Government is doing reasonably well

THE EDITOR, Madam:

The truth is, our country faces many challenges, but there are signs which make me feel hopeful.

For example, it is no small feat that despite major economic challenges, Jamaica has been able to achieve eight consecutive quarters of economic growth, low unemployment rate, healthy net international reserves, and increased export earnings of 55 per cent for the first quarter of the 2023 calendar year in comparison to the corresponding period last year.

It is also very encouraging that Jamaica has been paying down its debt in a significant way. The debt to GDP now stands at 78 per cent and is projected to decrease even further.

I am proud that the country has recovered from the major challenge that was COVID-19, and that the Government has found space in the Budget to increase pension payments and support for society’s most vulnerable under the auspices of the labour and social security ministry.

The move to increase the NIS rate for pensioners from between 23 per cent and 76 per cent, with these rate increases being applicable to retirement pension benefits, is good.

I am also happy that the administration has found the fiscal space to increase the number of grants from the Students’ Loan Bureau to eligible students from low-income households, PATH households or by wards of the State from 3,000 grants last year to 4,200 grants this year.

The infrastructure projects taking place are also worthy of note. Timely completion with the least inconvenience to commuters and residents are key.

I’d like to encourage Prime Minister Andrew Holness and his administration to stay the course as they are doing reasonably well!

VERONICA BLAKE