ROSEAU, Dominica (CMC):

Former deputy leader of the United Workers Party (UWP) Julius Timothy, who joined the government earlier this year, has been given a crucial Ministry in the Roosevelt Skerrit administration. He will oversee the offshore financial sector.

"I have consulted with Hon. Julius Timothy and have today invited him to join the cabinet of Dominica as minister of Economic Development and Planning, with specific responsibility for the creation and development of viable and vibrant International Business Sector," Skerrit announced Wednesday.

Timothy, the finance minister in the UWP government from 1995-2000, severed ties with the party after a leadership dispute. He is to take up his appointment later this month.

Timothy, who sought the approval of his constituency before accepting the job said he was ready for the challenge of his new post.

"We expect to see the sector up and running in quick time. It will be one of my responsibilities to ensure that the packages are delivered to the Dominica people as soon as possible," Timothy said.

Getting the votes

"As long as I can get into the Government and deliver for the country and deliver for the people of Roseau North I think they will be very happy. They have made it very clear to me, 'once you go in there and you deliver we will vote for you all the time'".

In his July 11 budget presentation to parliament Skerrit said he was willing to accept "anyone from the political spectrum" to head the offshore and financial services sector here. The Dominica leader told the nation on state radio that his decision to appoint Timothy is in keeping with that promise.