If revenue projections are not realized then debt will reach a worrying level – Ratu Naiqama

Opposition Leader and Shadow Minister for Economy, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu says the revenue forecast in the 2021/2022 National Budget is over optimistic which will lead to further increase in debt level.

While responding to Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum’s budget address, Ratu Naiqama says if the revenue projections are not realized then debt will reach a worrying level and could spiral into a financial crisis.

Ratu Naiqama says he is also concerned by the statement by Sayed-Khaiyum that the budget will be reviewed in six months.

He adds this shows Government is not certain about its plans for the next 12 months and lacks the fiscal space to handle the current situation and this is why they should worry about the debt level.

Ratu Naiqama also says since April, the Permanent Secretary for Health Dr James Fong has reiterated on many occasions when you move, the virus moves with you and advised people to stay at home and only to leave for essential reasons.

He says the Government should have taken heed of these simple measures but they have opened containment borders and allowed non-essential businesses to open.

Ratu Naiqama has also claimed that the truth is that by allowing movement and businesses to re-open, Government is saying the vulnerable population, the aged and the sick are dispensable.

Ratu Naiqama says whilst they fully support the vaccination wholeheartedly, people also have their individual rights and that must be respected.

Ratu Naiqama also says that as a traditional leader he has urged everyone to consider vaccination very seriously.

However he says they are of the strong view that it is morally wrong and unethical for Government to use vaccination as a precondition for citizens to have access to any assistance.

Ratu Naiqama further says tabling the iTaukei Land Trust (Budget Amendment) Bill 2021 without consultation is of grave concern.

He adds they plead with the Prime Minister if he could take it back to the drawing board and ensure that genuine consultation with relevant stakeholders are carried out.

Minister for Economy, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum will give his right of reply later this week.