#SpeakingOut – We continue to waste time

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the author(s) do not represent the official position of Barbados TODAY.

by Michael Ray

As one reads about the government’s drive towards establishing a Barbadian-owned company as part of the marijuana industry, it is quite likely that one may ask “Are government’s priorities correctly set?”

This letter-writer has repeatedly suggested that a key method to increase Barbados’ economic fortunes is by way of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP’s) constructed on hybrid models adapted to suit existing as well as unique factors related to product, service, capitalisation, share-ownership and other relevant considerations.

Now that government recognizes the necessity to establish a Barbadian-owned company within the marijuana industry, would it not be also a good idea to set up PPP’s to facilitate the build-out, expansion and ultimate diversification of our frail and fragile economy ?

There is more than enough space for non-traditional Barbadian investors to become involved in business activity that can grow our economy. Locals cannot continue to be corralled out of and away from economic activity that attracts scores of speculators.

It is years now that we have been talking about PPP’s, diversifying the economy, allowing Barbadians access to more of the economic pie, the  economic empowerment and enfranchisement of ordinary Barbadians.

The “speechifying” and regurgitation of these cliches and catch-phrases must stop and positive action taken to see these lofty ideals come to fruition.

To empower and enfranchise Barbadians economically, government has a responsibility to incentivize and facilitate the setting up of local companies in the renewable energy sector, agriculture, agricultural processing and the range of computerized technologies to mention a few.

As a water-scarce country, how long will it take for the policy makers to divert to a Cactus and Aloes industry that can service areas of Medicine, Health, Nutrition, Food and the Beauty-Care industries ?

As a country averaging three million dollars in fuel imports per year, should Barbados not be producing and utilizing more renewable energy?

With another average of approximately three hundred million dollars in food imports, should we not be consuming more locally grown produce?

It is time enough for our Embassies and Missions to recalibrate and shift focus on bi-lateral trade and get Barbadian products into overseas stores and homes .

Barbadians must wake up and not allow every event, whether near or afar, to impact us negatively. Sadly, we are wasting time to our own disadvantage, danger and possible demise.