‘Govt needs every $ of tax revenue’

Minister in the Ministry of Finance, Conrad Enill, made a call for the Inland Revenue Division of the Ministry of Finance as well as the working public to ensure that every dollar of tax revenue is received by Government. Enill was speaking at the Inland Revenue Division’s seventh annual Awards and Retirement Function at the Crowne Plaza on Saturday night. More than 60 officers of the Inland Revenue, along with 20 retirees, received awards for over 25 years of service. “There can be no doubt that there is considerable leakage in the tax system and that Government is not collecting its fair share of taxes.

It also constrains Government’s ability to provide the optimal level of goods and services,” declared Enill. The Minister then detailed several recommendations to the gathering and informed them of several Government plans which are aimed at reducing tax evasion and other leakages. Among these plans is the crafting of a modern equitable and transparent tax system that provides necessary funds for socio-economic development and does not unduly penalise the legitimate economic pursuits of business and individuals. Enill continued, “With what will we provide proper resources to the police service for the protection of our nation. How will we provide the funding for the operation of our general hospitals. Take a visit to the hospital and return with the understanding that every single dollar of tax revenue helps us improve these services.”