A sum of $90.1M has been allocated to the Ministry of Social Cohesion for activities and support consultations for the ministry’s 2017 -2021 strategic plan. The strategy is expected to be completed within the second half of 2017.

Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan disclosed this allocation while presenting the National 2017 budget on Monday, in the National Assembly.

“The plan will draw from the inputs made at the Social Cohesion Round Table, held in September 2015, where five key themes were identified, namely:  economic equity and opportunities, citizen safety and security, social inclusion and tolerance, inclusive and participatory governance, and harmonious ethnic and race relations.”

Three additional consultation exercises are expected to be to be carried out by the ministry and are aimed towards improving the quality of life, and the enjoyment of the ‘good life’.

In 2016, the Government commenced the development of the strategic plan with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The strategic plan will focus on building unity within the framework of enhancing livelihoods in a green economy.

To date, 29 social cohesion sensitisation and strategic plan consultations have been held with a number of stakeholders including Regional Democratic Councils (RDC), Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), Non- Governmental Organisations (NGOs), civil society, Guyana Police Force, cultural and political groups, the private sector, health workers, and vulnerable groups. (GINA)