Dear Editor,
Parliament has just signed off on another budget after the customary marathon debate – the 2011 and largest budget ever at $161B. Presentations galore across the floor: “Mr Speaker,” “Mr Speaker,” uttered ad nauseam from one “Honourable Member” to the next. I do believe that the word ‘honourable’ doth lose somewhat its full value during these debates. I have mentioned before that I have come to view budgets as a kind of circus, a meaningless indulgence, a hollow parliamentary formality which appears to be cast in stone, since nothing, no input from the opposition no matter how sound, how valuable, how logical is ever taken into consideration or acknowledged unless it is in favour – not one iota whatsoever. The budget is presented as perfect and flawless, made to our true measurement, hence the absurdity in disagreeing.
But the Finance Minister singling out AFC leader Raphael Trotman as the solitary voice that transcended cheap politics and was magnanimous in his presentation by recognizing the positives of the government and giving credit where credit is due, was also arresting and interesting. He regretted that other opposition members were not so inclined to follow his example of displaying mature politics rather than petty ramblings.
And so I thought to myself, what if this magnanimous, open mindedness as displayed by Mr Trotman could be reciprocated by the government ministers and the Finance Minister in particular, so as not to see himself and the budget as infallible; to equally concede the valid points, criticism, flaws, errors or weaknesses therein. Surely this would have a stimulating, healthy effect; make the debate much more substantial and meaningful and less domineering and bigoted. Indeed, the Honourable Dr Ashni Singh should not scold other members of the opposition for being narrow-minded when debating the budget while he and his colleagues behave no better. The magnanimous gesture that Mr Trotman was applauded for was good, but will mean nothing unless it is reciprocated when deserving.
Yours faithfully,
Frank Fyffe
