By Mark DaCosta- The recent rollout of the cash grant initiative by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), promising $100,000 per adult, has sparked widespread important discussions about social support in our country. However, a significant and troubling omission has emerged: underage parents are not eligible for these grants. This exclusion is not only an unforgivable oversight by the government but also an affront to fairness and equity in a nation striving for social justice.
The decision to restrict cash grants to adults over 18 ignores a crucial reality: many young people in Guyana become parents before reaching adulthood. This is particularly true among Indigenous communities and rural populations, where early family formation is common. Denying cash grants to these young parents not only undermines their ability to provide for their children but also perpetuates cycles of poverty that are already deeply entrenched in these communities.
One must wonder: does the PPP truly understand the needs of our most vulnerable citizens? Does the PPP government have any idea of what is taking place outside the luxurious mansions of its officials? The current eligibility criteria seem to reflect a lack of critical thinking from those advising the government. With the vast resources generated from our oil sector, the government has the means to support all parents, regardless of age. So, why has it chosen to exclude underage parents, leaving many in desperate situations without essential financial support?
The financial responsibilities of raising a child do not cease simply because a parent is under 18. Young parents face a range of costs, including food, healthcare, and education. In a high-cost environment – such as Guyana – these expenses can quickly become overwhelming. To impose an age limit on eligibility for cash grants is not just a policy failure; it is a moral and ethical shortcoming. Shouldn’t we be prioritising the well-being of all children in our land, regardless of their parents’ ages?
Furthermore, the exclusion of underage parents raises questions about the PPP’s commitment to social equity. Indigenous and rural families are often the poorest among us, yet their needs are disregarded in a policy that should aim to lift everyone out of poverty. How could a competent government overlook such an obvious injustice? If this decision was not a simple oversight, what does it say about the values of our leaders? Are they truly invested in the welfare of all citizens, or are they merely playing politics with social support initiatives?
The rollout of the cash grant initiative has already faced scrutiny for being poorly planned. The transition from $200,000 per household to $100,000 per adult reflects a lack of coherent strategy and raises concerns about the ultimate effectiveness of the programme. Many citizens experienced difficulties accessing funds during previous grant distributions, raising alarms about the current initiative’s capacity to deliver on its promises.
The absence of a clear framework for determining eligibility and managing the cash transfer process is evident. By failing to include underage parents, the government has not only missed an opportunity to provide essential support but has also opened the door to potential inequities in the distribution of funds. With many families facing dire financial situations, this exclusion could lead to increased resentment and division within our communities.
As we celebrate Heritage Month, it is crucial to reflect on the values of inclusivity and support for all citizens. Discussions surrounding the cash grant initiative must consider the realities faced by every parent in our nation, particularly those who are young, indigenous, and struggling to make ends meet. It is essential that we recognise the contributions of underage parents and their vital role in nurturing the next generation.
The PPP government must rectify its oversight and extend cash grant eligibility to underage parents. This is not merely a matter of policy adjustment; it is a moral imperative. As our country navigates the complexities of wealth distribution from oil revenues, we must ensure that every parent — regardless of age — has the support needed to raise healthy, thriving children. A truly equitable society is one that does not discriminate based on age but rather uplifts all its members. The call for inclusivity in cash grants is a step towards achieving that vision, and it is a call that cannot be ignored