The Gleaner took to the streets recently to find out from members of the public: "What would you like to hear from Finance Minister Audley Shaw during his opening presentation in the Budget Debate?"

Omar Swearing, 24, warehouse clerk:

I would like to hear Minister Shaw talk more about the GCT (general consumption tax) and whether it is going to increase or decrease. That's the most important thing I want to hear.

Rensley McFarquhar, 32, storeroom clerk:

I heard recently about a gas tax and light tax, and what I want to know from Minister Shaw in his Budget presentation is if this is an addition to the raising of the general tax. And why add tax to gas and light, as they are so expensive to maintain?

Fabian Moody, 21, security officer:

I would like to hear Minister Shaw say what they are doing with all the money for the Budget. I would like to hear about the plans for young people as we need more facilities, factories, and to export more rather than import.

Camille Cranston, 24, manager:

First of all, I want Minister Shaw to increase the minimum wage, and provide more jobs for people.

Angella Lawrence, 41, cosmetologist:

I would like for Minister Shaw to address the concerns of the construction industry, restaurant owners and cosmetologists. I want the Government to step in and help the Students' Loan Bureau, because what the Government is doing is not enough because there are no jobs. I want him to get jobs for most of the university graduates who have graduated and are qualified, so that they can pay back their loans.

- Sonia Mitchell