Estimates will be more of the same – Opposition Leader

Today, Tuesday January 29, the Government will present the Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure for 2019 and according to Leader of the Opposition Dr Godwin Friday, “… it will be more of the same.”

The opposition leader said the Government will be held accountable by the Opposition for what it puts in the Estimates and Budget and what is missing from it.

“Over the years, there has been a lot missing; jobs have been missing, effective crime fighting has been missing, reputable foreign direct investment has been missing, negotiated public service salary increases have been missing, effective plan for tourism has been missing, and basic supplies for our health care system has been missing.

“Most of all, what has been missing is a credible plan and program to bring about economic growth and development in SVG,” Dr Friday told reporters during a press conference at Democrat House last week.

Following the Estimates, the Budget will be presented on Monday February 4, and Dr Friday said while he does not know specifically what will be in the Budget, he does not anticipate any substance.
“Generally, … I expect it will be more of the same. Old wine in new bottles…the people cannot bear any more taxes.

“The last three Budgets increased VAT. The people are crying under the yoke of taxation and unemployment. So, no more. The government must be more creative in generating revenue. It simply cannot put its hand in people’s pocket every time it wants more money,” Dr Friday said.