1- Billion- Dollar Budget to be Presented on Tuesday

The Government of Dominica will take a 1 billion dollar budget to parliament on Tuesday, July 30th.

The parliament convenes at 10:00 a.m. and during his budget address Prime Minister Skerrit will ask for the approval of EC one billion, twenty million, one hundred sixty-four thousand, five hundred and forty-five dollars.

Recurrent expenditure will amount to five hundred and thirty-eight million, three hundred and seventy-eight thousand, five hundred and thirty-six dollars and Capital expenses of four hundred, eighty-one million, seven hundred and eighty-six thousand and eighteen dollars.

The Ministry of Finance is allocated the largest chunk of recurrent expenditure of over 172 million.

Other large chunks go to the Ministry of Education, Health and Social Services and the Ministry of Justice, Immigration and National Security.

Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit says the budget will address key areas of economic activity.

Speaking on state radio on Sunday, Mr. Skerrit said even in an election year Government has taken a responsible approach to the budget.

“The date for elections to be held constitutionally… will fall within this upcoming financial year. But that has not been the preoccupation of mind,” the Prime Minister said. He said the Ministry of Finance continues to be responsible as the “prudent and responsible management of the state is critical”.

“We are not going to make outlandish statements and commitments in regards to the election season’s effect on the budget,” he said.

Mr. Skerrit said key economic areas have received allocations in the budget. He highlighted the recent boom in Dominica’s Tourism sector, hinting at allocations for an international airport, a new cruise ship berth and the ongoing geothermal project, to take full advantage of tourism developments.

“We will see a huge difference in our country and more opportunities for our people,” the Prime Minister said. “You will see…specifics in respect to our vision in a number of the sectors of the economy.”