Flanked by members of his parliamentary caucus, Leader of the Opposition, the Hon. Michael Pintard delivered his response to the 2025/2026 budget communication at the House Of Assembly on Wednesday.

Pintard told reporters that the government should establish an independent fire service and settle its debts to public servants and vendors. “When Davis says the government hasn’t made any cuts clearly he has forgotten the people that the government owes,” he said.

During the budget communication Prime Minister, the Hon. Philip Davis announced a reduction in VAT on many items including feminine hygiene products, Depends and baby diapers beginning September 1st. Pintard said, “when the FNM (Free National Movement) left office feminine products and medicine were VAT free. The PLP (Progressive Liberal Party) slapped on 10% then turned around dropped it to five and called it relief. That’s not help that’s damage control. In 2023 the education ministry surveyed public school students and found that 44% of our student population suffers learning loss and that they were potentially faced with systematic gaps that have to be corrected.”

Pintard who serves as Member of Parliament for Marco City assured the public that his party is committed to the development of Grand Bahama. He said that they are disappointed that the Prime Minister refuses to share the details on the recent agreement signed between the government and Concord Wilshire for the redevelopment of the Grand Lucayan Hotel property in Grand Bahama.

The Member of Parliament for Mount Moriah, the Hon. McKell Bonaby delivered a response to the Opposition’s comments on the budget communication on behalf of the government from balcony of the senate building.

Bonaby’s comments highlighted the government’s efforts to make things better for Bahamians around the country. He said, “the Opposition says Bahamians aren’t feeling it but here’s what Bahamians are feeling. They are feeling the price of bread is a little bit lower. They are feeling more of their roads are being paved. They’re seeing clinics finally being opened. They’re seeing school breakfast programs in every constituency. They’re seeing the government show up and follow through.”

The budget debate begins in the House Of Assembly next Wednesday.