It was revealed on Tuesday
that Dominica's Finance Minister, Ambrose George, has been sent on further leave
pending an investigation into alleged links with Julien Giraud, a Dominican
businessman currently facing money laundering charges in the United States.
Mr George, who has been
attending the current session of parliament in his capacity as representative
for the Roseau South constituency, was sent on leave by the Prime Minister last
month after it was discovered that he was travelling with Mr Giraud at the time
of his arrest. Pierre Charles said at the time that this was simply to allow
an unbiased investigation into events.
The Finance Minister was
due to return to his position on the 18th December, but as a result of delays
in hearing Giraud's case in the States, Mr George's leave has been extended
until the 24th December. It was expected that the Prime Minister would make
a statement on the 10th December, but because of the aforementioned delays,
no official statement has yet been made.
According to reports in
the Caribbean media, Ambrose George has come under increasing pressure to resign
in the weeks following his travelling companion's arrest on money laundering
charges. However, he has maintained his innocence throughout, and has expressed
his desire to take up the Finance and Planning Portfolio as soon as possible.