The Independent Fiscal Commission has pointed out that it is not within its remit to comment on initiatives put forward by the Opposition during the 2025/2026 budget debate.

Earlier this week, Fiscal Commissioner, Courtney Williams described the Government’s budget as credible, despite a few shortcomings.

Mr. Williams proposed that the Government should establish clear compensation-negotiation cycles to settle wage talks before the budget is presented to minimize fiscal risk.

He also suggested, among other things, that the due date for filing income tax returns be shifted from March, when the fiscal year ends, to April when the fiscal year begins.

He argued that this would also minimize the fiscal risk by giving the Government time to make budgetary adjustments if there is a significant fallout in tax revenue.

When probed by reporters about his assessment of the Opposition’s budget debate contributions, Mr. Williams said it would be unlawful to do so.

The new budget which should be approved by March 31, is currently being debated in Parliament.

Debate presentations have already come from Finance Minister Fayval Williams, her opposition counterpart Julian Robinson, Opposition Leader Mark Golding and Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

Mrs. Williams will close the debate on Tuesday, March 25.