The Guyanese government approved an additional $30 billion to continue distributing $100,000 cash grants following delays. Prime Minister Phillips indicated this would help reach 600,000 recipients, while opposition members raised concerns about inefficiencies in the process. Efforts are being made to enhance distribution efficiency and accessibility through further community engagement and resource allocation.
The Committee of Supply has approved an additional $30 billion to continue distributing the $100,000 cash grant, which initially started for public servants and pensioners in December but faced delays. Following the approval of the budget this week, distribution efforts are expected to resume. This allocation is part of a larger $40.450 billion budget for disaster preparedness under the Prime Minister’s office.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips stated this new funding will allow an additional 300,000 Guyanese to receive the grant. In November, the National Assembly initially allocated $30.5 billion to assist 305,000 individuals. Phillips noted that the initiative aims to ensure that around 600,000 Guyanese will eventually receive their payment.
However, Opposition MP Annette Ferguson raised concerns in the Committee regarding the slow distribution, revealing that only 90,000 Guyanese received their checks by December 31, 2024, despite the prior budget approval. She emphasized the disparity between the intended beneficiaries and those who received funds, prompting a request for explanations from the Prime Minister.
In response, Phillips clarified that the grant distribution process is ongoing, with 121,000 grants already issued and approximately 300,000 checks prepared. To facilitate smoother distribution, government officials are closely monitoring the process while community schedules are promoted to enhance awareness.
Additionally, MP Juretha Fernandes pointed out the frustrations among Guyanese due to chaotic scenes at registration and distribution sites, prompting Phillips to mention the establishment of more distribution points to alleviate crowding. He confirmed that various community facilities are being utilized to improve distribution efficiency, adopting a whole-of-government approach.
Opposition MP Ganesh Mahipaul suggested potential breaches of the Financial Management and Accountability Act, querying the timeline for full distribution completion. Phillip reassured that the remaining grants would be distributed as quickly as possible.
The article discusses the recent allocation of $30 billion approved by the Committee of Supply in Guyana to facilitate the distribution of a cash grant program aimed at benefiting citizens impacted by economic challenges. This initiative is part of a broader governmental effort to support the population, especially public servants and pensioners, amidst concerns regarding distribution delays and the number of recipients. Various opposition members have raised issues regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of the grant distribution process, prompting government officials to respond and adapt strategies to improve the situation.
In summary, the Guyanese government has approved an additional funding allocation to enhance the ongoing distribution of cash grants designed to aid citizens amid economic difficulties. Although there have been reported delays, government officials are actively engaged in improving the distribution process and increasing accessibility for eligible beneficiaries, ensuring that a larger proportion of the population can receive the necessary financial support promptly.
Original Source: newssourcegy.com
