Highway maintenance tax coming

A section of the E.O Leblanc Highway in Layou
A section of the E.O Leblanc Highway

Effective September 1st 2015, vehicle owners on island will be paying more as it relates to road taxes and the money will go towards the maintenance of the country’s main highways.

Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Roosevelt Skerrit made that announcement during his presentation of the 2015/2016 national budget held at the Parliament on Friday.

Skerrit said the highway maintenance levy will be applied to all classes of vehicles on the island.

“I believe strongly that it is not only fair and desirable to Dominicans who will benefit directly from continuous highway improvement to contribute a little more to maintenance of our roads,” Skerrit stated. “In light of the forgoing, I propose that a highway maintenance levy be applied to all classes of vehicles. As the roads are being rehabilitated, it is important that they are maintained, so that they are always in good condition.”

The new rates (in addition to what is being paid) are as follows:

commercial vehicles: $150 per year
-Trucks and dumpers: $150 per year
-Private vehicles: $100 per year
-Motorcycles: 50 per year

“We have to recognize our contribution, this rates must be paid at the time the annual license fee is payable and must be paid in full,” Skerrit said.

He revealed that proceeds from the High Maintenance Levy will form part of a special purpose revenue stream geared exclusively towards the upkeep of the island’s main highways

Meantime, he said there are hundreds of vehicles on Dominica’s road that are not licensed and most likely are uninsured.

“This is not only dangerous and unlawful but it is also selfish in the part of perpetrators,” he explained.

In fact, the Prime Minister indicated, the police are going to be more vigilant, “to detect these defaulters and the law is clear on what course of action can be taken against offenders.”

This measure he said will be reviewed after two years.

Meanwhile Skerrit mentioned that one area of concern relates to the unwillingness of citizens to pay taxes that are due.

“If those of us who are required to pay keep this obligation government would be in a better position to provide more goods and services,” he explained. “For example a recent review of the vehicle license fees indicate that only an estimated 62 percent of the revenue from that source are being paid. This is not acceptable. Such vehicle owners should note that the police will step up the surveillance to ensure that all defaulters make the required payments.”

Skerrit further noted that government has also invested in improving the audit capacity of the revenue agencies so that persons are in a better position to assess the amount of taxes and fees that are owed to the state.

In 2014/2015 an amount exceeding $13 million were spent on road maintenance.

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107 Comments

  1. Jaded
    July 29, 2015

    $100 a year highway tax for cars is very reasonable. Trucks should pay more than $150. If you drive a car and you purchase 10 gallons of gas a week (or 520 gallons a year) that works out to only 19 cents a gallon tax. In New York (as an example) you pay 61 cents a gallon for highway tax. Use taxes are very big sources of revenue for all countries and DA needs to do just that. Many countries, including Antigua, charge a school tax. In NY I pay over $12,000 a year on school and municipal taxes. Municipal taxes include library, recycling, fire, police, parks, etc. You want nice things? Then pay up.

  2. Fair tax please
    July 27, 2015

    Modern road design utilize mechanical-empirical formulas that consider damage to roads based on vehicle loading. Large, multi-axle trucks therefore contribute to much more significant road damage compared to small vehicles and motorcycles and usually the small vehicles are not considered in doing loading analysis. The tax should be calculated based on the possible damage attributed to the vehicle size, load and damage index. Studies show that If only private vehicles used our roads they would easily last up to 10 years longer with the same maintenance. Is it really fair for a private vehicle owner to pay just $50 less than a trucker with 4 axles and more? Whereas I understand the need for taxes, I think they need to be fair and require deeper consideration before being imposed.

  3. July 27, 2015

    It would be more appropriate and more profitable to charge every motorist every time he or she travels up and down the Highways a $2.00 fee. The Government would rake in a higher revenue on highway fees. Just build kiosks on either end and employ highway attendants with the presence of a police. Folks who drive along with no insurance and drivers licence have their cars impounded in a government lot and charge them so much for reclaiming their vehicle after they have bought insurance and paid their licence fee.

  4. grell
    July 27, 2015

    Not you all almighty saviour,take what you all get and smoke your pipes.

  5. Observer
    July 27, 2015

    While I am not totally against a road tax, I believe the increase is too much, and it should be don’t over a period of time. Furthermore, with the state of economy in Dominica, I think it is bad timing. Mr. PM look for ways and means to grow the economy. You cannot ‘tax-out’ the country from economic crisis. And what about the 38% that don’t pay their license? I believe they are struggling to pay, and you adding that on them. How about trying to retrieve that money instead? Someone mentioned increasing the tax on gasoline instead – I agree that that is a more equitable means of collecting those taxes. In actuality, heavy trucks are are the main culprits for destroying the roadways – one single pass of a loaded truck has more effect than thousands of passes from a car. Finally, build proper roads = less maintenance.

  6. Wondering
    July 27, 2015

    What is the difference between this new levy and the vehicle licence fee? What is the purpose of the vehicle licence fee if it is not to maintain the roads including the “highways”?

  7. Channel 1
    July 26, 2015

    Skerrit, you forget to tax de smartphones dem.

    By the way, I wonder when the tax on donkeys will be passed by Dominica’s most backward-thinking and incompetent government ever? Anyone knows when or if dem pass the donkey tax already?

    Laaaabbooooooooouuuuuuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr…………………………….!!!!!!!

    Boy, Labour ka twavay……………….for Skerrit & his clan of misfits and incompetents. Look twavaying by mister dem boy.

    Laabbouuuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr……………………….(all you know de rest ……is power or powder nuh – one of dem)

    Laaabbbouuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrr………………………

    Laaaaabbbbouuurrrrrrrrrrrrr………………………………..

  8. stampede
    July 26, 2015

    Is now Da people going to join your tiffing trade. Don’t talk about the drug trade, and all gender prostitution. And you are adding insult to injury by stating that all fees must be paid at the same time and in full. The time will come when you will rgret the day that you were ever born. And in your own words but abbreviated. G to H.

  9. John Paul
    July 26, 2015

    A Million ways to crook You and make You feel better about Yourself .I think this man should write the book!
    So how is it You getting rid of the Public Works Cooperation and we do not see maintenance being done even on the rehabilitated roads .The potholes are coming back and there are a few places like just past Secret Bay Cottages where for more than a Year there is a big hole in the road that could cause a fatal accident

  10. Rea Acs -On
    July 26, 2015

    I will not stop respondingt every post that is against my arty in Governent. Hw can I not support te man who gives me money. Even if I often one out as a Boowik Villecase I will keep typing. When it comes toRosevelt Skerrit chrsitianity is on te am bench. If I have to lie, deceive, double alk on behalf of Rosevelt Skerrit that coes first.

    • Titiwi
      July 26, 2015

      Sorry, is it my lack of comprehension or your poor English. The fact is I can not make sense of what you are trying to say.

  11. kisses
    July 25, 2015

    62% of ppl pay vehicle licenses as of now… didnt the pm consider the possibility that perharps the other 38% cant afford to the licenses? Now u increasing the fees… i think even more ppl will be added to that 38%…

    • daway serrent
      July 27, 2015

      well said…and the police officers who refuse to pay the fees…i wonder how they going to deal with that….”who guarding the security “

  12. jonathan st jean
    July 25, 2015

    As happens all over the world, citizens paying for use and upkeep of public necessities is not new and a good thing.However where there is a heavy reliance on taxes from a shrinking populace, then that’s a formula for another Greece down the road.This government has failed to develop the productive sector and get more people working which will generate more revenue, also they have crippled the productive, agricultureal sector and stymied the craft and other sectors.They have failed to make the island more attractive to greater access by air,and the tourism sector is lethargic so no wonder the heavy reliance on one tax.A better idea would be to have a lower highway maintainance levy coupled with a levy on gasoline and on vehicle rentals.This will allow visitors who use the roads to contribute as well to the upkeep. But this government must find ways to create jobs and bring more money to the productive sector.They haven’t been able to do it in 15 years so I have my doubts.

  13. Jane
    July 25, 2015

    What about the pm and president cars and the police and fire trucks and garbage trucks. Does that mean bus fees going to increase too

  14. Mr Mr
    July 25, 2015

    Put down some more heavy tax on their cocoa Mr. PM.

    Who cah hear will feel!
    Who cah stand will fall!!
    Who cah bend will break!!
    Who cah stay will leave!!

    Tax them!! Tax them!! Tax them!!

    Is so they like it!!!

    Five more years for you Mr. PM!!

  15. SHAKEALEG
    July 25, 2015

    I am all for the tax but give people a reasonable salary so they can afford to pay tax. Public servant you all are back to December’s salary. The increase and more is taken back after this BUDGET. LABOURRRRRR is painful in case you did not know. We need to review the manifesto we voted for because there may be contradictions. TAKE WHAT WE GET BECAUSE IT IS ONLY THAT WE WANT. We had a choice just last year and we choose. Honourable PM put more taX. BAM … a left in their face, and before they can breathe BAX a right in their eyes. Kill them with task, because some of them dead already but they doh know it yet. The best is yet to come, hope all you can afford TO BUY BACK and neck. or else lizard doh have hunting season. DUMMIES IN A CAN.

    • me
      July 27, 2015

      you can sit back wherever you are and call people living here names all you want but as long as your nationality says dominican just know that dummies in a can refers to you as well.
      some of us when we migrate we and we come home yes home to dominica we say things like “let me go back to my country eh” but my dears you all dominicans. born raised and migrated!!!!

  16. Yes I
    July 25, 2015

    some americans site up in america and what to open their mouth and say what should and should not be done. Why they the shut up their mouth and let Dominicans speak on what hurts them!!!!

    they only come down to vote and go back up. Leave the people of dominica alone !! your say is not important

  17. too late
    July 25, 2015

    Hopefully Dominicans will come to realize that it is not true that skerrit is a holy almighty blessed influential God sent Savior who can get billions of dollars all over the world and propel Dominica to economic prosperity. He is just a fella who built his own nice house ,used his dimples ,hand outs, propaganda, sewo and a few operatives like tony to fool all you.
    Dominica is LAST in all of OECS islands. Labourites, Dominica is LAST!

  18. James Carter
    July 25, 2015

    So where are the highways?

  19. Dan Tanner
    July 25, 2015

    Those who bother to license or register their vehicles that is. Around Calibishie we’d see many that were in appalling condition and without stickers. Never bothered because they knew that stickers are only looked for on occasin near Roseau, and besides, they tended to be retired police or have a policeman in the family. But if you’re white, you’d better have an up-to-date sticker.

    • me
      July 27, 2015

      hahaha thats the first time i hear white people suffering because they are white. white people driving in town on the bridge that goes out of town and they are allowed to, let me a national try that nah. dont come here with your crap,white people get away without getting even a ticket.

  20. Thorbjørn Jagland
    July 25, 2015

    Skerrit u collecting Enviromental levy at the customs which is for Solid waste, yet u charging private enterprise everytime they go to dump at the solid waste, this is theft to the highest order, u collecting the environment tax which is for solid waste and u sending the money other departments forcing them to fend for themselves this coonoomonoo finance u learn while u was a teacher is why we have 1 billion in debt with nothing to show for it.

  21. July 25, 2015

    Great idea boss man. Well taught of go for it . We must help ourselves in this hard and struggling economy.

  22. Lang Mama
    July 25, 2015

    In fact unless those passport salesmen start reporting their income from passports, unless the import duty os paid on the infinity,Range Rover etc; unless the Tony filed injunction is removed one that prevents inland revenue from auditing Tony interests then doh pay no vehicle licenses.What is good for Tony,Krazy,Melissa etc is good for Matt, Lang Mama and the many guys from Grandbay and Porsmouth who are not paying taxes.
    Yeh I said it-go see how long Tony injunction sitting in the courts. Also see how long Isidore injunction sitting in tje court. It is all about the doar and the givernment oens 15 cents on the dollar.Lang Mama kerping it real no fancy goit work or kissing up to politicians

  23. Cat
    July 25, 2015

    The tax has nothing to do with road maintenance. This money is to help shore up the frailing government revenues. First off the VAT intake is underperforming for obvious reason – high unemployment and underemployment. Passport revenue is a darn fools gold. Venezuela Chavez money is no more and the Chinese businessmen exhausted their passport selling party.
    The only economies that this administration built were their private economies. For 15 years this government had been building on sand;operating a scam; a prime minister who is totally out of his league.

  24. Not good 2 Go but Go 2 Hell
    July 25, 2015

    It’s the big container trucks that are destroying the roads. Why include Tom Dick and Harry.
    Well people, do not flag, or call people for free ride. Call the police station and the fire and ambulance service, skerrit or the road minister. And Dons if you want to go Diving, you lnow where to call……it’s toll toll free.

  25. Shameless
    July 25, 2015

    I love it, love it, Ireally really love it :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen: :mrgreen: . When a poto laybar friend on mines can finally admit that its time for change then I know that I have been redeemed. I and many others warned Dominicans but they were more concerned about getting their cement, blocks and galvanize to build their houses while sewoing to Morgan Heritage and Destra than the country. Now allu bawling like someone beating you with a zicack (fatpork) whip! :mrgreen: :mrgreen: . My advise; “Take it like a man!”

    When Skerrit done with allu in the next five years it will take another party 25yrs to fix the country. All the economic advisors Skerro is listening to should be fired immediately for practicing this VOODOO economics nonsense. Ebeh Chu Nou Toute PAYTAY!

    Assertive, NOT Aggressive!

  26. Rol
    July 25, 2015

    I have nothing against paying to maintain the roads but I do hope it goes into the roads , also give public works the jobs on maintenance so they could rehire those that got laid-off and not some private contractors

  27. gwo bek
    July 25, 2015

    Salary increase ,back pay. and now tax . HMMMMM. two steps foreward ,four steps back. well lets see whos ging to feel it. Bus drivers will increase bus fare , school children and elderly pay more . vehicle rentals charge more per day , bakers increase the price of bread because it cost more to deliver bread . Taxi drivers increase fare to the airport. OMG ,I can go on and on . Domino effect. Its not a highway levy , its a cost of living increase.

  28. Me
    July 25, 2015

    Higway tax, highway robbery! Bus fares going up for sure.

  29. jojo
    July 25, 2015

    The bus fare will go up.

  30. BooHoo
    July 25, 2015

    In addition? In addition? So I have a question: are they going to subtract $100 for my vehicle that has to drive on the un-maintained roads in Salisbury? If we were sure it would go to road maintenance but I can assure you these funds will be diverted elsewhere and we will get more excuses.

  31. Doc. Love
    July 25, 2015

    Gas has gone up, very bad roads, now road taxes, but no increases on passenger fares. It is time for vehicle owners especially bus and taxi drivers to teach the Government a lesson, leave your vehicle at home for a week in protest. :mrgreen:

  32. Ma Moses
    July 24, 2015

    I knew it! Someone had to pay for that $500,000 gift to the bishop of Roseau to repair the roof of his church. So here we are. It is like that trick he played on us a couple of year when we had no vat on water bills but he stuck on 15% any way and called it a price increase. Clever that, we still have no vat on water but pay the price nonetheless. Just don’t take us for dummies.

  33. license up by $100
    July 24, 2015

    Dominicans, be on your P’s and Q’s. Understand what is happening. Witness the deception again. More taxes on an already struggling people, whose standards of living have gone down, down, down, under Skerritt’s incompetent DLP Gov’t.

    What can we boast of as far as development is concerned with all those loans, grants, gifts received.

    Geothermal Energy? Cheaper energy? More than $60 million spent. The Iceland co. gone with their equipment. What next with that project?

    Petro Caribe huge debt they put, on our backs, until Venezuela had to beg Skerritt’s DLP Gov’t for its more than $60 million owed to them. Where all that money disappear to? Electricity rates and fuel at the pumps cheaper?

    The US$300 million loan Skerritt’ signed with the private Chinese co., part would be for the Chinese to build their hotel at PWC area. Part for building the New hospital, which Skerritt told us would be funded and built by Chinese Gov’t (MOU).

    Whose fools are we?…

  34. Tampa
    July 24, 2015

    What guarantees that we have that the money collected will actually go toward highway maintenance? Did the money collected from the environmental levy all go toward the environment? Does the money collected at the airport go toward the maintenance of the plant and payment of the staff? Perhaps Mr. Bardouille can tell us.

    Since there is a lack of transparency with this government we never know what they will do with these funds. The public is still awaiting the Director of Audit reports for 2011, 2012 and 2013.

  35. Mamizoo
    July 24, 2015

    There is a saying that there are two things we cant avoid and that is taxes and death. How much taxes is enough and how much is too much. An overtaxed ,underpaid and unemployed people wont solve the problem that Dominica is facing.
    If the motorists are not paying there licenses now I dont ecpect them to pay when it is $150 more. Those who take the bus should expect to pay more. The question is can the people afford this. If the people cant afford this then the people must speak out.
    Rosie demonstrated when taxes were raised. Laborites called Eugenia “Modara” when she asked us to pay $5.00 on hospital visits.

  36. joe
    July 24, 2015

    congrat to domincans u put the taxes on urself not skerrit don’t blame him blame urselves it will drop in 3 yrs time

    • Lang Mama
      July 27, 2015

      As usual you aborts are always deceiving and conniving. Tax will drop in 3 years? The VAT was suppose to drop in three years too. You must be high on soe substance name deception or you just simply stupid or incredibly dumb.

  37. Nacinimod
    July 24, 2015

    Great idea, but perhaps a gasoline/diesel consumption tax might be more effective than the proposed excise tax. First, it would capture all vehicle owners and users (not only the 62%) and second since it is a use tax, those who drive more will pay more.

    Furthermore, those who rent vehicles would pay for the privilege of driving on well maintained roads every time they fill up.

    • Peeping Tom
      July 25, 2015

      And the burden to the consumer would be significantly higher as well.

  38. gadathy
    July 24, 2015

    pm thats not road tax u increase vehicle license

  39. new york dominica
    July 24, 2015

    pm can u please put tolls both in dominica and raise some taxes on houses in dominica

  40. new york dominica
    July 24, 2015

    my dear dominican you all leave in america the raise tax u all say nothing when thee white man say to jump we ask how high when they raise taxes in dominica we crying and we want this and want that

    • July 25, 2015

      In north America most of the times when they raise tax one way they lower the other way so don’t be miss guided or try to misleading to the Dominican people, Another thing just in case you don’t understand it’s just civil servant that mostly pay tax in DA, why don’t to ask your PM to allow the auditors to audit the books of the .Astaphan Company so we can get the correct amount owed to the Treasury, he allow Tony Astaphan to file an injunction against the people of Dominica from getting what is rightfully owed to them,, so stop talking nonsense .

    • Shameless
      July 25, 2015

      Please take your head out of Skerro’s “waste exit cavity” and be practical. We are talking about DOMINICA, not New York. What an ignorant comparison! Some people simply amaze me with their nonsensical thinking. :twisted:

      Assertive, NOT Aggressive! :twisted:

    • Anon
      July 25, 2015

      Id10T.

    • Observer
      July 27, 2015

      We don’t say anything when they raise or plan to raise tax in America? Do we live in the same America? Are you kidding me?!

  41. The Real Facts - ON
    July 24, 2015

    There is price to pay for progress, good roads, maintenance and other projects. Some of the money, at least, must come from somewhere. Nationals must contribute their fair share.
    Dominica is called a State. Roseau is called a City.
    Nationals worldwide pay their fair share of taxes. If they have two and three jobs, they are not exempt from paying tax on each job. They get no freebies from their government.
    Taxes are high in those countries. Homeowners must pay property and water tax. Renters also pay these taxes which are incorporated in the rent.
    There is tax on all sorts of repairs, even shoes, if the shoes are in need of repair, be it a minor repair.
    Occasionally a merchant or a few may waive the sales tax for one day. This occurs on a special occasion or for boxing day sale.

    • The Real Facts - ON
      July 24, 2015

      Generally taxes as income tax increase annually. We in Canada are fortunate if the various taxes are not increased for a year.
      After paying them, we grumble, argue, have heated debates, even detest the government for increasing the tax :lol: Nevertheless, we have no alternative but to pay our taxes when they become due. If paid late, there is a late penalty fee, interest added to them which must be paid.
      Homeowners pay for electricity. Those who own gas appliances also pay for gas. Consider the rest of payments for telephone, TV and internet service.
      Then insurance on vehicles. Ontario drivers, if they use a certain highway, they must pay extra tax. And so the list goes on and on. We are all taxed to death.
      Fellow D/cans, we have empathy for you but taxes are necessary. There are times we have to cut costs and see how we could manage to pay the taxes and purchase necessary items as food and for other incidentals. We simple state, that is life.

      • %
        July 25, 2015

        @The Real Facts-ON Your depraved and heartless hobgoblin,when will you stop being an evil creature, and start showing some empathy towards the poor and suffering people of Dominica?You piously proclaim the name of God but your scampish annd wicked comments are almost entirely evil, asinine and brutish.

    • Anon
      July 25, 2015

      Has it ever occurred to you that Canada has jobs? and Dominica … ….well you know d*mn well how many jobs are there, bus faes etc etc will also increase in time. This is not Canada.

  42. faceup
    July 24, 2015

    WORKERRRRSSSSSSSSS

  43. July 24, 2015

    Pure brilliance!!! This is the mark of visionary leadership ordained by God and approved by vast majority. Dominica;s Demigod, ordained Knight of the Holy Roman Catholic Church, the wise and blessed Supreme Leader, Dr. Roosevelt M. Skerrit, continues to show excellency in leading his beautiful Island-Nation forward to the next level. The fact is that tolls and taxes are levied all throughout the world for the purpose of road maintenance. Dominica’s road maintenance tax has been long overdue. Citizens cannot expect to enjoy smooth roads and highways and to not take part in the upkeep and maintenance of the same. It is time for Dominicans to realize that the Government does not grow money trees at some secret location on Island, The cost of continually maintaining roads and highways is a revolving expenditure and the older these roads get is the more expensive it becomes to keep them in peak condition. Labourites welcome this measure with open arms. We are the true patriots!!!

    • The Real Facts - ON
      July 24, 2015

      It is indeed a Labour Of Love and on the part of the PM and his ministers. Everyone better believe it. :lol:
      I must state you really love your PM and stand up and speak out loud and clear for him. Great job! :lol: :lol: :lol:

      • %
        July 25, 2015

        Dominica and Dominicans seem to be doing well, so I often wonder why you won’t get out of the bushes in Canada where you are hiding like a reptile,and come face the music here in Dominica. If you can’t pay your passage, get in contact with the International Red Cross.

    • OneDestiny
      July 24, 2015

      Woye, you are the best

    • Cpt Joe Sparrow
      July 25, 2015

      this is a mark of desperation, no ideas as to how to move the gears of this economy .

      captain supremo, ” crew, the only land I see is TAXATION”

      crew,”yaaaahhhh, visionary leader”

  44. Kord Kapi
    July 24, 2015

    You all think Sherrit wouldn’t find a way to take back all the increase and backpay you all enjoyed in April….That’s just tye beginning.

    • The Real Facts - ON
      July 24, 2015

      How can a government operate a country, maintain roads and construct new ones in addition to other projects without nationals paying taxes? Most of the money is borrowed and has to be repaid. No one likes to pay tax but it is inevitable for obvious reasons.
      I visualize that in bygone years the reason why the country was poor and lacked improvement for some years was because hardly anyone paid taxes.
      The money which is in the form of grants and loans originated from overseas taxpayers. Does the IMF, Caribbean Bank and other main banks of those countries print money for the sake of it and to lend to others? Give this a good thought.

  45. anonymous2
    July 24, 2015

    Here come the taxes DA. The bankers have taken over and they want their money. This is only the start with more to come. It remains to be seen if the funds will actually be used for road maintenance. There are many roads that may never see a cent spent on them..

    • The Real Facts - ON
      July 24, 2015

      The Bankers have to pay to the other main banks they borrowed money from. This is how it revolves.
      Pertaining to road construction and maintenance, it is imperative that you practice patience. Everything cannot be done immediately.

  46. Truth
    July 24, 2015

    ………… This country is in trouble……..its present population will not be able to support its present infrastructure and needs without more manufacturing and tourism revenue etc. more taxes in the end never saved a sinking ship……stop the politics!
    Tell the children the TRUTH!!!

    • The Real Facts - ON
      July 24, 2015

      It looks like you will have to pull your weight and contribute your fair share to the economy.
      Do not merely stand there and lament and criticize. Do your part as a national. Encourage others to do likewise.

  47. youth
    July 24, 2015

    A set of nonsense mister doing in d country now.. Time to get him out time to go canna take it no more

    • The Real Facts - ON
      July 24, 2015

      If it were another government you would have to pay your fair share of taxes. Get accustomed to it. :lol:

  48. WeNiceman
    July 24, 2015

    Im not a fan of the PM but road/highway tax in some form or another is LONG overdue. This is standard in every municipality all over the world, rich or poor. How else are roads to be built and maintained at a desirable standard.

    Funny we are quick to block roads and impeed traffic in protest at the siight of a pot hole. A practice the authorities should have put the kibosh on from the start. It is time we understand that we must pay for what we need. And good roads are essential to national development and quality of life for citizens.

  49. Titiwi
    July 24, 2015

    I see daily on the road vehicles in such a delapidated state that it is impossible for them to have passed inspection by the traffic police and therefore must unlicensed an uninsured.
    In these days of computers the solution is quite simple. Take the data base of all license numbers, issued in Dominica. and check which ones belong to vehicles that are not currently taxed and/or insured. Give the owners of these vehicles a first warning and after that fine them and if that does not work, confiscate the vehicle and crush it. I am sure that if every body paid their taxes mr. Skerrit would not have been provided with a ready-made excuse to increase the level of road tax.
    PS. Can we also charge those people that use the roads for unlicensed vehicles such a fork-lifts, bulldozers and other earth moving equipment. And what about those, who cut the road to connect to the water supply and do not repair it?

  50. Harry Mack
    July 24, 2015

    Skerrit and his boys really take Dominicans for fools. Skerrit’s advisers tell him Roosie and Labour stone Eugenia Charles in 1994 when she try to increase license fees so don’t go to parliament and say you increasing motor vehicle license by 20% because they might stone him, so call it a Highway Levy. Dominicans in simple language, motor vehicle license is increased by 20%.
    So if I live in Delices where there is no highway and never drive to on the E O LeBlanc and Liverpool Highways, why should I pay a levy. People who pay tolls in the U.S.A as those who use the facility, so if Skerrit is trying to imitate the US as he says, he should imitate properly. I’ll pay my increase in license but don’t try to tell me it is any Highway Levy.
    Let’s get real Skerrit, don’t try to fool me.

    • July 25, 2015

      Don’t blame Skerrit Dominicans allowed themselves to be taken for fools and now they are stock, they don’t know what to do so they believe crying and keeping silent will see them thru.. News flash Skerrit don’t care he got your vote, so now we are all in the same boat sinking together.

  51. %
    July 24, 2015

    Tax them to death Skerrit.
    So many bus drivers voted for you!
    Squeeze their balls self!!! STIFLE THEM! They were too darn stupid!
    If they have land make each of them pay $51000.00 ,to the treasury, per house lot too…Make sure they don’t evade this one,even if their lawyer makes a mistake, and he admits that it is his error and he corrects it!

  52. Dominican
    July 24, 2015

    This is what happens when the economy is not generating enough output….. the only thing govt falls back to is raising taxes (further choking the citizens). Hopefully, we do not get to the extreme where we are taxed for walking on the roads and sidewalks..

  53. Proud Marigotian
    July 24, 2015

    Yes, it is time for we Dominicans to pay some sort of toll, also they need to crack down on those unlicensed drivers with no Insurance. This has nothing to do with politics. How does America maintain its road? please.

    • July 25, 2015

      Tell me why does Dominicans always compare themselves to the USA what is that all about, because they know how to run the Government, USA does and have many avenues in which they maintain roads so keep your head on the ground. Dominicans were never taught about what paying tax does for the country it is on the book but no Government took time to out line that, and just telling them you have to pay is just how one should introduce it ,even when production was doping great not one said anything, I know of people who were doing really good producing and never paid tax, you had to leave Dominica to move to the UAS to know much more about paying tax.

    • bart
      July 26, 2015

      Please note that vehicle license paid are for road maintenance why put additional burden on the people. If you increase the license fee then reduce duty on vehicle vehicle duty is 105% percent- 153%. Increase in taxation reduce on on investment and spending power this mean that less money will circulated in economy. thus this will lead to decrease sales and capital expenditure reduce profits swhich mean less money goin to govt coffer economics 101

  54. stpzz
    July 24, 2015

    stpz well allu better start on police personal vehicles because most of them not licensed -__-

  55. Peter Potter
    July 24, 2015

    Don’t make me laugh Skerrit. The police can not even enforce the annual vehicle license. For your info in case you have not got it, over 50% of vehicles in Dominica are not licensed and I presume not insured either. Rather than introducing new taxes collect and enforce the existing ones first.

  56. truthman
    July 24, 2015

    Excuse me. Thought u said the economy growing. U don’t increase taxes in a growing economy u decrease it PM shame on u

  57. I'm Dominican
    July 24, 2015

    Tax increased all over…im a Dominican loving in Barbados Road tax – 410 , license $60. We had to pay solid waste tax – $390. Don’t talk about the vat on everything!

    • Titiwi
      July 24, 2015

      Tell me what is the min wage in Barbados. In Dominica it is supposed to be E.C.$.5.00/hr. but not everybody working even gets that. As the P.M. said, everything is relative. If you have no income you ca\n not pay taxes. My advice, create jobs, and more jobs first.

    • Muslim_Always
      July 26, 2015

      Barbados has its own currency which is higher than the EC dollar. Secondly Barbados is making the money particularly through its tourism thus it is able to cushion these taxes.

  58. ArAb
    July 24, 2015

    I see no problem in having such a tax but give and take. Gas price going back up, taxes increasing so lower the port duty. This seems to be a Peter paying for Paul system. With only 62% of fees paid on island that is a lot of revenue which the country is losing. In this technological age it is time to put a system and the man power behind it to increase the percentage of fees collected.
    I would love to do an analysis to see how much the country actually looses in unpaid taxes and would the cost to put in effective systems be worth it.

  59. DominicanSon
    July 24, 2015

    :mrgreen: Becareful what u wish for cause u just might get it… “Five more years back in gevernment”
    You love your pal rep?
    You love your P.M?
    Did you vote for him?
    Well thank you!

  60. exit
    July 24, 2015

    More taxes with no income. Any taxes for donkies and bicycles?

  61. Anonymous
    July 24, 2015

    So what i paying license fee for every year plus my drivers license? where does this money go? smfh..wake up dominicans

    • TimTim
      July 25, 2015

      Great questions! it is not as if it is two new roads that were cut for these highways. Why we need new amount to maintain them considering they were recently upgraded?

      • Titiwi
        July 26, 2015

        Good point Tim Tim. By the way, what are the NEP people doing? Couldn’t we employ them to maintain the highway seeing that we are paying them now for non-existing jobs?

  62. Concern citizen
    July 24, 2015

    The money would for maintenance and other developments that are required around the country roads and infrastructure . Good idea.

  63. July 24, 2015

    I agree once our tax money do not pucketed , I strongly believe the people of this country most contribute for our country to create jobs and development once our government spent our money wisely our country will be a nice place to live. That’s why America is a great country people pay taxes for every thing in America and they spent it wisely. New roads and maintenance, infrastructure,also they put safety measures in place.our government need to put safety measures in place proper signs on the roads.

    • Titiwi
      July 25, 2015

      Well spotted Dahman! That is why the P.M.’s adopted home is the US.A.

  64. Exit Strategy
    July 24, 2015

    I was under the impression that the vehicle licenses fee paid annually was geared towards road repairs and maintenance. Now the PM is making me understand that its not so therefore we have to pay these additional fees for road maintenance. What is the Licenses fee used for?

  65. July 24, 2015

    Well, vehicle owners. No more free ride. Gas gone up. Taxes to pay, no more free vep.

    • hmmn
      July 24, 2015

      YOU CAN SAY THT AGAIN.

    • The Real Facts - ON
      July 24, 2015

      Generosity should still be practiced. Some considerate people will offer to pay their way.

    • maddoc
      July 24, 2015

      i agree no more free rides a specially for those labour party people.

  66. TRUTH
    July 24, 2015

    Walk or not we must PAY the Highway Levy.

  67. July 24, 2015

    Magway sa. So what d license fees doing? Papamet. What next

  68. chucky
    July 24, 2015

    laba ka twavay

    • The Real Facts - ON
      July 24, 2015

      Amazing, so far you got many thumbs up including mine. :lol:

      • Jake
        July 26, 2015

        You are such a troll; such an idiot you can’t even detect sarcasm. Sakwais sort

    • La Terre
      July 24, 2015

      say par laba say dayba

  69. July 24, 2015

    Right on q. Mr pm. What took us so long. Village by village. Hamlet by hamlet, not only when they come to town. But our police should enforce, the laws on our books and go after the offenders, wherever they live. Pay up! To stay on top.

  70. Yes I
    July 24, 2015

    Well here is our incentive to do a bit more walking as Dominicans. Salaries not increasing but we need to put out more money in taxes?

    • The Real Facts - ON
      July 24, 2015

      I will inform you, D/ca has progressed so far that paying taxes and higher ones will not deter them from driving or taking the bus. I do not blame them. Consider the time it took them to walk to church, school, work and elsewhere. I do not think they will ever revert to walking and that far. However, exercise is good for the body and even the mind. :)

  71. source
    July 24, 2015

    Lol smh. Labour working!

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