Dear Editor,
The austerity measures are necessary due to bad government spending and little GDP – those two issues have to be tackled. But it’s highly unwise to stifle education which is the most important investment in any country – whereas teaching as well as public administration have to be highly efficient and effective – government employees have to be highly motivated or clear their desks.
The times of waiting years for licenses for building and business activities have to be over right away.
As the Portuguese love their country but are disappointed by their politicians, they should start with the decision makers right now instead of blaming Angela Merkel: I strongly suggest an audit of government and municipal spending as well as of politicians’ bank accounts from the last 20 years – in a search for bribery, fraud and embezzlement. Followed by freezing of illegally acquired assets which might bring back billions of stolen Euros which in turn can bring relief of austerity measures, which would also keep today’s and tomorrow’s politicians on their toes about those issues and it can bring more trust into the government by the people.
Today’s way of thinking, “whoever I vote for, the politicians will abuse their power anyway and whatever I try, they will put too many rocks into my way” stifles the economy badly as there is little incentive to try really hard.
For moving forward in terms of income (GDP), I suggest exchange and coaching forums, exhibitions, congresses etc. about how to generate business income from foreign countries, exporting products and services into strong economies worldwide. People in Portugal should receive help and knowledge in how to run thriving companies and successful entrepreneurs (Portuguese and foreign expats). This needs platforms, created not only by public, but also by private bodies (the platforms would be perfect for sponsoring). I would also heavily advertise Portuguese business and create connections in former colonies such as Brasil, Angola and Macao.
The latter could be the perfect business card for Portugal in China: the biggest casino turnover in the world now before Las Vegas in a partly Portuguese setting! Places like Macao should be used heavily to draw attention, business and tourism to Portugal.
Irene Manns
São Brás
