JLP makes suggestions for economic growth

Opposition leader, Andrew Holness has put forward a suggestion on how the government can grow the economy following news that the country has slipped into recession.

The economy went back into recession after it contracted in the two last quarters of last year.

Holness has stated that it is not enough that the country is passing the International Monetary Fund Tests (IMF) with Jamaicans feeling the effects of the economic downturn.

Speaking at a constituency conference in East Portland last night, he says the government should focus on housing and construction to support growth and development:

“Housing is critical and if we were the government and when we were the government we made sure to encourage and participate in the area of housing ……"he said.

The government has projected that there will be 1.6 percent growth in the current fiscal year.

It says this will be in the areas of agriculture, tourism as well as the energy and business process outsourcing sectors.

Holness reiterated that for growth to take place, the divestment of some assets is essential.

He says this will give the private sector an opportunity to earn more which will benefit the economy