THE EDITOR, Sir:
THERE ARE some very salient issues around economic development that continue to frustrate the ordinary Jamaican. The Finance Minister is also responsible for Planning and we would like him to add 'explanation' to his remit. Dr. Davies, we all know that if people are over-taxed it will just be a matter time before they stop working, since it does not make good economic sense.
Ten years ago in sixth form, fellow classmates and I in an economics lesson, were befuddled as to why the Government finds difficulty in widening the tax net. Can a society with an increasing population and a shrinking workforce continue to prey only on those who are in so-called 'formal employment'? Dr Davies, we are asking you to give Jamaicans a lesson in Economics 101 on this subject as we cannot understand the reasons for which Taxpayer Registration Numbers (TRNs), Registrar of Companies, Parish Councils and the Tax Collectorate exist.
The man on the street looks at what is happening and cannot understand why you have to raise General Consumption Tax (GCT) which we know translates into a much higher rate by the time the goods are purchased. Dr. Davies, why do politicians continue to use policies that perpetuate the stagnation of our beautiful country? The constant pussyfooting around the real challenges that will bring a culture of social and economic responsibility to our people never gets addressed in full. In short, how can we ever be prosperous?
I used to travel 10 miles to school, and there are no less than 50 shops along that route, all of which operate with impunity as far as tax is concerned. What is stopping all persons who operate a business from paying their share? Of course they use the roads to send their children to school and get 'security' from the police; among others they pass on these costs to the community. UNFAIR.
However, not all Jamaicans understand the importance of paying taxes and this is why the Finance Minister should push the dialogue; maybe this could see a tax rate reduction. The poor are really getting poorer and fast!
We will be listening for the impediments to regularisation for businesses and why the laws are not being enforced if there is such a statute on the books. Minister, there is much work to do in improving efficiency and effectiveness where education and compliance are concerned. This is holding back the country, allowing those who are smart enough, to reap tons of wealth at the expense of the weak. Sadly, we can do much better!
I am, etc.,
GARNETT WAITE
gjordel@hotmail.com
Springfield, Welcome
Hall P.O.
Via Go-Jamaica
