Ana Mitila Lora, well known journalist of the Listín Diario, described the first day of the National Dialogue, the talks being held from the 23 to 25 February to define the national agenda into the 21st century, as "an experience in participatory democracy without precedence in Latin America." As President Leonel Fernández had announced, the floor was open to anyone, either on an individual level or representing organizations or businesses, to speak their mind as to what should be done to achieve the desired development of the nation into the next century. Individuals and representatives of business groups, farmers, union members, representatives of religious organizations and non-governmental agencies participated. The inspiring sessions were characterized by their excellent organization regardless of the low turnout. Of over 3,000 persons that attended, in some sub-commissions only 10% assisted to submit their proposals. This low turnout facilitated the sessions which seemed like a "marathon of proposals."