Late payment of salaries and inadequate funding of Solid Waste lead to hardship for workers and slow clean-up
As government workers braced for the onslaught of Hurricane Philippe, they were dealt a “double blow” – preparing for the storm while also facing late payment of salaries.
As of October 3, 2023, public-sector salaries remained unpaid. This caused many families severe financial hardship and mental stress as they struggled to stock up on food and essential supplies, as well as materials to secure their homes.
The United Progressive Party (UPP) condemns Finance Minister Gaston Browne and his administration for the late payment of salaries and poor planning, especially during this very critical period. By failing to make disaster preparedness a priority, the Government demonstrated that it is insensitive to the needs of the people.
“The Government was unprepared, without an adequate disaster-management plan; and by failing to pay workers on time, it limited their ability to prepare for the storm and to function after,” says the Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. Jamale Pringle.
Further, almost 24 hours after the hurricane watch was lifted, clean-up efforts had not yet begun. Despite the closure of offices and schools, debris remained in many areas throughout St. John’s, clogging many major streets and roadways, and this will cause traffic problems as business activity resumes on Wednesday.
Pringle also criticizes the Government’s budgetary approach and is asking whether the National Solid Waste Management Authority has received adequate funding and resources to begin the clean-up efforts.
In addition, he contrasts Prime Minister Browne’s quick action in securing the Alfa Nero ahead of the storm with his blatant disregard for the safety and financial commitments of government workers and vulnerable citizens, noting this is strong evidence of where the Administration places its priorities.
“This government continues to demonstrate that it will choose money and pie-in-the-sky ventures over the welfare of the people every time,” Pringle notes.
