The Daily Graphic describes as positive the announcement by the Ministry of Water Resources, Works and Housing that it has drafted a national housing policy to tackle the country's housing deficit which is now in excess of 1.5m. It says the issue of rent advance payment of more than two years instead of the six months allowed by law, has impacted negatively on the ability of working people to rent decent accommodation. To the paper, haphazard land tenure system has also brought about a situation where lands are sold in many urban areas to two or more buyers. The Graphic however commends all workers who are trying hard to put roofs over their heads in order to escape the burden of paying annual rent advances, and urges them to abide by the statutory regulations of Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies.

The Ghanaian Times says the issue of youth unemployment needs national attention. It says historical evidence indicates that youth unemployment in Ghana is due to increase in youth population and the failure of the economy to generate sufficient and sustainable employment opportunities. In the opinion of the paper, it is a pity that the country's employment systems both government and the private sectors, cannot absorb all unemployed youth each year. The Times therefore urges stakeholders to be involved in discussion to find a lasting solution to the problem.

The Public Agenda says the 54th meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of Ghana which gives the economy a clean bill of health is a positive step. To the Paper, despite these positive developments the provisional end of year fiscal numbers present the economy with major challenges. This, the paper notes need significant fiscal consolidation to engender growth and generate employment.

GBC