FINALLY, WE HAVE A BUDGET WHERE THERE IS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!
“Visionaries will always meet opposition from weak minds but the seeds they plant always save the world†― Bangambiki Habyarimana, The Great Pearl of Wisdom
The evening of April 26, 2022 will long be remembered by those of us who listened to The Honourable, Philip J. Pierre, Prime Minister and Minister of Finance as he presented his budget policy statement 2022 – 2023 to the House of Parliament. By the time you get a copy of this issue, all parliamentarians would have had an opportunity to support or criticise the budget as a whole or in part.
In spite of all that is going on in the world, our Prime Minister presented to the nation a bold prescription to deal with the problems that confront us at this time, and a positive outlook for the future under the theme, Empowering our People – Transforming our Economy. We have before us a clear and precise blueprint upon which to build our future. It is human nature to criticise but at this time in our history, it is necessary for us to pull together to achieve the nation’s aim with our limited resources. Criticisms should be to strengthen but not to demoralise or break down. This is a time for working together in unity, and seeking Yahweh’s guidance every step of the way.
The budget sets a tone for those who are interested in progress to jump on board and make their contributions toward policies that will bring into being a new St. Lucia. This present time demands a government that is compassionate. Prioritisation of the various tasks will have to be undertaken on a continuous basis as the limited resources are shuffled around.
It is not possible for me to deal with all the various programmes that are of direct benefit to the majority of our people but suffice it to say that education and health should be important considerations of any people centered government. The Prime Minister’s interest in creating a space for our young people to live and prosper is commendable. The Youth Economy is off to a great start. I continue to pray that all the training will have a practical component that will be designed to ensure successful implementation of the skills learned. Government’s assistance in an internship programme should be reintroduced. In times past, the Government paid a stipend which was matched by companies that facilitated the programme. I encourage my readers to read the details of the budget at www.govt.lc and discuss freely with their families and friends so that they can make the necessary approaches to benefit from the many incentives and programmes in the budget.
The COVID 19 pandemic continues to be of concern to our health authorities as our citizens continue to refuse to embrace vaccination while at the same time seeking to be free to live normal lives. It is time that those who are unvaccinated take into consideration the risk they are posing to themselves and others. In today’s world people are not united on most things, and there are some among us who thrive on the division. The earlier we get to a place where we can be on the right side of issues will be better for all concerned. Right can never be wrong and wrong can never be right. This is not a time for deception in any shape or form. We must say what we mean and mean what we say. These are serious times and whatever we put out into the world should have a stamp of sincerity.
It is very clear that this budget gives citizens hope and is very likely to excite the minds of those who are interested in the social and economic advancement of Saint Lucia. The future looks great; it is now time for the people to maintain vigilance in ensuring that various projects are implemented in a timely manner. It is now up to the people to put the budget to work in the interest of all.
Stay Healthy, Stay Safe, Stay in your section. Don’t do anything that is likely to cause you suffering. COVID 19 is very much active among us. Continue to adhere to the protocols. Blessings!
Edward Harris
Freelance Journalist/Realtor/Business Consultant
Facebook: www.facebook.com/eaharrisdestiny
Email: eaharrisdestiny@gmail.com