Dear Editor,
So the Prime Minister stated at the launching of the International Energy Conference and Expo Guyana 2023, that “the Government’s commitment to use the proceeds from the oil and gas industry is to develop and improve the lives of all Guyanese.” Fine words, good intentions and noble thoughts.
Guyana, like the rest of the world, is facing critical times and even though statements by some of our leaders can offer the relief of laughter, we can ill afford this luxury. What we’ll prefer to hear are specific, concrete statements. The opportunity should have been taken to announce an immediate, and I emphasize immediate, 50% increase on the salaries and wages of every Public Sector employee, in particular our policemen, soldiers, firemen, teachers, nurses, doctors’ et al, and a similar increase to all pensioners.
With the rising cost of living, this is a good start of spreading this enormous wealth, now controlled by the Govern-ment. I would advise this likable fellow to save himself the embarrassment of making such statements in circumstances, where neither he nor his immediate predecessor, can determine how Government funds are used. As an aside, massive infrastructure works are always welcomed, even where there is evidence of inflated contract prices and skullduggery.
However, but to drive along good roads, and see massive buildings going up provide little comfort for public officers who still struggle to make ends meet. Monday’s Editorials, in both Kaieteur News and Stabroek News are instructive and should be read and digested by all of us. As the folks say, let us “be for real,” and let Government employees benefit now, and I mean now, from this bounty of Oil and Gas.
Sincerely,
Hamilton Green
Former Prime Minister
