Haitian conflict affects DR

[NewsWhore]

For over a week tensions have been running high in Haiti, which is experiencing a bout of civil unrest as a result of increases in basic food prices. The situation has become volatile, forcing the Dominican armed forces to increase surveillance and patrols on the Haitian-Dominican border in anticipation of any repercussions from Haiti. Although no extreme measures have been taken, three infantry brigades and the Specialized Border Security Corps (CESFRONT) are all on high alert in case of any incidents. Hoy reports that the average Haitian makes US$2 per day and that the indiscriminate increase in food prices triggered angry sentiments among many sectors of the population, forcing them on to the streets to protest. Unrest broke out in Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haitien, as well as in some of Haiti's most affluent areas, like Petionville. Fearing a full revolt and with his job at stake, Haitian President Rene Preval promised citizens that taxes on imported foods would be lowered. Adding to efforts to calm unrest is a call from the Haitian Senate for Prime Minister Jacques Edouard Alexis to resign from his post. According to reports, the situation is so bad that some Haitians are reduced to eating mud cookies. In addition to the increase in food prices, many have forgotten that Dominican chicken and egg products are still banned from entering Haiti because of bird flu fears. No word on whether the ban will be lifted.

More... (http://www.dr1.com/index.html#11)