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Collective Representation
Legal Representation
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Health and Safety Advocacy
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Workers Representation on a National Scale
Collective Bargaining Representation
The union negotiates collective bargaining agreements on behalf of its members to ensure fair wages, benefits, and working conditions. Shop stewards act as liaisons between the workers and the union leadership.
Legal Representation
Members have access to legal assistance for workplace-related issues, such as unfair dismissal, discrimination, and safety violations.
Grievance Resolution
The SKNT&LU supports members in resolving workplace grievances, advocating for fair treatment and due process.
Professional Development
The union provides opportunities for members to enhance their skills and career prospects through various educational programs.
Health and Safety Advocacy
A key focus is on promoting safer work environments and compliance with health and safety standards.
Social and Networking Events
Members can participate in events that foster community and provide networking opportunities.
Governmental Advocacy
The union lobbies for policies and legislation that protect and advance workers' rights and interests.
Job Security and Seniority Advocacy
Efforts are made to ensure fair practices regarding layoffs, promotions, and other job changes, often prioritizing seniority and performance.
Information and Resources
The union keeps members informed about labor rights, industry developments, and union activities through various communication channels.
Open Door Policy
Members have direct access to union representatives for guidance and support, with non-members also encouraged to engage with the union.
Workers Representation on a National Scale
The SKNT&LU represents workers at the national level on various committees, influencing policies and regulations affecting labor and employment.
Basseterre: St. Kitts, Wednesday, January 29, 2025: The staff and students of the Deane – Glasford Primary School devoted time to honor the academic excellence of the institution on Tuesday, January 28 with a special assembly. The ceremony, held at the school focused on the theme “Celebrating 25 Years. Shaping Minds, Changing Lives and Inspiring Greatness”.
Principal, Ms. Princess Nyoka Adams shared, “Today we gather to commemorate a remarkable milestone, 25 years of shaping minds, changing lives and inspiring greatness. It is an occasion to celebrate the legacy of this institution and to honor all those who have contributed to its success over the years.”
Acknowledging the pivotal role of the institution, Hon. Dr. Geoffrey Hanley communicated,
“As we reflect on the past 25 years, let us remember the countless memories and moments of triumph and challenges, joy and all of the learning that took place on this journey. Together we have watched generations of students blossom into remarkable individuals ready to take on the world.”
Minister Hanley thanked past administrators and teachers of the institution for their dedication and hard work which established the groundwork of academic prominence.
Reminiscing on time spent at the institution, former student and Prime Minister, Hon. Dr. Terrence Drew expressed gratitude to the past and present principals, teachers and support staff.
“I entered the school in the early 1980s, the school was not as big then as you would imagine. For all the time I spent, here I remember the great teachers that I had. Even though life then was a bit more challenging than now, our teachers were dedicated to us. We would not be what we are today if it were not for our teachers. I would like to recognize our teachers who, through those years, stuck with us and believed in us.”
NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (January 28, 2025)- The Ministry of Education in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) is taking decisive action in response to a recent outbreak of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease, which has seen more than 30 confirmed cases on the island.
The outbreak has raised health concerns among the school officials and the community, prompting the temporary closure of several educational institutions.
During his monthly press conference on January 28, Premier of Nevis, the Honourable Mark Brantley, reported, “There is currently an outbreak, sad to say, of Hand Foot and Mouth disease in the Federation. In Nevis we have 32 known cases- 19 males and 13 females.”
“The Ministry of Education has been responsive. We have sadly had to close two government preschools, Combermere and Inez France, and a private preschool for two days. All have since been re-opened but when they closed we did a deep clean and we were sure that the area was prepared.”
As part of the response strategy, the Department of Education, following the advice of health officials, on January 28 temporarily closed two more schools- the Gingerland Preschool and Grades 1 and 2 of the Violet O. Jeffers-Nicholls Primary School.
“This closure will be for a period of ten (10) days and is a precautionary measure in response to confirmed cases of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease. During this time, comprehensive sanitization of the affected facilities will be conducted to ensure a safe and healthy environment for our students and staff upon their return,” a press release from the Department informed.
The illness, which primarily affects young children, presents symptoms including fever, mouth sores, and rashes on the hands, feet, and sometimes buttocks.
Premier Brantley assured the public that the Ministry of Education is actively collaborating with the Ministry of Health to combat the outbreak.
He also urged parents and guardians to be vigilant about their children’s health and admonished them to act responsibly by refraining from sending children exhibiting symptoms to school.
“I was quite dismayed to receive reports that some parents, even knowing that their children have this disease nevertheless send their child to school. Their argument is that they have no one to keep the child. I am saying to you that your child is your responsibility. It is nobody else’s responsibility.
“We have a duty to take care of them and to send your sick child back to school to potentially infect other children is irresponsible behavior. So I ask our parents to please be responsible as we combat this outbreak together.”
In light of these developments, the Ministry of Education encourages all parents and guardians to keep sick children at home to reduce the spread of illness and protect the health and well-being of all students and staff.
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 30th January 2025)-“While you’re on the phone [and] you’re talking, it’s as if it’s the same effect as drinking and driving. And nobody believes they are distracted because people believe in multitasking. But there’s no such thing as multitasking. Scientific evidence shows that when you do multiple things at the same time, nothing receives the full attention it should.”
So said Prime Minister and Minister of National Security Dr. Terrance Drew in discouraging the notion of multitasking while driving, particularly the use of mobile phones.
He expressed such sentiments during his presentation ahead of the passed Vehicles and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the National Assembly on Thursday 30th January which introduces stricter penalties aimed at reducing road accidents caused by speeding and distracted driving.
PM Drew, who is a trained medical doctor by profession, in addressing the Assembly, highlighted the dangers of using cell phones while driving, comparing the level of distraction to that of driving under the influence of alcohol.
He stressed that St. Kitts and Nevis, with its short driving distances, does not require excessive speeding or the need to answer calls while driving.
He went on to point out that a driver might only save a few minutes by driving 10 miles per hour faster, but the increased risk of a serious accident outweighs any perceived benefit.
“In the United States, where I lived for some time, driving at 70 or 80 miles per hour can save you an hour on the road. But in St. Kitts and Nevis, there is no place that requires an hour of driving unless you’re going around the entire island,” Dr. Drew explained.
“So why the need for excessive speed? Why the need to be on the phone while driving? Most journeys are 10 to 15 minutes long-surely, you can wait that time before answering a call or sending a message.”
PM Drew also expressed concern about impaired driving, noting that drinking alcohol or consuming cannabis before operating a vehicle can significantly affect judgment and reaction time.
“Sometimes, you see people driving with a beer in their hand, or the beer bottle in the car. Or you see them by a bar, drinking, and then they jump in a car to drive home, knowing they’ve had more drinks than they should,” he said. “Similarly, cannabis can mellow you and affect your ability to drive safely.”
PM Drew emphasized that many road accidents are preventable and that the government is taking firm action to enforce traffic laws to protect lives.
“The message here is that most of these accidents can be prevented if people just follow basic traffic rules,” he said. “That is why, if we have a problem with people following the rules, we will come to Parliament and pass the necessary laws to make sure they are enforced. Losing 13 lives in a year [2024] is something that should never happen again.”
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 30th January 2025)- Parliamentary Representative for St. Christopher Three and Minister with responsibility for Public infrastructure Konris Maynard has announced the government’s commitment to buying lands at Buckley’s Estate for the construction of a monument park in recognition of the 1935 Buckley’s Uprising.
The announcement was made during the 90th anniversary observance ceremony- organized by the Rastafari Nyabinghi Theocracy Order- held on Tuesday 28th January 2025 at Buckley’s Estate under the theme ‘The Buckley’s Uprising As a Catalyst For Change In The British West Indies.’
For the occasion, members of the Rastafari movement, government officials, entertainers and executive committee members of the St.Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union (SKNT&LU) were among those who gathered to honour the sacrifices made by those who fought for workers’ rights and social justice overall.
The SKNT&LU representatives were General Secretary Precious Mills, Sean Kelly (who is a field officer) and also Jutambien Kelly (his daughter) who delivered a presentation on behalf of the workers union.
ection of audience at the 90th anniversary commemoration ceremony- organized by the Rastafari Nyabinghi Theocracy Order- held on Tuesday 28th January 2025 at Buckley’s Estate under the theme ‘The Buckley’s Uprising As a Catalyst For Change In The British West Indies.’ (Spokesman Snap)Executive members of the St.Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union (SKNT&LU) Sean Kelly (a field officer) and also Jutambien Kelly (his daughter) have a conversation while attending the 90th anniversary commemoration ceremony- organized by the Rastafari Nyabinghi Theocracy Order- held on Tuesday 28th January 2025 at Buckley’s Estate under the theme ‘The Buckley’s Uprising As a Catalyst For Change In The British West Indies.’ (Right end) Cabinet Secretary Dr. Marcus Natta seen in attendance. (Spokesman Snap by SKNT&LU General Secretary Precious Mills)
Maynard confirmed that the Cabinet has approved the full acquisition of the land where the event was held. He stated that the property owner has agreed to the sale, and the Ministry of Sustainable Development has identified areas for the owner’s transition.
“We are now in the final parts of the agreement approved by the Cabinet of St. Kitts and Nevis to fully acquire the land that you are sitting on today for the construction of a monument park,” Maynard said.
He went on to say: “Over the coming weeks, we intend to pursue this vigorously. The Prime Minister has given his instructions on how we need to proceed, and we are moving from talk to action.”
Maynard further explained that the land acquisition will ensure that future commemorations are held at a dedicated site rather than in temporary locations.
“Every other ceremony in recognition of this historic day was previously held in different places-on the streets, or at times, in a small yard nearby. Now, we are no longer choked in a corner. This land will be transformed into a permanent space that reflects the true significance of the Buckley’s Uprising.”
Maynard also acknowledged the persistent efforts of the Rastafari Nyabinghi Theocracy Order in advocating for the recognition of Buckley’s Uprising.
“They have been singularly responsible for ensuring that, although there was no monument, the legacy of the uprising remained visible,” he said. “This will become a landmark destination in St. Kitts and Nevis, a true monument to democracy and justice.”
Officials have encouraged the public to remain engaged in the planning and development of the monument park.
Maynard called on citizens to actively participate in discussions and provide input on the final design. “I want to encourage everyone who is here, and all who are connected to this movement, to stay engaged. Your voices matter in shaping this historic site.”
The government has pledged to move forward with the project in 2025, with expectations that visible progress will be made in the coming months.
Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dr. Terrance Drew reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the project, stating that over one million dollars will be allocated over time for the monument’s construction. He announced that an initial sum of $100,000 is already available to begin preparations.
“… [the Buckley’s Uprising] cannot be remembered just by words, for words alone would not suffice,” Dr. Drew stated. “It cannot be remembered with just an event like this that takes place once per year. A monument must be constructed right here on these hallowed grounds. This land is being acquired and is in the final stages to be owned by the Buckley’s Uprising Committee for the purpose of constructing a monument that will never be removed.”
The Prime Minister emphasized that the monument will serve as more than just a memorial.
“Having a monument is not only to remember for remembering’s sake. It is a reminder-one that tells us what our ancestors fought for and the principles they stood for. The monument should serve as a guide for us to carry those values forward every single day.”
Basseterre, St. Kitts, January 30, 2025 (SKNIS): The Federal Parliament of St. Kitts and Nevis has successfully passed the Plea Negotiations and Agreements Bill, 2024, which is a landmark piece of legislation aimed at enhancing efficiency within the criminal justice system.
The Bill, which was presented for debate by Attorney General (AG), the Honourable Garth Wilkin, in the National Assembly on Thursday, January 30, 2025, introduces a structured legal framework for plea negotiations and agreements. Attorney General Wilkin emphasised the significance of the Bill, noting that it aligns with international best practices and regional commitments to criminal justice reform. He highlighted the Needham’s Point Declaration on Criminal Justice Reform, which underscores the necessity of plea bargaining as a tool to expedite case resolution and ensure fairness in judicial processes.
“Our courts are burdened with a backlog of cases, causing significant delays in justice. This Bill will introduce an effective plea negotiation framework, ensuring that cases are resolved efficiently while upholding the principles of fairness and transparency,” stated the attorney general.
The Plea Negotiations and Agreements Bill, 2024, provides clear guidelines on how plea discussions should be conducted, including provisions that safeguard defendants’ rights, involve victims in the sentencing process, and ensure judicial oversight in approving agreements. Under the new law, only indictable offences qualify for plea negotiations, and the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has sole discretion to engage in such discussions.
AG Wilkin also cited the success of plea bargaining in international jurisdictions such as the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, as well as in Caribbean nations such as Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica. He pointed out that over 94 percent of state-level criminal cases in the United States and 97 percent of federal cases are resolved through plea negotiations, significantly reducing the burden on court systems.
With this new law, St. Kitts and Nevis joins other nations in implementing modern legal mechanisms that promote swift and effective justice.
Attorney General Wilkin said that the passage of the Plea Negotiations and Agreements Bill, 2024, forms part of the Government’s broader strategy to modernize the criminal justice system, complementing other recent legislative measures such as the Judge Alone Trials Act, the Voluntary Bill of Indictment Act, and the Justice Interference Prevention Act. Additional reforms, including the establishment of a Public Defender’s Office and amendments to the Jury Act, are also in development.
With this progressive legislation now in effect, St. Kitts and Nevis is taking a major step forward in strengthening its legal framework, protecting the rights of both victims and accused persons, and ensuring a more efficient administration of justice.
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, January 30, 2025 (SKNIS) – The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis has introduced stronger fines and penalties for motorists who violate the country’s traffic laws, as part of its broader approach to crack down on dangerous driving practices and creating safer roads for drivers and pedestrians alike.
The stricter penalties came into effect with the passing of the Vehicles and Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill, 2025, during the January 30, 2025, sitting of the National Assembly. The Bill was moved by Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew.
The legislative amendments saw increases in the maximum penalties for reckless driving, persons driving at speeds deemed dangerous to the public, and persons found driving under the influence of drink or drug. Prime Minister Drew said the underlying purpose of these amendments is to save lives.
“Most of these accidents can be prevented if people just follow the basic traffic rules,” said Prime Minister Drew. “And so if we are having a problem with people following the traffic rules then we will come to this Parliament and pass the necessary laws to make sure that people follow the necessary rules because losing thirteen (13) lives, Madame Speaker, is something that should never happen again.”
The federation recorded a total of thirteen (13) road fatalities for 2024. This includes the tragic accident on December 11, 2024, that claimed five lives.
The amendments to the Vehicles and Road Traffic Act include an increase in fines for reckless and dangerous driving from $4,000 to $6,000-$8,000, with repeat offenders facing a fine of up to $20,000. Driving under the influence of alcohol or any substance that alters your judgment now carries a fine of up to $10,000 in the first instance and a fine of up to $20,000 for repeat offences, with longer imprisonment terms. In addition, causing death by dangerous driving now carries a maximum penalty of 10 years, while causing death by careless driving carries a penalty of imprisonment up to six years.
The government will also implement and utilise technology in its pursuit of creating safer roads for all. In this regard, Prime Minister Drew said cameras at the various traffic lights will now facilitate the introduction of an automated ticketing system in the federation.
“This is how serious we are, Madame Speaker,” Dr. Drew said, underscoring his government’s commitment to saving lives from reckless and careless driving.
Moreover, a new public reporting system will allow citizens to submit dashcam or video footage of instances of reckless driving. Video evidence can be submitted anonymously, and if that evidence leads to conviction the individual may be eligible to receive a monetary reward of up to $5,000.
In support of the anonymous reporting system, the government announced that effective today, with the passage of the legislation, duty-free concessions on the importation of dashboard cameras for vehicles.
Prime Minister Drew urged citizens, residents and visitors to St. Kitts and Nevis to “drive responsibly and to stay vigilant in making our roads safer for all.”
The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis holds fast to the notion that our citizens are the bedrock of our nation. We support the right of our nationals to become global citizens and applaud their efforts to explore opportunities in other countries, both near and far.
While new developments suggest that over 1.4 million nationals of various countries are expected to be repatriated to their homelands, and this includes 68 nationals of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the government is mindful that the repatriation process begins with official communication from the sending country. As such, we await such official communication.
At the same time, Saint Kitts and Nevis will not turn its back on any of its nationals and will make its best effort to resettle our people in the lands of their birth. We believe that each son and daughter of our country has skills and talents that can serve the advancement of our sustainable island state.
Saint Kitts and Nevis is a caring and progressive nation and the care we give must always be extended to our brothers and sisters without reservation or consternation.
Saint Kitts and Nevis will work cordially with all nation-states as an advocate and champion for human rights. While we encourage all countries to be havens of humanity, we do our part to ensure that our nationals will always have a place in the Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis.
NIA CHARLESTOWN NEVIS (January 23, 2025)- The Ministry of Finance in the Nevis Island Administration (NIA) has unveiled a comprehensive set of exemptions and concessions under a significantly enhanced Returning National/Diaspora Investment Policy launched on January 21, 2025.
This policy is designed to encourage the return of nationals, retirees, and individuals with ancestral ties to Nevis, as well as to attract broader investment from the Diaspora. The aim of the initiative is to make re-integration and investment in Nevis as seamless, attractive, and accessible as possible, replacing the previous policy with a more expansive and flexible framework.
One of the key aspects of the policy is a range of customs duty exemptions, which will apply to the importation of various personal and business-related items.
These include used personal items, vehicles for personal or business use, construction materials for residential or commercial development, furniture and fittings for home or business, as well as tools and equipment for new businesses. Additionally, new business owners can import startup stock and supplies duty-free. However, it’s important to note that VAT, Customs Service Charges, and the Environmental Levy will still apply to these items, and duty-free concessions cannot be combined with any VAT reduction days.
For businesses falling under certain priority sectors, further concessions will be available. These sectors include specialized medical care (with an emphasis on diagnostic services), ICT development, vocational skills training, hotel and resort development, light manufacturing, professional services like accounting and construction management, agro-processing, agriculture, recycling, and green energy. Applicants aiming to establish businesses in these areas can apply for additional concessions through the Ministry of Finance.
The policy also addresses land ownership for those with ancestral roots in Nevis but without St. Kitts and Nevis citizenship. These individuals can apply for an Alien Landholders License (ALHL) to purchase real estate on the island, with the 10 percent ALHL fee waived for them. The approval process for these applications is streamlined, taking no longer than 14 days.
Premier of Nevis the Honourable Mark Brantley, in recent remarks, emphasized the importance of returning nationals and their contributions to the economic growth of Nevis. He pointed out that investment in Nevis, especially in key areas like specialized healthcare and green energy, would enhance the island’s sustainability and prosperity.
Premier Brantley highlighted that the policy is part of a broader strategy to attract investment, noting that it would not only support the growth of the island’s economy but also strengthen its ties to the international community. He further referenced successful trips to Bermuda and St. Barths, where he engaged with key stakeholders, underscoring the potential for Nevis to benefit from increased collaboration and investment from these regions.
Through this policy, the NIA is working to create a more inviting environment for returning nationals, making it easier for them to reintegrate and invest in Nevis, thus contributing to the island’s ongoing development.
In a proactive move to support the Government’s ban on single-use plastics, the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis (DBSKN) has announced the distribution of reusable shopping bags to the public. This initiative aligns with the bank’s commitment to promoting environmental sustainability and supporting national policies aimed at safeguarding the natural environment.
The Honorable Dr. Joyelle Clarke, Minister of Environment, Climate Action & Constituency Empowerment, recently emphasized the importance of the ban on single-use plastics, describing it as a decisive step towards the Government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the environment and fostering a sustainable future for the twin-island nation.
Chairman of DBSKN, Mr. Shavon Douglas, emphasized the bank’s alignment with national priorities, stating, “This initiative reflects DBSKN’s unwavering commitment to aligning with national policies and addressing global environmental challenges. By investing in environmental stewardship, we aim to foster a culture of responsibility and resilience in our nation. This effort is a testament to our belief that development and sustainability must go hand in hand for the long-term prosperity of our people and our country.”
DBSKN’s General Manager, Mr. Laurinston Matthew, shared the bank’s enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “As a financial institution rooted in the development and well-being of St. Kitts and Nevis, our commitment goes beyond just financing we believe in actively supporting initiatives that safeguard our nation’s future.”
He added that the distribution of reusable shopping bags is more than just a symbolic gesture; it’s a call to action for our citizens to adopt practices that reduce waste and protect our environment.
Explaining the motivation behind the initiative, the bank’s Integrated Marketing and Communications Manager Chantelle Rochester said, “As a development focused institution, we recognize the importance of addressing environmental challenges that directly impact our communities. The decision to distribute reusable shopping bags is rooted in our belief that small, intentional actions can create meaningful change.
The reusable shopping bags, featuring eco-friendly designs, will be distributed at DBSKN branches from January 24th, 2025. By offering a sustainable alternative to single-use plastics, the bank hopes to inspire lasting changes in behavior among individuals and businesses.
Contact Information:
Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis 1 (869) 765-4342 1 (869) 465-2288 Ext 1322 developmentbankmarketing@skndb.com
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 23rd January 2025)- More than one month later, a bus driver on St. Kitts has been charged with six offenses following a tragic December 2024 traffic accident that claimed the lives of five individuals, including his mother.
Jamie Herbert (of Newton Ground), the driver of the omnibus involved in the fatal crash with a jeep -which took place on 11th December, was formally charged- thirty (36) days after-by police on 17th January 2025, with five counts of Causing Death by Dangerous Driving and one count of Causing Injury by Wanton Driving.
The charges stem from the deadly collision that occurred along the island main road near Brimstone Hill. The charges were laid at the Sandy Point Police Station.
The accident, which took place between 7:15 AM and 7:45 AM, involved an omnibus carrying five passengers and a jeep with a driver and a passenger. Tragically, the collision resulted in the deaths of three individuals and caused critical injuries to others.
Police confirmed that the victims of the crash included: Ms. Rozina Herbert of Sandy Point, who was a passenger in the omnibus and the mother of the driver, Jamie Herbert, Mr. Dijorn Davis of Old Road, who was driving the jeep, Mr. Ian Jules of St. Paul’s (a passenger in the jeep) and Ms. Belinda Paul of Sandy Point, a passenger in the omnibus.
This media house understands that Rozina Herbert is the bus driver’s mother.
Ms. Herbert succumbed to her injuries after being transported to the Joseph N. France General Hospital. Mr. Davis, who underwent emergency surgery for extensive injuries, later passed away. Both Mr. Jules and Ms. Paul were pronounced dead at the scene.
The fifth victim, Mr. Malique Rawlins of Newton Ground, initially survived the crash but succumbed to his injuries while warded in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Joseph N. France General Hospital on December 12th, 2024, bringing the total number of fatalities to five.
[Jamie] Herbert and another passenger from the omnibus sustained minor injuries and were treated and discharged. However, the collision resulted in the six charges against Mr. Herbert:
The charges reflect both the severity of the accident and its tragic consequences for the victims and their families.
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of road safety and careful driving to prevent such tragedies. The investigation into the circumstances of the crash is ongoing, with a focus on ensuring accountability and addressing the factors that led to the accident.
The collision has sparked public discourse, particularly regarding the emotional and legal challenges faced by the accused, who lost his mother in the same incident.
Some individuals who know the driver describe him to be a quiet person.
