Chambers of Commerce points out irregularities to G.O.B.

While the budget debate took place in the House of Representatives, in the boardroom of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the budget was also analyzed.  The Chamber’s contributions are contained in a letter to the Prime Minister. It notes that while spending has increased by seventy-two million dollars more than last year, and there is a deficit of sixty two point six million dollars, there is no mention of sources of financing. The Chamber is also advancing a freeze in hiring because of extravagant Wage Bill of a projected four hundred and eighty-three point two million dollars or fifty six percent of total expenditure. It also recommends that the pension age be increased to sixty-five years since the proposed allocation has increased in excess to five million. The Chamber believes that following the review of the Auditor General’s Report for 2010-2011, the House should not have allowed another budget presentation because corrective actions have not been taken in respect of the irregularities, corruption and waste highlighted by the report. As to the bloating of the Foreign Service, it recommends the strategic posting of diplomats at missions most beneficial for Belize, particularly for investment attraction purposes. A major concern, however, relates to the BIL, the Belize Infrastructure Limited, the state owned company that will implement a sixty million dollar infrastructure package. The Chamber questions whether it will replace the Ministry of Works and how it will stimulate job creation as was announced.  Finally, the Chamber calls on the government to consider applying the benefits achieved via the Superbond savings to implement measures to actively stimulate the private sector.