2009 – Page 148

The Customs Department (DGA) says that companies are importing less. He forecast that government tax collections would decline by RD$10 billion this year, due to the reduced imports. DGA director Rafael Camilo said that imports of raw materials, vehicles and appliances were down. He said new estimates for 2009 are for RD$48.6 billion, down from …

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Public and private entities met in Haiti yesterday to discuss how to make the most of the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), with a particular focus on strengthening trade with Haiti. Hoy reports that participants in the conference agreed that the EPA, which was signed by Cariforum and the EU, could be used to officialize trade …

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The United States International Development Agency has donated RD$14.9 million to 10 non-governmental organizations to develop eco-tourism projects, aimed at improving the lives of local communities. USAID director Richard Goughnour said that the funds would help to develop innovative tourism projects, increase visitor satisfaction and support viable economic practices, among other things. The beneficiaries of …

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A recent Gallup-Hoy poll indicates that 53.4% of the population feels that there should not be an official religion established in the Constitution in the DR. Another 31.6% believe the Roman Catholic religion should be the official religion. And 12.8% feel there should not be an official religion, but the Catholic religion should receive special …

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The Fenatrano transport union held another wildcat strike starting at 6am this morning, taking many public transport users by surprise. This is just the latest attempt by Fenatrano director Juan Hubieres to use bullying tactics to achieve his aims. Listin Diario reports that a conflict with the owners of the Parador Cruce de Ocoa is …

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Peravia senator Wilton Guerrero and Ocoa deputy Abraham Martin are denouncing the way in which the cities of Bani and Ocoa are being used for drug trafficking, and they accuse the National Drug Control Department (DNCD) of indifference. Martinez said that drugs recently confiscated thanks to his efforts in Bani, and a drug operation he …

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The First Tribunal of the Penal Chamber of the National District has sentenced former banker Leonel Almonte to two years in jail and a fine of RD$100 million after being found guilty of defrauding clients at the bankrupt Banco Universal. The court also ruled that he must pay RD$100 million in compensation for fraud committed …

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A rash of identity and age fakes from minor league prospects has led MLB baseball teams to take an extra step in protecting their prospects and their investments. The New York Times is reporting on the case of baseball prospect Miguel Sano who agreed to take a DNA test to verify his age and family …

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Last chance to see the praised Dominican adaptation of the novel by Charles Webb, The Graduate, directed by Ivan Garcia. The drama is staged at the Palace of Fine Arts (Bellas Artes) this Friday, 24 July and Saturday 25 July for promotional admission prices of RD$500-RD$300. Alexander Pimentel will be Benjamin Braddock, and Fedra Lopez …

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The Ministry of Tourism and Brugal Rum are again sponsoring the Santo Domingo Merengue Festival. Events will be centered at the Avenida del Puerto. On Friday, 24 July, the orchestras that will be playing live for the general public are: Eddy Herrera, Geovanny Polanco and Rubby Perez. On Saturday, 25 July, Pena Suazo, Banda Real, …

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