By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts (Thursday 23rd January 2025)-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 agreement, which will cover the three-year period from 2025 to 2027, represents a significant step in continuously securing improved conditions and rights for workers at the company-located in Sandy Point- which has been in operation for fifty (50) years.

The negotiation sessions were held from Monday 20th to Wednesday 22nd January 2025 at the St.Kitts Marriott Hotel.

The Union’s delegation saw General Secretary Precious Mills, First Vice President Curtis Francis, Field Officer and executive committee member Sean Kelly(a field officer), executive committee member Vanessa ‘Vandel’ Browne (an employee of Harowe Servo), and Shop Stewards Yvette Francis and Jacqueline Francis, both Harowe Servo employees.

Representing the company were Harowe Servo’s local General Manager Carol Evelyn, Human Resources Manager Sonia Edwards as well as representatives from its new parent company, Regal Rexnord based in the United States, Business Unit Manager-Specialty Products Group Matthew Rigerman and also Global Head of Human Resources Sujely Borjas. 

Mills emphasized the significance of collective representation in the workplace, highlighting the critical role of the Union in securing workers’ rights and fostering productive relationships with management.

“As a union, we want workers to understand the power of collective bargaining,” she stated. “This gives us the authority to provide representation and address the needs of workers comprehensively.”

She elaborated on the articles contained within Collective Bargaining Agreements, including provisions for pay increases, employment and job security, safety and health, maternity and paternity leave, compassionate leave, union security, and protocols for suspension and dismissal.

“The Union’s role is comprehensive throughout the collective bargaining agreement,” Mills explained. “All these articles address areas that are relevant to the workplace in fostering a productive and harmonious relationship between workers and management, monitored by union representation.”

Mills underscored the importance of Union Shop Stewards at the workplace made possible via a CBA, describing them as the “eyes and ears” of the Union on the job.

“They are the point of contact for the workers on behalf of the Union and the essence of the CBA,” she added.

Mills also used the opportunity to stress the broader value of group representation and the unity of workers in achieving shared goals.

“We want workers here in St. Kitts and Nevis to truly understand the importance of being united in the workplace,” she said. “Your togetherness is your strength, and with the presence of the Union, you are stronger for it.”

While acknowledging that workers often focus on pay increases as a priority, Mills encouraged them to see the “priceless value” of being unionized members.

“It’s about more than just a paycheck increase. It’s about security, fairness, and having a voice.”

The official signing of the Collective Bargaining Agreement will follow soon, with a representative from the Ministry of Employment and Labour expected to participate in the ceremony. 

Mills noted that additional details will be shared after the signing, marking the culmination of what she described as a collaborative and productive process.

As the SKNT&LU and Harowe Servo move closer to formalizing the agreement, the Union’s leadership remains committed to championing the rights of workers and demonstrating the indispensable role of collective representation in creating fair and equitable workplaces.

Basseterre, St. Kitts, January 17, 2025 (SKNIS): The global rise in food prices continues to place significant pressure on economies and households worldwide. This surge is driven by a combination of factors, including supply chain disruptions, climate-related agricultural challenges, and heightened demand in the international market. For small island states like St. Kitts and Nevis, these external shocks resonate deeply, given our reliance on imported goods. The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, under the leadership of Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, recognizes the urgency of this situation and has implemented bold measures to alleviate the financial strain on our citizens.

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.

In addition to the VAT reduction, the government introduced the Budget Boost Wallet (BBW) programme, targeting individuals earning $5,000 or less per month. Eligible recipients will receive $250 per month from January to June 2025, providing direct financial assistance to those most impacted by the rising cost of living. This programme underscores the government’s commitment to prioritising vulnerable populations and ensuring that no one is left behind during these challenging times.

To further support its people, the government has spent a substantial $320 million to fund essential subsidies and social programmes over the past two years. This allocation ensures that subsidies on critical utilities and services remain accessible, helping to cushion the economic impact of global inflation. Moreover, the extension of the “Build & Thrive Incentive” for renovations and repairs offers VAT reductions and waivers on import duties and customs charges, enabling citizens to invest in their homes and maintain stability.

The 2025 budget also reflects a deep understanding of the importance of fair wages and income security. A historic increase in the national minimum wage to $500 per week, effective July 1, 2025, marks another step toward ensuring that workers can sustain themselves and their families amidst escalating costs. These financial interventions are complemented by a continued focus on pension increases and bonuses for civil servants and pensioners, further boosting household incomes.

The Government of St. Kitts and Nevis remains steadfast in its resolve to shield its citizens from the ripple effects of global economic pressures. These measures are not just policies but a testament to the leadership’s empathy and foresight. While the challenges ahead are formidable, the initiatives laid out in the 2025 Budget provide a clear pathway toward resilience and recovery. As we navigate this period together, the government calls on all citizens to remain hopeful and committed to building a more sustainable and inclusive future for St. Kitts and Nevis.

Basseterre, St. Kitts, January 16, 2025 (SKNIS): 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.

Cabinet Secretary, Dr. Marcus L. Natta shared the update on Wednesday’s (January 15, 2025) edition of InFocus. According to the projected number of eligible beneficiaries provided by the St. Christopher and Nevis Social Security Board, the confirmed registrants account for just over two-thirds of the expected total.

The BBW and its dedicated website was launched on January 11, 2025. The temporary financial support initiative aims to alleviate the burden of global inflation on vulnerable households. BBW offers $1,500 in direct assistance over six months to eligible individuals earning $5,000 or less. The $5,000 threshold will benefit middle-income families and those less fortunate.

“We are well on our way to capturing those persons who are eligible to receive the boost,” Dr. Natta stated, noting that over 22,000 persons are likely to be eligible. “I’m sure that we will be impacting positively well over 50 percent of the working population and that will trickle down to persons who have children or are guardians to children. It’s definitely going to make a positive impact.”

Funds are already being disbursed under the BBW to the JAD wallet of beneficiaries. Azilla Clarke, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs, addressed the positive impact of the initiative.

“We have already received calls from persons expressing that it is a blessing for many,” she stated, adding that the challenges of inflation are not unique to St. Kitts and Nevis as it is driven by global factors.

Persons who have not yet received funds in their digital wallet are assured that the disbursement is continuous.

“Now that the funds are there it is rolling every day so as you sign up, in short order, you will get the assistance,” Ms. Clarke emphasised. “Funds will be added to your Budget Boost Wallet once verification has been made that you are eligible and that your registration has gone through correctly.”

The Budget Boost Wallet targets individuals not households, ensuring that the assistance is wide-reaching.

Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis (January 11, 2025): 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 (https://budgetboostwallet.jad.cash/) , as part of its ongoing commitment to providing economic relief and empowerment for citizens and residents. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to ease financial burdens, especially for the most vulnerable households, and to ensure no one is left behind.

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Dr. Terrance M Drew, emphasised the transformative impact of this programme.

“This is not just a programme of financial assistance; it is a statement of our government’s firm commitment to prioritising the well-being of our citizens and ensuring more money in your pocket to help meet daily needs and reduce financial stress, in the midst of the negative effects of ongoing global inflation. The Budget Boost Wallet is a tangible reflection of our St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party Administration’s dedication to economic relief and empowerment for the people of Saint Kitts and Nevis.”

The BBW Programme provides EC$1,500 in direct financial assistance over six months (January to June 2025) to eligible individuals earning EC$5,000 or less per month. The funds, credited monthly to a digital wallet via the JAD Platform, can be used exclusively for essential expenses, such as:

* Groceries and Household Goods, excluding alcohol, tobacco, and cosmetics.
* Utility Payments to service providers like SKELEC, NEVLEC and the Water Services Department.

* Mortgage Payments to the National Housing Corporation (NHC) and Nevis Housing & Land Development Corporation (NHLDC).

The newly launched website, https://budgetboostwallet.jad.cash (https://budgetboostwallet.jad.cash/) , offers a seamless and intuitive registration process for individuals and businesses. Key features include:

* Individuals who previously participated in Government assistance programmes using JAD Cash Wallets, e.g., Back-to-School Initiative or School Uniform Assistance Programme, will have their Budget Boost Wallets automatically activated and notified via email.
* Those new to JAD Cash can easily register through the website in just a few steps.
* The website provides detailed information on eligibility, how to use the funds, and answers to common queries.

To qualify for the BBW Programme, applicants must:
* Be residing in Saint Kitts and Nevis.

* Have total gross earnings of EC$5,000 or less per month.
* Possess a valid Social Security ID.

* Have made at least one Social Security contribution week since January 2024 or be unemployed, excluding students (except students receiving stipends, such as teachers-in-training or nursing students).

Initial payments will begin before the end of January 2025. Citizens and residents are encouraged to visit the BBW website at https://budgetboostwallet.jad.cash (https://budgetboostwallet.jad.cash/) to learn more about the programme and confirm their eligibility. For additional assistance, contact the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Affairs at 467-1370 / 662-5993.