Barbados’ Culture Minister speaks out on Reduced VAT for Crop Over: Supports Idea, but cannot see implementation this year – pledges to make recommendation to Finance Ministry
When Tony Hoyos recently made a plea for VAT reduction during this Crop Over season, he probably did not suspect Steve Blackett, the Culture Minister of Barbados, would actually see his proposal as a worthwhile concept. Nevertheless, Mr Blackett was quick to inform The Bajan Reporter this is really a decision for the Minister of Finance.
Minister Steve Blackett on extreme left, Central Bank Governor DeLisle Worrell at extreme right with competitors and officials of the 2010 Visual Arts Festival
The Minister made his comments after speaking at the delayed launch of the Crop Over Visual Arts Festival at the Grand Salle of the Central Bank, he emphasised while he appreciates Mr Hoyos’ concern, there is only so much he can do within his jurisdiction {CLICK ON FOLLOWING LINK FOR AUDIO};-
It should be noted, there was a constant indication the whole matter rests within the mercies of the Finance Ministry, Mr Blackett also did not commit himself as to if the VAT reduction would take effect from 2011 instead…
While I recall seeing newspaper ads of many kung-fu flicks and endless sequels of Lemon Popsicle featuring at this cultural landmark, the only time I ever actually visited the Empire was with my Brother to see Doug McClure in "At the Earth's Core" because it was based on the book from Edgar Rice Burroughs
In a related cultural matter, the Minister has also expressed hope for saving the derelict Empire Theatre on Probyn Square by impinging on a sense of decency from Corporate Barbados {CLICK ON FOLLOWING LINK FOR AUDIO};-
The Culture Minister did not give any indication as to the possible new location for creating a theatre based on funding from the grant.