The United Workers Party continues to raise its concern over a motion moved in Parliament on Tuesday, 13 February to borrow USD 42 million or EC 113 million dollars from the CDB as a policy-based loan. The passage of this resolution has sparked controversy and concern since the Prime Minister in his presentation revealed that there are 8 conditionalities attached…
When Prime Minister Philip J Pierre came into office, one of his most striking promises was the removal of income tax for individuals earning $4,000 or less per month. This pledge resonated with a broad swath of the populace, offering a beacon of financial relief and hope. However, as time has progressed, this promise has remained unfulfilled, casting a shadow…
The United Workers Party (UWP) expresses strong objection to the recent proposal by the Government of Saint Lucia outlining harsh measures for individuals and businesses with outstanding tax payments. The UWP firmly believes that a highly punitive approach to tax collection of taxes is counterproductive and advocates for fair and efficient methods that promote tax compliance without compromising individual rights.…
The Government of Saint Lucia has proposed a series of stringent measures targeting individuals who have fallen behind on their tax payments. The proposal, which includes a dramatic increase in penalty interest rates and unprecedented authority granted to the Comptroller of Inland Revenue, has sparked a heated debate about the balance between enforcing tax laws and protecting citizens’ rights. Firstly,…
The United Workers Party demands the immediate and complete suspension of the 2.5% Health and Security Levy. This is in response to the rising cost of living, the adverse impact on the local business community, and the volatile global economic climate. We call on the Phillip J. Pierre Administration to spare no effort in completely abolishing this ill-conceived measure. The…
The SLP government has introduced a seemingly innocuous 2.5% tax. On the surface, it appears to be a minor adjustment to the nation’s fiscal policies. However, a deeper examination reveals that this tax is far from benign. In some cases, it effectively amounts to a whopping 5% increase, hitting citizens’ pockets harder than expected. One of the most alarming aspects…
Saint Lucians are already grappling with the challenges of an escalating cost of living. From soaring prices in grocery stores to increasing utility bills, citizens are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet. The introduction of Philip J Pierre’s new tax on goods and services only adds to their financial burdens, forcing them to tighten their belts even further…
Prime Minister Philip J Pierre’s insistence on implementing the 2.5% tax on goods and services showcases a lack of empathy for struggling and poor Saint Lucians. By overlooking the disproportionate impact on vulnerable segments of society, he fails to prioritize their welfare and disregards alternative approaches that could achieve the desired fiscal goals without exacerbating their hardships. As leaders, it…
Unlike traditional VAT, which is applied as a percentage of the final sale price of goods or services, the 2.5% tax introduced by Prime Minister Pierre compounds on top of other taxes such as VAT. Tax Scenario #1: Item costs $100.00 with 15% VAT the total cost would be $115.00 Tax Scenario #2: Item costs $100.00 + 12.5% VAT brings…
The implementation of a new 2.5% tax on goods and services effective July 1st, 2023 has the potential to significantly impact the poor and vulnerable, particularly in the midst of an inflation crisis. With the government failing to provide any substantial support for those most in need, the additional burden of this tax will push many people further into poverty.…