THE POSITIVE Action Group will start its series of 2011 public meetings with a Bluffer's Guide to the Isle of Man Budget.

The presentation, by Rushen MHK Juan Watterson, takes place on Monday, January 31 at the Manx Legion Club, Market Hill, Douglas, at 7.30pm.

On February 15 Treasury Minister Anne Craine MHK will present her first Budget for Tynwald approval.

It will be one of the most eagerly awaited Budgets in recent years as the Isle of Man has to continue to find ways to deal with the loss of millions due to the UK changing the VAT sharing agreement with the Island.

Juan will explain where the money comes from and goes to, as well as the Budget process, and advise how the public can interpret the information when it's made public.

He will also analyse the measures the government has taken, in the past year, to adapt to a worsening economic position.

Mr Watterson, a Chartered Accountant, has been critical of the lack of public consultation when preparing the Budget and has proposed reform of the process.

He said: "This promises to be a presentation which will demystify the Budget and make accountancy fun - hence the title Bluffer's Guide."

Chairman of the PAG Roger Tomlinson said: "This is an important political year and we urge the Manx public to actively involve itself in the build up to the general election which it has been announced is on September 29.

"This is our first event that will highlight election issues and they don't come more crucial than the economy, the success of which could be determined by the Budget." 
 
As usual the PAG meeting is free and open to everyone.