The Tribune

By JEFFARAH GIBSON

Tribune Features Writer

jgibson@tribunemedia.net

BAHAMIAN GOSPEL musician Mr J is weighing in on the controversy surrounding VAT (Value Added Tax) through a new song and campaign.

The issued of Value Added Tax has been hotly debated among members of the business community and the public at large. The issue provoked much tension last year with its proposed implementation sometime in July 2014. It is expected to be one of the biggest changes to the economy and governance of the Bahamas in years.

Continuing the discussion, Mr J is hoping the new campaign, No VAT, rally’s the support of many who share similar sentiments that VAT’s implementation would badly bruise the pockets of many Bahamians.

Mr J started his personal campaign against the VAT late last year. He is presently shooting a music video for it which will be released early next month.

Mr J’s No VAT song is currently on rotation at Guardian Radio, Island FM and Freeport’s Cool 96.

“The lyrics came as a result of observing and paying attention to the whole VAT issue since it started last year. I received inspiration and some ideas for the last verse from a local radio personality,” he said.

“I decided to because I am against a burden being placed on the poor. According to the IDB’s study on the impact of VAT in the Bahamas, it will cause poverty to increase and cause persons to have less disposable income. The government has acknowledge this and therefore is implementing a safety net that persons can fall on,” Mr J told Tribune Religion.

“The campaign he hopes provokes Bahamian people to take a stance against something he said will do more harm than good. He said it is important for people to be fully educated on the issue.
“As a result of the campaign, I hope the Bahamian people wake up from their slumber, agitate, communicate with their MP’s by telling them to vote against the VAT when it is debated in the house.I hope that the Prime Minister Perry Christie sits down with the business community and sensible people and finds other alternatives, which there are,” he told Tribune Religion.

Although his campaign has not captured the attention of any of the law makers, he intends to do all the he can to make sure his message is heard. However, he was given full sponsorship by local businessman Rupert Roberts, to produce the new video, posters and music, he said.

“I intend to keep the campaign going as long as this issue has not been concluded presently. I am shooting a music video for the song which will soon be ready for release. I am shooting a scene for the video on Sunday at 3pm on Rawson Square. I am asking the public to attend to be a part of the video. Their presence will be a statement of disapproval,” he said.