Finance Minister Speaks about Budget 2017

A development oriented budget with a long term action plan to fulfill the aspirations of all citizens will be presented to Parliament today, Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake said. The Finance Minister who has been putting the closing touches to the finer points of the budget reiterated that Budget 2017 has focused on strengthening the national economy of the country. Minister Karunanayake, also met University Professors, heads of Chambers, Trade Union members and even met the two former Finance Ministers, former President Chandrika Kumaratunga and Ronnie de Mel. “Ronnie de Mel’s views were gathered as they were considered important in making Budget 2017,” the Minister said. He said the fast tracked development, fixing loss making government infrastructure, employment and loan repayment are in sharp focus in the budget. “In addition priority has been given to create one million job opportunities and achieve development goals.” Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe earlier stated that new proposals on digital economy, tourism industry and commercial agriculture will also be included in the upcoming budget. The Second Reading debate and Committee Stage debate are scheduled for 25 days in the months of November and December.