The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce & Industry (GCCI) has voiced its displeasure with recent comments made by Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine, against city businesses that failed to pay their taxes. According to the entity, the mayor’s comments attack the integrity of the entire business sector.
In a statement issued today, GCCI said that the mayor’s statements painted the city businesses with a “broad brush”. The body emphasised that, as part of its Code of Conduct, its members subscribed to respecting and adhering to the laws and regulations of the country, including the payment of taxes.
“The GCCI has always stood on the side of the rule of law and will continue to encourage all businesses in Georgetown, both members and non-members of the GCCI, to be responsible in their civic duty of paying taxes,” the body said.
The organisation further called on the Mayor and City Council to release the list of defaulters as well as its plans for the city and its financial position.
Meanwhile, GCCI said it remains open to “discourse and collaborative work with the Mayor in the interest of the business community and maintenance of well-kept environs.” It further emphasised that partnerships between businesses and regulatory bodies are vital to success of the Guyana since these partnerships allow both sides to express issues and concerns in an environment where a solution can be crafted collaboratively.
