AS ANTICIPATED, the 2012 budget has already begun to generate much comment, both from the political opposition, and particularly the man in the street. Such is always expected in the aftermath of a nation’s financial projection, since it is inevitably about a nation’s livelihood. In absolute terms, no one will escape its provisions, as some of its measures will affect some segments more than others. Therefore, it comes to the issue of objectivity and fairness. But this depends on many factors, particularly those that influence one’s particular political ideologies and, of course, loyalties.
The particular core argument that is taking shape is whether the Budget has catered for the needs of the poor.
A good point to commence in terms of examining this pivotal contention, for it is taking shape in this direction, is the increasing of the income tax threshold from $40,000 to $50,000. This decision means immediately that 21,000 persons will be removed from the tax net; $3B more in disposable income available to beneficiaries.
Having laid this platform, it is apt to further examine some other important factors, additions, for a better and objective understanding of government’s efforts to make the livelihood of the working class better.
Today, virtually every household throughout the nation, has been receiving assistance for school uniforms for their children/charges, per year; a daily hot meal, compliments of the school feeding programme; free texts, in many instances; and free health care. No one will debate, that there is no supplementing these benefits from one’s personal income, at times. But mostly, persons within this category make full use of what the state provides without having recourse to personal means, even when they can.
There is an essential point that must be emphasised about poverty alleviation in Guyana; and that is, over the years, the PPP/C administration has implemented steps of an incremental nature to usher in relief. The fact often ignored – these steps do carry a hefty price tag and are not supported by a tax and spend strategy.
Thus when one factors in all the other components, as stated above, adding same to the new non-taxable salary level, one must agree that life for many Guyanese is gradually improving for the better.