Opposition Leader: Government continues to ignore economic pandemic

For yet another week, the Prime Minister failed to acknowledge the reality of what people are facing in this country as a result of the continued lockdown. Thousands have lost their jobs, homes, savings and overall livelihoods.

Across the world, we have seen that governments have taken proactive approaches aimed at “building back better” and not just leaving the future to chance. Initiatives aimed at supporting small businesses and families were rolled out in those countries, while here in T&T there has been little in the way of relief.

Recently we learnt of the dire situation regarding our foreign direct investment levels which only adds to the prevailing situation. It is clear that urgent intervention is required, along with innovative thinking and political will to make some tough decisions.

Last week I proposed the UNC’s five economic booster shots aimed at kickstarting the stagnant economy that continues to suffer under the PNM and now Covid-19. These plans included: Reducing the tax burden, Jumpstarting Food Security, Restarting a reformed oil refinery, Investing in renewable energy and the Creation of three new funds to mobilize financial resources.

As Rowley and the PNM continue to focus on enriching their friends, families and financiers, citizens continue to suffer the realities on the ground. They have, as usual, no plan for the economic fallout effects from the pandemic as citizens are still waiting for their promised salary relief grants.

I again call on Rowley to stop ignoring the dire economic situation facing a vast number of our citizens and to immediately formulate a plan for bringing relief to citizens.

Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP
Leader of the Opposition