The Deputy Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Ernest Hilaire, has shared some highlights of the budget presentation made by the Prime Minister, Philip J Pierre. The Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy also claimed that this budget puts the people of Saint Lucia First. He contended that the Government is committed to the success of all Saint Lucians. He also added that this budget represents our core philosophy of Putting You First.
Sharing some important points made in the presentation, Deputy Prime Minister shared that the 2023-24 budget has the needs of all Saint Lucians at its core. Ernest Hilaire added that this budget gives back to the people of Saint Lucia. The major highlights of the budget are as follows:
- The Government has proposed the removal of 12.5% VAT on Plywood, Lumber, steel, cement, and Galvanize for two years.
- The Government will extend Tax Amnesty Programme for businesses and Individuals till May 1, 2024
- Per the Government’s announcements in Saint Lucia, they will increase Excise Tax on Tobacco Products by 50%. The increase will remain effective MAY 1, 2023. The gesture will raise $33 Million for the country.
- The Government has allocated $500,000 for Scholarships.
- During his presentation, the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia announced that the construction of the police divisional headquarters in Gros Islet had begun.
- Work on Southern Police Divisional Headquarters (VIEUX FORT) will begin in 2023-24
- The Government will commission a new drug squad building.
- The Government will also sign the contract for constructing Custody suites this week.
- Saint Lucia Government allocated over $2 MILLION for the swift justice project.
- Prime Minister Philip J Pierre announced the establishment of the first district traffic court.
- Further, The Prime Minister announced that they would expand the witness protection programme and establish a coroner’s court.
- Saint Lucia government will also establish a sheriff’s office.
- Further, according to the Prime Minister, the Government of Saint Lucia is working to identify available land for the resettlement of some Vieux Fort Residents.
- The Ministry of Health will establish the Elderly affairs unit.
- The Ministry of Health will establish a cancer registry.
- Prime Minister Pierre shared that they will advance the plan to construct Soufriere Hospital.
- The Government will establish maternal and child healthcare programmes, which will serve as the first step towards Universal Healthcare
