GOVERNMENT DISTRIBUTES $250,000 TO PRIVATE SECTOR
By: Asenati Taugasolo Semu
Grant funding totalling $250,000 was distributed to 12 businesses via the Government’s Public Sector Organizations (PSO) administered by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour,
The funding is to assist with the businesses administration operations.
During these challenging times where COVID19 has severely affected the world economy, the PSO Grant is crucial to further support the Samoan Private Sector Organisations said Minister of Commerce Industry and Labour, Lautafi Fio Selafi Purcell at the presentation ceremony.
“The eligible organizations are those with commercial affiliations and are registered with MCIL under the Incorporated Societies legislation,” said Lautafi.
“The grant is part of Government’s continuous commitment to strengthening the public-private sector partnership as well as assisting in the development of the Private Sector.
“There are set criteria and a number of factors to be considered in determining the amount of grant to be awarded to each organization, such as registered membership, plans as well as progress of development projects.”
Lautafi also reminded of their obligations to comply with the requirements of the Grants as failure to do so will have a bearing on their request for further assistance in the current financial year.
The Hon Minister encouraged continuous partnership between the Public and Private Sectors and also acknowledged the contribution of the Private Sector to the economy of Samoa through stimulation of economic prosperity and employment creation.
The presentation was held at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour’s office.
Tagaloa Eddie Wilson on behalf of the PSO’s thanked the Government and the Minister of Commerce Industry and Labour for awarding the grants.
“We want to say thank you to the Government and we assure you that we will put these funds into good use for the development of the business community and to assist with our economy,” said Tagaloa.
The approved allocation for 2020 is as follows:
