My views on the 2021 budget
Dear Editor,
In this second aspect of the 2021 budget, I repeat: I like what’s there. I appreciate that not everyone will be pleased, and that not all wishes can be fulfilled, I am surprised that some places and things did not reach the grade. I point out a few.
There was no second COVID-19 stimulation proposal. Although I have not seen the first one, it requires a second impulse, and sorely from many Guyanese, at family, cottage industry and company level. I think that, although it is a costly undertaking, it should have been among the higher priorities that have been put forward. The next one is closer to home. A large chunk of billions has been earmarked for education, with some good plans and projects in mind. But it would have been satisfying to read about money set aside for the former Central High School to be relocated and built on its own plot. This would be well received by teachers and students, as a much needed place for academic and sporting activities. I believe that such would offer staff and students a place to be proud of to nurture the higher average to contribute to this society. This has been planned forever, and while I understand competing needs in other communities, I find that responsibility is almost ruined. He should have found a billion for a modern facility for the former Central High, which has now been sent to the educational boondocks. If I remember correctly, some government officials said education was key to our success and prosperity. Quality education for all students, to get the best from our better-equipped students, starts with a quality facility. Its products could share in building a truly quality society.
Now for a few hiccups. I agree with the relocation of Fire Service Headquarters from nightmare Stabroek Square. And yet Eccles is just on the far side of the very populated places. I recognize that central GT is out, new access roads completed are a difference maker, and that it is subject to tossup: heads gain, tails another area loses. Well, there’s always the comfort of no noise nuisance. Also, I learn that sugar is further enriched with a couple billion more; I will warn that that is going to trigger acute diabetes; clear case of good (borrowed) money after bad to create more holes. I may have missed it, but a few dollars for a bauxite and Linden would have signaled the decisive action that I previously talked about that “One Guyana” vision of the president’s vision. Unfortunately, it’s very political, and how victors favor communities and cherished goods.
Besides, I have been amazed by the numerous billions allocated for work all over. I must be a spoiled sport and point out that there is plenty of room for cleverness and what I will be merciful to call it ‘carelessness.’ I also trust that when the time comes, the sharp and lively explorers will not return to form with blindness, dimness, and a lack of self-imposed clue. With all that construction and development going on, I should form a construction company. I have one thing that breaks down what the rest know about construction. It is summed up in one word: honesty. Giving Guyanese value for their tax money. I can do it; the others cannot.
Finally, the blueprints have been made for three books, so I’m considering going to Hon. Minister Ramson for a leaflet (grant) for a struggling citizen of that GY $ 2.7B. Surely he can’t spare some ‘fine change’ for Guyanese, he must admit it is a troublesome one. I suggest he doesn’t check with the big oil guy, or otherwise my cork duck. So much more, but here I leave budget stuff.
Truly,
Lall GHK