Editor,
Sensation is one of the strategies used in Public Relations to help your message be received. It reaches the part of the subconscious where emotion overpowers the facts or truth, and feelings get in the way. So, the facts are intentionally left out, and everyone allows their heart to think for them.
The recent strong government presence at a Bahamian establishment sparked public discussion. However, it’s essential to understand that the government’s role is not about being ‘heavy-handed ‘but about ensuring tax compliance and investigating potential breaches of the law. The government has an unwavering duty to collect revenue, and this operation was a part of that responsibility.
Please allow me to show you a picture. We follow everything we see in the United States. We see how Uncle Sam behaves when collecting his money; He takes down the most powerful and even jail-prominent stars, members of Congress, professional athletes, movie stars and the like. The IRS does not care who you are, what position you have, who you’re related to, or what influence you have; when they are ready, they bring the heaviest force to collect their money or make you accountable, nor apologies.
Okay. From the information, the visit to the businesses at South West Plaza was nothing more than a crackdown on those delinquent with Tax Compliance, Customs, or Inland Revenue. If they were in breach, there is no sensible explanation for warning the business of the visit.
The visit was justified and designed so they would not be able to interfere with the investigation by destroying papers. Yes, I agree with the visit; I agree with the message that this is no joking matter, and the government should not have warned them prematurely.
We often criticize the government’s efforts to collect much-needed revenue. However, we should also question the system’s fairness.
Why do big businesses not usually pay less tax, enjoy lower power bills, and receive preferential treatment, even on real property tax?
If we are going to lose sleep over the government leveling the play, why aren’t we being honest in applauding the government for changing the status quo? The importance of treating everyone equally, not one cost for the consumer and less for the merchants, cannot be overstated.
The business community has carte blanche to fleece us, making fewer contributions to the country and a wider profit margin. At the same time, ordinary people complain daily about the high cost.
Understand that the government is working for you. Don’t get caught in high drama. Good public relations can swallow you, but keep what is true and what is just a good show. Remember, the government is your partner in ensuring a fair and just society.
Many establishments deduct National Insurance from employees’ salaries and never pay into their contributions. These business owners should be arrested, detained, taken to court and imprisoned, just like any hardened criminal, because it is stealing from the employee and the country.
Everyone must pay their fair share since everyone expects the government to provide the necessary infrastructure to make life comfortable for future generations.
“We tempt others to look down on us by telling them that we look up to them.” ― Mokokoma Mokhonoana.
Written by: Ivoine W. Ingraham
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