Money Transfer Bill Raises Concerns for Non-Nationals, Says Senator Jonathan Joseph

Money Transfer Bill Raises Concerns for Non-Nationals, Says Senator Jonathan Joseph

Senator Jonathan Joseph recently voiced concerns in the Senate regarding the potential impact of the Money Transfer Bill on non-nationals residing in Antigua and Barbuda.

Speaking during a debate on the bill, Senator Joseph acknowledged the government’s need for revenue but emphasized the importance of considering the bill’s effects on those most affected.

“Madame President, these are individuals who reside here, work, and make their contributions,” Senator Joseph stated. “For whatever reason, they are sending monies back home, and they’re not the only ones.”

The senator highlighted the additional financial burdens non-nationals already face, citing increases in immigration extension applications, work permits, and other fees.

He questioned whether the bill’s main objective was to generate revenue or to curtail the outflow of money from the country.

“I question, is it that the real reason or the main reason to generate revenue or to curtail money leaving the country?” Senator Joseph asked.

During his contribution, Senator Joseph suggested exemptions for certain individuals, including parents transferring funds to children in university and those sending money for medical expenses.

He argued that these exemptions would help alleviate the burden on vulnerable groups affected by the bill.

“I would suggest in my wrapping up that perhaps some sort of exemption can be made for individual parents who are transferring funds to children in university,” Senator Joseph proposed. “I think perhaps that is something that we can look at.”

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