INSIGHTS into the priorities of the incumbent People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) were given by no other than their Presidential Candidate, Donald Ramotar, who explained the rationale behind his ideas.“There is great scope for Guyana’s development,” he said, during an interview with Christopher Holder on ‘In Perspective’, broadcast on the Berbice-based National Communications Network (NCN).

The incumbent Head of State explained that for Guyana to advance, the necessary infrastructure has to be put in place.
ADVANCES
Listed among the infrastructural advances envisioned are: a deep water harbour in the Berbice River, which can morph into a maritime hub linking South America and the Caribbean; a diversified agricultural sector that sees the development of a coconut industry, which can be as big as sugar and rice; the introduction of new crop lines, including soya and corn; and cheap energy to bolster the local processing and manufacturing sector.
“We have to put in infrastructure, as well as policy initiatives to encourage investments,” he said, adding that quintessential to these undertakings is the modernisation of the education sector.
“We have to ensure that the education sector is developed so it matches our developmental needs,” Mr. Ramotar said.
Continued focus on Information and Communications Technology (ICT) will also assist in the effort.
“For example we already have Qualfon building its new campus, which will employ between 4,000 and 6,000 people,” the President said.
CYLCE OF PROGRESS
Mr. Ramotar underscored the fact that his Administration has advanced initiatives that reflect a consistency in the development thrust of the nation.
This development thrust, he explained, contributes to the generation of wealth in the economy, which benefits the Guyanese people, and, by extension, economic growth in the country – a cycle of progress.
Questioned about the ‘trickle down’ effect of this progress, he stated that there are both direct and indirect benefits – with more in store for the future.
In the last years there has been an increase in the income-tax threshold, cuts in corporation tax, increase in minimum wages and support for the elderly, improving what is offered via the non-contributory pension scheme.
NON-WAGE BENEFITS
On the other hand, in indirect ways, Mr. Ramotar explained, there have been developments in the area of “non-wage” benefits.
He referred to the offer of text books, uniform assistance, a hot-meals programme, the $10,000 cash grant initiative for each public school student and the building of dorms to accommodate students in hinterland areas, among other undertakings in its social programmes.
“We have done a lot directly and indirectly to improve lives, until we can do more,” he said.
To do more, Guyana needs the investments of transformational projects, like the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) modernisation project, which is also included in the Party’s list of priorities.
“We have gone a far way…we must continue to position our people better,” the President stressed.
With the upcoming General and Regional Elections on May 11, only eight weeks away, the ruling Party is expected to launch its manifesto soon.
(By Vanessa Narine)