BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, August 02, 2023 (SKNIS) – The Federal Cabinet held a National Town Hall meeting on Tuesday (August 01) evening at the Solid Waste Management Corporation (SWMC) Conference Room, where Ministers of Government reflected on their various ministries and what they have been able to achieve through them in bringing about tangible benefits and development to citizens and residents, as well as future plans that will be implemented to help the buildout of a Sustainable Island State.
Federal Cabinet
The National Town Hall was held as part of the activities to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party Administration, under the leadership of Prime Minister the Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew.
The transformation of St. Kitts and Nevis into a Sustainable Island State is based on seven pillars. These are increasing local food production; transitioning to Green Energy; diversifying the economy; attracting and supporting sustainable industries; evolving the Creative Economy; recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic; and expanding social protection and safety nets to protect the most vulnerable.
Delivering remarks on behalf of Prime Minister Dr. Drew, Deputy Prime Minister the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley said over the past year, the Government has made significant strides towards the Sustainable Island State Agenda.
“We have invested in the education of our youth, recognizing that they are the architects of our future. By providing access to quality education and vocational training we have unlocked opportunities and nurtured the skills necessary for a skilled and adaptable workforce,” Dr. Hanley said. “Education is a cornerstone of progress, and we believe that no student should be hindered by the weight of high-interest rates, therefore, we have reduced the student loan interest rate at the Development Bank from nine (9) percent to five (5) percent, paving the way for our youths to pursue knowledge without the burden of financial strain. Cognizant of the financial struggles which resulted from the pandemic, your government chose to absorb the tuition cost for every student at the Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College, opening the door for more families to provide higher education for their children.”
The Government has also taken the necessary steps and measures to ensure citizens and residents have access to affordable essential goods.
“We are allowing barrels and containers of foodstuff up to 400 pounds in weight to enter duty-free, making life a little easier for our families. Our commitment to the well-being of our citizens is unwavering. We have worked tirelessly to enhance healthcare services, promote public safety and strengthen social welfare programmes. Empowering our people with the tools to lead healthy, fulfilling lives remains at the heart of our agenda,” Dr. Hanley said.
Moreover, the honourable minister highlighted the significant strides made in strengthening the healthcare sector in St. Kitts and Nevis.
He said, “We understand the value of a thriving healthcare system. Your Ministry of Health is being strengthened with a full cadre of administration and technical officers ensuring that our citizens receive the care they deserve. We are continually striving for excellence in our healthcare services. We have established a 24/7 doctor service at the Pogson Medical Center and provided life-support system training to over 250 healthcare workers, ensuring top-notch medical care for all. As we strive to enhance healthcare services, we have introduced former nurses to assist at the JN France General Hospital, lowering the wait time and providing expedited care.”
The National Town Hall was held under the theme, “Sustainably Soaring Together: Empowering our Future.”
The Honourable Dr. Terrance Drew-led St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party recorded a resounding victory in the 2022 General Elections on August 05.
