🏦 Deputy Premier defends decision on financial fee consultation

Deputy Premier André Ebanks has defended his decision to consult with local financial institutions about proposed fee increases for the next year. This move has sparked controversy, with Premier Juliana O’Connor-Connolly stating she was unaware of the proposal to implement a $200,000 annual fee on the Credit Union, among other financial institutions. Ebanks insists that his ministry was merely following the government’s budget policy statement by exploring proposed fee changes. 📊

According to Ebanks, the consultation process is designed to allow stakeholders to contribute to the recommendations that the Ministry prepares. He assured that no formal action to change fees has been taken yet. The backlash from the Credit Union and public comments about the potential threat to its financial stability have highlighted significant differences among the current Cabinet and caucus members of the United People’s Movement. 🏛️

Despite the controversy, Ebanks encourages all stakeholders to continue providing feedback to help the Ministry develop a well-informed analysis in the best interests of the country. This incident comes less than six months before the start of the official election campaign, casting doubts on the unity of the United People’s Movement. 🗳️