Telecommunication Minister, Kelvar Darroux, is expressing concerns over the rate of roaming in the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) and has challenged the Eastern Caribbean Telecommunications Authority (ECTEL) to do something about it.

He was speaking at the presentation of funds by ECTEL to the government of Dominica on Tuesday morning as the island recovers from Hurricane Maria.

“I have always mentioned it at the Council of Ministers’s meeting that ECTEL needs to work speedily in ensuring that the roaming rates, particularly within the OECS territories, is something that is looked at critically to ensure these rates can be lowered,”

he stated.

Darroux questioned why when OECS citizens travel to member states and “pay so much” for roaming.

“Why is it that you have to leave Dominica and go across to St. Lucia or to Antigua or to St. Kitts and you have to pay so much for roaming charges,” he stated. “It is critical in such a small area, the EU has gone ahead and done it why can’t we five countries within the OECS do the same thing to reduce the roaming rates for our citizens here in the OECS territories?”

He stated that his challenge to ECTEL is to look into the matter.

“I am hoping that at the next board meeting that this is discussed and when the Council of Ministers meet, we can take a firm position on this thing,” Darroux said.

At Tuesday’s presentation, EC$350,000 was given to the Government of Dominica by ECTEL.

Darroux said $150,000 will go towards housing projects in St. Joseph and $200,000 will go towards the National Telecommunication Regulatory Commission of Dominica to ensure the complete restoration of its business. oecs roaming

About OECS

The Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) is a regional intergovernmental organization comprising several countries and territories in the Caribbean. Its primary goal is to promote economic integration, regional cooperation, and harmonized policies among its members. The OECS was established by the Treaty of Basseterre in 1981.

OECS Member States

1. Full Members (Independent Countries):
   • Antigua and Barbuda
   • Dominica
   • Grenada
   • Saint Kitts and Nevis
   • Saint Lucia
   • Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
2. Associate Members (Territories of the United Kingdom):
   • Anguilla
   • British Virgin Islands
   • Montserrat

eSIM and Roaming

• eSIM technology offers a cost-effective alternative for roaming in the OECS. Travelers can purchase eSIM plans with coverage tailored to the Caribbean region, avoiding high roaming fees.
• Some global eSIM providers include OECS countries in their Caribbean packages, offering competitive rates for data and calls.

Tips for Managing Roaming in OECS Countries

• Check Local Plans: Before traveling, inquire with your current mobile provider about OECS-specific roaming packages or partnerships.
• Consider an eSIM: For short trips, an eSIM plan for the Caribbean is often cheaper and more flexible.
• Use Wi-Fi Where Available: Hotels, cafes, and public areas in OECS countries often provide free or affordable Wi-Fi.
• Regional SIM Cards: Purchase a regional SIM card upon arrival, as these often include affordable roaming rates across OECS states.