By Caribbean News Global 
PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti – The CARICOM mission to Haiti led by prime minister Andrew Holness, on Tuesday held high-level talks with government officials and civil society in Haiti in addition to relevant stakeholders to determine a path towards consensus building for the restoration of political and security stability in Haiti.
The CARICOM mission also met with the high transition council and the political accord groups. Other meetings were scheduled with political parties and civil society groups which will be followed by the private sector and religious groups.
Prime minister Holness and the CARICOM leaders have had meetings with Canada on security matters.
Related: Canada strengthens ties with the Caribbean, announces new support for the Haitian people
Previously, prime minister Justin Trudeau welcomed CARICOM’s role in helping to facilitate an inclusive political dialogue and underscored the importance of increasing the capabilities of the Haitian National Police to bring stability to the country.
Last week, CNG reported, that “criminal gangs in Haiti have decided to openly establish their own toll stations, to collect money from road users travelling by car or motorcycle, in defiance of police and government authorities, in several parts of the Caribbean country torn apart by a deep political and humanitarian crisis.”
A note from the office of prime minister Holness, on Tuesday said:
“While the meetings are ongoing, a common theme expressed by each group is the urgency of national security and the need to safeguard the Haitian population from gangs. Underpinning this is a call for organic democracy, institution-building, structure and organization. CARICOM is anxious to play a role in the restoration of stability in Haiti and will be a strong advocate for support to Haiti, as well as a facilitator for the process of consensus building.
“We express solidarity with our Haitian brothers and sisters not only in words, but in deeds. We want to see Haiti fulfil its promise as the first free black nation and are committed to working with Haiti to find a path to a resolution.”
