Former president of the Chamber of Deputies and two-term Mayor of Santiago Abel Martínez has put forward a series of proposals aimed at addressing the surge in illegal Haitian migration, as reported in 7 Dias. His plan focuses on enforcing stricter controls in key sectors like agriculture and construction, while ensuring these industries’ productivity remains unaffected. Abel Martinez was the PLD’s presidential candidate in the 2024 election.
In a recent thread posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Martínez outlined several immediate actions to curb illegal immigration. Among his key proposals are: the immediate deportation of undocumented migrants, enhanced border security, and the implementation of regular raids in both urban and rural areas to identify and expel individuals in violation of immigration laws. He also called for a stronger military presence at the border, equipped with advanced technology such as drones, sensors, and round-the-clock patrols.
Martínez also addressed the role of foreign labor in sectors like agriculture and construction. He proposed that the ministries of Agriculture and Public Works conduct a nationwide census to assess the actual need for foreign workers in these industries. Additionally, Martínez suggested that Haitian workers should be required to obtain a biometric identification card issued by the Migration Agency, under a regulated temporary visa system. This would extend to all foreign workers authorized to work in the country, with employers obligated to verify their legal status before hiring. He further advocated for a database integration between the Migration Department, the National Police, and the Ministry of Labor.
At present, the hiring of unidentified workers is creating a security problem. There have been several cases of unidentified labor murdering their employers and then exiting to Haiti, with no consequences.
Martinez also urges tackling birth tourism and rising health care costs today Dominican taxpayers are picking up for Haitians. There are maternity hospitals almost totally dedicated to the Haitian population – Los Minas and La Altagracia in Greater Santo Domingo, for instance. And border hospitals, too.
Martínez also addressed the issue of Haitian women giving birth illegally in the Dominican Republic, a situation he claims places a significant strain on the country’s healthcare budget. Abel called for an end to “maternity tourism,” stressing that no foreigner without legal status should receive free healthcare in the Dominican Republic. Haitian migrants receive free services at public hospitals, while poor Dominicans are asked to pay a recovery fee that covers basic costs.
As an alternative, Martínez proposes the establishment of health centers along the border, supported by international partners, to handle these cases outside of Dominican territory.
Among his other suggestions, Martínez recommended an overhaul of the country’s migration laws to increase penalties for human traffickers and ensure deported migrants are quickly accepted back by Haiti.
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7 Dias
5 February 2025