A Catastrophe Fund for whom?

Minister in the Ministry of Finance Ryan Straughn was quoted as saying:”It is the government’s mission to move from the current posture to a more proactive approach to future-proof the catastrophe fund.”

Minister of Home Affairs and Information Wilfred Abrahams warned: “Bailouts of the scale in Elsa and Beryl are unlikely to ever happen again. The government just cannot afford to do that again. Persons who can afford it must insure their assets, especially if that asset is how you earn your living. To not do so, you risk all at your own peril.”

Minister Straughn passionately asserts that the governments’ mission is to shift towards a proactive stance in securing the future of the catastrophe fund, promising protection and foresight for our nation.

Yet, in a stark contrast, Minister Abrahams emphatically warns that bailouts akin to those following Hurricanes Elsa and Beryl are a bygone luxury the government can no longer afford. The call to insure personal assets rings loud, placing individual responsibility at the forefront.

So, do these ministers truly share the same Cabinet table, where cohesive strategy should reign?

Is it not perplexing to see hardworking citizens taxed for a catastrophe fund, under the assurance of safety, only to be warned that such government support may vanish when calamity strikes?

Are we, the people, left to bear the burden alone while our contributions raise funds that promise little in return?

When our livelihood is at stake, shouldn’t we expect clear, unified action from those elected to safeguard our future?

I implore you to let your voices be heard as it is these policies that shape your future.

Alvin R. Toppin, DLP candidate for St Lucy.