Brief Remarks by Henry L. Mac Donald JD, LL.M. at the Meeting of Experts to Propose a Revised Scale of OAS Quota Assessments, Washington DC January 20, 2006.

Thank you Mr. Chairman,

The timely payment by Members states of dues to the Organization is a key factor in ensuring that the OAS can do the jobs it is constantly asked to do. Timely and full payment of contributions is also a reflection of membership’s commitment to this Organization.

I have listened to many well prepared proposals presented by several delegations yesterday and today and therefore would like to thank all those who have made great efforts in helping to find a solution for this immense problem we are faced with.

Let me particularly thank the delegation of Brazil for its latest proposal.

My delegation agrees that there is a great need for a complete revision of the current quota scale. In this respect we should consider how to improve the financial situation of the OAS by ensuring that all members are assessed in a fair and equitable manner. We should make certain that any new quota scale should reflect the changing economic situation and the ability to pay of every member.

Last year Suriname agreed on a payment plan with this Organization to pay its quota arrears of longer then 6 years.

In that respect my country has indeed come a long way and as of today it has already paid more then 70% of its debt to the OAS.

We agree with those delegations that are in support of taking the current UN quota scale as a starting point in creating our own. We believe that any new quota scale should be principally based on Article 55 of the OAS Charter which stipulates that the quota of each Government shall be established “taking into account the ability to pay of the respective countries and their determination to contribute in an equitable manner.”

For this reason we can completely associate our selves with the remarks just made by the distinguished Ambassador of Jamaica, when he so noticeably spoke about his country’s inability to pay according to both proposals which are presently discussed.

Suriname cannot and will not accept any new quota scale that will be unfair and completely contrary to its ability to pay.

My delegation is therefore not in the position at this time to take a final stand on neither the Mexican nor the Brazilian proposal. We are however prepared to consider modifications to the Brazilian proposal.

Suriname strongly welcomes and supports all significant, transparent and fair-minded proposals, as well as initiatives that will ensure the financial solidity of this very important Organization  

Thank you very much for your attention.
 

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