NA deputies approve of 2015 plans, doubt job creation claims

October 22, 2014 | 09:26
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National Assembly deputies yesterday expressed general agreement for the Government's socio-economic development plans for next year, but expressed skepticism over some of its achievements this year.
The Doosan Vina Port in the Dung Quat Economic Zone, Quang Ngai Province. Socio-economic development plans were discussed yesterday by NA deputies. - VNA/VNS Photo Thanh Long

Speaking at the on-going eighth session of the 13th National Assembly, Deputy Nguyen Thi Nguyet Huong of Ha Noi said she did not believe the Government's claim that 1.6 million jobs were created this year.

She said the figure did not reflect the reality of the economy and businesses faced many difficulties in recent years. She noted that the job creation claim was in apparent contradiction with the report's statement that total investment in the whole society had declined and many businesses had gone bankrupt or stopped operations.

Most deputies agreed with the Government's report on socio-economic situation in 2014 and tasks set for 2015, urging greater focus on agriculture, education and increasing competitiveness of local businesses.

They approved of administrative reforms made in taxation, customs and construction procedures.

Many deputies agreed with the Government's strategy for 2015, especially key changes made to the national plan, including speeding up the development process, restructuring the economy and improving production efficiency and competitiveness.

They said the Government must create an environment that would ensure businesses commit to long-term investments.

It should also add completing the State's legal framework to the list of tasks for next year , they said.

Several deputies said the agriculture sector needed more attention. They called for increased public investment in agriculture and suggested that the Government considers issuing preferential income tax policies for businesses in the sector.

Deputy Bui Thi An of Ha Noi suggested that budget allocations for the sector focus on applying scientific and technological advances to improve agricultural practices in the country.

Later yesterday, the NA deputies discussed policies for those who have rendered great service to the nation as well as the issue of social insurance debt.

They praised the Government's efforts in ensuring social security, particularly in providing regular financial assistance for 1.5 million people who've served the nation's revolutionary struggles and building or upgrading 48,000 houses for them.

Regarding social insurance debt, many deputies said the problem was getting worse because businesses were facing difficulties. They said employers must be the first to take responsibility for settling the debt.

According to the Viet Nam Social Insurance, social insurance debt owed by businesses amounted to more than VND12 trillion (US$571 million) in the first eight months of this year.

Many deputies proposed stricter regulations to deal firmly with the social insurance debt and better protect workers' rights.

VNS

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