Tough States sitting ahead for Treasury and Education ministers

Tuesday 12 July 2016

For two politicians today’s last sitting of the States before the summer break probably can’t come soon enough.

Treasury and Resources Minister Senator Alan Maclean and Education Minister Deputy Rod Bryans face a barrage of written, oral, and unannounced questions.

It’s the first time members have had a chance to quiz ministers since controversial States spending plans were made public a couple of weeks ago.

Amongst the written questions submitted to the Treasury and Resources minister are the details of underspends by every department over the past five years, how much money is being spent on promoting the new plans, and how much cash the proposed “health charge” will raise.

The Education minister is being asked to explain what effect he thinks cutting salaries for newly qualified teachers will have on recruitment, the impact of library service cuts on opening hours, and why grants for degree students are being slashed when the Island is trying to up skill.

During questions without notice members can ask the designated ministers almost anything. The Treasury and Resources minister will be first up, the minister for Education will follow.

Following today’s session members will take a break before coming back on 13^th September, with States spending plans due to be debated on Tuesday 27th September.