Finance minister slams opposition’s move to cut budget again

The ruling People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has slammed the parliamentary opposition over public statements to cut the 2013 National Budget, even though discussions are still ongoing and the fact that it has not been completed.
Speaking at a press briefing held at Freedom House on Friday, Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh said, “I’ve seen for example some scepticism expressed by APNU as it relates to the budget discussion. I believe the word that was used was “lukewarm”, which I thought was disappointing, hearing an APNU spokesperson speaking of their “lukewarm” talks and I was particularly disappointed to see an AFC spokesperson – Mr Ramjattan speaking about more budget cuts this year. It is rather unfortunate that (this is) even before he would’ve seen the budget,” said Dr Singh.
The finance minister said the comments from Alliance for Change (AFC) leader Khemraj Ramjattan come even at a time “when he knows that his own recommendations for inclusion in the budget are under consideration”.
The finance minister said the move by both opposition parties is to score political points and described it as disgusting.
However, Dr Singh noted that another meeting is planned with both opposition parties to discuss the budget with the government before it is completed and presented in the National Assembly.
The finance minister further stated that while the 2013 budget will focus on the main pillars of development, this year will be different as it will build on the work that has already begun.
“Budget 2013 will be no exception; it will reflect an aggregation of these widely consulted sector strategies. It will incorporate the well known major pillars of our government to continue macroeconomic stability, continue investment in physical infrastructure as a catalyst to economic growth.”
Dr Singh reiterated that government remains committed to engaging all parties and stakeholders to ensure that their input could be taken into consideration and possibly added, especially if they are tangible.
He said that emphasis will be placed on modernising the traditional sectors, such as sugar, rice and bauxite, while promoting the growth of new and emerging sectors.
“We anticipate that the budget will see continued strength in the Guyanese economy and continued gains as it relates to quality of life,” the minister said.