Reflections on the cost of fuel

The cost of just about everything is on the rise, but there is one area where Prime Minister Dean Barrow promised relief when prices passed a certain mark. That is the price of fuel. We asked our viewers if they believe the PM should be held to his word to remove the dollar tax that was added on fuel in March 2009 since the prices are much higher than the eight dollar threshold. Eighty-nine percent voted yes on our e-poll and one commented that “I believe that he should be held accountable and if he fails to do so, the people should demonstrate.” Meanwhile, eleven percent of voters said no and one of them pointed out that “Belize’s PM has no role or say on the global fluctuations in oil production and demand, which dictates the price of crude.” There was also the sentiment that if he removes the dollar tax, it will just be imposed on something else. In response to that, another viewer suggested transferring the tax to products like cigarettes and liquor.