THE EDITOR, Sir:
I HOPE that the letters from Dr. Ralph Thompson (June 26) and Doreen McLeod Bramwell (June 29) have caught the eyes of the 'powers that be' who have put the ridiculous charges on magazines in the hope that these charges will be rescinded.
I, too, was amazed to find that a magazine which I receive monthly, heretofore delivered as ordinary mail through my letter box from the Liguanea Post Office, was the subject of a parcel notice.
Not only did I have to drive to the Mona Post Office to clear it, but I had to pay Import Duty of $30.00, GCT of $4.00 and Customs Clearance Fee of $45.00 a total of $79.00.
As a retiree, I have been forced to cancel another magazine, which is now nearly twice its former price because, as I understand from the supplier, new customs fees have increased the price. What is the rationale? To limit the reading pleasure of those who enjoy reading!
Jamaica should be doing all in its power to encourage reading at all levels, not discouraging reading through an ill-considered tax regime. How can Jamaican adults be expected to foster good reading habits when they are being denied this privilege and pleasure.
I am etc.,
HEATHER DAVIDSON
