Sharma calls for $3M constituency fund

Speaking yesterday during the Budget debate in the House of Representatives, his first time since returning to the House after his 100-day suspension, Sharma noted that it was "nice to be back" as he set out to highlight the deficiencies in funding for several Local Government projects.

Referring to the recent freak storm in his constituency, Sharma thanked Prime Minister Patrick Manning for visiting the affected people, but noted that everyone turned to him (Sharma) for assistance, which he did not have money to provide. He said $25,000 was spent in providing assistance. Sharma suggested that Government set up a constituency fund with an initial sum of $3 million. He said funds will be used to assist in community projects. He said a similar type of fund existed in Jamaica and Australia.

Sharma also called for more reductions in the import duties on milk, rice, peas and beans, cereal and juices.