Here is what they are saying: Budget 2004
Guyana Chronicle
April 14, 2004
THE National Budget 2004, has been presented under the theme, ` Investing for Sustained Growth and Enhanced Social Development’. This year’s budget amounts to $75.6B, an increase of 5.3 percent over last year.
Consistent with its theme, this year’s budget focuses on sustained economic growth and enhancing social development.
It addresses critical development problems such as improving the social and economic infrastructure, enhancing human resources development to meet the demands of the expanding economy, and job creation.
The Government Information Agency (GINA) cameras asked members of the public what they thought of this year’s budget and the benefits.
Here is what they had to say:
Terrence Lucknauth: In this year’s budget, we will definitely see a lot of developments, especially in the social sector and personally I think that is good. However, what I was hoping for was an increased income tax threshold for public servants. But I guess that the Government will look into that.
Chandra Persaud: Well I am satisfied with this year’s budget. Where I am living the water supply is reasonable but with over $1B allocated to the water sector, I am confident that it will definitely improve this year. I have heard that we will be getting more roads and bridges. Better education facilities, and water facilities will improve, and we have already begun to see such developments.
Carl Montrose: I am pleased with the budget because certain things are being accomplished. I am living in West Demerara and I think with the Ministry of Public Works getting so much money our roads will be improved. Our water supply is good and I think more people this year will see improved water facilities. I think that the Government is doing its best.
V. Walcott: So far the budget looks good to me and I think that with what I have seen we Guyanese will see a better living standard.
Farida Walli: I have not been following the budget that closely, to be honest. But from what I have seen and heard, I think it is fair and we will see a lot of things happening this year.
Agatha Hinds: I am a pensioner and I am happy to hear that more pensioners will be getting assistance. But I hope that the Government maybe will look into raising it, maybe not right now, but I hope they will consider this.
Velma Grant: I am pleased with this year’s budget and I am most impressed with what is happening in the Sophia area where the handicapped are being assisted with houses. I think that we will see a more improved Guyana in 2004.