Opposition Says It Will Not Support Proposed Sugar Regulation in the House
Following B.S.I.’s release, the United Democratic Party issued a statement of its own voicing concerns over the manner in which the new regulations are being brought forward. The U.D.P. says, “laws and regulations should only be implemented after robust consultations with sugar industry stakeholders where consensus is built. This act by the Briceño Government and Agriculture Minister Mai goes against sugar industry norms and is not only arbitrary but dictatorial. The U.D.P. demands the Briceño Government reverse course and implement regulations that foster an enabling environment for caneros and investors.” We spoke with Hugo Patt, the Deputy Party Leader on his party’s release.
On the Phone: Hugo Patt, Deputy Party Leader, U.D.P.
“B.S.I. indicated that their understanding is that this regulation will be tabled at the next Sitting of the House of Representatives. But, they have concerns over that and say that they will challenge it, more than likely they would challenge it in court. But, that gives you an indication that look, if you want to introduce any kind of legislation, any kind of or if you want to amend any kind of law you must have a buy in from all stakeholders. It cannot be that as a government you would say look, I would do this because I will do this. You are talking about an industry you cannot be arbitrary in the things you do.”
Paul Lopez
“In terms of something like this being presented before the House, I am gathering that the opposition would not support it.”
On the Phone: Hugo Patt
“Right, because you need to have open discussions, you need to have consultations with all stakeholders. What there is agreement then you go ahead and present it before you take it to the House.”
Paul Lopez
“What would you in your opinion suggest is the motive here? Is there some sort of vindictive undertone given ongoing negotiations between BSCFA and BSI?”
On the Phone: Hugo Patt
“I would want to think that has a fact to influence the decision by this administration to take such arbitrary actions.”
We will bring you more on this in Wednesday’s newscast.
