By Vernon Daley, Staff ReporterTHE GOVERNMENT yesterday warned of great difficulties during legislative year 2003/2004, as its sifts through a diminishing pool of options to invigorate the feeble economy and hold social programmes together.
Delivering the Throne Speech to mark the opening of the new session of Parliament, Sir Howard Cooke, Governor-General, indicated that the Government would have a massive task on its hands in trying to meet the demands of the people.
"The new legislative year will be a busy, but difficult year, during which there are no easy options, as we endeavour to maintain the pace in meeting the legitimate expectations of our citizens for personal growth, economic progress and social advancement," Sir Howard told the joint sitting of the Senate and the House of Representatives at Gordon House, which marked the ceremonial occasion.
He said, however, that the Government would be pushing hard for greater efficiency and effectiveness in all of its operations to ensure stability and growth in the economy.
"The Government is determined to meet its priority objectives within the context of prudent financial management, efficient and effective revenue collection, coupled with cost-saving strategies," Sir Howard stated.
Much speculation has accompanied this year's national Budget, with many expecting the Government to announce tough measures to cut costs in the public sector and raise additional revenue through increased taxes.
This year, the Government will be putting heavy focus on the tourism industry, agriculture and science and technology as it attempts to spur economic growth and drive down unemployment.
According to Sir Howard, the Government would be facilitating the permanent showcasing of top quality emerging local talent on the hotel circuit and ensuring more alluring tourism promotion and marketing, as it intensifies efforts to showcase the Jamaica brand in major overseas entertainment capitals.
At the same time, the Government will be looking to resuscitate the agriculture sector to strengthen food security and enhance rural life.
"Its (agriculture) three-year development strategy will include the key elements of the application of technology, efficient commercial farming, the adoption of global standards and increased participation of our youth in the sector," Sir Howard told the large gathering of judges, members of the clergy, civic leaders and senior civil servants who packed the visitors' gallery at Gordon House, 81 Duke Street, central Kingston.
This year, the Scientific Research Council and the Bureau of Standards will be assisting selected small and medium-sized businesses to improve their competitiveness.
Among legislation which the Government intends to pursue this year are:
Amendments to the Rent Restriction Act to strike a better balance between protecting the welfare of tenants and guaranteeing property owners a reasonable return on their investment.
The Water and Sewerage Act that will provide a legal framework to govern water and sewerage;
A Terrorism (Prevention) Bill;
A Plea Bargaining Bill;
Child Care Protection Bill.
During this year, the Government will also finalise the establishment of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, as well as make final steps to implement the Caribbean Court of Justice.
