by Rod Hughes from news reports
Time is running short for the Constitutional Chamber of Costa Rica’s Supreme Court to rule on the proposal to put congressional debate regarding ratification of the Central American Free Trade Treaty on a so-called “fast track,” avoiding delays that plague regular bills.

Costa Rica is the only Central American nation that has not yet approved the free trade pact with the United States. The line drawn in the sand by the controversial issue pits the administration of President Oscar Arias against the main opposition party plus the majority of labor unions.

Meanwhile, groups opposed to the ratification are mounting an all-out effort, planning to combine in street demonstrations.