It's evident that the new tax measures proposed by the finance minister will have a significant impact on business. He said in his Budget speech that PAYE workers are bearing the burden of taxation and will take home more in their pockets.

However, based on workings pertaining to his proposals, this is unlikely to be achieved; only persons with no allowances will benefit. Removing the 'tax-free' benefit from rental and other allowances for some employees will result in them paying more in income taxes which will reduce their earnings.

All PAYE workers should reap the benefit not only some.

Kenroy Beckford, beckyford123@hotmail.com

Thanks NWC

I've been taking care of an unoccupied home in Edgewater for about a year now because my father is away. I only get to spend time there about once every two weeks, on average, so logically very little water is used there.

In my absence, I always make sure to keep the main water lock- off turned off. For the past year, my average monthly water bill amount is $500.

Lo and behold my socks were knocked off when I received a water bill in the amount of $15,500. I contacted the NWC's community relations manager, Karen Clacken and relayed to her my water woes. She directed me to a Dotlin Dyer who works in the customer-relations department at the Portmore Mall NWC office.

Ms Dyer surmised that the meter reading may have been incorrectly read because up to that point all readings seemed accurate before the "sudden jump". Ms Dyer decided to have my meter reread and assured me that she would keep in contact with me until it was read.

Well, it was reread and the mistake was rectified on my bill .... whew!

I would simply like to take this opportunity to say thanks to Ms Clacken and Ms Dyer of the NWC for their excellent customer service and prompt personal hands-on approach that resolved this issue.

Maurice D. Brown mozizb@yahoo.com