Minister of State and of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and
Official Spokesperson for the Government of Timor-Leste
Díli, April 1, 2015
The Sixth Constitutional Government National Budget Submitted to National Parliament
Debate on the 2015 national budget of the Sixth Constitutional Government (VICG) begins today in the National Parliament. It will continue for another two days, April 6-7. On April the 7th National Parliament will hold the final vote to approve the budget proposal. The Budget accommodates the new Organic Structure of the VICG and is adjusted to meet the needs of the new Government Program endorsed in Parliament last week.
In the same way that the new Program was based soundly on the Program of the Fifth Constitutional Government, the proposed Budget is essentially the General State Budget as approved under the previous Government, with adjustments to serve the new structure and Program. The Government is intending to maintain the current budget spending at $1,570 million.
Introducing the Budget to the members of National Parliament, Prime Minister Dr. Rui Maria de Araújo explained: “The 2015 Rectification Budget sets out the manner in which this Government intends to carry out, in the short term, the Government Plan that the distinguished Members of Parliament had the opportunity of reviewing last week, in a constructive and democratic debate.
The Program of the Sixth Government is a program of continuity, as it intends to follow through with the policies set by the previous Government and because it flows from the Strategic Development Plan, which sets our vision up until 2030. This is a long term vision seeking to transform Timor-Leste into a medium-high income country, with a prosperous, educated and healthy population. We know that by strengthening our People we are strengthening our Nation.”
The Prime Minister added “The Sixth Constitutional Government is prepared for the challenges faced by the country and for implementing a sustainable tax policy and public expenditure that is coherent with what has been planned, reducing waste and increasing measurable and quality outcomes. Particularly at a time when the price of oil has been falling, leaving economies such as ours in a situation of vulnerability, it is important to enhance economic diversification by way of making intelligent investments in the sectors that may generate profits for Timor-Leste and increase domestic revenues.”
The Prime Minister also unveiled his plans undertake a review of all Government expenditure throughout 2015 in order to identify and cut all unnecessary expenses. The results of the review will inform the Budget process for 2016.
Spokesperson for the Government, Minister of State Agio Pereira noted “we welcome the beginning of this Plenary, a crucial step forward to enable the VICG to implement its program for the remaining nine months of 2015. The VICG deeply appreciates the constructive scrutiny and contributions of all members of National Parliament in the national budget process. The approval and promulgation of the law will complete the “trinity” of approved Organic Law, Program and Budget, providing the necessary legal framework for the new Government to respond to the needs of our country.”