Minister of State for Grand Bahama Senator Kwasi Thompson on Monday defended the government’s plans to remove value-added tax (VAT) from electricity bills $200 or less, as he asserted in the Senate that a large majority of electricity consumers would benefit.
“This means 75 per cent of Grand Bahamians will benefit,” he said.
“If this program had started last January, 80 per cent of persons would have saved. In February, 88 per cent of the residents in Grand Bahama would have qualified for this exemption. In March of 2017 another 88 per cent would have qualified.
“In April, 84 per cent; in May, 79 per cent; in June, 66 per cent; in July, 63 per cent.”
This electricity bill deduction is expected to take effect July 1.
Thompson also noted that the Ministry of Works has issued 43 cheques to Grand Bahamians for roof repairs.
His comments came during the 2018-2019 Budget Debate on Monday, as Thompson spoke about his government’s efforts to bring relief to residents of Grand Bahama.
“The … cheques … are valued at $4,000 each,” Thompson stated.
“This is also an approximate value of over $2 million dollars, going directly to help and bring relief to Grand Bahamians all within this year.”
According to Thompson, more help is on the way.
“I am also advised that there are another 330 cheques being prepared and they on their way, bringing more relief to Grand Bahamians,” he said.
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This article was written by GINELLE LONGLEY, Eyewitness News intern
