In their present form, housing taxes are procyclical and amplify fluctuations in the housing market. The most effective way to strengthen macroeconomic stability is by restoring the link between property value and property taxation which existed before 2002. This cannot wait until 2020.
The range of media outlets has broadened and we have a much more vibrant media than many other countries in our region. In many respects, the media has been one of the most successful sub-sectors of our economy. I hope that this progress can continue and that initiatives like this one tonight will spur journalists to greater heights.