Jearlean John’s development plan on film looked brilliant but did not fool me. It is very much like what was captured in the text “Confession of an Economic Hitman” by John Perkins. In this book the author outlined that governments of developing nations are sold plans costing billions by financial institutions like the World Bank and the IMF with promises of high return only to be saddled with long term debt and no revenue.
How has the highway to Point Fortin benefitted the economy in terms of business and employment? Has the highway generated growth of industries that are employing hundreds of workers? The highway can certainly move one very quickly from one point to a next but has it contributed to our GDP?
Development is like teaching-moving from the known to the unknown and not necessarily a teacher talking above the head of his students. This is the development model that third world countries have been adopting-imitating western development model while ignoring existing domestic industries.
The doubles vending in Debe is an example of local or domestic economic growth. The brain child of Trevor Sudama, the road was widened to provide parking for customers and to date this local business continues to strive. The construction of the Sudama Tirath on the bank of the Godineu River is an extension of that initial development. Unfortunately, neglect over the years by the PDRC has degenerated this once pristine center for post funeral rites.
Agriculture including dairy is essential to development. It not only provides avenues for family income but also affordable food which remains a huge challenge in this country. Linked to a failing agricultural industry is poor nutrition and failing health. This is reflected in our health system. Despite billions spent in health, health care continues to remain a challenge. Affordable foods would definitely help to cut our health bill.
The sugar and rice industries need to be revived. Our people have a history in these industries. In the past it generated income and growth. Unfortunately, the loss of preferential market was the excuse to terminate the industries and leave it in the hands of food importers.
Recreation must evolve from the environment where the people reside. The mud volcano at Bunsee Trace and the Godineu River can be developed into recreational hubs for families. Also, Felicity in the vicinity of the cremation site with the Cunupia River and the mangrove can be strengthened as a local tourist hub for the local population.
I am certain that there is much to develop in Carli Bay and Orange Valley for the local fishing folks. I know that Jearlean John does not only smile with the people of her constituents but has plans to improve the existing fishing industry in a tangible way to increase employment and income.
The plan that Jearlean John presented would definitely generate some revenue but the main recipients would continue to be the maligned one percent and their friends. If the people have to benefit from development it must come from the people and this is where the Ministry of Local and Rural Development comes in. Recently, the PDRC approved funds for the development of Bunsee Trace to access the volcano. It is time for the regional corporations and their leaders to speak out since they know better the needs of the people. These local representatives of the people need to let that voices be heard and stop behaving like dashboard puppies nodding their heads to every word that flows out of the mouth of Kamla Persad Bissessar.
