Weaning process relevant today

The advanced notice given to the nation that citizens should wean themselves off the Government is therefore in line with surviving these tough economic times.

According to the Webster dictionary, to wean means “to detach usually gradually from a cause of dependence or form of treatment.” The statement by the Prime Minister therefore sets the stage for a gradual removal of our dependence on the State, in terms of reducing the current level of government expenditure.

Our Government is the country’s largest employer and is also the country’s largest spender and investor.

Citizens have become accustomed to Government acting in this capacity and therefore no one can blame the citizens for their expectations. The Prime Minister is however saying it cannot be business as usual if we have less revenue.

History would show that this type of reduction in the role of the Government only takes place in challenging economic times.

In good times successive People’s National Movement (PNM) administrations in particular expanded government spending to include free primary, secondary and tertiary education, free school books, free school meals, food cards, roof and electrical allowances, subsidised housing, free transportation, subsidies on utilities, gas subsidies, and the list goes on. The United National Congress (UNC) administration would have also introduced free laptops in schools.

The problem of weaning arises because of our dependence on oil and gas during these times of falling revenues. We are therefore required to brace ourselves for prudent fiscal and monetary measures that are necessary for the survival of our economy. These circumstances usually bring opportunities as well as challenges which governments must adapt to quickly.

This reduction in government expenditure over time is not unique to TT . A US News & World Report article titled “Federal education funding plummeting” by Allie Bidwell in 2015 shows a 20 percent cut in education spending since 2011 in the US.

Additionally, the Barack Obama administration had to cut spending in government agencies by five percent, cut Medicare, cut construction projects and cut food stamps by US$8.7 billion.

These activities are necessary to balance the economy during hard times but are usually temporary.

Private sector activity has to be increased in a meaningful way and within the short term. The State has to present an enabling environment for such activity but must maintain its responsibility as regulator and facilitator. This will not happen overnight hence the weaning process is relevant in these circumstances.

The Prime Minister and his Cabinet are obligated by duty to make decisions that may be unpopular at the time but that are in the best interest of our country.

This approach is much preferred as opposed to smiling and waving while the fire burns.

RONALD HUGGINS St Joseph