Robinson-Regis: Covid19 not hampering PSIP projects

PLANNING and Development Minister Camille Robinson-Regis expressed satisfaction on Tuesday that implementing the 2021 Public Sector Investment Programme is not being hampered by the covid19 pandemic.

In a statement issued by her ministry, Robinson-Regis said, “It is heartening to know that although projects have been stymied by covid19, our hardworking public officers have gone the extra mile to ensure PSIP projects have met and surpassed their targets for the period.”

She added, “It is important to note that in some instances, ministries and their executing agencies have reported 100 per cent completion rate for first implementation period, although funds were slow in receipt.”

To expedite funding issues, Robinson-Regis asked the Finance Ministry's budget division to do what it could to expedite the outstanding funds.

She promised further discussions would be held with the Finance Ministry to avoid a recurrence of delays during the upcoming implementation periods.

The ministry said the 2021 PSIP received an allocation of just over $4,000 million and Robinson-Regis is chairing virtual midterm assessment meetings for the PSIP.

The ministry said 1,083 projects were approved under the PSIP for funding and implementation. Among them are procuring rehabilitation designs for the existing seawall at Lady Hailes Avenue, San Fernando; coastal protection projects at the Sans Souci and Matelot shorelines; the Education Ministry's annual scholarship and technical assistance; enhancing the Trade and Industry Ministry's single electronic window; and developing the Judiciary's information system.