The examination of the 2026 budget estimates began today, with Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, accounting for allocations to programmes under the Office of the President.

These include sums for the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission, Men on Mission and the First Lady’s Office.

Minister Teixeira detailed plans ranging from expanding the surveying of new land, to initiatives in the pipeline for the Youth Advisory Council.

During consideration of the allocation for the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission, Opposition MP Tabitha Sarabo-Halley sought clarity on some of the projects monies have been allocated for, such as the allocations to the Office of the First Lady.

“We have the national beautification project, which has $35 Million assigned to it… these include parks under construction. Playsets, bins, very lovely. And you would have seen some of the parks already done. In many areas,” Minister Teixeira explained.

The minister continued, “General repairs will also be done on all existing public parks. They will also be providing financial assistance to Guyanese in vulnerable situations, with assistance in terms of backpacks, supplies, children toys and hampers, etc.”

While $78 Million was allocated to the First Lady’s Office, whatever monies are not catered for under the budget, will be acquired through fundraisers.

The Office will also be providing direct assistance to Persons Living with Disabilities, including wheelchairs, hearing aids and canes. And in response to further queries, Minister Teixeira explained that the almost one billion dollars allocated for the men on mission project, will not only help to empower men in a positive way, but also improve lives one home at a time.

Monies were also allocated for more work to be done by the Presidential Youth Council, including consultations with youths.

Ultimately, the sums allocated for Agency 01, the Office of the President, were cleared by the Committee of Supply.