Ascension : Cllr Bennet Explains His Decision to Quit Council
Submitted by The Islander (Juanita Brock) 28.03.2007 (Article Archived on 11.04.2007)
Cllr Bennet explains why he found his position on Ascension Council unworkable.
The following is a submission by Ex-Councillor Paul Bennett.
Dear Governor,
Regrettably, I am obliged to resign from the Ascension Island Council and consequently the Finance Committee.
With progress in the past few months being minimal this decision had been contemplated but was delayed in anticipation of the visit by FCO officials, in the hope that there might be some improvements envisaged to enhance the quality of life for the people that live and work here.
However, it has been made clear during discussions with the FCO team that no future developments on Ascension Island will be supported by HMG, except of course those that may benefit the ‘Users’. I certainly believe the people of Ascension and in particular the locals subject to direct and/or indirect taxes are entitled to a decent standard of life within the political framework laid out by the ministers.
It is against my political and moral principles to continue in the councillor role when I believe it is a tool used solely to legitimise the taxation process here. It paints a pretty picture and gives the administration a shield to hide behind but it has become increasingly difficult, if not impossible, for me to justify to the electorate the benefits of them now having to pay tax.
The ‘company island’ that once existed, whilst being less than ideal, remained open and truthful as everyone knew where they stood and it was generally accepted that the companies called the shots. Now we pay tax but are still restrained in our endeavour to instigate small changes that will enable significant enrichment for our society. I am convinced that with some empathy on behalf of the government reasonable measures can still be taken to alleviate some of the difficulties faced by taxpayers. It is only fair to reveal the truth, that the ‘Users’ still hold all the cards and the council is simply a puppet with the strings held by the government.
While I accept that the council cannot expect to have all their suggestions met favourably, on the contrary, I will not settle for zero development initiatives and take ownership of policies that will not benefit but rather hinder the population. It is my personal opinion that we are no better off today than we were before the tax regime started, in fact I’m afraid to say we are worse off for it.
The efforts by my fellow councillors are admired and I wish them much luck as they continue to struggle within the ‘limited’ democratic model in which we operate.
Regards,
Paul Bennett.
As a final note I would like to acknowledge the people that voted for me and gave me their support since I became elected. Thank you for your understanding. I think it is true to say my worst fears have been realised.
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