Calls for Cuba reform

The Roman Catholic Church in Cuba is calling for President Raul Castro to institute sweeping economic and social reforms.



The church is warning that unless the reforms are introduced, the country is likely to collapse economically.



Writing in the latest edition of the church\'s New Word Magazine, economist and priest Father Boris Moreno said the situation is close to free fall.



He said there is no sign of the changes President Raul Castro promised after he took over from his ailing, older brother Fidel in 2006.



The Cuban government admitted recently that it was having cash flow problems after a disappointing 1.4 per cent economic growth last year, well below an expected 6 per cent.



The Castro administration has launched a savings program entailing sharp cuts in social spending and priority investment in currency-generating sectors of the economy.



However Father Moreno said the government should instead promote exports and small- and mid-size businesses, provide a safe environment for foreign investment, institute business reforms and a single currency.



He also wants Cubans to be allowed to give their opinions without fear of reprisal.