Opposition claim Shaw\'s outlook on US downturn \'overly optimistic\'

The Opposition spokesman on Finance, Dr Omar Davies was not satisfied with Mr Shaw’s presentation on the likely impact of the US downturn on Jamaica, today.



Dr Davies in his response suggested that Mr. Shaw’s outlook was overly optimistic.



Dr. Davies also questioned when the Supplementary Estimates would be tabled in Parliament.



The Supplementary Estimates are additional expenses after the Budget is presented at the start of the financial year.



Mr Shaw would not provide a specific date for the tabling but said the additional estimates would be presented soon.



According to Mr Shaw up to the end of August, Jamaica was on track to attaining the fiscal targets.



He said the amount of money collected in taxes was slightly below projection because Tropical Storm Gustav forced the closure of tax offices for two days.



Mr Shaw said up to the end of last month, the Government spent $6 billion dollars more than it had projected.