Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew Presents Pension Cheque to Retired GAE

Government of St. Kitts and Nevis Reaffirms Commitment to Providing Robust Financial Support to Citizens

Basseterre, St. Kitts – The government of St. Kitts and Nevis has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to providing robust financial support to its citizens. Speaking at the November 20th roundtable, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew outlined the administration’s numerous initiatives designed to enhance the quality of life and economic security of the nation’s people, emphasizing that these efforts are unprecedented in the country’s history.

“This administration has delivered more financial support than any other in our history. From increasing the minimum wage to rolling out the Aspire program, we are directly empowering citizens and ensuring no one is left behind,” Prime Minister Drew emphasized.

Unprecedented Initiatives

In just two years, the Drew-led administration raised the minimum wage to one of the highest in the Caribbean and introduced pensions for Government Auxiliary Employees (GAE), a long-overlooked group. “For too long, our GAE workers have contributed to the public sector without adequate retirement security,” Dr. Drew noted. “We have changed that by implementing pensions to provide them with the dignity and support they deserve in retirement.”

Fiscal Responsibility

Addressing questions on the 8% salary increase announced earlier this year, the Prime Minister clarified that this measure does not replace the concept of a double salary. He explained that while tradition often sees double salaries withheld in years of significant wage increases, his administration remains committed to finding ways to provide additional financial support when feasible. “Our goal is always to uplift our people, whether through direct benefits, increased wages, or other financial measures,” he assured.

Prime Minister Drew also highlighted the government’s fiscal responsibility in managing these initiatives, noting that such measures are funded through careful planning and the prudent allocation of resources. Programs like the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) initiative have been restructured to ensure that the revenues are channeled effectively into projects and policies that directly benefit citizens.

Conclusion

With a firm focus on improving lives and empowering the nation’s people, the government continues to set a high standard in delivering meaningful support. “Our actions demonstrate our commitment to the people of St. Kitts and Nevis. We are building a future where every citizen can thrive and achieve their fullest potential,” expressed Prime Minister Drew.

FAQs

Q: What are the government’s initiatives to provide financial support to citizens?

A: The government has implemented numerous initiatives, including increasing the minimum wage, introducing pensions for GAE, and rolling out the Aspire program.

Q: How is the government funding these initiatives?

A: The government is funding these initiatives through careful planning and the prudent allocation of resources, including the restructuring of programs like the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) initiative.

Q: What is the government’s goal in providing financial support to citizens?

A: The government’s goal is to uplift its citizens, whether through direct benefits, increased wages, or other financial measures, and to empower them to achieve their fullest potential.