I believe that both Eddie and Frederick are making very valid points - which do not have to be mutually exclusive.
Eddie's first point is an universally accepted (in democratic countries) that a Law should not penalise a person for an act done (in good faith) before the law (which now places sanctions against it) came into effect. Eddie's second point is not necessarily in tandem with the first - as 'grandfathering' is different from 'penalising'. FN's point is also one which is discussed and dissected all over the world where the local (tax paying and working the soil) population are disadvantaged by the greed of the speculators and investors. These alleged 'investments' do not necessarily benefit the locals commensurate to the amount the locals are expected to pay in terms of the increase in the cost of living and cost of owning a simple home. FN makes a very good needs-based-buying point. I personally believe that Goans need to look again at those tourist facilities which inordinately push the cost of staple food (eg Fish) out of the reach of the 'sons of the soil' who toil on the soil, and also this speculative Second or Third Homes stuff which are built by destroying the Goan greenery and environment. I was appalled when I last saw the concrete poured in an ugly format - all over Calangute to Baga, Betim and Verem, Bambolim and Navelim. (I am sure there are other areas of wanton destruction). Some countries have 'equalised' the economic balance by increasing the taxation on non-resident or non-primary homes. They have also increased the taxes payable on homes owned by non-nationals. They have then ploughed back these taxes into the local economy and infrastructure eg roads, hospitals, schools etc.. Taxes on non-resident owned or non-primary-residence property can legally be increased at any time - as long as the taxes are not retrospective. The non-primary residence-tax will affect ALL speculators including Goans. Wonder how many politicians will go along with this measure. Unless the voters demand it ....and the journos keep them adequately and repeatedly informed of their rights. But then ....! jc [1] Eddie Fernandes wrote that: " the Government should not act retrospectively." [2] Eddie also noted that:Gabe Menezes has provided the Cidade de Goa instance as an example of local thinking. [3] Frederick [FN] Noronha wrote: the expat/foreigner/non-resident buying of homes is only pushing up speculation (not need-based buying) in the unreal real estate sector.
