–Berbicians say, welcomes govt’s fiscal plan

RESIDENTS of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) are excited for the imminent roll out of the government’s $781.9 billion 2023 budget, which was presented to the National Assembly on Monday.

Based on their own assessments, persons firmly believe that Budget 2023 is one that will significantly improve their standard of living.

In an invited comment to the Guyana Chronicle, Teddy Sukhdeo, a Plant Operator of Number 64 Village, said: “The 2023 budget is the largest for a small country like Guyana… while many may see the budget as boost to the private sector only, I see that the investment made in the budget for key projects is necessary to catapult Guyana to a next level.”

He said that while there may be many naysayers, he believes the budget is one that caters for every Guyanese.

“In the short term it might look like a large sum being invested, but the benefits will outweigh the investment in the long term. Every single Guyanese will benefit from this budget as it is a budget that seeks to capture the needs and to elevate the living standards of every single Guyanese,” Sukhdeo said.

Jaleel Marks, an aspiring police, said he has big plans for the future and sees a bright future for young Guyanese with the opportunities available for learning.

He said he hopes to take advantage of the scholarship opportunities via GOAL while he awaits a feedback on his career choice.

“I want be a police, but while I wait I am hoping to sign up for the GOAL programme and add to my education, look at ways I can add to my name, and better qualify myself cause it is free and with an education, I can set me own future nice… so yea, the budget has promised for betterment for all. I also love business and would consider to take courses in that field also,” the 20-year-old said.

Vidya Kumarie-Roop, 56, who benefits from public assistance, said she is grateful to see an increase. She added, while she is not a pensioner, she is also proud to know that pensioners are not being neglected.

“This public assistance and pension money that we collect is what many people depend on to carry we through the month and this increase is very good because lot of things went up and even though it is not much, it will go a long way especially for them old people,” Kumarie-Roop said.

She said she is happy to see the developments in various sectors across Guyana, and hopes to see continued improvement to lives and infrastructure across the country.

“I see the budget as one that will do good for us… if you look at it, we getting better roads and streets, house lots, healthcare and education,” Kumarie-Roop said.

Anna Jainarine, a 28-year-old teacher and parent residing at Mibicuri Black Bush Polder, said it is pleasing to see provisions being made for children and parents in the budget.

“It’s nice the children are getting help because sometimes, as teachers, some students don’t have the necessary tools nor lunch, so with the grants, parents will put those money to right use and ensure the children can come to school equipped and get a proper education,” Jainarine said.

On the other hand, she hopes to see improvement in her street in the shortest time and proper Internet service in her community.