The Ministry of Finance has announced that due to the devastation brought by Hurricane Wilma, all residents affected in Bimini, the Berry Islands, Grand Bahama and Abaco will be allowed to bring in duty-free goods commencing October 27, 2005 to January 31, 2006.
In a press statement, the Minister of Finance, pursuant of Item 11 of Part B of the fourth schedule to the Tariff Act, declared exigency no. 12.
The exigency clearly states that it qualifies for the purpose of the exemption permitted under the said Item 11, namely for the urgent needs of such residents, for goods specified in the schedule which the Minister is satisfied are intended for the relief of persons who have suffered hardship or loss as a result of the hurricane known as ‘Wilma.’
Duty free goods include: building materials, electrical fixtures and materials, plumbing fixtures and materials, household furniture and appliances, clothing (including footwear) and motor vehicles.
The Ministry states that where any abuse or misuse of goods imported under this declaration is observed, the goods may be seized and disposed of in accordance with section 83 of the Customs Management Act, Chapter 293.
For exemption of motor vehicles, approval must be sought by application to the Ministry of Finance.
Exemption shall be based on the market value of the motor vehicle destroyed on the date of the hurricane.
While addressing the proposed Disaster Preparedness and Response Act, 2005 on Wednesday in Parliament, Prime Minister Perry Christie said $8 million has been spent so far on Grand Bahama after Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne.
He added that restoration of the islands affected by these major storms is completed except for Grand Bahama.
Emotionally charged after viewing the ravages of Hurricane Wilma in Grand Bahama, Prime Minister Perry Christie said, that his government intends to try a different approach to disaster management by not concentrating so much on post-disaster measures, but rather planning in advance on how to best handle disasters that come our way.
The Disaster Bill asks for special provisions to guarantee coordination. It authorizes the possession of property and search of property, arrests, trial and punishment for law-breakers during disasters.
There will be duty free allowances for household appliances, building materials, furniture and cars for the victims of disasters.
The Progressive Liberal Party said it has reactivated its Disaster Relief Committee to assist victims of Hurricane Wilma.
George Smith, Chairman of the Hotel Corporation and former PLP Cabinet Minister, is heading the Committee.
PLP chairman Raynard Rigby said the party had spoken to its leaders and members in Grand Bahama and Abaco to determine the extent of the damage as well as the needs of the people.
By LISA S. KING, Freeport News Reporter
