ToolsTax give and take is nothing newOver the years Trinidad and Tobago has seen numerous increases in gas prices. I remember at times seeing hundreds of cars lining up to fill their tanks while the budget was being read, or gas stations closing up shop immediately after the budget so that their pumps could be adjusted to capitalise on the increased price for their present (old) stock. I don't remember hearing then that anyone was "breaking the law". On one occasion the reason given for the increase was to alleviate the cost of road maintenance. In those days there were no "bush wackers", but lawnmower operators and fishermen were also subject to what was then described as a "pothole tax". On another occasion, gasoline prices were increased to compensate for the revenue shortfall which resulted from the discontinuing of the then annual motor vehicle licence fee, so giving with the right hand and taking back with the left has always been with us. To add insult to injury, within a short space of time motor vehicle inspection was introduced for all vehicles to replace the abandoned annual licence fee, and guess what? The gas price increase which was introduced to compensate for the licence-sticker revenue shortfall was never reversed. No one was breaking the law then. As far as VAT is concerned, to those who were "martyred" on July 27, 1990 because of — among other things — the introduction of VAT, you are now the forgotten souls while this political football continues to be kicked around. May your souls rest in peace.
Gregory Cockburn Via e-mail |
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled.
Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.
PublicationsExpress PollMost Popular
Weather |
Most Popular