Biyi SAMUEL/ AKURE
The Ondo state House of Assembly has commenced the review of the N169 billion 2017 Budget proposal which was presented to the Law Makers by the state Governor on Monday, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu through the Clerk of the House, Hon. Bode Adeyelu.
Speaking at the formal commencement of the Defence of the Budget by Ministries and parastatals, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Oleyelogun David assured of their readiness to expedite action with the intent of improving the economy standard of the state.
According to him, in exercise of Legislative function on Appropriation Bill, conduct of public hearing is very important, since it is an avenue for the House to review the proposals and be sure that they are realistic proposals in terms of both revenue and expenditure.
While declaring open the public hearing, Rt. Hon. Oleyelogun said, it is part of their responsibilities to know that the provisions contained in the Appropriation Bill are in line with the policy direction of state government.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of Finance and Appropriation of the House, Hon. Olajide Sunday said, the Bill being the very first to be considered under the present administration by the House, it therefore behooves on them to collectively take conscious efforts to concentrate on various issues.
Another important issue to note, he said, is the reduction of the sales upon which the Nigerian Bench Mark is credited on which by extention, has affected the effective socio –economic planning of of all states including ”our dear state”.
He therefore enjoined members of the public to contribute their quota positively towards the attainment of a very visionary Budget with great commitment of service to humanity.
The state Chief of Staff, Hon Abegunde, who represented Governor Akeredolu while assuring the Committee members that each Department had done a thorough job said, the Defence will be hitch free.
