THE Multi-Ethnic Affairs Ministry has submitted a request for more funding for its grant program in the next national budget.
Minister Charan Jeath Singh said the grant program had been a success.
“Given the success of the program and the demands of our communities, we have submitted our request for more funding,” Mr Singh said.
“From our recent discussions with the Ministry of Finance, I am confident that the Government will allocate funding for our grant program.”
He urged the communities to come together and take advantage of the grant.
“When the Government gives a grant, we want the communities to be together.
“What’s happening, they start fighting among themselves — who’s going to be the trustee, who’s going to be the committee members.
“And they block the project. This should not happen.
“The money is coming from the taxpayer, the money is coming from the Government. Why are you guys fighting? If it’s your money, then you fight.”
Mr Singh highlighted a case in Rakiraki where there was division among a temple’s committee members.
“A grant was provided to a temple committee, but before the grant, they started fighting among themselves.
“We don’t want this thing to happen.
“As I said, based on the feedback we have received, the grant program has played a vital role in supporting community-based organisations to empower their communities and enhance services individually.”
