The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nnmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

MARINA operators are calling for a more modernised system for the payment of boating permits and fees due to a "fair amount" of revenue leakage under current arrangements.

Basil Smith, the Association of Bahamas Marinas (ABM) executive director, told Tribune Business the issue was an "ongoing concern" having been discussed at its annual general meeting (AGM) last week.

"We have an ongoing concern with bringing some order to the business of boating in the Bahamas. The methods of applying for permits and paying fees is really quite primitive," said Mr Smith. "We have been lobbying the Government to have all of that done online.

"We have been assured that it is on the way, but we don't have clarity as to who is doing it or when it will be ready. We have to get into the 21st century. If you're arriving at an island on a Saturday and you have to get a permit from a certain individual who is a pubic servant and his office is closed, it can be quite ridiculous. There is a fair amount of revenue leakage that is happening because a more modern system is not in place."

Mr Smith added that the proposed Valued-Added Tax (VAT) increase to 12 per cent had also been a topic of discussion. "The industry appreciates the Government's predicament, and we actually had discussions with the Government as a group representing the private sector of tourism," he added.

"The outcome was that the minister has allowed a window for bookings to be finalised without elevating to the new level of VAT. We're appreciate that to be able to maintain stability in the sector, maintain partnerships and have a smooth transition. That's all the ABM wants to see at this time."

Stephen Kappeler, immediate past president of the Association of Bahamas Marinas, said: "I think there is a sense that generally people are going to be upset, but it is what it is. The boaters don't like it but I don't think it's going to stop them from coming."