IFC says law bars it from assessing alternative tax plans ahead of election

The Independent Fiscal Commission (IFC) says it is restricted by law from considering or evaluating “any alternative policies” other than those proposed or implemented by the Government.

The IFC is Jamaica’s non-partisan fiscal oversight body created by law to monitor, assess and report on the Government’s compliance with fiscal rules.

The scope of the IFC’s remit was outlined on Thursday in a public statement by Fiscal Commissioner Courtney Williams.

It comes as the two main political parties unveil a slew of economic policy proposals – including their respective income tax plans – that have triggered calls for an independent analysis amid a fierce political campaign.

Jamaicans are set to vote in parliamentary elections next Wednesday.

The statement by Williams cited section 13 (c) of the IFC Act, which states that: “In carrying out the functions of the Fiscal Commissioner, under sub-section (2), the fiscal commissioner shall only have regards to the policies of the government in this regard and shall not consider any alternative policies”.

“This means that the fiscal commissioner’s formal opinions and analyses related to government fiscal policy must exclusively focus on policies implemented or proposed by the government,” the statement said.

Among other things, the governing Jamaica Labour Party has promised to reduce income tax to 15 per cent of annual earnings on a phased basis, if it continues in government after the elections.

An increase in the personal income tax threshold to $3.5 million annually, starting in the next fiscal year, which begins on April 1, 2026 is the centrepiece of a suite of proposals announced by the Opposition People’s National Party.

- Livern Barrett

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