Havana, October 8 (RHC)-- Monday marks the ninth week of popular debates over Cuba's new Constitution, the results of which will be taken into consideration before the final document is put to a nationwide referendum, in late February next year.

The process, which runs through November 15, is being undertaken across neighborhoods, work places and educational centers on the island, while Cubans living abroad and those serving in international missions can also participate on-line. 

Thus far, thousands of opinions and proposals have been made during almost 135,000 meetings across Cuba's 15 provinces. 
Key issues raised have included broadening individual rights, legal protections, changes to the structure of the Cuban state, and the island's economy. 

Meanwhile, new features of the new draft constitution include the recognition of private property and market forces, as well as the proposal to divide state and government responsibilities between a president, vice president and prime minister.