The Osu Tax Service Center employees have been urged by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson to increase their domestic revenue mobilization activities.
While the government has made great progress in controlling spending and the Bank of Ghana is still operating well, Dr. Forson stated during a working visit to the Center on Monday that revenue collection must now “rise to the challenge.”
The minister emphasized to the staff that his visit was intended to support them rather than to disrupt their work.
“I will not obstruct revenue collection, no matter whose ox is gored,” he assured.
He pointed out that boosting collection and enhancing compliance are significantly more sustainable than raising taxes.
He stated, “It pains me anytime we resort to higher taxes instead of widening compliance and improving collection. We cannot keep piling taxes on an already burdened taxpayer,”
Dr. Forson declared that in order to improve revenue administration efficiency, the ministry will implement new computerized instruments next year.
The Minister promised to approve all incentives owed to employees in order to encourage them—as long as they achieve their goals.
“Together, we can build a fairer, stronger, and more sustainable revenue system for Ghana,” he continued.
Dr. Martin Kolbil Yamborigya, Acting Commissioner for the Domestic Tax Revenue Division, greeted the Minister and expressed excitement on behalf of the team, stating that the visit was timely and stimulating.
The Chairman of the GRA Workers Union, Theophilus Ehun, also assured Dr. Forson of the staff’s commitment, stating that they will work hard to meet the goals set for them.
The visit is part of the Finance Minister’s increased efforts to promote compliance, modernize tax administration, and reduce Ghana’s dependency on tax rises by increasing revenue system efficiency and fairness.
Source: newsthemegh.com