Members of the House of Representatives have expressed fear of a worsened economy if the government delays in underwriting its obligation to ensure that something is done to either review or repeal the APM Terminals contract.
During the 12th day sitting of the 54th National Legislature, the plenary made a decision through a unanimous vote to communicate with the Executive Branch to ensure that the APM Terminals contract is reviewed, and that while the review process is on the enforcement of the 7.67 tariff be abolished.
The House’s plenary made the decision after the report of the ad hoc committee established by the plenary to probe the APM Terminals on allegation of tariff increment was read.
When the report of the joint ad hoc committee on Commerce & Industry, Ways, Means, Finance and the Judiciary was read on the floor, a debate on the issue ensued and several lawmakers who spoke were bold, urging their colleagues to see the need of adopting urgent action that will bring relief to the economy of the nation.
On the account of the joint committee’s observation, it was recommended that plenary mandates a formal communication to APM Terminals to halt further implementation of its additional tariff until revision of its contract by the National Legislature.
The committee further suggested the abolition of regulation on overstay containers, and discouraged any activity that stifles stakeholders in the shipping industry.
The joint ad hoc committee, in its recommendations, emphasized that plenary invites GTMS to show why it should not be held in contempt for failing to honor the Joint Committee’s invitation, and that information gathered from various stakeholders to be used to help reset the APM Terminals contract for the good of the Liberian people be considered.