COSTA RICA NEWS — Legislator Ottón Solís questioned the plan proposed by former president to improve the state finances. According to Solís, Oscar Arias (1986-1990 and 2006-2010) does not have the moral authority to propose a reduction in the fiscal deficit.
Solís said on Tuesday that Arias was an “enhancer” of the fiscal deficit during his tenure.
“I listen closely to don Oscar when he proposes peace plans, but do not even take a look at his tax plans,” said Solís.
On Tuesday, the former president proposed to reduce the deficit by 5%, in a plan that involves an increase by 3% of government revenues through new “direct” taxes and a reduction of 2% in spending and a national pact with all sectors of the country.
Arias, breaking his silence on political issues says he sees the government’s proposal to be introduced in December that would replace the current Sales Tax with a Value Added Tax and income tax reforms as risky, and not viable.
President Luis Guillermo Solís said he would look at the proposal submitted by Arias, but questioned why Arias did not do so during his term in office.
President Solís added that these issues are part of the negotiations between the government and the Legislative Assembly for the 2015 budget.
