Minister Edghill assures that Gov’t will continue to buffer effects of rise in cost of living

Region Two residents have been assured that government will continue to implement measures
to buffer the effects of the rising cost of living. Public Works Minister, Bishop Juan Edghill gave
this assurance, as he joined citizens in Phagwah celebrations on Friday.
Edghill noted that over the past few weeks, food prices have been steadily rising due to the rapid
increase in oil prices on the world market, the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, as well
as the COVID-19 pandemic. “I want to give you this assurance that this government that you
have asked to serve you, we understand what is happening and we are not going to leave you
alone to suffer. We are determined to take the burdens off your shoulders. So be assured that
your government is working on interventions to put measures in place to ensure that your lives
are better,” the minister said,
Edghill pointed out that since taking office in 2020, the administration immediately removed
burdens imposed on Guyanese. He pointed to the removal of over 200 taxes which includes the
removal of Value Added Tax on electricity and water. Edghill disclosed the increase in old age
pension and public assistance, the distribution of the COVID-19 cash grant to every household
and the reintroduction of the Because We Care cash grant.
The public works minister reflecting on the 2020 flooding, noted that the assistance provided to
all affected, particularly the cash grants for affected farmers. “Your leaders who are serving will
do everything with the wisdom of almighty God and everything that is humanly possible to make
your lives better. We are working on your interest. The PPP/C administration and President Ali,
every day we are working on your interest. Things might not always seem to be perfect, but our
hearts are in the right place, our intention is good,” he assured.
Meanwhile, President Irfaan Ali has made it clear that there will be no rise in electricity cost and
water rates despite the rise in fuel prices. “We said to both entities [GPL and GWI]; you are not
going to increase by a cent. The Government will take up the additional expenditure and fill the
gap. That is how a responsible government operates,” Ali said recently.
The President also announced, earlier this month, that government has commenced consultations
to determine what measures would be employed to expend the $5B that was set aside in the 2022
budget to mitigate the effects of the global rising cost of living.