National

Opp. Leader: High Expectations for New Budget

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Ahead of the 2023 Budget Communication, the FNM leader says there are a number of key components needed to be considered.

Published

11 months ago

May 29, 2023

Berthony McDermott

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Ahead of the 2023/2023 Budget Communication, Opposition leader Michael Pintard says there are a number of key components needed in the upcoming budget communication, including provisions that lead to economic growth and by extension improving the ease of doing business in The Bahamas.

When the last budget communication was presented, Pintard said at the time, the communication fell short of helping grow the economy. Adding it failed to address key priorities as Bahamians grapple with the high cost of living.

And now, heading into a new fiscal communication he’s asking about funding for small and medium-sized businesses.

Pintard says there are a number of examples of how businesses are being strangled.

Additionally, he says e-government needs to be fast-tracked to allow for an easier interaction between agencies.

He says he’s also curious about plans to reduce subventions to state-owned enterprises such as Bahamas Power and Light and Bahamasair.

However, more than that, the Free National Movement is also expecting a debt management strategy.

Prime Minister Philip Davis is expected to present the country’s new fiscal roadmap in the House of Assembly on Wednesday at 10AM.