Air Passenger Duty: the added passenger depression

Greetings,

As if absence from family and friends in the Caribbean was not heartbreaking enough, here comes the Air Passenger Duty (APD), or what I describe as the 'added passenger depression'. 

Air Passenger Duty: 'Stinging us for everything we've got' - The Gleaner, Thursday April 18, 2013

This tax has made it difficult (to put it mildly) for persons to visit Caribbean islands, and/or, visit family 'back home'. I appreciate the necessity for additional tax measures in the UK. However, in my view, this additional tax could be counterproductive.

Here is a little history.

I remember the time when it seemed like it took for ever and a day for my parents to receive a letter, or a reply, from the Caribbean to learn of the latest happenings 'at home', as well as to know how loved ones were doing. I believe this was pretty much the case for Caribbean people generally, in the early days of the Caribbean Diaspora in the UK. When homesickness set in, or to get a social/emotional release from the stress of living and working in the UK, there was only one thing for it, if one could do so - find an aeroplane and go home! 
For some, this was possible, but it took great financial sacrifice. For others, it was not possible. All they could do to cope was to live on a prayer one day at a time, and trust that one day they would see their fair Caribbean isle once again. This was my parents' situation.

It is a fact that communication is much faster now with the use of mobile/cell phones, email, and all the rest of it. Nevertheless, there are times when people want to actually meet and relate to those special persons in their lives. 

I believe, with the difficulties that exist in terms of financial constraints, the high cost of travel to the Caribbean now combined with the APD to visit the respective homeland within the region, may have a negative social/emotional impact on the Caribbean Diaspora in the UK. 

A holiday is important for everyone. Moreover, holidaying 'back home' has greater significance. It gives those who live away from their homeland, and their children born in the UK, an opportunity to reunite with their roots, culture, friends, and family, then return to the host country refreshed and more productive. 

It is well known that the Caribbean Diaspora has played a pivotal role in the economic development of the UK. As simple as this may sound, enabling the Caribbean Diaspora to keep social/emotional linkages with the Caribbean Region, will most likely help this group to continue its role.

Let the Caribbean Diaspora in the UK stay connected to the Caribbean Region.

Respect,

Grace

PS. Must read article published 2014:  UK TO REDUCE APD ON CARIBBEAN FLIGHTS