KENT LaCroix, chairman of the Automobile Dealers Association (ADA), has been given the nod to remain in the driver’s seat of the new-car umbrella group.

LaCroix — who is now in his ninth year at the organisation’s helm — along with the group’s executive body, was voted in en bloc at a recent meeting held at the Jamaica Employers Federation on Ruthven Road in St Andrew.

“I’m flattered and happy that my efforts and those of the team have been recognised. Being re-elected has given us impetus to continue the work we have started,” he told Auto.

The exective comprises: directors Nigel Pagon of GM Challenger; David Rosen and Brian Stevenson of ATL Automotive Ltd; Tom Conner of Toyota Jamaica; Duncan Stewart of Stewart Motors; and Major Greg Webster of Fidelity Motors.

In March of this year, the ADA — in association with Scotiabank — hosted a successful three-day auto show at the National Arena after a five-year hiatus. The show, which brought out 10,000 patrons, was seen as a catalyst to jump-start the industry which was reeling from external global shocks.

However, three months later, in an effort to raise an additional $19.3 billion in new taxes, the Government increased the duty on motor vehicle imports over 2,000cc from 20 to 30 per cent.

LaCroix, at the time, said while his organisation was not averse to paying its fair share of taxes, he considered this move a blow to the productive sector since pick-ups fall in this category. He has since submitted a proposal to Government officials.

“We’re still awaiting a response,” he said.

— Brian Bonitto