Several grassroots organizations criticized yesterday the increase in the cost of living that new tax measures implemented by the Mejia government have caused. The Comite para la Defensa de los Derechos Barriales, Coordinadora de Organizaciones de la Cienaga, Coordinadora de Organizaciones de Los Guandules, Bloque de Organizaciones de la Zona Oriental, Espacio de Organizaciones de Guachupita y Foros para la Participación Municipal told the press that the program to fight poverty of the Mejia government more than bringing relief has rather sent the cost of living up 50%. Genaro Guzman, spokesman for the groups said that the situation has deprived many of hope and brought frustration to residents in barrios and rural areas. "The economic policy that has been implemented has resulted in massive firings in companies and an increase in unemployment," said Guzman.
