MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Mr. Ganga Persaud, has indicated that there is, indeed, an issue whereby the majority of Guyanese are refusing to pay their rates and taxes.In a telephone interview on Monday, he said there are many reasons why citizens would not want to pay their rates and taxes, including that the ratepayers are usually dissatisfied with the services received.

He said many people are expecting the services to be provided for free and they just do not want to pay.
Minister Persaud added that the present economic situation also contributes to many persons having a rather large build-up of unpaid rates and taxes.
He said one of the most common factors is that the owners of the properties are, usually, out of the country for prolonged periods or have migrated and no one takes on the responsibility of paying their rates and taxes.
Persaud mentioned that another factor is the attitude of staff at municipalities or Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs).

He added that there are many instances where the operating hours of the local authority are the same as working schedules in the country, so payments cannot be made by persons who are not granted time off to do so.
Nevertheless, Minister Persaud insisted that it is vital for persons to pay rates and taxes, as that money is needed for payment to deliver services, such as cleaning drains and disposing of garbage.
He urged that, no matter what the situation is, resources should be put aside for paying taxes, noting there are serious penalties for non-payment.
Persaud advised that persons consider a proper budget to make sure that, at the end of the year, there is enough money available for rates and taxes and avoid the penalties.
He pointed out that, daily, measures are being put in place to ensure better quality services are provided at the level of the local authorities and municipalities.
Written By Savitri Laikram