PRIME MINISTER P.J. Patterson has once again placed on the table for public consideration and discussion a National Energy Policy including the possible re-introduction of a value-added tax on gas.
It is imperative that the country discusses these issues in a rational manner without the knee-jerk reaction of a howl of protests and demonstrations especially in relation to a gas tax. Governments have been especially nervous about a gas tax, not only because of the implications of the multiplier effect throughout the economy, but because of past experiences of any petrol price hikes triggering civil unrest. But in the circumstances of what is happening in the world economy, we cannot bury our heads in the sand expecting to remain unscathed by these world price increases. Equally, as a matter of public policy, we should be examining the different ways in which the impact of any gas tax might be reduced.
Ironically, many of the elements outlined by the Prime Minister to be considered as part of the new National Energy Policy have been on the public agenda since the mid-1970s. We have been talking ad nauseam about the need for renewable energy resources, greater use of solar energy and ways to conserve and be more efficient in the use of gas. Regrettably, after each initial round of shock of higher petrol prices has worn off, we get back to business as usual.
Admittedly, some effort has been made to reduce the amount of time and energy spent by motorists on the roads with the widening of road networks. However, we also have to re-examine the entire public transportation system as part of the moves to conserve energy. Many people have opted for more expensive personal transportation so as not to have to deal every day with the indignity and dehumanising aspects of using public passenger vehicles.
Some years ago the PCJ building in New Kingston was built and promoted by the Urban Development Corporation as a model of energy conservation and efficiency. The public has yet to hear whether these goals and objectives were met and the extent to which its design could be replicated throughout the country.
The Prime Minister says the new energy policy document is to have an input from parliamentarians, interest groups and the public at large before a final draft is completed. We are all for public consultation but we urge caution in not dragging out these discussions ad infinitum. There are already several studies and proposals addressing these same issues. Let's tackle this one post-haste.
THE OPINIONS ON THIS PAGE, EXCEPT FOR THE ABOVE, DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE VIEWS OF THE GLEANER.
