Increase in Border Patrols to Reduce Smuggling, Collect Revenues

The government of Haiti (GOH) has allocated funding to General Administration of Customs (AGD) for recruitment of patrol agents. The first class of 125 graduated in June 2013. The graduation ceremony was held at Royal Oasis Hotel with Prime Minister Lamothe; Economy and Finance Minister Laleau, and AGD Director Jean-Baptiste present. Lamothe encouraged the graduates to represent GOH with ". . . patriotism and professionalism" as they carry out their duties.

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GOH recognizes they must provide support to the AGD to defeat smuggling and bring in more customs revenue. Lamothe said the patrol agents are to serve two purposes: one, protect the borders from smuggling activities, and, two, reassert the sovereignty of GOH.

The Prime Minister's appearance at the graduation was to send a message to the international community GOH intends increased customs revenues will be spent to maintain social programs to alleviate the acute poverty of the Haitian population. Lamothe quoted figures for fiscal year 2012-2013 that $24 billion-plus gourdes have been amassed so far.

To backup GOH's commitment to greater enforcement of the Haitian-Dominican Republic border, 50 patrol vehicles have been ordered, 14 of which are immediately available for use.

Lamothe requested Jean-Baptiste begin recruiting the second class of agents, including a minimum 30% females, mandated by the recently amended Constitution. The benefits of an adequate border patrol will be an upsurge of revenues, and the support of local businesses, which will be able to compete on a level playing field.

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