The Progressive Labour Party has applauded the Bermuda Government for reversing a tax increase affecting senior landowners, but has questioned whether the initial hike was down to a legislative “error”, as claimed by finance minister Bob Richards.

Diallo Rabain, who is running for Constituency 13 against the One Bermuda Alliance’s Andrew Simons, said tonight in a joint press statement with David Burt, the Shadow Minister of Finance: “While I am pleased that the OBA have reversed their ill-advised tax increase on our seniors, it is disappointing that the OBA cannot own up to the mistake and are now calling it an ‘error’.”

The Government stated in a press release on Friday: “The Land Tax Amendment Act stated an incorrect value for the maximum ARV allowed for the exemption afforded to Bermudians 65 years and older, as per section 3A of the Act.

“The corrected ARV limit for the seniors’ exemption is $42,000, not $29,000 as tabled.”

Mr Rabain continued in his statement: “The voters of C-13 have told me on the doorstep that they are very concerned about the cost of living and making ends meet.

“They have seen their healthcare costs rise, their health insurance has skyrocketed, their fees have been raised and they have yet to receive an increase in their pensions from the minister, Bob Richards.

“While this change from the OBA on land tax is a victory for seniors, there is much more that we need to do to ensure our seniors can live their lives in dignity.

“I will continue to be an advocate for seniors and look forward to continuing to share the PLP’s vision for our seniors on the doorsteps of C-13.”

We did not receive a response from the Government by press time.