Penn: Record budget must deliver more than promises

Opposition Leader Marlon Penn has called on the government to turn its record $559.1 million budget into improvements in household finances, essential services and housing, while publishing clear targets and regular progress reports.

Responding to the 2027 budget in a recorded statement yesterday, Penn questioned the government’s delivery record and sought details on proposed tax relief, infrastructure spending and support for businesses.

“The Government must understand that a large budget does not automatically mean a better life for the people. Delivery is what matters,” Penn stated.

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley presented the budget to the House of Assembly yesterday at the Eileene Parsons Auditorium at the H Lavity Stoutt Community College.

Penn claimed that the government had left an average of $80 million unspent annually over the past five years, putting the total unspent funds at more than $400 million.

He sought an explanation of the proposed financing, which comprises approximately $457.8 million in revenue, $47.3 million in loans and $54 million from existing fund balances. He also asked what borrowing would mean for future obligations and how much would remain in those funds.

On household relief, Penn questioned the proposed $5,000 payroll tax rebate for lower-income earners. He said the measure required Cabinet and House approval and would only come towards the end of 2027.

“Why must struggling families wait so long for relief? Who will qualify? How many people will benefit?” Penn asked.

He also questioned how the proposal would assist pensioners, unemployed people and households with little tax liability.

Penn welcomed proposed allocations of nearly $6 million for water network and reservoir repairs, $7.7 million for sewerage infrastructure and $18 million for roads and related works, but demanded project schedules, spending details and progress reports.

On housing, he requested figures for available homes and lots, prices, deposits, mortgage payments and delivery dates. He also called for faster business licensing, access to financing, timely government payments and targets measuring business support and job creation.

“As Leader of the Opposition, I will continue to scrutinise these proposals, demand answers where details are missing, and hold the government accountable for delivering on its commitments,” Penn stated.