A date has been confirmed for a public protest against GST, after a “strong public response” to a reader’s letter published by Express.
Organisers Lars Janssen and Dominic Naermont said they were planning a “big public protest” for Sunday 12 July in St Peter Port, with a possible second protest on Wednesday 15 July – the day the States will vote on the tax proposals.
More than 100 people commented on Express’ Facebook post about the story, with the majority supporting the call for a peaceful, public protest.
Mr Janssen said the public had shown “clear concern about GST and a growing desire to stand together”, following his letter.
He said the organisers had been in contact with “the relevant authorities to ensure appropriate coordination and arrangements are in place”.
They have also set up a Facebook page for the protest, where further details will be shared.
Unpopular
Policy and Resources latest tax proposals include GST at 3%, as part of a wider package of reforms, including cuts to income tax.
However, GST has been a highly-unpopular tax with he public since it was first proposed several years ago as a solution to the island’s finical problems, with some – including Mr Janssen – arguing it’s a regressive tax.
Others argue that too many questions remain unanswered or the rate will inevitably go up from the initial 3%.
In 2022 and 2023 the island saw some of its largest protests in years, with thousands of people taking to the streets against the original GST proposals.
In spite of the strength of feeling, the previous States supported GST at 5% as part of a revised package of reforms known as GST+ in 2024.