Dear Editor,
I sent an ATV motor cycle in October 2006 for my relative who is a miner with a small operation. ( I noticed in the Chronicle that the government recently presented some ATVs to Region 8.) He got a concession from the Geology and Mines as he sells gold to the gold board.
The ATV was ten years old. Customs come up with the amazing figure of $1 million to clear it including the VAT imposed in January 2007.
The ATV was valued like a new 450 Honda Foreman which sells for $1.5 to $1.8 million.
The ATV I sent is a Kawasaki 400. It was on the wharf before VAT was implemented.
The ATV cost ?2,000 to purchase and post to Guyana from the UK. This is mining equipment not a luxury item for use in the interior to help expand a small operation from five to ten employees. The ATV is multi-purpose for pulling and moving equipment.
It is unfair when legitimate and hardworking Guyanese try to do something. My relative still needs that ATV, he has tried a few avenues but to no effect. Five other families could have an income.
Yours faithfully,
(name and address
supplied)
Editor’s note
We are sending a copy of this letter to Mr Khurshid Sattaur, Commissioner General of the Guyana Revenue Authority, for any comments he may wish to make.
