Dear Mr. Harrigan,

Possible Revenue Leakage - August Monday Celebration

With humility, I am hereby writing to you as an observer and a concerned citizen of Anguilla. The issue highlighted above has been lured to my attention due to the breath-taking view of the vast number of persons and yachts gathered at Sandy Ground on August Monday. No doubt, as shared by many, the largest crowd ever at this event. What came to mind, at first sight, was needed revenue for the country. There may have been some collections received but sad, though, a lot no doubt was being lost.

You may be no doubt wondering, why write this letter to you and not the minister in charge. The reason for addressing the situation to your attention is due to the fact that I am designating you as the champion or the pilot of this revenue assurance drive.

Within your capacity, you can ensure that possible procedures and measures that maybe in place (to capture all potential revenues) are being enforced to be effective and efficient. In this case scenario would be some implementations of new measures. I know that it can be done through designating and follow ups. It could be a very tedious, costly and time-consuming venture but would be worthwhile.

Problems

- Yachts / Boats docking into the shores at Sandy Ground and possibly no clearance with Customs and Immigration:
- They are no doubt bringing along their drinks and food (Controls there are limited.)
- Littering of our beaches ( both sand and water) and natives having to clean up at a cost.
- Yachts/Boats loaded with people and no departure tax.
- Possible abuse of drugs, other illegal substances and practices through trafficking.

Recommendations

- All Yachts/Boats entering the Anguilla waters via the Sandy Ground route MUST clear Customs and Immigration area.

- For this to be achieved there must be coordination with the Police Department (police launch) and the two other departments based at port of entry.

A temporary border can be erected at the foot (tip) of the Road Bay with a sign or arrow instructing the yachts to divert before docking into the bay.

A time-frame must be earmarked for this period of checking (8 am to 3 pm) during which time the police launch would be based at the foot (tip) of Road Bay to ensure instructions are being followed.

- Each Yacht/Boat would be required to pay at docking charge (EC$200.00).

- Each passenger MUST pay admission or disembarkation tax (EC$27.00) upon entry due to the fact there would be no one there to collect any tax upon departure. EC$27.00). A decision could be made on how this could be handled providing some form of revenue is collected from each passenger.

- Two officers from each department (Customs, Immigration and Police) be on duty. The revenue collected should aid in defraying all overheads with enough to spare for deposit in the Treasury. At the same time we could be providing additional jobs for our citizens.

- Send a circular or letter informing the St. Maarten/Martin and Guadeloupe counterparts of the new developments in advance of implementing the changes. We do not have to wait until next year to implement these procedures and practices. These can be incorporated into the present system.

This is one way that our revenue base can be increased, instead of always tapping into the same means or sources of taxing the citizens of this country. It is like we are running a rum shop (excuse my comparison). We are forever doing things the same way and it is time to do business different. A new generation is here, what legacy they should carry forth?

I would be definitely observing to see if steps have been taken to put some of the suggested or similar measures in place. These are requirements to capture the much needed revenue to aid in ensuring that Anguilla continues to grow. Please act now before it is to late.

Thanking you in advance for your cooperation regarding this matter.

Yours respectfully

An Observer and Concerned Citizen

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