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This photo is just one of many published on social media to vent dissatisfaction with the proposed hike (Credit: Facebook)
The government’s recent decision to propose a 40% increase in license fees has sparked a significant backlash among residents, who are vocally expressing their discontent on social media.
This move follows Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s earlier comments about a potential fee increase to address persistent road issues, which have been a growing concern for the community.
On Thursday, Chief of Staff Lionel Max Hurst clarified during a press briefing that the revised fees would apply universally, rather than the flat $100 increase that had been hinted at before.
“It’s a 40% increase in vehicle licensing fees, a 40% increase in the registration fees…For example, if a resident currently pays $400, the new fee would jump to $560,” he said.
Hurst elaborated on the government’s plan for utilizing the collected funds, stating that they would be placed into a dedicated account to help repay a substantial $100 million loan aimed at financing critical infrastructure projects.
He emphasized that these initiatives are intended to accelerate development within the country.
Apart from residents, the Opposition wasted not time in responding. The first to come out swinging was MP Richard Lewis who called on residents to stand against it.
He condemned the Prime Minister’s approach as extreme, calling it a blatant disregard for the hardships faced by the citizens.
The upcoming parliamentary debate is anticipated to ignite further discussions surrounding this contentious issue.
Well well well. No more to say
LOUD UO THE MEDIA ANTIGUA.NEWS.!!! We all know Gaston just wicked. But it’s alright. I hope the pay increase too. Cause we gonna pay more to license vehicle and then the roads will still be the same. Let me hear the next excuse, cause our tax money was too small
Lololol How Gaston wicked? You want road fixed so money have to come from somewhere. You want him to useoney from his retirement fund? Or peace university savings? Mek out
Say one Say Two…Max Hurst could get loads of money for this car in the future. But frankly speaking, people can hardly manage to buy food. Gaston I support your party but please reconsider this evil.
We the Antiguan people are good at talking but are so politically blinded that we accept any shit the Gaston Brown administration throws at us. We cannot even afford to buy shocks for our vehicles, we can’t eat nutritious meals all that man can do is slap us with higher cost of living. That’s crazy.
I really find that is a stretch. Not even 20 and gradual increments. To just hit us with a 40% increase without consultation is a bit much.
40%?????
I just ordered two ball joints, two inner boot, two stabilizer links and bushings all came up to $831. All genuine parts. I still need 1 shock mount, brake pads and tie rods estimate $ 495. And was paying $582 to licensing, now I have to add 40% to that ??? WHY SHOULD WE HAVE TO SUFFER?? We need to stand up!!!!!Most of the roads are no good in my Village after PW started working and left it looking like a mess. AGAIN WHY SHOULD WE SUFFER ???
We Antiguans are great mouth fighters… this too will soon pass
Didnt we get some kinda money for road fixing…..???? Listen is time enough they stop thiefing our money then leaving us to suffer. Antiguans its time to open up your eyes and see what is going on here. But as usual when its to stand up collectively evrybody blind and dumb. But to cuss somebody for something…mouth open up loud loud loud. Chupz. Just gimme one break.
There are dumbasses in this place…a jackass has more brains than some of those so-called educated gutter rats. For years, money were collected for road repairs, wey de money gorn? Now, they’re taxing the same supporting fools out of existence.
This is sick. We already paying a lot and government waisting money.
Probably they already decided on that increase and just playing us like always.
I can bet all my money that after that they will still not do sh*t about roads etc . Money will wash out like always …
It’s harder and harder to live here ….