle various projects and issues that will be addressed.