Will the Chris Brown tax break be converted to one for the ordinary citizen?

Dec 08, 2012 Letters

Dear Editor,
Prior to the cancellation of the Chris Brown show, the acting Minister of Tourism, Mr. Irfaan Ali, held a joint press conference with the Hits and Jam promotions, then promoters of the show and informed the public of how the Christmas package, which was apparently centered around this mega show, would be of tremendous value to the local economy.
The minister, in much excitement, asserted how the government would provide tax breaks for Chris Brown and other artistes associated with this, supposedly mega Christmas season affair. Over the past weeks we have learnt of, what appears to be a fall out between the local promoters and the Chris Brown management, hence a cancellation of this ‘mega show’.
I have paid keen attention to the local news since then, but have not seen the Minister appear to speak to the people of the possible demerits as a result of the cancellation of the show. Just like he boasted of the possible economic gains he claims the show would have brought to Guyana, he also has a responsibility to report to the people of the specific calculated economic loss expected, as a result of the ‘no-show’.
This, for me, speaks to real accountability and respect for the people. Personally, I do not expect that the Minister or the government even contemplated returning to the people on this issue, simply because, as the youngsters will say, “they don’t respect us like that”.
I do not believe that anyone took Irfaan Ali seriously when he boasted of this major tourism overhaul and economic upturn this Chris Brown show would have infused in the Guyana’s economy, none of us took him seriously. What we saw was him engaging in the usual PPP/C propaganda charade and trying to promote an event at which he planned to walk about touting himself the headmaster in charge.
We understand too clearly where the monies from these shows might end up, and how the expenses will be documented; probably eighty-five percent, supposedly, for taxi service. The last CARIFESTA passed more than four years ago and to date there appears to be no clear cut accounting, and the economic and cultural benefits to have been derived remains at large, and cannot be itemized nor described.
Since the Minister and the government seem to be able to calculate the intrinsic value to be had from granting tax breaks to these international artistes and promoters, they must be able to calculate the tremendous economic, social, psychological and moral value a nation gains when the majority of its people are respected by their leaders and are able to experience some economic comfort, even if it is just for a period.
I would therefore find it nauseatingly incomprehensible if the government fails to accept as a fact that, since its imposition, the Value Added Tax (VAT) has been more than a burden to ordinary Guyanese. In fact, many of the last campaign speeches by the then candidate, now president, Donald Ramotar, pointed to an understanding of that fact.
I believe that it is only fitting then, that the people get a tax break from VAT, especially during this festive season. It is no secret that many of our people, during this season, receive their largest collects from relatives or friends overseas.
These collects are not merely goodies or indulgences but in most instances are necessities for the family which they cannot afford all year round. However, too often, many of those families can hardly find the money to pay to retrieve their barrels or boxes, due largely to the high cost attached.
In the circumstances, then, one would expect a conscionable, caring, understanding and sensitive government to be mindful of this situation and render some relief to its people. We might not be an international artiste or promoter who easily gains your favour, but at least we are people who also deserve to live! Can the ‘Chris Brown tax break be converted to a tax break for the ordinary citizen? Merry Christmas to all!
Lurlene Nestor

Latest News

Will the Chris Brown tax break be converted to one for the ordinary citizen?

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show|| March, 17th, 2025

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

NSC, Office of the DPP to host Criminal Law and Sexual Offences Act...

Lucas Chung maintains strong standing at 2nd...

Farm Supplies Ltd. supports Bartica Regatta 2025

Legislation and Investment: Trinidad to Brazil,...

Three more matches billed for this weekend

CM Khan rules at 2025 National Blitz Chess...

Features/Columnists

“One Guyana” is no less a national slogan than “Green Guyana”

If Guyana’s President Ali is the “Zelensky of the Caribbean”, who is the Putin?

Partner v. investor

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]

Will the Chris Brown tax break be converted to one for the ordinary citizen?

Share this:

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show|| March, 17th, 2025

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

Features/Columnists

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]