Austerity drive

Manama : As part of the government’s austerity measures, the Ministers were told to participate in external events that benefit the country directly. During the weekly Cabinet session, chaired by Prime Minister HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa at Gudaibiya Palace yesterday, it was also suggested that the Kingdom’s representation should be lowered to reduce expenses and ensure optimum advantages of the events in which ministers take part.

Meanwhile, reviewing the work progress of housing projects, HRH Premier directed to adopt a more comprehensive vision while planning and designing new cities. “This can be done through the provision of green spaces and recreational facilities that attract families and serve the residents there,” Prince Khalifa commented. 

Regarding the housing projects being implemented in villages, the Prime Minister issued instructions to preserve the social fabric there and give priority to local residents.

HRH Premier was informed about the efforts to meet the housing needs of Damistan citizens from the Al-Lawzi Housing project, and devote the units of the Tubli Housing Project to Tubli citizens. The Premier also requested the Ministry of Housing to allocate housing units to Bilad Al-Qadeem and Zenj villagers from nearby projects.

The session also approved in principle the plan put forward by the Sustainable Energy Unit, established by the Cabinet in 2013, and requested the Ministerial Committee for Urbanisation and Infrastructure to follow up it.  

The scheme was highlighted in the presentation given by Deputy Premier Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, and Electricity and Water Affairs Minister Dr. Abdulhussain Mirza.