The Dominican government has initiated a comprehensive overhaul of compensation packages for the nation’s highest offices, Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit announced during a press conference this week. The reforms will include a salary increase for the President effective in the coming year, alongside significant adjustments to benefits for both current and former heads of state.
Skerrit revealed that his administration conducted an extensive evaluation of presidential terms and engagements, extending beyond mere financial compensation to examine how the nation treats its leaders during and after their service. “We have done a comprehensive review of the President’s emoluments and engagement,” stated Skerrit, confirming that proposed amendments would be presented to Parliament during the first quarter of next year.
The Prime Minister outlined additional considerations being given to the legal status of the President’s spouse, noting that the position comes with significant restrictions on personal and professional activities. “Once you become the President’s spouse, you become limited in what you can do,” Skerrit emphasized. “We believe that serving the nation should not place undue burden on the President’s family, and we are examining appropriate facilitations.”
The announcement follows recent cabinet decisions regarding former prime ministers, who now receive $7,000 monthly along with comprehensive support including drivers, domestic helpers, and vehicles. The government is also addressing compensation for other key positions, including the Director of Audit and Chief Elections Officer, whose retirement age was recently increased from 55 as part of broader electoral reforms.
Skerrit indicated that statutory instruments governing these positions require updating to reflect contemporary standards and ensure appropriate compensation structures across the nation’s leadership framework.