PAP under fire for unfair distribution

Reports of widespread unfairness have emerged in the distribution of monies by the PLP/CCM/PAM government under the Poverty Alleviation Programme (PAP) amid claims the handouts are being operated mainly along party lines.

While Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr Timothy Harris has stated that the monthly EC$500 is for each household earning EC$3,000 and less, there are reports that several persons in numerous families were given EC$500 each in December and January.

There are also reports that scores of persons on the PEP/STEP from certain areas have been denied the EC$500. while a selected number of others on the same programme are receiving.

"It clearly smacks of pure politics and has become a vote buying trick months before the next general elections," said D.H.

"I know of persons in some families who have received individual checks of $500 each and many of them are working steady well-paid jobs, while others who really qualify are overlooked for political reasons," an individual, who requested anonymity said on Monday.

There are also reports that selected persons employed in some private and public establishments whose households are earning well over EC$5,000 and EC$6,000 monthly are getting the EC$500 from the programme, "while some who are well in need have been told they are not eligible although the information of their situation have been verified."