PSC supports revenue collection but wants consultation instead of confrontation

The PSC said it was uneasy that actions of the Council to raise revenue were negatively impacting the business community and the citizens of Georgetown, especially when decisions are taken in isolation from public consultation and without due process within the law.

PSC supports revenue collection but wants consultation instead of confrontation

The Private Sector Commission on Friday raised concerns over the Georgetown Mayor and City Council’s decision to impose a $25000 fee on the consignees of cargo being transported in containers.

The PSC said it was uneasy that actions of the Council to raise revenue were negatively impacting the business community and the citizens of Georgetown, especially when decisions are taken in isolation from public consultation and without due process within the law.

The Private Sector Commission described the Council’s actions as an official harassment of members of the business community in which they are being bullied into paying a fee which, according to the legal advice obtained by the Commission, is unlawful.

The PSC met with Town Clerk Royston King, Council members and members of the Shipping Association earlier this week where a frank, open and generally informative exchange of views on the matter was held.

“The PSC looks forward to further discussion on the matter, hopefully, resulting in a sensible and professional resolution reflecting the mutual interests of the business community, the citizens and the Municipality,” a statement noted.

The PSC said too that it fully recognizes that the recently elected Mayor and City Councilors face a significant challenge in restoring the discipline essential to the good order and sound administration of the capital city and are to be credited with the visible progress made in a relatively short time .

The Commission also recognized that the city requires sufficient revenue to be run efficiently.

“The Commission wishes, however, to remind the Council that the business sector and residents of the city are its means of revenue and that partnership and consultation is infinitely preferable to confrontation and unlawful behavior in the name of revenue collection,” the statement added.

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