Chastanet expresses worry about the speaking order during budget debate.

Opposition Leader Allen Chastanet expressed concerns about the speaking order in the parliamentary debate, arguing that it is unfair for his team of two lower house MPs to debate among the government’s 15 members. Chastanet emphasized his readiness for the debate but highlighted the importance of a fair speaking order, suggesting a balanced schedule for speaking. Prime Minister Philip J Pierre responded to Chastanet’s concerns by urging him not to use numbers as an excuse, referencing an incident from the previous year where Chastanet accused the administration of silencing him during a debate.

In response to Chastanet’s concerns about the figures presented in the estimates, Prime Minister Pierre unveiled his administration’s $1.86 billion budget, highlighting economic growth as a key aspect of the fiscal plan. Chastanet dismissed the significance of the numbers in the estimates, stating that he would need explanations to clarify any confusion. He criticized the government for leaving room for speculation and emphasized the need for transparency in budgetary matters.

Chastanet’s concerns stem from the arrangement of the speaking order in the parliamentary debate, where he feels disadvantaged as part of the opposition facing a larger government team. He called for a fair schedule that allocates speaking slots in a balanced manner, highlighting the importance of equal representation in debates. Prime Minister Pierre responded by urging Chastanet not to use numbers as an excuse, emphasizing that everyone has a duty to participate in the debate regardless of the numerical composition of the teams.

The debate surrounding the speaking order in the parliamentary session reflects broader tensions between the opposition and the government, with Chastanet raising concerns about fairness and transparency in the budgetary process. The government’s unveiling of a $1.86 billion budget underscores the significance of economic growth in the fiscal plan, with both sides emphasizing the need for clarity and accountability in financial matters. The outcome of the debate may have implications for future parliamentary sessions and the relationship between the opposition and the government.