The opposition United Workers Party (UWP) is continuing its criticisms of the present administration’s management of the economy, arguing that inflation levels can be better controlled. The UWP has promised that if reelected into office, its economic strategies will benefit the people of Saint Lucia.
At a press conference last week convened by executive members, the issue was discussed once more.
2nd Deputy Leader of the Party, Dominic Fedee reiterated a prior UWP manifesto promise of reducing the rate of taxation. During their 2016 campaign, the party had promised to remove the Value Added Tax completely, which at the time, was at a rate of 15%.
Upon entering office, the VAT was reduced to 12.5%. This time, without disclosing the rate at which taxes would be reduced, Fedee promised a tax break for Saint Lucians.
“The United Workers’ Party will make sure that the same rate of tax will be paid by consumers, that is paid by large hotel developers and developers or large investors. We will make sure that you, the people of St. Lucia, get the tax break and the help that you need. That is a big thing,” he said.
Fedee says a new UWP administration will focus on economic development and job creation, noting that being employed during this critical economic time is a bonus.
“We will build a dynamic economy. We will focus on economic growth and job creation. It’s important. Once you’ve got a job, you stand a better chance of affording the cost of living situation. We will increase the transportation subsidy to make sure that your school children can go to school for free,” he promised.
PHOTO: Dominic Fedee file image
