The Parliamentary Committee of Supply on Monday approved $54.1 million in supplementary funds for the provision of additional resources that were needed to host the 2022 National Toshaos Council and the 2022 Amerindian Heritage month. 

Minister of Amerindian Affairs Pauline Sukhai explained that these supplementary funds were requested because the government encountered additional expenses catering for full, face-to-face activities instead of planned virtual activities.

Of the sum, the additional $5.2 million was requested for the NTC while $48.8 million was requested for the Amerindian Heritage Month celebrations. 

Overall, the government is seeking parliamentary approval for another $47 billion in supplementary funding to offset the costs it incurred by agreeing to absorb the increase in electricity rates and other much-needed works such as the completion of roads and bridges.

Members of the National Assembly are considering this request on Monday.