The budget took
four days of debating the Minister of Finance and Treasury, Rick Hou’s speech.
Then another four
days of committee of supply before it was passed on the floor of Parliament.
At times Speaker
of Parliament, Sir Allen Kemakeza had to intervene to make ruling on arguments
by member of both sides.
Opposition Leader,
Dr Derek Sikua was also warned by Sir Allen not to use derogative words during
the proceeding after expressing his disappointment over some allocations in the
budget.
Mr Hou earlier
said it was a rural focussed budget with 50 percent of the allocation will go
towards developments in the provinces.
He said there was a
$2.2 million surplus and will require no additional borrowing by the
Government.
“For the second
year in a row, the 2012 Budget will be fully funded, ensuring all commitments
and contingencies are funded through a combination of domestic revenue and
external budget support.
“Domestic revenue
growth in 2011 was revised to $2,478.1 million, 10 per cent higher than the
original estimates,” Finance Minister said.
This
Government is committed to funding the following areas in order to meet its key
policy priorities:
- Rural Development and Other Economic Affairs;
- General Public Services;
- Recreation, Culture and Religion;
- Education;
- Public Order and Safety;
- Health;
- Environment Protection;
- Housing , Community Amenities and;
- Social Protection.
By EDDIE OSIFELO
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