Hon Richard Lewis Calls for Transparency and Accountability as Antigua and Barbuda Cabinet Considers Hike in Vehicular License Fees Amid Record Revenue
Despite the recent increases in taxes and fees and the consequent record revenue collections at Customs and the Inland Revenue Department, the Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda is looking to increase vehicular license fees on the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
How is that justified? People are already operating on limited disposable income and life is hard. When will the people get a break?
The Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board (ABTB) is believed to be a highly profitable entity. Section 10 (2) of the Transport Board Act of 1995 allows for funds from those profits to be transferred to the Treasury for the account of the Consolidated Fund.
Let’s examine the financial statements of the ABTB and determine its profitability so consideration can be given to transferring funds from the Board’s profits to assist with roadworks. There is no need to increase fees on the people of Antigua and Barbuda.
The most recent report of the Director of Audit on the Public Accounts of Antigua and Barbuda painted a dismal picture of non-compliance in the submission of financial statements by Statutory Corporations.
According to the report, the most recent audited report submitted by the Antigua and Barbuda Transport Board was that for December 31, 2018. This is totally unacceptable!
Where is the oversight on the operations of these bodies? Where is the accountability? Accountability and transparency before any increase in fees.
It is interesting to note that in Its 2018 manifesto, the UPP proposed a 50% reduction of vehicular license fees and the elimination of inspection and radio fees.
Richard S. Lewis MP
