MP discusses property tax

“It is my view that the Property Tax Act is unconstitutional,” Ramadhar said. He added that since Government announced the imposition of the tax he has been overwhelmed with calls from people indicating their concerns about the tax and what it means for them. The general view, he said, is that imposing property tax now, “is bad timing” and Government should reconsider its position at this point in time.

People are concerned, the MP said, that they are being overtaxed at a time when the economy is unstable and the cost of living is rising steadily with the 12.5 percent value added tax (VAT) on goods and services being an added burden.

Ramadhar has started a series of public meetings on the property tax and he met recently with residents in the Chaguanas West constituency.

Last week he held talks with people at Tunapuna Market; met with property owners in Chaguanas East and with his constituents in St Augustine South.

He reiterated that even before the property tax is implemented, Government should implement procurement legislation, party and campaign financing legislation and local government reforms.

These are needed, he said, to ensure the taxes are used for what they were intended and the country gets value for money. Asked whether people have been filling out their VRFs, he said, the “flyers” which people have been receiving have no legal consequence, if they refuse to fill it out.

“It is not in keeping with the Act, which should come addressed to you and served properly via registered mail. That one carries legal consequence and possible prosecution, if you refuse.

I have not heard of anyone receiving that document,” Ramadhar said.