The 50% cut to ministerial allowances will save Government approximately $200,000 a year, but Dangriga Area Representative Dr. Louis Zabaneh considers the move largely symbolic compared to other cost-of-living measures.
“Cabinet, in its wisdom, decided to do the 50% cut. I think it is a symbolic cut, to be honest,” Zabaneh told News 5.
He said the savings are welcomed, but expanded housing assistance and grocery bag support are likely to have a greater impact on families struggling with rising costs.
In Dangriga, Zabaneh says his office receives weekly requests from residents whose roofs leak and whose homes are falling apart. He believes the additional housing funds will help address those needs.
But channelling public funds through area representatives also raises questions about political favouritism and accountability.
Zabaneh argued that the Ministry of Finance requires representatives to provide proof. However, he said, “It is the individual integrity of each area representative. We have certain requirements from the Ministry of Finance. We have to bring back all the proof of use of funds and then we get the next disbursement. That is how that works.”
Ultimately, he says the assistance should address genuine needs without creating long-term dependency on politicians.
Zabaneh also encouraged younger residents to pursue vocational training through ITVET or return to night classes so they can improve their prospects rather than repeatedly depend on political assistance.
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