In a significant development announced during the consideration of budget estimates in the National Assembly, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, revealed that 23 of the nation’s outstanding athletes will receive one million dollars each in support.
This initiative, facilitated through the President’s Youth Advisory Council, is part of the broader efforts to bolster the sports sector in Guyana.
Minister Gail Teixeira highlighted the allocation of 23 million dollars for this initiative, demonstrating the government’s commitment to supporting and recognizing the achievements of athletes.
The move is a crucial aspect of this year’s budget, which has allocated 4.6 billion dollars for sports under the Ministry of Culture Youth Sport.
Additionally, as part of the broader program, VAT on sports equipment will be removed to further facilitate the development of sports in the country.
Minister Teixeira emphasized that the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sport, along with President Irfaan Ali, will provide guidance on the selection of athletes to receive the one million dollar support.
The 2024 sport budget is geared towards enhancing the country’s sports infrastructure, aligning with Guyana’s goal to become a sports tourism hub.
Plans include the construction of multi-purpose sports halls in Regions 1, 3, 7, 8, and 9, along with multi-purpose sports facilities in Regions 2 and 10.
Furthermore, the budget caters to the completion of synthetic tracks in Regions 10 and 6.
The sports budget for 2022 was 3.2 billion, with an allocation of 1.5 billion in the 2021 budget, indicating the government’s continued focus on and investment in the sports sector.
This initiative not only provides crucial financial support to athletes but also underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving and competitive sports culture in Guyana.