The Minister-designate for the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, has given the assurance to lead a campaign to have the National Cathedral project completed.
Andrew Egyapa Mercer, made this statement during his vetting on Tuesday, March 5, 2024.
He is therefore seeking parliamentary support to finalize the National Cathedral project.
The former finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta had told Ghanaians that the project would be completed in 2024 and commissioned on March 6.
However, that pledge has failed to materialize.
Andrew Egyapa Mercer, underscored the project’s potential to significantly enhance the country’s economic growth.
He said he was ready to collaborate with Parliament for the cathedral’s completion, contingent on his approval.
“Unfortunately, I do not know the details of the financing positions of today. But it’s obvious, I believe to all of us that the private contributions that were expected weren’t as forthcoming. I recall that in the 2023 budget, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta requested some public funds to enable us to move the project to its conclusion, which was resisted by the House.
“But I will entreat [Parliament] to support the project because obviously some funding has gone in there. We cannot allow it to sit the way it’s sitting. And so, if I’m given the nod, I believe that if I have an opportunity to make a presentation to you [parliament]. I will urge the support of all, especially our colleagues on the minority side to support the completion of the project.
“I believe it will be a huge income generation for our country and will help in attracting visitors. If I have to present a budget for parliament for consideration, yes.”
“I sincerely believe that the National Cathedral was well intended. His Excellency the President took a position that it was something that needed to be done between the state and private faith-based organizations. And so, the state needed certain contributions. And the expectation was that the faith-based organizations were also going to make contributions to ensure that the facility was completed.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
