As Guyana prepares for the unveiling of Budget 2024 in parliament, residents of Linden express high anticipation and diverse expectations regarding the measures they hope to see implemented for improved livelihoods.
The budget, scheduled for presentation on Monday, follows extensive consultations and discussions with various stakeholders.
Residents of Linden shared their expectations for Budget 2024, covering a spectrum of economic and social concerns.
Among the anticipated measures are hopes for increased salaries and pensions, job creation initiatives, and potential reductions in taxes.
Ronald Savory, a Linden resident, emphasized the need for additional job opportunities, particularly for the youth.
While acknowledging government initiatives like GOAL scholarships and training programs, he urged the inclusion of job creation strategies, such as the establishment of factories.
Another resident, Javin Lewis, expressed the desire for adjustments to the salary scale for public servants.
Lewis proposed revising the threshold for Pay As You Earn (PAYE) taxes to ensure that public servants take home more income for themselves and their families.
James Lewis, a senior citizen, shared expectations of increased pension benefits to enhance purchasing power for essential items like vegetables in the market.
Entrepreneur Vanessa Braithwaite called for the inclusion of financing options in the budget to support young entrepreneurs and startup business owners.
She emphasized the importance of providing training and capacity-building opportunities for this demographic.
Colin Ault, Chairman of LINSEED (Linden Fund for the Empowerment and the Elderly and the Disabled), highlighted the need for subsidization of disability aids.
Specifically, Ault emphasized support for technological aids and orthopedic aids, addressing the challenges faced by persons with disabilities.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali had previously mentioned in his New Year’s address that Budget 2024 aims to fulfill the government’s commitment to continuously enhance the lives of citizens.
As the expectations of Linden residents vary, the upcoming budget will play a crucial role in addressing the diverse needs and aspirations of the community.