The PPP/C Government will be writing letters to local aircraft operators who are yet to remove VAT from hinterland-bound flights, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill said yesterday.
Edghill was at the time meeting with members of the National Toshaos Council. Edghill said he believes that enforcement of the removal of VAT was meant to see a reduction in ticket prices and this must be accomplished.
Edghill also discussed hinterland airstrips that are about to undergo repairs, and that village economies are likely to take off as contracts will be made available for villagers to conduct maintenance works on those airstrips.
In this regard, the minister committed to continuing the engagement for the completion of the Eteringbang Airstrip in Region Seven, with community involvement. Another issue raised during the meeting was a permanent building for the Toshaos Council, and a possible increase of the ceiling for hinterland projects from $5 million.
Edghill advised the Council to officially document their request and share with the Ministry of Finance. With regards to the building, the Council was told that progress is being made and representation will be made to the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs to have funds directed to this project in Budget 2021.
In attendance of the meeting were Vice Chairman of the NTC, Paul Pierre, NTC Executive Director, Jude Da Silva, Programme Coordinator, Nandanie Jerry, Assistant Secretary/ Treasurer, Loretta Fiedtkou, NTC Executive Members, Carl Peneux, Ralph Hendrick, Colin Adrian, Beverly Clenkian, Mario Hasting, Howard Cornelius and NTC Members Edward McGarrel and Sharmain Rambajue.
