HOME : BEST OF BOTH WORLDS : MAJOR ISSUES : GRIEVANCES AND INFORMATION CENTRE

Description:

A litany of complaints were identified and the inability to obtain fast access to empowered, key, dedicated resources to take action on legitimate concerns expressed by Canadian NRI/NRGs creates frustration and inefficiency.

NRI/NRGs expressed frustration when dealing with some of the Goa Government Departments and other entities, such as the Town Planning Department, the Police as well as real estate agents and land developers.

Specific grievances identified were:

• Facility to report blatant illegalities without repercussions by the authorities i.e. illegal construction in coastal zone areas, fishing trawlers fishing within the 4 km prohibition area, noise pollution, inaction by the Police, abusive and anti-social behavior by tourists.
• Obtain and expedite necessary clearance information within the State of Goa and if necessary Central Government for projects initiated by NRI/NRGs
• Provide support for areas of interest manifested by NRI/NRGs such as environment, social justice, human rights, health related projects, setting up of small business ventures, cultural and sports related activities
  

Outcomes:

In Press Releases of May 3 and July 10, 2007, the Office of the Commissioner for NRI Affairs reported that the Government of Goa on the advice of the Office of the Commissioner for NRI Affairs has constituted two high power District Committees for North Goa and South Goa to:

• deal with property-related and other grievances of NRIs;
• provide adequate safeguards for the protection of their properties in Goa in their absence.
• respond to any petitions/representations from NRGs in a timely manner and keep them posted with the latest developments
  

As well, the Director of NRI Affairs will promptly apprise petitioners, by e-mail, with regard to the current status of their grievances.

The two Committees will endeavor to obtain a fair and satisfactory settlement of all grievances placed before them.