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ABLP Senator Dwayne George expressed his unwavering support for a bill to increase the taxes on money transfers out of Antigua and Barbuda.
The proposed bill suggests raising the current 2% tax to 5%, with the senator advocating for a more significant contribution from all individuals, including non-nationals, to strengthen the country’s economy.
Senator George firmly believes that everyone, regardless of nationality, should contribute their fair share to the economic well-being of Antigua and Barbuda.
He pointed out that both nationals and non-nationals benefit from the services provided by the government, such as healthcare, education, and public goods.
Therefore, he believes that every individual should contribute proportionately to the country’s finances.
The senator stated that he is only asking for a slightly bigger contribution from non-nationals, emphasizing the minimal impact of the proposed increase on individuals.
He urged his fellow senators to support the bill, saying that it is a necessary step towards building a strong and resilient economy for Antigua and Barbuda.
Senator George also addressed potential opposition to the bill, urging unity and support for measures that benefit the country.
He emphasized that everyone should work together towards the common goal of economic prosperity.
The senator’s call for a larger contribution from non-nationals sparked a lively debate in the Senate, with some senators expressing concerns about the potential impact of the tax increase. However, Senator George remained steadfast in his support for the bill, arguing that it is essential for the country’s economic growth.
He stated that non-nationals who choose to live and work in Antigua and Barbuda should contribute to the country’s finances.
Senator George believes that the proposed increase is a reasonable measure to ensure that everyone contributes their fair share.
He reiterated his full support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of all residents, including non-nationals, playing a more significant role in the country’s financial stability and economic development.
Left up to him, everyone should do their part to ensure a prosperous future for Antigua and Barbuda.
I am not a supporter of this man but I agree with him. In America, the government increased the taxes on the transfer of money out of the country every year. Too much money is leaving Antigua and Barbuda in the millions every year into almost every countries around the world. When you have a country when majority of the population are non-nationals, what does the government expected, along with the few native born Antiguans who also transfer money to their loved ones overseas. Yes, I agree that people living overseas also transfer money into Antiguans and Barbudans to their loved ones; however, more money transfer out of Antigua than what transfers into Antigua to their family. Antiguans who are living overseas will more like send a barrel with foods and clothes to their loved ones, than send money. For 2024, two months into the new year, one non-national living in Antigua already transferred over $50,000.00 to their families in Canada and Jamaica.