Exorbitant Customs duties
published: Monday | January 3, 2005

THE EDITOR, Sir:

OVERSEAS, JAMAICANS are among the largest contributors to the national economy in the form of remittances.

They should be appreciated by giving them the right to vote in national elections. Instead, overseas Jamaican are singled out for harsh treatment by Customs officers when they come into the country with gifts for relatives and friends.

On December 16, I went to meet my sister and brother who were coming to JA to enjoy a green Christmas. A young lady came out of Customs crying to her mom who had come to meet her, tears streaming down her face. She said, "I have to leave my suitcases in Customs, they want $10,000."

For the few little gifts I brought, this is my last trip to Jamaica. Exorbitant customs duty is taxation without representation. Overseas Jamaicans should be given $100,000 duty-free annually for gifts brought for relatives and friends.

I am, etc.,

MOSES HENRIQUES

Vice-president

Marcus Garvey

People's Political Party

69 1/2 Church Street

Kingston