By RASHAD ROLLE
Tribune Staff Reporter
rrolle@tribunemedia.net
BAHAMIANS expressed concerns over the government’s spending habits during the first public forum on Value Added Tax held last night at Workers House on Tonique Wiliams Darling Highway.
During the forum, experts such as Financial Secretary John Rolle explained what VAT is and why the government believes it is the revenue generating system needed to help reduce debt levels and prevent a downgrade in credit ratings.
No Member of Parliament attended the forum.
While some of the nearly 70 persons who showed up expressed their support for VAT, those who called for the government to do more to help the economy rather than taxing citizens received the most applause during the forum’s Q and A period.
“They are focusing on generating revenue, but what about curbing expenditure? Who is going to hold the government accountable for that?” asked one person.
Another person, Floyd Armbrister, said: “We need the past Ministers of Finance to be here to tell us why we are in this position. If the government does business in secrecy, how are we supposed to know what’s going on?”
Persons called for the government to enact a Freedom of Information Act and a Consumer Protection Act to help ensure VAT works properly.
Comments
The_Oracle 10 years, 5 months ago
Aye, secrecy and the blame game between parties have created this mess, now we get to pay for their party!
While the Bahamas and Bahamians certainly need to become better at record keeping and accountability, both personal and professional, This is putting gas on a smoldering fire.
john33xyz 10 years, 5 months ago
"Freedom" of Information Act ????????? Sorry, folks, but the slavery continues - just in disguise. Shut up, work, and pay your duties and fees - and every 5 years we'll let ya "mark ya x" to make ya feel good.
john33xyz 10 years, 5 months ago
Oh, and don't forget to have plenty children to grow up as new slaves for our children and grandchildren to kick around and abuse.
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