The Inland Revenue Department (IRD) and the Eastern Caribbean Collective Organisation for Music Rights (ECCO) Inc. have formalised a collaborative framework through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at enhancing transparency, compliance, and the protection of music rights across Saint Lucia.
Signed at IRD’s principal office at the Heraldine Rock Building, the MOU establishes a structured partnership between the two organisations to exchange key information relevant to tax administration and music licensing.
The agreement reflects a shared commitment to fostering a stronger business climate and ensuring that creators, publishers and performers are fairly compensated for their work.
Under the terms of the MOU, IRD and ECCO will co-operate in several critical areas including the exchange of relevant data such as ticket sales and event attendance figures to facilitate accurate tax assessments and ensure compliance with music user licence requirements, joint efforts in cases involving overlapping jurisdiction including referrals of potential violations and co-operation in criminal investigations, and confidentiality safeguards whereby all exchanged information will be treated as confidential and handled in accordance with the respective legal frameworks governing both parties, including the Income Tax Act, VAT Act, Copyright Act, and Companies Act of Saint Lucia.
While live events are a key focus, particularly ticket sales and attendance reporting, the MOU also provides for wider co-operation on general tax compliance, music licensing enforcement and coordinated investigations beyond the events sector.
“This MOU marks a significant step forward in our ability to ensure that the business of music operates with integrity and fairness,” said the CEO of ECCO, Mr. Martin A. James. “By working hand-in-hand with IRD, we can better protect the rights of our members and promote accountability across the entertainment sector.”
The Comptroller of IRD, Ms Felicia Ellie, added, “Collaboration between public revenue authorities and creative sector organisations is essential. This agreement will not only help strengthen tax compliance but also support the creative industry by ensuring that legal obligations are met transparently and efficiently.”
Through ongoing dialogue and cooperation, this partnership aims to strengthen collaboration and foster a sustainable, accountable, and legally compliant environment that supports music licensing and the continued growth of the orange economy and related business activities in Saint Lucia. The MOU is governed by the laws of Saint Lucia and remains in effect until modified or terminated by either party.