CARICOM member states have to continue to make their contributions towards the upkeep of the secretariat despite their individual financial troubles.
The effects of the global financial crisis have trickled down in some countries with some feeling the effects on their various sectors.
Deputy Secretary General Lolita Applewaithe, in response to questions from reporters at a yearend press conference on Thursday, stated that so far member countries have made good on their contributions.
She explained that the contribution budget of member states covers all staff salaries, travelling expenses and a small fund which covers research and advisory services.
However she noted that as the mandate of the community increases the community has had to seek international development partners.
However Applewaithe was sure that the secretariat was not at any risk. “We do not see the existence of the secretariat at risk for lack of funding from member states,” she stated.
