‘Stimulus’ is still

• Private sector expresses concern over delay
  
• Govt. says implementation by the end of this month

By Uditha Jayasinghe
Amidst criticism that the state’s much hyped Rs. 16 billion stimulus package is yet to see the light of day since its announcement three weeks ago, the Government yesterday assured it will be rolled out by next week.

Admitting that the process was taking an extended period of time, Consumer Affairs Minister Bandula Gunewardene pointed out that this was unavoidable, as the separate sections of the relief package had to be ironed out among different government and private bodies.

Nonetheless, the Government plans to conclude discussions and implement the relief measures detailed in the package by January 31.

The Government’s statement comes in the wake of economists and industry leaders expressing concern and reservations over the stimulus package as well as suggesting more concrete measures.