The Tribune

EDITOR, The Tribune.

THE plastic ban implemented by this government needs to be changed. It seems that thought was not given to what would work best for the people of this land, especially those who are not rich. I voted for this government, but with each passing year I regret my decision. I notice that they are not in touch with the needs of the small man. So many people are doing their best just to make ends meet but this government does not seem to care about or notice that.

Before the hurricane, I read in the paper that the Minister of Finance had not included anything in the budget in regards to raises for unions. So many government workers have not had raises for years. Taxes are being increased but the government showed that they did not care by not giving any thought to allocating money for the various unions in the budget. All the finance minister seemed to care about was balancing the budget. How cold and unfeeling! Then came the hurricane and his budget was ruined. He needs to have a heart for people. The minister of education seems to only care about filling our schools with tablets and laptops when the main problem facing students today is the inability to read. He is not addressing the problem but only putting on an impressive show.

The Minister of National security was recently on the news talking about spending lots of money on drones to lower crime. Again, an expensive impressive sounding idea that will not fix the problem.

The ban on plastics was rushed and not properly thought out. I went to a restaurant and purchased grits in the new food containers. It quickly started to crumple and bend and lose its shape. Those containers are not for hot food and cannot take the weight of a full dinner. Bahamians need to protest that the government makes changes to this ban. Alternatives to those containers must be found. What about the small business person who cannot afford those containers?

No one in this country should be forced to Pay For A Bag. A customer that patronises a business is entitled to a bag. The government should give businesses the option of using biodegradable bags or cloth bags. Biodegradable plastics should be allowed as plastic bags are always needed. People use plastic bags to dispose of unsanitary items like diapers, etc. Also fish, crab and other items like meat need to be wrapped up properly before being disposed.

The packing boys in our food stores are being adversely affected as well. Many of them are the men of the house and help to pay bills with their earnings. Many of them buy school supplies and lunch with the money they earn. Food stores should insist that they are still allowed to pack the groceries no matter what kind of bag the customer prefers. You would be surprised how many of those young men may be faced with a choice of stealing food or going to bed hungry if they can no longer earn money honestly packing bags. One decision can have far reaching effects. I have been told that many people are packing their own bags now.

I purchased books from a bookstore and was told to carry them in my hand because they were not selling any bags except a cloth bag for $7.50. I refused to purchase that.

So many poor people go to the grocery store to buy monthly grocery which is already expensive with Vat added. Now they must pay a quarter for each bag?

What kind of government is this? Give stores the choice of using biodegradable bags or cloth bags. Stop trying to copy other countries and tweak the laws to help and make life easier for the people who voted for you. The Government should not support any establishment charging customers for bags.

Bahamians, please speak up. Too many people are suffering. Insist that the government make changes to this plastic ban! Allow biodegradable plastics that can be recycled or broken down in land fills!

IRATE BAHAMIAN

Nassau,

January 5, 2020.