BASSSETERRE, St. Kitts – SOMETIMES we need assistance in understanding those seemingly complex issues which affect and, to some extent, dictate our daily lives, such as money, the economy and financial stability.
It is in this context that the Parliamentary Representative for Constituency No. Seven, Dr. Timothy Harris, will be reaching out to his constituents in an open forum during which economic challenges would be extensively discussed.
The forum will take the form of a town hall meeting scheduled for Wednesday (Aug. 31), which will be held at the Joshua Obadiah Williams Primary School.
Under the theme ‘Empowering People in Times of Adversity and Austerity’, the meeting, according to a press release, “is aimed at helping (Dr. Harris’) constituents and members of the public in better understanding the economic difficulties being faced at this time and how they can better cope in this time of adversity austerity”.
Some of the issues which would be addressed include financing small and medium-sized businesses, money management and opportunities for self-employment, and it is expected that a “distinguished panel” would be on hand to address these and other related issues and concerns.
Dr. Harris has expressed that he found it absolutely necessary to have a meeting to address economic issues affecting the nation and its inhabitants, if persons are to navigate through the turbulent financial waters.
“Many people are struggling to make ends meet at this time. Several of them are loosing hope as the redundancy receipts received on the closure of Clear Harbour, Reed Data Services, restructuring of the Air and Sea Ports dwindle. We also have a high level of under employment with people working on reduced work week. This year has been a very challenging one, especially for small and medium size businesses. We want to see how we can help.
“People need help and guidance in reorganising their lives. We are hoping to reassure people that the power still lies with them. Through necessary adjustments, perhaps changing mindsets and perspectives, they can overcome. We will focus on the realities and how the realities can be changed for the better.”
The meeting is scheduled to commence at 7:00 p.m.
