The purpose of the budget estimates process is to analyze each government department’s budget in a detailed manner. This process involves committee members from the opposition and government reviewing the expenditures of each department and asking questions regarding spending practices, departmental initiatives and other policy procedures. The minister responsible for the department being questioned is expected to be present at these sessions.

"Re-scheduling budget estimates committees happens quite often when ministers are not available," said Ms. Foote. "As a matter of fact, the estimates for the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation was re-scheduled on Tuesday. Why will the Premier not re-schedule the estimates for the Department of Business until he is back in the province and available to answer questions? Is this another indication of his lack of respect for the House of Assembly and government accountability?

"It is very important that the minister responsible be present to answer questions on their department’s budget. There are many budget initiatives that need to be explained to ensure that the correct facts and figures are presented to the public. It is through this process that misinformation is corrected and government is held accountable for its decisions.

"While the Premier continuously promotes his new Department of Business, it is very strange that he does not want to be present to explain the expenditures budgeted for the new department. This would give him a valuable opportunity to explain his initiatives, policies and vision for business development in the province. It could also be used as another opportunity to promote new economic development initiatives that he plans to move forward. In his absence, I fear that vital questions will go unanswered. If the Premier was truly committed to this department, he would be present for his first speaking opportunity as minister."