THE government needs to address many issues, but with limited financial and human resources and an unsettled opposition, it must continue to prioritise what is doable in the short term, and plan for the long term. I believe that the following are doable and are put in order of priority:-
1) That the Amaila Falls Project/ road is done properly and as quickly as possible, at the lowest cost and greatest benefit for Guyana.
2) That all bids be not only based on lowest price, but on a proven track record, with better oversight and penalties, with disqualification for future jobs if contracts are not satisfactorily completed.
3) That we spend whatever is necessary to ensure Guyana gets its fair share of its mineral resources.
4) That we have the personnel before hand to run and maintain expensive purchases to avoid damage to them, whether ferries, medical or electronic equipment, industrial plants etc.
5) Ensure that utilities and public property are protected with as much security and laws as possible.
6) Create special courts to deal with specific problems, as soon as possible, while addressing an overhaul of the judicial system. Justice delayed is justice denied – too many postponements.
7) Create an independent investigative body that can deal with official misconduct or corruption, organised and major crimes requiring necessary independent investigation outside of normal law-enforcement authority.
8) Assign capable people to monitor progress of vital projects such as the Lethem-Linden road, and Deep Water Port.
9) Creation of a Development Investment Fund open to Guyanese at home and abroad to spur investment in agriculture and other services and products that would contribute to jobs and development.
10) Reform the Disciplinary Forces so that the GDF can help fight crime or perform more guard services for vital areas and institutions, with a concentrated effort to change the GPF culture and effectiveness. This could be done by way of training of locals,and employment of outside professionals, with special investigative, forensic and other skills.
11) Pursue the hydropower survey offered by Brazil and Venezuela. This offer was made years ago for the river dredging but is still unfulfilled.
12) Identify investment opportunities in agriculture, mining, processing, tourism etc., and sponsor investment trips to and from India, China, Canada, Middle East etc. to encourage joint ventures, where possible.
It is time for the government to act aggressively in efforts to realise the above-mentioned.