And while the Opposition wants a "new construct" to set things right, two men he may be looking to are backbenchers Mark Espat and Cordel Hyde. Both representatives took their seat for the first time on the backbench this morning. They were the only representatives who did not walk over with the government pack, and were also the only ones not wearing the party issue guayaberas. But do those cosmetic changes indicate that they may also look at the budget differently? That's what we asked them as they walked down Independence Hill.
Jules Vasquez,
What do you think of the budget Cordel?
Cordel Hyde, Lake I Area Representative
"Well it's too early to say. We'll review it extensively over the following days and..."
Jules Vasquez,
Is this something you can support, you can see yourself voting in favor of?
Cordel Hyde,
"I can't say just yet Jules, we'll have to look at it very closely."
Mark Espat, Albert Area Representative
"The budget debate is next week Rene so I'll have a contribution to make at that time."
Rene Mendez, LOVE Fm
Will you support it?
Mark Espat,
"We have to review it first and consider the details and next week when the debate starts then we'll make our contribution."
Jules Vasquez,
Are you able to support a budget that calls for a $91 million increase in tax revenue?
Mark Espat,
"Jules we are going to spend the week consulting with our community and reviewing the details of the budget. It is difficult to comprehend everything in such a short time. So next Friday there will be the debate and we will make our contributions at that time."
Jules Vasquez,
You didn't walk over with the representatives. Are you officially an outsider now with the People's United Party?
Mark Espat,
"I am doing my work on the backbench for the constituency. Thank you."
