NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (January 22, 2025)-The Nevis Island Administration (NIA) has launched an exciting...

The St. Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union (SKNT&LU) and manufacturing company API Harowe Servo Ltd. recently engaged in discussions around the negotiation table towards signing a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).

The introduction of stricter penalties-along with the ticketed offenses- including separate charges for causing death and causing injury, signals that traffic offenses are being taken with the seriousness they deserve. For far too long, we have witnessed tragic accidents and lives cut short due to irresponsible behaviour on the road. Families have been left grieving, communities shattered and the nation collectively mourning lives lost in preventable incidents.

Notice has been given for a sitting of the National Assembly to be held at the National Assembly Chambers, Government Headquarters, Basseterre, on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 10 a.m.

As it relates to the crime statistics, Deputy Commissioner Henry indicated that reported crimes decreased 11 percent in 2024, when compared to figures recorded in 2023. The statistics for major crimes were down in almost every category. These include homicides which dropped from 31 to 28, a 10 percent reduction. Firearm-related offences saw a 39 percent reduction falling from 31 to 19; malicious damage reduced by 30 percent; bodily harm/woundings fell 11 percent from 161 to 144; larcenies decreased by 12 percent, break-ins were reduced by one percent, while drug possession saw a five percent reduction. There were slight increases in sexual offences up six percent, moving from 68 to 72, while robberies were up eight (8) percent from 39 to 42.

Saint Kitts and Nevis is on track to become the first nation in the Caribbean to implement an advanced Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system by mid-2025. This transformative initiative was highlighted during an introductory meeting on January 17, 2025, with key national stakeholders and the leadership team of Travizory Border Security SA, headed by CEO Renaud Irminger.

As part of the Government’s 2025 Budget Address, a comprehensive suite of initiatives has been introduced to ease the financial burdens of our people. Chief among these is the Value Added Tax (VAT) reduction from 17 to 13 percent for the first six months of 2025. This VAT relief is expected to lower the cost of essential goods, including food items, thereby providing immediate relief to households navigating rising grocery bills.

The innovative Budget Boost Wallet (BBW) initiative by the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has been overwhelmingly embraced by citizens and residents with approximately 15,000 individuals registered to date.

Azilla Clarke, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs, will head the delegation that will virtually present the country report to the Committee of Experts. The Committee on the Rights of the Child comprises 18 independent experts who monitor how States and Parties implement the Convention.

The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis proudly announces the official launch of the Budget Boost Wallet (BBW) Programme and its dedicated website, https://budgetboostwallet.jad.cash,

The start of a new calendar year carries a mix of emotions. For many, the first days of January bring excitement fueled by resolutions or anticipated life events. Others may face the stark reality of ongoing challenges, including financial instability or family issues. It is in these moments that the support of close-knit family and friends becomes essential.

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr. Terrance Drew has issued a strong appeal to vendors to ensure that the benefits of the six-month  (January to June) relief measures for 2025 are passed directly to consumers.