Local Government and Regional Development Minister Priya Manickchand has expressed disappointment regarding the spending performance of several Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs). Despite receiving an allocation of $30 million last year—the first such funding since their formation—many councils have struggled to utilize the funds, raising concerns over persistent issues with disbursement.
During a recent address, Manickchand emphasized that unspent funds directly deprive residents of crucial services intended by the Government, the Ministry, and the People’s Progressive Party/Civic. “When the money remains unused, it means services your community could have gotten—under the direction of President Ali, the Ministry, and myself—did not reach you,” she stated.
Although she aimed to engage all 70 NDCs by the end of December, scheduling conflicts during the Christmas period hindered those efforts. However, she remains optimistic that engagements with all councils will be completed soon.
Manickchand noted that while she has been a public figure for over two decades, it is essential to redefine the working relationship with councillors and to ensure their voices are heard. She highlighted her decision to meet not only with chairs and vice-chairs but also with all councillors, addressing concerns about feelings of exclusion in decision-making processes.
Reflecting on the funding, she remarked, “Last year was the first year you got $30 million to spend. I find it grossly disappointing that many of you couldn’t spend it.” She acknowledged that internal disagreements and uncertainties over program implementation may have contributed to the low spending rates but insisted these issues must be resolved.
“Money that stays unspent means your community is not receiving the services it needs,” Manickchand reiterated. She called for immediate discussions to address the challenges faced by councils, stressing, “Whatever it is, we’ll trash that out today. But you can’t leave that money unspent.”
