Opposition Leader Jamale Pringle
The United Progressive Party (UPP) is actively investigating the government’s recent decision to divert $75 million from the Social Security Scheme to the Jolly Beach Resort.
Party leader and Chair of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Jamale Pringle, who spoke to local media, emphasized the need for accountability in the management of public funds.
Pringle highlighted a troubling trend in government contributions to Social Security, noting that while they are supposed to provide $50 million annually, they frequently fall short, contributing less than half of that amount.
He underscored the potential consequences for citizens upon retirement, warning that a lack of profitable investments from Social Security assets could lead to insufficient funds in the future.
“Citizens need to rise up against a government that’s misallocating public resources, especially when private investors are steering clear of these ventures,” Pringle cautioned.
He questioned the Prime Minister’s claim of achieving $4 million in profits within a year and the prospect of reaching $8 million, calling for a more transparent approach.
In addition, Pringle raised concerns regarding the government’s recent $100 million loan for road repairs. He pointed out the absence of clear financial reports detailing how funds have been spent on road projects over the last four to five years. “It’s essential to understand the utilization of these funds and the specific agreements that are in place,” he noted, referencing the visible roadwork on the Sir Sydney Walling Highway.
The PAC, under Pringle’s direction, held a meeting on Thursday, July 3rd, with all members present. However, the session was cut short due to concerns about insufficient preparation and the lack of necessary documentation required for effective oversight of government spending.
Information taken from article published by Newsco.
So, finally, you’ve found a tree you could climb!!! I’m so embarrassed by you each and every mood that tears are wasted in you. In the history of Antigua and Barbuda, you will be recorded as the biggest dumb-ass ever to emerge as this nation’s potential liberator…..and, sadly, the blackest of them all, thereby confirming the stereotypes held of black Catibbbeam leadership currently held and upheld by neo-colonialists still alive and thriving amongst us!
@Faithful National #1. You need not say anymore. Well said!!!
and that my friends exposes the big difference between qualification and favouritism in the workplace ..moving right along..
If private backers are pulling back, why plunge more public money in? The market is speaking. Are we listening or just wishing?”
Diverting $75 million from the Social Security Scheme, a fund meant to protect workers in their retirement, for a high-risk tourism investment is not just financially reckless, it’s morally indefensible. This government is gambling with the future of the working class. To add with that, year after year, the government fails to meet its own obligation to the Social Security Board. Paying less than half of the promised $50 million? But somehow they find millions to pour into ventures private investors won’t touch. That’s not vision, that’s negligence. What we are looking at now is not a government managing public funds, it’s a government dodging scrutiny. The Prime Minister boasts of profits at Jolly Beach, but the books remain closed. If these deals are so successful, why hide the details?
Prime Minister Gaston Browne made a strategic decision to rescue and revive Jolly Beach, not for profit’s sake, but to protect hundreds of jobs and restore a vital pillar of the tourism sector. The $75 million from Social Security was not a gamble, it was a calculated investment in national recovery. What Pringle should be studying is the mess the United Progressive Party had us in for years! All of a sudden he wants to bamba? Trying to play with the big boys? Chihuahuas aren’t allowed in the Junkyard of big dogs! Take a seat in the house Pringle
For one I can say the man doing his job. If you have concerns I hope you find clarity
Pringle give up already. Time is up. Time is expired. Move on