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By Loshaun Dixon
Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew, addressed questions on economic matters, year-end bonuses, and national priorities during the November 25 edition of The Roundtable.
When asked about calls from workers for double salaries or year-end bonuses, Dr. Drew noted that while such requests are common, it is not customary for the government to make formal declarations at press conferences. He emphasised that this year, government resources have been focused on essential investments to strengthen the country’s resilience.
“The priority has been the sustainable island state,” Dr. Drew said. “If a Category 5 hurricane had hit, we would have been in serious trouble. We have invested millions to address basic needs — water, energy, hospitals, schools, and housing.”
Highlighting the nation’s water infrastructure, the Prime Minister said areas such as Shadwell and St. Peter’s face serious water challenges. “We had to take over $50 million in cash and invest immediately in drilling and desalination plants,” he said. On healthcare, he spoke of ongoing investments to repair hospital facilities, provide new ambulances, and establish a national health insurance plan for 2026.
Dr. Drew also discussed the government’s support for education and children, noting that children requiring advanced medical treatment overseas are now fully funded by the state. “We want no mother with a child in St. Kitts and Nevis to have to circulate sponsorship sheets or set up a GoFundMe unless they choose to,” he said.
On the economy and food security, Dr. Drew detailed measures to support local agriculture. “We have set up a separate account in government to ensure timely delivery of feed and other inputs for farmers. This will help manage the cost of local products and stabilize prices,” he explained. He urged citizens to buy locally and regionally to mitigate the effects of imported inflation, particularly from the United States.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister said the economy is poised for growth, driven by construction, technology, and renewable energy projects. He revealed plans to advance solar and geothermal energy, with a selected Icelandic company already set to drill for geothermal energy on Nevis.
Dr. Drew concluded by emphasising that the government’s investments are aimed at long-term survival and sustainability. “Our focus has been on the very basic essentials — energy, water, healthcare, housing — to ensure our people are protected and our nation thrives,” he said.
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