Chambers hope TTRA modernises revenue collection

Several chamber heads have expressed their contentment with the Privy Council’s ruling which yesterday paved the way for the Government to finally complete the operationalisation of the T&T Revenue Authority (TTRA).

In a judgment, the United Kingdom-based Privy Council dismissed the final appeal in a lawsuit challenging the move brought by the Public Services Association (PSA) and customs officer Terrisa Dhoray.

In the appeal, the PSA, through Dhoray, had contended that a High Court Judge and the Court of Appeal got it wrong when they rejected their case over the constitutionality of the move.

In a response to Guardian Media hours after the ruling, the T&T Chamber of Industry and Commerce said it respects the decision, noting it will enable a fair and efficient revenue collection system.

“In keeping with our commitment to the ease of doing business, we recognise that many of the digital transformation measures are ongoing, and we urge the urgent implementation of these initiatives to facilitate a more enabling environment for business. We remain committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to safeguard the interests of the business community and the wider public in the execution of these policy decisions,” the chamber said.

Couva Point Lisas Chamber of Commerce (CPLCC) president Deoraj Mahase meanwhile said the full implementation of the TTRA will provide an opportunity to make and implement much-needed changes in revenue collection, functionalities of the Board of Inland Revenue (BIR) and operations of the Customs and Excise Division.

However, Mahase noted that the implementation of the TTRA alone will not resolve the issues. Still, he is confident the structure will be followed and people with the relevant experience and qualifications will be assigned to carry out the daily duties.

“The appropriate legislation to give the authority jurisdiction and the ability to act will enhance the expected results. For example, an urgent review and adjustments to the Customs Act and a standard operating procedure should be top priority,” Mahase said.

“This is also an opportunity to address how revenue collection and border control can be effectively managed for the best results.”

Greater Tunapuna Chamber of Industry and Commerce president Ramon Gregorio said getting the green light was a step in the right direction but said the authority must be properly staffed and provided with digital options for revenue collection.

“We see the challenges of collecting, making payments, just for example with what is happening with the property tax right now and the long lines and some of the challenges that residents are having in paying the taxes, alongside people who are paying regular monthly taxes. So we hope that not only is the TTRA brought on schedule and can function, but all the systems and processes are put in place,” Gregorio emphasised.

Giving his views on the matter, Arima Business Association president Christian Rampersad said some of the TTRA’s functions include assessment and collection of taxes under the revenue laws, administration of the revenue laws, enforcement of the revenue laws, enforcement of border control measures subject to any other written law, provision of revenue collection services to any statutory or other body to collect public monies and facilitation of legitimate trade.

Rampersad said if these functions are implemented and managed efficiently and effectively, the country should see some improvement in the ease of doing business.

However, he highlighted that effective and efficient management has not been historically a strong point of government service.

Further, Rampersad said there is need for change in the way business is conducted, and it should be seen as a priority.

“This act will deliver some much-needed improvements and upon inception, we can expect some teething problems,” he said.

The act he said will also require amendments going forward because business practices are constantly changing.

San Juan Business Association president Abrahim Ali said they hoped for a smooth transition period now that the court had made a final decision.

“There are lots of negatives associated with the implementation of the TTRA, however, this situation has gone full circle, with a final ruling now delivered. The association now looks forward to having a smooth transition between all stakeholders and the general public.”

The post Chambers hope TTRA modernises revenue collection first appeared on CNC3.