KINGSTON, Jamaica — President of Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) Norman Grant says the property tax measures taken by the Government could have a devastating effect on the agricultural sector.

In a release yesterday Grant appealed for leniency from Cabinet. “Property tax rates will be lowered, but based on the 2013 valuation of properties, will result in significant increases in real terms for several property owners who use their land for the development of the agricultural sector,” Grant said.

Grant claimed that in some instances increases in charges on farmlands surpassed 200 per cent. He said the society would approach the ministries of agriculture and finance about the matter, particularly on April 5, at the launch of Farmers Month.

He suggested that the Government exempt the agricultural sector from the increases. 

Grant made his comments speaking at the 34th Thanksgiving Service celebrating April as Farmers Month at the Mandeville Parish Church yesterday, the release said.