The global economic climate that the world is faced with finds revenue sitting very low while expenditure continues to climb. In light of that brewing financial climate, Her Majesty’s Customs wants to focus its efforts on increasing its revenue intake, minimize revenue, plan and prioritize to maximize revenue and to spend wisely.

Comptroller of Customs Wade Smith said this approach should also be one that can be adopted by persons in their personal lives to help better manage their personal finances.

This year, Customs Week which commenced on Sunday January 24 with a Church Service is celebrated under the theme “Expenditure Vs Revenue: Plan, Prioritize to Maximise”.

Smith noted that internationally, the focus for Customs Day is on recognising Customs officials and their contribution to border security, and legitimate trade facilitation among others.  Locally, Her Majesty’s Customs has formulated a week-long celebration with various activities held throughout the week.  Smith explained that throughout the week, activities will be geared towards bringing awareness of what Customs does for the community, while also doing outreach programmes in the schools.

As part of the sensitisation process during the week, Assistant Comptroller Assurance Leslie Lettsome explained that special attention will be placed on ensuring that persons understand how to complete various documents such as the manifesto and other shipping documents correctly. Lettsome noted that once the public can do their part then it will enable Customs to do a more efficient job.

Lettsome noted that for most part, persons are working according to the new port procedures in Port Purcell, but there have been some challenges in Virgin Gorda, the main reason for the Importers Symposium to be held on the island today, Wednesday, where the trade community in Virgin Gorda can be further informed about the new policies as it regards classification of goods, valuation and the role of the agent/broker as it relates to clearance of imported and exported goods.

Another important aspect during the week of activities will be centred around the outreach to schools where Customs is hoping to educate students about the career opportunities within Customs and other law enforcement departments, and to also educate on the role that the Department plays within the community.

This year, in order to cut down on their expenses they will not be holding the regular Customs Ball which many persons look forward to, but instead the ball will coincide with the 35th Anniversary of Her Majesty’s Customs on July 1.

Smith and the staff of Her Majesty’s Customs invite the public to be part of their Social Night this Friday upstairs the Road Town Jetty where there will be music, and several indoor games including Wii, Xbox, Dominoes and Cards.

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