By Emmanuel T. Erediano
[email protected]
Variety News Staff
THE CNMI government is preparing for another round of consultations with its federal counterparts pursuant to Section 902 of the Covenant, this time focusing on workforce issues and national security.
About a week before Super Typhoon Sinlaku hit the islands last month, Office of the Governor Chief of Staff Henry S. Hofschneider said the CNMI panel and representatives from federal agencies discussed issues related to tourism, the local economy, and budgetary support.
He said the working groups involved in the 902 talks are still finalizing the report that will be presented at the next consultation, which has yet to be scheduled.
Hofschneider said the CNMI panel’s labor group will discuss workforce issues facing the Commonwealth with its federal counterparts at the next consultation. He added that representatives from the Department of Defense will participate in the next round of talks.
One of the options being considered for the next consultation is a virtual meeting, which would allow members of the CNMI panel to avoid traveling to Washington, D.C., Hofschneider said.
He added that other critical issues being discussed in the 902 consultations include transportation and ongoing activities in the Marianas related to the military buildup in the Pacific region.
Emmanuel “Arnold” Erediano has a bachelor of science degree in Journalism. He started his career as police beat reporter. Loves to cook. Eats death threats for breakfast.
