The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has expressed frustration over delays in the implementation of the vehicle importation tax waiver for medical professionals.
The initiative, which was agreed upon as part of the Conditions of Service signed on March 27, 2024, between the GMA and the government, commenced in July 2024.
However, recent administrative setbacks have stalled the process, leaving several vehicles stuck at the port and incurring rising costs.
In a statement signed by GMA President Dr. (Med) Frank Serebour and General Secretary Dr. (Dent) Richard Selormey, the Association emphasized that the tax waiver was designed “to enable medical doctors and dentists to secure vehicles to facilitate their commute to work and response to emergencies.”
The GMA attributed the delay to the recent change in government, stating that “the change in government has resulted in a halt in the processing of the waivers, with some applications pending final approval by the Ministry of Finance.”
The suspension has left numerous vehicles stranded at the port, accumulating high demurrage fees and facing potential confiscation or auction.
The delays have placed a significant financial burden on affected medical professionals, many of whom had made financial commitments based on the waiver’s availability. With vehicles accumulating hefty port charges, some doctors fear losing their vehicles altogether if the situation is not resolved soon.
Meanwhile, several affected individuals have expressed their frustrations, with some raising doubts about the government’s commitment to upholding agreements made with medical professionals.
They argued that failing to honor the vehicle importation tax waiver not only undermines trust but also sets a worrying precedent for future agreements between healthcare workers and the government.
Others have highlighted the broader implications of the delay, emphasizing that it is negatively affecting healthcare delivery.
Without access to reliable transportation, many doctors and dentists may find it difficult to commute efficiently to work or respond promptly to medical emergencies, potentially putting patients’ lives at risk.
Some medical professionals have warned that prolonged inaction on the issue could further demoralize healthcare workers, leading to reduced efficiency in the already strained health sector.
GMA Engages Government to Resolve Delays
Furthermore, the Association reassured its members that it had been proactively engaging key stakeholders, including government officials and relevant agencies, to find a lasting solution to the issue.
It emphasized its commitment to ensuring that the waiver’s implementation resumes without further delay, acknowledging the financial and logistical burdens the suspension has placed on affected medical professionals.
The GMA further indicated that it will remain dedicated to advocating for its members’ rights and has pledged to persist in discussions with authorities until the matter is fully resolved.
“While we engage the Minister of Health and the Minister for Finance, we appeal to colleagues who have applied to exercise restraint as we work to see the way forward. Applicants with the means may also consider clearing their cars to minimize accumulation of port and demurrage charges.”
Ghana Medical Association (GMA)
The GMA also advised its members who are planning to import vehicles under the waiver scheme to put their plans on hold until the matter is resolved.
“The NEC assures members that it is actively engaging to ensure the vehicle importation tax waiver, which is part of our signed Conditions of Service, is restored as soon as possible.”
Ghana Medical Association (GMA)
Accordingly, the GMA reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to securing the full implementation of the benefits promised to medical professionals under their negotiated Conditions of Service.
The Association emphasized that it will continue to engage with the relevant government bodies to ensure a swift resolution to the current impasse, recognizing the significant impact the delay has had on its members.
As the situation develops, affected doctors, alongside other concerned stakeholders, remain hopeful for a prompt response from the Ministry of Finance.
Many are eager for a favorable resolution that will not only prevent further financial hardship but also guarantee the smooth and uninterrupted execution of the agreed-upon tax waiver.
The GMA stressed that restoring the waiver’s implementation is crucial in alleviating the burden on medical professionals and ensuring they have access to reliable transportation for their critical work.
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