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What Does Easter Mean To You?

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What Does Easter Mean To You?

Known globally as the oldest Christian holiday, Easter is a principal holy holiday season which seals the faith of believers of Jesus Christ.

While there continues to be in some people’s mind debate about the name ‘Easter’, many Christians hold fast that through the recollection captured in Biblical scriptures, the events surrounding the divine significance of the resurrection in the aftermath of crucifixion is factual and is the bigger picture of this holiday period.

There are many people who frown upon the commercialization of Easter stemming from the symbolism of the ‘Easter Bunny’ and ‘Easter Eggs’ because such takes away from the education and righteous imagery about the Lord’s Lenten season.

It goes with saying therefore that the importance of the true meaning of Easter requires some soul searching and Holy Scripture reading-specifically in the Books of Matthew, John and Luke- in delving  deeper into the religious roots which pulls away from the superficial understanding of the type of tradition and rituals.

For this Easter season, on Good Friday many people look forward to eating salt fish or mackerel or any other type of fish with ground provisions and dumpling-coconut or otherwise. But the questions must be asked: Is there sufficient acknowledgement of the day here in St.Kitts and Nevis among our people in what is known to be a dominant Christian society? Do children (and even some adults) know the significance of flying their kites this time of year? and Do you know the reason behind eating fish?

In a nutshell for the benefit of those who may not know: kite flying is symbolism of ‘Christ is Risen’. Fish is the favoured and differently viewed meat as many Christians, through tradition, abstain from meaty flesh with the view that Jesus Christ sacrificed his flesh for the deliverance of humanity.

Hence as Easter approaches, the special period must not be viewed or experienced as just another holiday to mark on one’s calendar. Instead, Easter must be treated as a time of rediscovery, reflection and renewal.

Easter at its core celebrates and give observance to the resurrection of Jesus Christ; a pivotal occurrence through teachings  symbolizing triumph over death with the promise of course of eternal life after leaving this earthly dwelling.

Cradled by such comforting promise, there are many people who sing with much enthusiasm  while attending funeral services the lyrics “No grave can keep/hold my body down” of the popular Gospel tune ‘Ain’t No Grave Can Hold My Body Down’.

Looking deeply into the significance of Easter, there is an undeniable theme of universal acceptance for people of all backgrounds and belief on topics of hope, renewal and redemption. Hope among humanity is a common bonding factor which provides a beacon of light in moments of challenges and dark periods of life in this world. And for some people, the resurrection is a constant beacon of light.

For this Easter, it is highly encouraged that there be a sense of discovery or even rediscovery of what this Holy Season means. Such an exercise of course will be a personal one to some people while others united through unwavering strength and conviction continue to assemble at their house of worship in collective reverence, closing out the Lenten season.

A blessed Easter to one and all.

Environment Minister Applauds Changing Attitudes Towards Recycling, Waste Management

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Environment Minister Applauds Changing Attitudes Towards Recycling, Waste Management

By: Precious Mills

BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Wednesday 27th March 2024) – The National Recycling Program joint effort “has already made strides in changing behaviors and attitudes towards recycling and waste management.”

So said Minister of Sustainable Development, Environment and Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment, Senator Dr. Joyelle Clarke in a statement made during the National Assembly held on Tuesday 26th March 2024, having informed that the Cabinet has approved the three-phased ban on single-use plastic items across the Federation as she encouraged the continuation of such behaviours and attitudes towards environmental protection.

“While I need not delve into the pervasive challenge of plastic pollution, I am compelled nonetheless to remind every Kittitian and Nevisian that every small action collectively creates major movements in recycling, upcycling and limiting the use of plastics.”

“The small changes today will lead to incremental improvements in human and environmental health. Our students collected thousands of pounds of plastic bottles last year. Our landfill is bursting at the seams with plastics. What was once thought a viable solution to paper-based products has now become the gravest problems for our oceans,” Dr. Clarke stated.

According to the Environment Minister: “Tuesday, 26 March 2024, marks a significant milestone for environmental protection for St. Kitts and Nevis. This action is a testament to our unwavering commitment to protect our natural environment and foster a sustainable future for all.”

She highlighted that the announcement of this first phase of the ban has been the result of extensive consultations with stakeholders from the private sector to community groups and backed by solid research and evidence of the detrimental impacts of plastic pollution.

As shared by her, the Ministry will present the NCEMA- National Conservation and Environmental Management Bill very shortly.

“This bill will address the legislative needs for supporting the ban on single-use plastics. However, we are also anticipating the tabling of the Environmental Protection Restriction on Single-Use Plastics Bill, which when introduced would outline a comprehensive framework for banning specific plastic items.”

Dr. Clarke said that the implementation of this ban is structured in three strategic phases, ensuring a smooth transition for our citizens and businesses towards more sustainable alternatives.

In addition, she informed that each phase includes a ban on importation on select items, followed by a three-month window leading to a distribution ban.

As shared by her: Phase one-Ban on the importation of single-use plastic t-shirt shopping bags. As of December 31st, 2024, imports of t-shirt shopping bags will be banned in the Federation. This is followed by a prohibition on the sale and distribution of t-shirt plastic bags on March 31st, 2025.

Phase 2-Ban on the importation of foam food containers and plastic straws. Effective April 30th, 2025. The sale and distribution of plastic straws and foam containers will be prohibited starting July 31st, 2025.

Phase 3- Banning the importation of plastic cups, plastic plates, and plastic utensils on August 31st, 2025. A ban on their sale and distribution. Effective November 30th, 2025.

In making reference to the government’s partners in this process, she commented: “Our commitment is further demonstrated through the implementation of the Solid Waste Management and Recycling Project executed with our bilateral partners and the Taiwan ICDF Program, which has led on our National Recycling Program. This joint effort has already made strides in changing behaviors and attitudes towards recycling and waste management.”

Dr. Clarke indicated that “Our success over the next year as we move through each phase requires the collective effort of every citizen, every business, and every visitor to our islands.”

“We look forward and we will support a plastic-free environment…We look to each ministry to collect and recycle and eliminate plastic bottles from your meetings and conferences. Simple collective steps towards a circular economy and a sustainable island state. We call upon you, every citizen, every petitioner and every new vision to employ and embrace alternatives to single use plastics, to think consciously about the products you use and dispose of and to support our local initiatives aimed at preserving our environment,” she encouraged.

Union Educates Skilled Workers During Readiness Session

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Union Educates Skilled Workers During Readiness Session

By: Precious Mills

BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Wednesday 27th March 2024)-The St.Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union (SKNT&LU) on Wednesday 27th March 2024 conducted a session on ‘The Importance and Benefits of Unionised Bodies Within The Skilled Industry’ as part of the Work Readiness Workshop put on by the Advanced Vocational Education Centre (AVEC) at its campus located at Taylor’s Range in Basseterre, St.Kitts.

The workshop was held under the theme ‘Strengthening TVET, Charting Sustainable Changes and Anchoring Positive Transformation in Industries for the Next Generation.’

SKNT&LU First Vice President Curtis Francis, the union’s representative on the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council was a presenter.

Director at AVEC Eston Williams informed that the age range of the second year trainees are 16 and over, noting that some of them are 40. Notably, the over fifty (50) trainees would receive a diploma following their two-year hands-on training.

“As a technical vocational institution, part of our training is to sensitize the trainees on work experience and work preparedness. So, the trainees that we have here today are second year trainees. They should be completing their training program at the end of June,” Williams stated.

He continued: “We would annually have what is called work preparedness, where the trainees will go out in the workforce and they would experience what it is to work out there using the skills that they would have gained within the institution itself, getting an opportunity to showcase their work, work habits, they would get the opportunity to build network, they would get the opportunity to even win over the employers out there for whom they would have been working for.”

Williams commented further: “Additionally, they get the opportunity to be a part of the workforce and they are able to know what it is like to be a part of the workforce. So they are able to earn an income and to prepare themselves fully for the work environment itself.”

The collective program areas for the trainees are: Commercial Food Preparation, Electrical and Electronics, Data Operation, Office Administration, AC and refrigeration, General Cosmetology, General Construction, Welding and Fabrication and Automotive Repairs.

“However, those are the mainstream courses that we have but from time to time, we will run short courses that will be maximum three months and those courses are run based on the needs. So for this set, the training and the certification, the trainees would receive a diploma at the end of their two years training,” the AVEC Director noted.

According to Williams: “Our intention is to have the Labour Department come in throughout the year at any given time to sensitise the trainees about their benefits, and the use of unions and their rights as labourers.”

Meanwhile, the union’s representative Francis, during his presentation spoke about the importance of being unionised, encouraged the trainees to join the 1940-founded organization (formerly called the Workers League- established in 1932).

He also touched on the essence of togetherness of workers at a workplace in addressing working conditions and other related areas by approaching management through a Collective Bargaining Agreement which generally requires 50 per cent plus 1 of the workforce at any company.

Francis outlined that workers becoming unionised members individually is quite beneficial as it relates to having representation in the workplace and overall in the labour market.

SKNT&LU First Vice President Curtis Francis, the union’s representative on the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council seen while making remarks on the topic of ‘The Importance and Benefits of Unionised Bodies Within The Skilled Industry’ (Spokesman Snap)

He also pointed out that information about workers’ rights and protection are important for business owners to know and understand fully.

Francis highlighted the SKNTLU’s six (6) reasons why a worker needs a union, namely:

1. STRENGTH THROUGH UNITY-It is easier to gain concessions from management by collective bargaining through a Union than by arguing for your rights as a single person.

2. REPRESENTATION AT WORK-The Union provides representation for a worker in any dispute with management, and the worker is less at a disadvantage.

3. PROTECTION FROM EXPLOITATION-The role of the Union is to protect the workers from exploitation by management, with respect to wages, working hours, illness and injury, discrimination and victimisation and in any other area.

4. HEALTH AND SAFETY-The Union fights for a better working environment for the worker, e.g. improved sanitation, good ventilation, better catering facilities etc. The Union seeks to ensure that Occupational Health and Safety standards as laid down by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) are met at factories and other workplaces.

5. PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-The Union provides opportunities for individual development of workers: (a) Through involvement in the organisational structure of the Union itself. (b)Through the provision of lectures, seminars and other educational courses for its members.

6. LEGAL SERVICES-The Union provides legal assistance to members involved in litigation related to work situations for either pro bono or at a much lower cost than would normally be obtained by the worker.

Other SKNT&LU representatives who attended the session were President Sydney Bridgewater, General Secretary Precious Mills and Field Officer Sean Kelly.

The three other topics covered by other presenters that day were: ‘Teamwork: Having The Right Attitude For Success In The Workplace’, ‘Finance And Investment: Building Wealth And Taking Care Of Your Health’ and ‘What Leadership Is Necessary For The Future.’

SKNT&LU First Vice President Curtis Francis, the union’s representative on the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council interacts with trainees (Spokesman Snap)
SKNT&LU First Vice President Curtis Francis, the union’s representative on the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council (left) accepts a token of appreciation gift basket from Director at AVEC (Advanced Vocational Education Centre) Eston Williams following his presentation (Spokesman Snap)
SKNT&LU First Vice President Curtis Francis, the union’s representative on the Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council seen while making remarks on the topic of ‘The Importance and Benefits of Unionised Bodies Within The Skilled Industry’ (Spokesman Snap)

Workers of St.Kitts and Nevis can become union members by payment of $10.00 registration (Entrance Fee) and $5.00 weekly subscription at an average of $20-$25 monthly.

Of note: The SKNT&LU functions as the Workers Representative on a number of national bodies and committees-namely- The National Tripartite Committee, Minimum Wage Advisory Committee, Social Security Board Solid Waste Management Board and the TVET Council.

Please Like and Follow the union’s official Facebook page (St.Kitts-Nevis Trades and Labour Union).

Zack Says: Registration Of Swimmers A Must

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Zack Says: Registration Of Swimmers A Must

By: Precious Mills

BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Wednesday 27th March 2024)-Coordinator of the upcoming 67th Basil Henderson Annual Easter Monday Aquatic Sports Meet Winston ‘Zack’ Nisbett says registration of all swimmers for this year’s event is a must.

He shared such information while speaking with this reporter on Wednesday 27th March 2024 in the lead up to the annual outdoorsy event, slated to take place on Monday 1st April 2023 at the Ferry Terminal in Basseterre under the theme ‘Building Community Spirit Through Sports’.

“Registration of the names of all of the swimmers will be done this year so that there is proper order when it comes to smooth flow of proper record keeping which is very important especially when it comes to transparency for the distribution of prizes. I have the book already, a big book to take all of them. I’m going to show the names so they know who is who…,” he remarked.

Events are scheduled to start at 9:00 AM sharp. As usual, there will be swimming races, Ham Pole, Iron Pole, Boat Racing and a variety of other sporting and cultural activities.

Commenting on the significance of the event when it comes to keeping up the culture and togetherness as a community, Nisbett said “It’s a good sporting endeavor. It creates healthy exercising because to me it’s like an exercise.”

In encouraging persons to attend the event, Nisbett pointed to the boxing exhibition which is a well-anticipated feature which can facilitate challenging someone without using weapons.

“Boxing is a fun thing because you want to challenge somebody to get away from the guns and the knives. That is what boxing is all about.”

There are plans to have an actual boxing ring.

NEMA Utilises Drones in Caribe Wave Exercise for the First Time

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NEMA Utilises Drones in Caribe Wave Exercise for the First Time

Basseterre, St. Kitts, 27 March, 2024 (NEMA): For the first time ever, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) utilised unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), also known as drones, to monitor and assess this year’s CARIBE WAVE Exercise.

CARIBE WAVE is a tsunami response exercise that takes place in the region annually on March 21. It can take several forms. This year, an evacuation drill was conducted in the Dieppe Bay to Saddlers area. The use of drones allowed officials to monitor the activity over a wider area and collect data that would help evaluators assess the performance of participants. CARIBE WAVE 24 Planning Coordinator, Oureika Lennon-Petty, spoke of the significance of having a bird’s-eye view of the exercise as it unfolded.

“We posted team members at two carefully selected locations and could see what was going on both in the village and at the assembly point with the drones. With several schools taking part in the exercise, we thought this would give us the advantage of being able to see if something went wrong and to get assistance where it needed to be quickly. It also allowed us to see if things were going as they should,” Mrs. Lennon-Petty disclosed.

Two drones were in operation on that day – a drone donated to NEMA by the humanitarian organization Global Support and Development (GSD) and one from the St. Kitts Electricity Company (SKELEC). They were operated by a member of the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Department and SKELEC, respectively, with representatives from NEMA, the St. Kitts and Nevis Customs and Excise Department, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, Her Majesty’s Prison, the St. Kitts and Nevis Fire and Rescue Services, the St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force and the St. Kitts and Nevis Red Cross Society providing support. All drone operators and supporting team members recently successfully completed a week-long Drone Operation Training workshop which was hosted by NEMA. GSD sponsored the workshop and provided the trainers. All participants received a certificate noting their Level I proficiency.

Mrs. Lennon-Petty added that NEMA’s drone was equipped with a speaker over which the emergency message was aired to the residents below and both drones used cameras to take photographs and video footage of the activity.

“The drone that was donated to NEMA is valued at about US $10,000 and has several features we can use including a spotlight, speaker and camera. So, we are deeply grateful to GSD for, not only assisting us with the donation, but also for supporting the Drone Training Workshop because we were able use the individuals from that workshop to operate the drones during the CARIBE WAVE exercise,” she added.

Disaster management agencies like NEMA can also utilise drone technology to efficiently and accurately conduct assessments both pre- and post-disasters in order to improve the response. Drones can quickly capture aerial imagery and data, and provide comprehensive and evidence-based damage reports, giving a clear overview of the most affected areas and inaccessible regions.

Single Use Plastic Ban – The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis Takes a Monumental Step towards a Plastic-Free Environment and Future

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Single Use Plastic Ban – The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis Takes a Monumental Step towards a Plastic-Free Environment and Future

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, 26 March 2024 (The Department of Environment) – The Government of St Kitts and Nevis made a historic announcement to ban single-use plastics. The announcement was made during the sitting of National Assembly on Tuesday 26 March 2024 by the Minister of Environment, Climate Action and Constituency Empowerment, Hon Dr Joyelle Clarke.

The implementation of the ban will be structured in three phases and will affect the importation, sale, and distribution of several items.

Single Use Plastic Ban – The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis Takes a Monumental Step towards a Plastic-Free Environment and Future

Phase 1 involves the ban on importation of T-shirt plastic shopping bags as of 31 December 2024. This will be followed by a ban on the sale and distribution of these bags by 31 March 2025.

Phase 2 involves a ban on the importation of Styrofoam food containers and plastic straws effective as of 30 April 2025. While the sale and distribution of the same items will be banned as of 31 July 2025.

The final Phase involves banning the importation of single-use plastic cups, plastic plates, and plastic utensils as of 31 August 2025, followed by a ban on the sale and distribution of the same products as of 30 November 2025.

Minister of Environment, Climate Action & Constituency Empowerment, Hon Dr Joyelle Clarke stated that the ban on single-use plastics is a decisive step towards the government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the natural environment and towards fostering a sustainable future for the twin-island nation.

The single-use plastic ban is part of the government’s commitment towards becoming a Sustainable Island State and which aligns with several of the United Nations’ Global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

· SDG 3 – Good Health & Well-being

· SDG 6 – Clean Water & Sanitation

· SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities & Communities

· SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production

· SDG 13- Climate Action

· SDG 14 – Life below Water

· SDG 15 – Life on Land

The ban will serve to regulate the importation, sale and distribution of single-use plastics until the pending Environmental Protection Bill 2024 shortly titled Restriction on Single-Use-Plastic Bill, is passed.

St Kitts and Nevis will now join over 100 countries including at least 12 in the Caribbean, like Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados and the Turks and Caicos Islands, to now have a full or partial ban on single-use plastics.

National Productivity Council Bill 2024, Successfully Passes Through Federal Parliament

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National Productivity Council Bill 2024, Successfully Passes Through Federal Parliament

Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 27, 2024 (SKNIS): The National Productivity Council Bill, 2024,  secured safe passage through the Federal Parliament on Tuesday, March 26, marking a pivotal moment in the establishment of the National Productivity Council and its related functions in St. Kitts and Nevis. 

The Council will be responsible for identifying and analysing factors affecting productivity and recommending strategies to address them, and for developing and implementing training programmes to enhance the skills and capabilities of the workforce, among other things.

Mover of the Bill, the Honourable Marsha Henderson, Minister responsible for Labour, emphasised that productivity  stands as a paramount issue, pivotal to propelling  the Federation forward. 

“Over the coming months, efforts will be made to improve productivity and expand economic capacity and fast-track the green energy transition in order to yield term benefits and energy security,” said Minister Henderson. 

She further mentioned that productivity and prosperity are tightly connected, in that when productivity increases in the private sector, it typically results in higher profits that benefit shareholders, employees, and consumers, while in the public sector, it leads to an increase in government tax revenue.

Minister Henderson further stated that increased productivity in the public sector typically results in cost savings for taxpayers and also enhances productivity in the private sector, while robust national productivity enhances a country’s overall competitiveness and appeal to local and foreign investors.

The minister also indicated that upon the Bill’s passage, the Ministry of Labour and Employment aims to implement the four-day workweek, highlighting it as a key advantage of establishing a National Productivity Council.

In her concluding remarks, the Honourable Minister stated that the Bill is a step in the right direction because of its multipurpose benefits not just to employers but employees as well. 

Successfully Passed Medical Laboratories Bill, 2024, to Set New Standards in Health and Industry in St. Kitts and Nevis

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Successfully Passed Medical Laboratories Bill, 2024, to Set New Standards in Health and Industry in St. Kitts and Nevis

Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 26, 2024 (SKNIS): Senior Minister and Minister of International Trade and Consumer Affairs, the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, expressed strong support for the newly passed Medical Laboratories Bill, 2024, during the sitting of Parliament, on March 26. This pivotal legislation aims to establish the Medical Laboratories Council and provide for the licensing, monitoring, and inspection of medical laboratory operations, amongst other related matters.

Dr. Douglas highlighted the significance of the Bill.

“This Bill to some extent is in keeping with the intention of the government to bring comfort to people who would, from time to time, need to use the medical laboratory as part of the ongoing confirmation of diseases that would have been detected and also to a large extent to pursue investigation of such diseases as far as possible,” said Senior Minister Dr. Douglas.

He added that the Bill is part of a broader vision to transform St. Kitts and Nevis into a sustainable island state, fostering not only service production in financial and hospitality sectors but also paving the way for advancements in the pharmaceutical industry.

“This is one of the areas that we have not tapped into yet. But I can give notice that it is our intention in particular… to make sure that St. Kitts and Nevis is open to attracting investment in the pharmaceutical industry and thus broadening the base that we would be utilising, not only in attracting investment dollars but in providing opportunities for employment for our young brilliant people who can be scientifically and medically minded,” Dr. Douglas stated.

The enactment of the Medical Laboratories Bill, 2024, is a strategic move ensuring that the nation’s medical laboratories operate at the highest standards. It is anticipated that the establishment of a robust regulatory framework will attract investments in the pharmaceutical industry, leading to job creation and ensuring that products meet not only regional but international standards.

“The Bill is very important in terms of projecting St. Kitts and Nevis in the future, and of course, consolidating its efforts of attaining certain standards at the present day,” stated the trade minister, adding that the legislation marks a significant milestone in the country’s journey towards achieving excellence in healthcare and industrial development.

He said that with the successful passage of the Bill, St. Kitts and Nevis is set on a path to becoming a leading hub for medical and pharmaceutical innovation, ensuring the health and well-being of its citizens while fostering economic growth and development.

United States and Taiwan Collaborate on Medical Mission to Benefit St. Kitts and Nevis

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United States and Taiwan Collaborate on Medical Mission to Benefit St. Kitts and Nevis

Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 26, 2024 (SKNIS): Over the course of eight days, from March 18 to March 25, 2024, St. Kitts and Nevis experienced additional support in healthcare services, thanks to the United States Air Force Southern Command Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT) mission.

This initiative featured medical professionals from the U.S. providing specialised medical services in areas such as general surgery, ophthalmology, dental care, and audiology to the Federation’s patients and medical personnel. The Republic of China (Taiwan) was a key partner of the mission, deploying medical professionals to support the U.S. team.

The LAMAT 2024 mission, described as a smaller yet unique operation in comparison to previous missions, like the hospital ship USNS Comfort’s visit in 2019, marked a significant milestone in the ongoing healthcare collaboration between St. Kitts and Nevis, the United States, and Taiwan. The joint effort enhanced the health outcomes for the local population by providing free specialist treatment to those in need.

During the closing ceremony held on March 26, 2024, at the St. Kitts Marriott Resort, the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas, Senior Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, lauded the mission’s success and highlighted the significance of the collaboration.  

Senior Minister Dr. Douglas

“This tripartite collaboration serves as a model for triangular cooperation in assisting states to achieve their health objectives,” said Senior Minister Dr. Douglas, who emphasised the operation’s alignment with the Government’s objectives and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 17, which calls for partnerships for the goals.

Dr. Douglas also pointed out the economic implications of the mission, noting that a strong healthcare system is crucial for the nation’s economic health, particularly in sectors like tourism that are vital to the economy of St. Kitts and Nevis.

“This LAMAT Mission has proven to be helpful not only for the health of our people but also the health of our nation,” he added.

The senior minister said that collaboration between the medical teams from the United States and Taiwan with local healthcare providers was seamless, providing a model for future healthcare missions and international cooperation. He expressed gratitude towards the governments of the United States of America and the Republic of China (Taiwan) for their contributions, which have set a high standard for healthcare provision in the Federation. 

The successful completion of the LAMAT 2024 mission is a testament to the power of international cooperation in addressing healthcare needs and improving the well-being of the people of St. Kitts and Nevis. Dr. Douglas said that the Federation looks forward to continuing its partnerships with both nations and furthering the advancements in healthcare and economic development for its citizens.

From March 17 to 25, the LAMAT 2024 mission, in collaboration with Taiwanese medical professionals and local health officials, provided comprehensive care to a total of 265 Accident and Emergency (A&E) patients. In addition, 251 individuals received primary care services, while 344 patients benefited from dental care. The mission also conducted 136 audiology assessments, which included screenings for eight newborns, and undertook 24 surgical procedures. 

Findings of an Internal Review of the Citizenship by Investment Programme Revealed an Over-dependence on CBI Revenue by the Former Administration

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Findings of an Internal Review of the Citizenship by Investment Programme Revealed an Over-dependence on CBI Revenue by the Former Administration

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, March 26, 2024 (SKNIS) – Prime Minister and Minister of National Security and Immigration, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, delivered a statement in the National Assembly on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, that revealed some startling and troubling facts regarding the management of the country’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) Programme under the former administration, and outlined the significant steps by his administration to strengthen the CBI and rebuild trust and confidence in the programme amongst international partners.

Chief among the concerning revelations that came after an internal review of the Citizenship by Investment Programme was the issue of over-reliance on the programme by the previous administration. This, Dr. Drew said, led to unscrupulous practices and underselling that ultimately compromised the standing and reputation of the country’s CBI programme.

“In the last five years of the previous administration, CBI generated fifty (50) percent of the overall cash revenue for the Federal Government. In the last two years of the previous administration, the CBI generated fifty-seven (57) percent of the overall cash revenue for the Federal Government. This is the truest economic example of putting all of one’s eggs in one basket,” Dr. Drew said.

Such dependence on the economic citizenship programme was identified as a cause for concern by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its report on the 2022 performance of the Federation’s economy.

“The IMF in their report examining the 2022 performance of our economy said ‘the growing dependence on volatile and uncertain CBI revenue is a major source of vulnerability. Directors called for reducing heavy dependence on unpredictable CBI revenue through improved structural fiscal policies, enhanced accountability and use for investments in reliance and building buffers,” the prime minister said, noting that the IMF report underpinned the concerns shared by his administration.

In addressing this problem, Prime Minister Dr. Drew said one of the first priorities upon assuming office was expanding and diversifying the Federation’s economy.  

“In 2022, CBI revenue reached an unsustainable level of sixty (60) percent of total Federal Government revenue. This unsustainable status quo cannot continue and our administration has been focused on diversifying our economy. That is why economic diversification is one of the seven pillars of our sustainable island state agenda Madame Speaker,” Dr. Drew said.

He added, “The economy that we envisioned will see major inflows from tourism, major inflows from construction, major inflows from water and energy infrastructure, major inflows from the creative economy, agriculture, offshore education, major inflows from manufacturing and more. No longer can we continue to be so reliant on a single leg and that single leg is the CBI programme.”

Mindful of its mandate to protect the interest of the twin-island Federation, the government acted swiftly and decisively to strengthen the programme with the support of its regional and international partners.

“We bolstered our legislative and administrative frameworks…to curtail any underselling, we reinstated the primacy of law within our CBI Programme and we terminated unscrupulous advertising practices. In all of this, we made sure that we were not going to compromise the security of St. Kitts and Nevis or any other country, especially our international partners,” Dr. Drew stated.

The prime minister’s statement came on the same day the Citizenship by Investment Unit Bill, 2024, was introduced and had its first reading in the National Assembly. This bill provides for the establishment of a Citizenship by Investment Unit for Saint Christopher and Nevis as a body corporate, having perpetual succession and a common seal and may sue and be sued in its corporate name.

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