InMedia
The government should be applauded for introducing a new economic assistance programme for the poor. Bread-and-butter issues are now more important than other problems besetting the government.
The 40-billion-baht welfare-cum-economic-stimulus package announced on Tuesday would be good for the economy and low-income earners, since they include hefty tax cuts on diesel and gasohol, free bus rides and free electricity and tap water for low-use households.
Even though the measures will last only six months, they will lessen the burden on poor people struggling to make ends meet. The government may lose 40 billion baht from its coffers, but it is worthwhile helping people in need.
Critics may say the measures are short term and will not result in real and lasting benefits for the poor. But we spend nearly the same amount of money organising a general election, whose outcome may be considered less beneficial to the public at large.
The good thing about the new economic assistance programme is that it benefits the people directly. There are no palms to be greased.
I hope the current economic situation will make people more patriotic and united. Nationalism is not all bad if it keeps people together in times of crisis. If every family has food on the table, our country will not be in peril.
There are many who exploit nationalism for their own gain. We must be wary of those who say they want to "save the country" but oppose everyone who does not agree with them.
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