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Ministry of Health Announces the Establishment of an in-house Human Resource Department

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Ministry of Health Announces the Establishment of an in-house Human Resource Department

Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 23, 2024 (SKNIS): Dr. Jenson Morton, the Director of Health Institutions at the Ministry of Health, announced a significant development in the ministry’s operational framework, the establishment of an in-house Human Resource (HR) Department.

Historically, the Ministry of Health, despite being one of the largest in terms of personnel, lacked its own HR Department, relying instead on the central government’s HR services. This arrangement, Dr. Morton said, while functional, often led to delays and challenges in the nuanced management of HR-related tasks due to the ministry’s unique demands and scale.

Recognizing the inefficiency, the ministry has successfully established its HR Department, a move made possible by the approval and support of the Ministry of Finance. This strategic development is anticipated to streamline HR functions not only within the Ministry of Health but also across Institution-Based Health Services, which encompasses the Joseph N. France General Hospital among other critical health institutions.

During the February 21, 2024, edition of InFocus, Dr. Morton highlighted the benefits of this new department.

 “With this in-house HR Department, we are going to be able to coordinate regular training in everything from customer service to leadership training, as well as a lot of other different training that can now be coordinated onsite with the establishment of this department. So we are very grateful for that,” he said, adding that this initiative promises to enhance operational efficiency, staff development, and ultimately, the quality of healthcare services provided to the community.

The director of health institutions said that the establishment of an in-house HR Department marks a milestone in the Ministry of Health’s ongoing efforts to improve its administrative and operational capabilities.

Pension Reform Task Force Continues the Important Work of Advancing Efforts Towards the Implementation of the Contributory Pension Plan

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Pension Reform Task Force Continues the Important Work of Advancing Efforts Towards the Implementation of the Contributory Pension Plan

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, February 22, 2024 (SKNIS) – During the February 22, 2024, Sitting of the National Assembly, Prime Minister the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, gave a comprehensive update on the Pension Reform Task Force that is charged with advancing the work on the Contributory Pension Plan.

TheContributory Pension Plan, first announced by Prime Minister Drew in his 2024 Budget Address, entails a three (3) percent pension contribution. It is specifically designed for all Government Auxiliary Employees (GAE) and those employed by the government since May 18, 2012.

PrimeMinister Drew indicated that the Pension Reform Task Force continues to meet regularly. He said it is the goal of his administration to ensure equity in the treatment of all categories of government workers, including Government Auxiliary Employees.

“Towards this and in an effort to ensure sustainability, we have engaged the services of an actuarial expert to perform necessary assessments and provide recommendations to the Cabinet. We are determined to, as far as possible, ensure that all employees are adequately compensated for their work and contribution to achieving our sustainable island state agenda,” Dr. Drew said, while stating that the intention is to ensure that workers are able to retire in dignity.

ThePension Reform Task Force consists of representation from the Head of the Civil Service, the Accountant General Department, the Human Resource Management Department, the Ministry of Finance and the Director of Audit.

PrimeMinister Drew noted that the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis, under his leadership, will continue to put measures in place geared towards improving employee working conditions and benefits.

Headded, “As we bring these benefits forward however, there is also responsibility, and I want our people to be responsible people, hard-working people, productive people so that all of this can really be sustained and redound to the benefit of all of our people.”

First Cohort of Participants Set to Graduate Phase One of the Elevate Programme

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First Cohort of Participants Set to Graduate Phase One of the Elevate Programme

BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, February 22, 2024 (SKNIS) – The first group of individuals has successfully completed phase one of training under the ELEVATE Programme, and as such will be part of the first cohort of graduates from the pioneering initiative that is aimed at empowering marginalised and at-risk individuals.

Thiswas highlighted by Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew during the February 22, 2024, Sitting of the National Assembly under the section ‘Statement by Ministers’.

“In the second week of January, a successful Training of Trainers was conducted with a diverse cohort from the private sector, the Ministries of Small Business, and Social and Community Development. The first group of participants, approximately ninety (90) individuals from the communities of Basseterre, Ottley’s, Old Road and Molineux, has completed their training and is preparing to graduate from phase one of the programme,” Prime Minister Dr. Drew said.

Thesuccessful participants of phase one underwent critical training in interpersonal and career development and financial literacy. The financial literacy training covered a range of topics including developing a budget; tracking income and expenses; cultivating a saving habit; debt management, and strategies for wealth and asset building.

PrimeMinister Drew stated that the second cohort of participants is set to commence training on March 04, 2024. During this time, programme officials will continue their efforts to secure job attachments for the participants who will now move on to phase two of their training.

Lookingahead, the honourable prime minister said that a number of projects will be rolled out in the coming weeks under the umbrella of the ELEVATE Programme, which officially replaced the Alternative Lifestyle Pathways Programme, commonly referred to as the Peace Programme, in July 2023.

“Future plans include the launch of the ELEVATE through Entrepreneurship Programme in the next quarter and the piloting of the Cash in Queen financial planning programme for women and girls during the upcoming Easter break in high schools. Additionally, a three-month ELEVATE Youth programme will be piloted in two communities starting this March,” he said. 

PrimeMinister Drew said the government, with the assistance of professionals and experts, put much thought, planning and coordination “to bring a programme onstream that will be transparent and redound in the true rehabilitation or the true training of those who are the participants of the programme, and so this programme will be deeply integrated into the communities to reach those it is intended to reach.”

Personsare encouraged to visit the ELEVATE website at https://www.elevate.gov.kn/ or visit the office located on the Bay Road to learn more about the ELEVATE programme.

National Assembly Champions Fiscal Prudence and Fair Compensation With Adoption of 2019 Salaries Review for Senior Parliamentary Officials

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National Assembly Champions Fiscal Prudence and Fair Compensation With Adoption of 2019 Salaries Review for Senior Parliamentary Officials

Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 22, 2024 (SKNIS): In a significant move underscoring its commitment to fiscal responsibility and equitable treatment of its senior officials, the National Assembly of St. Christopher and Nevis, on February 22, 2024, unanimously adopted a resolution to accept the recommendations made by the 2019 Salaries Review Commission for the adjustment of senior parliamentary officials’ salaries.

These include the Governor-General, Members of the National Assembly, including the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Prime Minister, Ministers of Government, the Attorney General and the Leader of the Opposition (“Senior Parliamentary Officials”).

This resolution, moved by the Honourable Garth Wilkin, Attorney-General and Minister of Justice and Legal Affairs, marks a pivotal step in acknowledging the dedication and hard work of senior parliamentary officials. It is noteworthy that this adjustment comes after nearly two decades without an increase, with the last adjustment made in 2005.

The decision to adhere to the 2019 Review Commission’s recommendations, rather than implementing immediate, extensive salary adjustments, reflects the administration’s prudent and careful fiscal management, especially in the wake of the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the persistent inflationary pressures. 

Furthermore, the adoption of this resolution reiterates the government’s commitment to regular, transparent reviews of parliamentary compensation. The government acknowledges that reviews should be conducted every three years to ensure that compensation remains fair and reflective of the economic realities and responsibilities of the roles. This move sets a precedent for future administrations to follow, ensuring that the welfare of those who serve at the highest levels of government is continually assessed and addressed in a timely and fair manner.

The Honourable Garth Wilkin emphasised that this resolution is not just about adjusting salaries; it’s about valuing leadership, dedication, and the significant sacrifices made by senior parliamentarians. It’s a testament to the government’s recognition of the importance of maintaining a stable and effective parliamentary system through fair compensation, especially in light of the economic challenges that have been navigated in recent years.

According to AG Wilkin, this resolution is a clear indication of the administration’s prudent, caring, and responsible governance. It stands as a beacon of the government’s commitment to fiscal prudence, while simultaneously acknowledging and rectifying the long-overdue need for a salary review for its senior parliamentary officials. The National Assembly’s decision reinforces the message that even in times of economic uncertainty, fairness, and respect for the institutions of governance and their officials remain a paramount concern.

Training for Females in Fields Dominated by Men Fully Booked

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Training for Females in Fields Dominated by Men Fully Booked

Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 22, 2024 (SKNIS): Women in St. Kitts have overwhelmingly responded to a month-long series of training by the Department of Gender Affairs that will increase knowledge and skills in several areas traditionally dominated by men.

In commemoration of International Women’s Day on March 08, 2024, the department will stage a session on each of the following: the basics of plumbing on March 02, auto mechanics on March 09, welding on March 16, electricity on March 23, and tiling on March 30 and April 06. The training in tiling spans two sessions to allow for the laying of the tiles in session one and grouting the following week.

Senior Gender Officer, Shinnel Charles, said staging the half-day training on Saturdays provides an opportunity for more women to participate.

“Normally, you don’t really find women [skilled] in these areas, and if you do, it’s normally one person,” she stated, recalling that some years ago the department was keen to recognize the contribution of the lone female heavy equipment driver in St. Kitts and Nevis at that time. “They are very rare, so … when we find the areas where we can help women to excel, we need to push forward.”

The 30 slots for each of the training sessions are fully booked, but given the response from the public, officials are negotiating with partners to meet the high demand.

“It is not a one-off. We look forward to doing it some more and getting women more involved in these non-traditional skills training, especially auto mechanics because we have cars and what I am seeing is that most of our women in communities are single mothers. They don’t have a man in their homes who can help, or what if your car breaks down on the side of the road who would you call? If you can do it yourself, hey, go ahead and do it yourself,” she stated.

Key partners in the training include S. L. Horsfords and Company Ltd, TDC Automotive Division, the Advanced Vocational and Education Centre (AVEC) and the Public Works Department (PWD).

Other activities to celebrate International Women’s Day in March are a church service on March 03, as well as a High School Girls Award with presentations from March 05 to 15, 2024.

Locally-Made Products Among Top Sellers at USVI Agriculture and Food Fair

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Locally-Made Products Among Top Sellers at USVI Agriculture and Food Fair

Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 22, 2024 (SKNIS): The recently held 52nd Annual Agriculture and Food Fair held in St. Croix, US Virgin Islands (USVI), became a significant platform for showcasing St. Kitts and Nevis’ local products and produce, attracting around 30,000 visitors over its three-day course, (February 17-19).

The event highlighted the Federation’s agricultural and agro-processed products, with Essence, Castor Oil, Guava Cheese, Cassava Chips, and Soaps emerging as some of the top sellers. 

The delegation from the Federation, led by the Honourable Samal Duggins, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Resources, and Small Business, Entrepreneurship and Cooperatives, comprised Kyla Gibson and Zilma Dickenson from the Ministry of Small Business, Entrepreneurship and Cooperatives, along with Camesha Morton from Natures Best of Nevis and Leon Cuffy from Arise and Essence of St. Kitts. Other attendees included Permanent Secretary, Miguel Flemming and Marketing Manager, Alicia Whyte from the Ministry of Agriculture.

Minister Duggins reflected on the significance of this year’s representation at the USVI Agriculture and Food Fair. 

“For the first time since the early 1980s, small businesses from St. Kitts and Nevis were represented, marking a historic moment in the Federation’s ongoing efforts to promote its agricultural sector and small businesses on an international stage,” said Minister Duggins. “This commitment underscores the dedication and progress of St. Kitts and Nevis in elevating its local industries and fostering global partnerships.”

Reflecting on the remarkable turnout and enthusiastic reception of St. Kitts and Nevis’ products at the USVI Agriculture and Food Fair, Permanent Secretary Flemming shared insights on the success and appeal of the Federation’s offerings.

“Each year hundreds of visitors flock to the St. Kitts and Nevis booths to buy our products because of the high quality and wide range of products offered,” he stated while emphasising the strong reputation and growing demand for the Federation’s products in the US Virgin Islands and beyond.

This positive reception, he said, extends to the USVI supermarkets, with plans underway for exporting local produce, agro-processed goods, and other products from St. Kitts and Nevis, further cementing the islands’ presence in regional markets.

Port Zante Stakeholders and Tourism Officials Engage in Productive Dialogue to Boost Business

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Port Zante Stakeholders and Tourism Officials Engage in Productive Dialogue to Boost Business

Basseterre, St. Kitts, February 21, 2024 (SKNIS): Stakeholders operating from Port Zante had the chance to interact directly with officials from the Ministry of Tourism on February 20 at the NEMA Conference Room, where they expressed their concerns and opinions, and offered recommendations aimed at enhancing business activities in this vital sector.

In attendance at the meeting was the Minister of Tourism, Honourable Marsha Henderson; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Tivanna Wharton; Julie Charles, CEO of Urban Development Corporation and Chair of the St. Kitts Sustainable Destination Council, Diannille Taylor-Williams. 

Minister Henderson, in her dialogue with the merchants, explained that the destination has seen an increase in the number of calls from larger vessels. This was seen with the inaugural visit of the largest cruise ship in the world, ‘Icon of the Seas’ which occurred on January 30th. The ‘Icon of the Seas’ returns to St. Kitts on February 27.

Minister Henderson also tackled the issue regarding the variety of brands available at Port Zante, noting that not all passengers are interested in some particular brands, especially when there are preferences for unique brands from discerning travellers.  

She further stated that the ministry is currently in the process of consultations to develop a policy aimed at regulating the types of goods sold at Port Zante. During these consultations, it emerged that there is a consensus against the sale of counterfeit goods at Port Zante. 

A commitment was made to consider the congestion of tourists on the eastern side, primarily as it is the only drop-off point at Port Zante. Merchants suggested advising tour operators to guide tourists back to the centre, allowing them to patronise more stores, as a significant portion of their sales occur when tourists return to the port in the afternoon.

Change of Levy Deduction Threshold

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Change of Levy Deduction Threshold

BASSETERRE, ST KITTS – WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 21ST, 2024 – The St Christopher & Nevis Social Security Board wishes to advise the public of changes to levy effective March 1st, 2024. While the minimum wage was increased from $360.00 per week to $430.00 per week effective January 1st, 2024, the threshold for exemption from Housing and Social Development Levy is set at $450.00 per week. That is, only the Social Security deduction of 5% should be applied to employee wages between $0.01 to $450.00 per week.

Employers and Employees are advised to note these changes in accordance with the various pay cycles:

For persons who are weekly paid, no Levy will be deductible from wages up to and including $450.00

For persons who are paid every two weeks/bi-weekly, no Levy will be deductible from wages up to and including $900.00

For persons receiving wages twice per month or every half month, no Levy will be deductible from wages up to and including $975.00

For persons being paid on a monthly basis, no Levy will be deductible from wages up to and including $1,950.00

Further as it relates to employees earning over $6500.00 monthly, the following remains in place:

For Tier Two (persons crossing the threshold and earning up to and including $6,500.00 per month), Levy will be deductible at the continuing rate of 3.5% of total earnings.

For Tier Three (persons earning between $6,500.01 and $8,000.00 per month) Levy will be deductible at the continuing rate of 3.5% from earnings up to $6,500.00 and 10% from that portion of earnings between $6,500.01 and $8,000.00 per month.

For Tier Four (persons earning from $8,000.01 upwards per month) Levy will be deductible at the continuing rate of 3.5% from earnings up to $6,500.00; 10% from that portion of earnings between $6,500.01 and $8,000.00; and 12% from that portion of earnings from $8,000.01 upwards per month.

Change of Levy Deduction Threshold

It is important to emphasize that the employer’s contribution on behalf of each employee is not affected by these changes. The employer’s portion of the Levy remains at 3% and is payable in respect of all wages paid.

Kindly note that this release supersedes any previous release pertaining to this matter.

The Board solicits the cooperation of all concerned. Insured persons and employers seeking clarification may review guidelines published on our website www.socialsecurity.kn or contact the Compliance Department on St Kitts at 869 465 2535 or 869 469 5245 on Nevis.

For more information, please contact:

Corporate Communications Department, 

St. Christopher & Nevis Social Security Board

Phone:

869 465 2535 ext. 2710,2711 or 2712 – St. Kitts

869 469 5245 ext. 3402, 3400, 3410 – Nevis

869 667 2535

Email: 

pubinfo@socialsecurity.kn

25 by 25 Goal on Track with Over 150 Farmers

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25 by 25 Goal on Track with Over 150 Farmers

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Thursday 15th February 2024)-At the recent Prime Minister’s Press Conference, Minister of Agriculture Samal Duggins expressed strong confidence in St. Kitts and Nevis’s capacity to achieve its ambitious target of reducing the food import bill by 25 percent by 2025, with such optimism stemming from the increase in local farmers joining forces with the ministry to realize this vision.

Minister Duggins highlighted the growing momentum behind the 25 by 25 Agenda, with over 150 farmers now committed to the cause saying: “Our dedication to the 25 by 25 Agenda is unwavering,” he stated. “The enthusiasm and commitment shown by our farmers, who are keen to contribute towards and benefit from the $50 million goal, are truly inspiring.”

This commitment was further solidified during the 25 by 25 Crop Farmer Commodity Meetings held on February 7 and 12, 2024. These sessions not only served as platforms for disseminating vital information but also for recognizing the farmers’ participation with certificates. The focus crops, including watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, and sweet peppers, have been selected for their potential impact on the Federation’s food production and import reduction strategy.

The Department of Agriculture is providing comprehensive support to these farmers, offering necessary inputs and technical guidance to ensure their success.

 “Supporting our farmers is not just a duty but a commitment to enhancing our agricultural output,” Minister Duggins remarked.

An exciting development in this journey is the nearing completion of the hatchery project at the Bayford’s Livestock Center of Excellence. Initiated with a memorandum of understanding last year, the project is expected to commence production between March and April 2024.

As understood, this initiative represents a significant step towards self-sufficiency in poultry production, aiming to address the $20 million currently spent on importing poultry products.

Additionally, plans are underway for the construction of a poultry slaughtering facility. This facility will complement the hatchery in boosting the Federation’s local poultry production capabilities, aligning with the broader goals of the 25 by 25 Agenda.

As gathered, Minister Duggins’s optimism is not just rooted in the progress of projects and farmer participation but also in the broader impact these efforts will have on the Federation’s economy and food security. By increasing local food production and reducing dependency on imports, St. Kitts and Nevis is said to be moving towards a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector.

Of note, as St. Kitts and Nevis continues to advance towards its 25 by 25 target, the collective effort of the government, farmers, and supporting agencies is a testament to the nation’s commitment to transforming its agricultural landscape.

Such a collaborative approach not only aims to meet the immediate goal of reducing food imports but also to lay the foundation for a more self-reliant and prosperous future for the Federation’s agricultural sector.

JNF Undergoes Extensive Upgrades to Enhance Healthcare

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JNF Undergoes Extensive Upgrades to Enhance Healthcare

By: Spokesman Newsroom

BASSETERRE, St.Kitts (Thursday 15th February 2024)- The government of St.Kitts-Nevis is currently focused on implementing improvements at the Joseph N. France (JNF) General Hospital, said to be part of a broader initiative to maintain the federation’s main healthcare facility while also progressing with plans for a new state-of-the-art smart hospital.

During a press conference with Cabinet Ministers on Tuesday 13th February 2024, Dr. Drew Prime Minister and Minister of Health, Dr. Terrance Drew outlined the government’s ongoing projects aimed at addressing long-standing infrastructural challenges at the JNF General Hospital. A critical focus of these efforts is the repair of the hospital’s roofs, an issue that has caused considerable discomfort and inconvenience over the years. Thanks to the combined efforts of local contractors and the generous support from the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), this problem is now being comprehensively addressed, with work already underway.

In addition to the roofing repairs, substantial refurbishment is nearly complete at the hospital’s morgue, transforming it from a state of neglect to one of functionality and dignity. This is part of the government’s commitment to improving all facets of the hospital’s infrastructure to provide a more conducive environment for both healthcare providers and patients.

Recognizing the critical need for efficient emergency services, the government is also in the process of enhancing the hospital’s ambulance fleet. New ambulances are being procured to supplement the existing vehicles, with expectations for their integration into the fleet within the first quarter of the year. This move is anticipated to significantly improve the hospital’s capacity to respond to emergencies promptly.

Another key area slated for improvement is the Psychiatric Ward, highlighting the government’s focus on mental health services alongside physical health facilities. These upcoming renovations underscore the comprehensive approach being taken to uplift the standard of care provided at the JNF General Hospital.

Prime Minister Dr. Drew also highlighted the aesthetic and functional upgrades being made to the hospital’s foyer. These improvements are intended to create a more welcoming and efficient entry point for patients and visitors, enhancing their overall experience from the moment they enter the facility.

The government’s investment in the JNF General Hospital extends beyond mere infrastructural upgrades; it signifies a commitment to elevating healthcare standards and ensuring that the citizens of St. Kitts and Nevis have access to quality medical services. By addressing these long-standing issues and shortfalls, the administration is laying the groundwork for a more robust healthcare system, capable of meeting the needs of its population both now and in the future.

As the federation looks forward to the completion of the new smart hospital, these interim measures at the JNF General Hospital represent crucial steps in maintaining and improving healthcare services, demonstrating the government’s dedication to the health and well-being of its citizens.

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