Cuban Daily Exposes Rumors, Reports Actions Against Illegalities CUBA, September 29, 2008. The Cuban Granma newspaper described as despicable and dishonest the attitude of some who try to get profit out of the pressing needs of the people. It harshly criticized those who forward rumors launched by Cuba enemies about fictitious price hikes and lack of goods seeking to encourage massive market purchase that leads to temporary shortage of supplies. Under the current circumstances, Cuban authorities have not foreseen any price increase of basic goods neither under the ration card system nor under any other domestic trade modalities, like hard currency shops, despite generalized increase of import costs, the article reads. Access to food by the people is one of the top priorities of the country, along with the recovery of sectors like housing, power supply and essential services. While not a single minute has been spared to face damage in agriculture, all food imports have been guaranteed according to scheduled, and additional foodstuffs have been contracted to secure their offer to the population in the face of a temporary reduction of root vegetables and fruits over the next few months. The fair complaints and concerns of the population about those who sell goods illegally acquired or purchased in large amounts with the aim of speculating have also had a rapid response, the article reads. Rigorous actions have been taken against those who have violated the law under the pretext of solving particular and personal needs thus underestimating collective interest. Stronger sanctions have been imposed in exceptional cases of individuals who have encouraged others to commit illegalities. Sanctions will be imposed against any manifestation of corruption, robbery and privilege, even more if the resources destined to the hurricanes victims are involved. On the other hand, the Granma article says that starting September 29, prices stipulated for goods at state agricultural markets, and produce- selling stands in different areas will be set by the Provincial Administration Councils. In the case of the farmers market (operating under the offer and demand), the prices of a group of basic foodstuffs will provisionally be topped according to the prices prevailing before the passage of the storms. The article warns that under the country’s current and special circumstances, any violator of the law or social order will face the measures stipulated on the Cuban Penal Code, like some cases already tried for theft, personal stockpiling and illegal sale of foodstuffs and construction materials as well as theft of fuel, electric and telephone wires and cables, frames of high tension towers, and other crimes, whose authors have been punished according to the seriousness of their acts. The country is recovering at an steady pace thanks to the effort made by the majority of Cubans- the article points out-. Such an attitude can not coexist with crime and anti-social behavior, which will count on no impunity or tolerance, the article concludes. (Cubaminrex –ACN) |