Marshall will make a presentation on the current state of play of the EPA at a discussion forum being hosted by Oxfam GB (Barbados) in the Solutions Centre on the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus from 8 p.m. to 9:15 p.m.

Following the presentation, the UWI researcher will lead members of the media, the academic community, and the public in a discussion on the agreement, which will govern trading relations between this region and the European Union (EU) after it is signed into effect by the governments of CARICOM and the Dominican Republic in two months' time.

The discussion will be moderated by veteran broadcaster Win Callendar and broadcast live on CBC Radio and radio stations in nine other CARICOM countries. There will also be live performances by social activist and rhythm poet Aja, and comedian and educator Carl "Alf" Padmore.

This new EPA has wide-ranging implications for the people of this region, including impacts on the cost of living, access to financial and education services, Government revenue, and the movement of Caribbean nationals to the EU.

Regional governments are now undertaking a legal review of the full text of the agreement with June 30, 2008 having been proposed as the date for full signing and provisional application of the agreement.

Oxfam GB project officer and UWI Cave Hill alumnus Dr Cleve Scott, said his organisation was continuing to work to raise the level of public awareness on the ramifications of the trade agreement. (PR)