Task Force focuses on job creation

One of the government’s manifesto promises was the creation of more jobs. Today the Task Force on Services, chaired by Francis Fonseca presented its report to the Prime Minister Said Musa. Its study of five key sectors indicates that more than eight thousand jobs could be created for Belizeans over the next four years. The Task Force researched sectors such as information technology, tourism and related services, financial services, creative services and research and development. Among the recommendations: that the financial sector establish a marketing office to promote offshore sectors. The members of the Task Force believe the formation of a credit guarantee scheme and an industrial credit fund will promote small business endeavors and that the government should fast track the establishment of a tourism village. In creative services, there is the proposal for a school of arts, which would collaborate with St. John’s College to increase music and cultural appreciation. Information technology is also seen as a promising service area. The Task Force hopes the cost of telecommunications will decrease enough to attract more companies, citing one company in Ladyville which already employs around two hundred and fifty people. Those who contributed their time to the Task Force are Sydney Campbell, Valerie Woods Smith, Glenn Godfrey, Alvin Henderson, Reynaldo Guerrero, Gustavo Perera, Arturo Vasquez, Yasser Musa, Dean Fuller, Lourdes Hunter Smith and Paul Rodriguez. The Prime Minister says he will review the recommendations and begin promoting those areas with growth potential.