Dear Editor,
It is with amazement that I read a letter written by Mr Leon Suseran (KN, 12.2.07) who believes that Value Added Tax – VAT is charged on the expression of faith.
The Guyana Revenue Authority is in no way trying to suppress programmes that are of a religious nature. I believe the viewing public and GRA are quite aware of the rewards which these programmes offer for spiritual and moral standards. As such the GRA is in support of the benefits as a result of these programmes being offered, but at the same time must carry out their responsibility so that our country can benefit as a whole.
VAT remitted to the GRA will be used to help in Guyana’s developmental drive. Its implementation is not to produce hardship but rather to help with the standard of living. Persons should have faith in VAT and the taxation system and pray that VAT works for the benefit of all.
It was clearly stated that VAT would have been on goods and services. The placement of religious programmes is a service, therefore VAT should be charged. The VAT charged for such programmes nevertheless is a tax paid on service charged on air time.
I must state that it is not the expression of faith that attracts VAT but rather the service that comes with that expression. One should also be reminded that VAT is not here to cause hardship but rather to allow every one to pay their fair share of taxes.
Persons placing religious programmes should bear in mind what the good book says: “Render unto Caesar that which is Caesar’s and to God that which is God’s.”
Support VAT, it will work!
Yours faithfully,
Pinky Parina
