Last Updated on January 2, 2024, 6:18 AM AST by Anthony Morris
Deputy Prime Minister Dr Geoffrey Hanley delivered the New Year’s address live on behalf of Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew, who was battling the flu virus.
In his address, the Deputy Prime Minister started by extending his heartfelt New Year’s greetings to the skitts and Nevis as a nation.
Dr. Geoffrey Hanley Reflected on the challenges and uncertainties faced in the past year by the twins island. He highlighted how resilience and cooperation moved him, and the unwavering hope of the federation people deeply moved him.
The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party Administration, led by the Prime Minister. Dr. Terrance Drew believes that economic growth is not only measured in statistics but also the sense of security and peace it brings
Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Geoffrey Hanley highlighted that over the past sixteen months, the St Kitts and Nevis govenment has prioritized the needs of their people by working towards the transformation of the nation through sustainability, giving special focus to
- healthcare
- financial stability through investments
- education and digital transformation,
- housing,
- tourism
- agriculture.
Healthcare
Under health care, Dr. Geoffrey Hanley emphasized that the government of St Kitts and Nevis initiated a comprehensive overhaul of the healthcare system, marking a significant transformation by:
Introducing 15 new dialysis machines and inaugurating the renal transplant program significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals grappling with renal disease across our nation.
Elevating the eye clinic with state-of-the-art equipment brings immense relief to countless citizens and residents.
Recognizing and granting qualified nurses their rightful positions and well-deserved promotions within the healthcare workforce.
Renovations at the JNF General Hospital create a more comforting and healing environment. This included enriching the lobby, installing air conditioning units in the medical and surgical wards, and enhancing the overall landscaping to uplift the facility.
Financial Stability
The CBI program stands as a driving force for substantial and beneficial transformation. The CBI program catalyzes tangible, positive changes, whether it’s directing investments toward :
- education,
- building resilient infrastructure,
- or spearheading the shift toward green energy
Education
under the education sector, St Kitts and Nevis
- reintroduction of the One-to-One Laptop Program,
- Back-to-School Voucher Initiative,
- Free education at Clarence Fitzroy Bryant College,
- notable progress made in Technical and Vocational Education through training and enhanced qualifications,
- Introduction of a two-story cutting-edge audio-visual smart classroom at AVEC.
- Signed Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Education and Southern University
Housing
Under housing, the St Kitts and Nevis government reduced the added Tax rate of 13 per cent for first-time homeowners or existing homeowners looking to renovate their properties.
This intiative aimed to give homeownership more accessible and fairer to a wider range of individuals and families while also stimulating growth in the Construction Sector.
St. Kitts-Nevis Labour Party Administration pledged to construct 2,400 Smart Homes within the next four (4) years.
Tourism
Deputy Prime Minister highlighted that the tourism Sector is projected to grow by 7.3 per cent in 2024, aiming to enhance the overall traveller experience through significant upgrades.
Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the shift to the Common Use Terminal Equipment System marks the beginning of an improved experience for travellers.
Dr. Geoffrey Hanley emphasized that departing from the constraints of the current system, which limits airlines to specific counters, this upgrade accommodates expanded airlift situation.
Agriculture
Dr Geoffrey Hanley highlighted that the main aim of the agriculture sector is to realize a commitment to
- Escalate investments in infrastructure,
- the integration and utilization of technology,
- And the enhancement of our workforce’s capabilities, particularly in the technological and scientific domains within our agricultural sector.
The agricultural sector signed the MOU with Southern University, enclosing diverse dimensions that yield advantages for farmers and the wider population.
Anthony Morris covers stories related to politics and regional developments. His in-depth reporting about governance and reforms makes him stand out in regional journalism, with a deep analysis of political trends and their impact on Caribbean communities.
