And the PM claims that social outreach programs will not be touched-although we have heard otherwise. Still, he says even his office will get the cut:
Reporter:
"How do you all prioritize, balancing, finding these monies with ensuring that the public service to the people is not compromised?"
John Briceno, Prime Minister
"That is a very good question. We have been very clear, especially when it comes to our social programs, that is not going to be touched-our social programs, education, health, and so forth. But what we are looking at is the recurrent expenses-for instance, office expenses, stuff like that-that is where we are doing the cuts. And I believe we can save a substantial amount to be able to help us that our budget does not go completely out of whack, that we are trying our best to keep our primary balance, which is what we promised to the IFIs, including the IMF, and at the same time we could have savings that we could use to address some of the challenges our citizens are facing."
Reporter:
"So does the Office of the Prime Minister also embrace a 25% budgetary cut?"
John Briceno:
"Yes, everybody, including my office."
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