FROM TIME TO TIME and on a number of occasions in the past, the Press has projected itself as a bastion of our democracy and equally a guardian of our heritage.
Speaking as a taxpayer, I am concerned that at this time an amount of $3.4 million can be extracted from the Consolidation Fund for renovations to the Queen’s Park Gallery and Theatre.
I am concerned mainly about:
• Whether or not a quantity surveyor and engineering professionals have made inputs and given advice on these costs.
• An absence of any published parliamentary debates on the subject, especially contributions made by members of the Opposition.
A list of detailed renovations and costs should be made available for public consumption.
I am asking that the media, on behalf of all taxpaying Barbadians, ascertain why such high costs were incurred for those renovations at a time when the Government is cash-strapped, asking the populace to tighten belts and warning of future tough measures.
I am convinced that the costs should be explained to the general public.
I am also convinced that the general public should be informed about what the parliamentary Opposition contributed to the debate.
Finally, I believe this matter requires some purposeful investigative journalism from all media houses.
– MICHAEL RAY
