It benefits workers and students in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

During his speech at the military parade marking the 44th anniversary of the independence of this Caribbean country, the President said that the program through which the government appoints employees in the private sector for specific periods of time will be expanded with a new group until 2024 and 2025, taking into account annual reviews.

According to the St. Vincent Times, starting next January, there will be an increase in the minimum wages paid to workers, as a result of a full evaluation of the Wage Council report that is currently being worked on.

Also from that date, all nurses and nursing assistants will be paid an additional non-taxable monthly income, in addition to a regular salary increase, for an additional period of six months, with the aim – he adds – of alleviating some of the challenges they currently face. Face . .

Likewise, the authorities will maintain the exemption granted more than a year ago to domestic electricity consumers, so that they do not pay VAT on their bills for any consumption less than 250 units per month.

The circular also referred to the award of scholarships to small entrepreneurs, as well as other initiatives of this kind, special national exposure awards and scholarships for university education based on examination results, demonstrating the government’s commitment to youth and education.

As of Friday, the administration also decided that nearly 1,200 farmers who owe the state-owned Farmer Support Corporation a total of $4.5 million will receive a 50 percent relief on the outstanding capital and a full release of all interests.

There will also be a full review of debts owed by patients and their families to Milton Cato Memorial Hospital and other similar facilities in St. Vincent and the Grenadines up to Independence Day last year, with a view to providing relief and relief.

Moreover, the administration intends, effective January 1, to further reduce the interest rate range and provide additional relief to students who have borrowed money from the state-run student loan company to finance their university education.

L/las