Opposition calls on Gov’t to rethink inner city housing project

Opposition spokesman on Water and Housing, Patrick Harris wants the government to rethink plans to downsize the inner city housing project.



During his budget presentation in April, Prime Minister, Bruce Golding said it was unfair that non-contributors were benefiting from funds from the National Housing Trust (NHT).



He gave a commitment that the government would finish projects currently under construction but would halt other planned inner city housing projects.



According to Mr. Harris rather than just looking at economic factors in deciding whether to continue the project the Prime minister should examine the social benefits.



Mr. Harris said the Prime Minister’s claim that the Trust is in financial trouble is questionable.



He wants the government to reverse the increase in NHT interest rates.



The rates were increased on June 1 resulting in borrowers, who previously paid 5 percent interest on their loans now paying 6 percent and those who paid 6 percent now paying 8 percent.