The government has launched an initiative to create a comprehensive inventory of ideas sourced from nationwide public forums, aiming to incorporate citizens’ input into the country’s future growth.
Prime Minister Mia Mottley introduced the initiative, called the Ideas Forum, during a special event on Wednesday in St Lucy, marking the beginning of the government’s year-long We Gatherin’ celebrations. The forum offers Barbadians a direct role in government decision-making, providing a platform for individuals to see their ideas brought to life.
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Unlike traditional consultations, where officials typically present policies, the Ideas Forum focuses on listening to Barbadians, placing them at the heart of the national development process.
“This is an opportunity for all citizens to influence how Barbados develops,” Mottley stated at the Darryl Jordan Secondary School. “For We Gatherin’, we wanted to give every citizen the chance to contribute as if they were the ones shaping the country’s future.”
The initiative will visit all 11 parishes throughout the year, enabling citizens to suggest improvements in public services, community life, and national governance. All ideas will be recorded in an official inventory, which will be reviewed monthly for their feasibility and potential for implementation.
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“Ideas that are viable will be passed on to the relevant ministries or included in government programs,” Mottley shared. “We’ll work with Future Barbados to take these ideas to the next stage.”
While the government is committed to considering these ideas, Mottley acknowledged that financial constraints may limit the immediate implementation of certain proposals, with some possibly delayed to the following fiscal year.
In a notable departure from previous government consultations, ministers and public servants participated alongside attendees, sitting in the audience rather than on a stage, reinforcing a spirit of open dialogue.
“You’ll notice we’re sitting in the audience with you—it’s deliberate,” Mottley emphasized. “This is your time to tell us what you want to see and what you want to change.”
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The forum also provided St Lucy residents with the opportunity to voice concerns about issues like unreliable water quality, transportation limitations, and inconsistent bus services.
While acknowledging that the process might take time to gain momentum, the prime minister expressed optimism about its long-term benefits. “We’re breaking new ground, and change doesn’t come quickly, but I’m confident this initiative will create new channels for ideas and participation and strengthen our democracy,” Mottley said.
The prime minister concluded by emphasizing that the initiative is not just a formality but a genuine effort to turn ideas into tangible outcomes. “This is not just talk; it’s real, and it’s designed to bring real change.”
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