San Fernando East MP Brian Manning has voiced strong opposition to the new taxes and tax increases proposed in the recent budget, arguing that they will negatively impact businesses and ultimately burden ordinary consumers. Speaking in the House of Representatives on October 17, Manning highlighted several measures, including the bank/insurance levy, container-processing fee increase, landlord surcharge, LPG price hike, and single-use plastic tax, as particularly harmful. He criticized Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo, whom he mockingly referred to as ‘Taxcoo,’ and labeled the budget as ‘fake and fraudulent.’ Manning also accused trade union leaders of prioritizing their own interests over their members’ welfare, aligning with the UNC in what he termed a ‘coalition of chaos and confusion.’ Manning further criticized the 0.25% levy on banks and insurance companies, which aims to raise $575 million annually, arguing that it would increase banking fees and overall costs for the public. He also condemned the landlord surcharge, equating it to a property tax, and questioned the $2,500 registration fee. Additionally, Manning criticized the electricity surcharge for commercial and industrial clients, the 100% hike in container processing fees, and the rise in excise duties on alcoholic drinks, which he said would drive up consumer prices. He also slammed the proposed $15,000 penalty for dangerous driving, calling it ‘blood money,’ and criticized the taxes on single-use plastics and electric vehicles. Manning concluded by questioning the government’s commitment to the Pointe-a-Pierre refinery and sarcastically endorsing the proposed Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT).