Government Backs South Friars Businesses with Legal Options

BASSETERRE — The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to supporting business owners at South Friars, emphasizing that no citizen will be abandoned as development continue in the area.

During the Cabinet-wide press conference held on March 30, Prime Minister Hon. Dr. Terrance Drew, along with members of the Cabinet, addressed public concerns regarding the relocation of establishments currently operating at South Friars Beach, making clear that the Government’s approach is rooted in fairness, legality, and opportunity.

Members of the Cabinet, including Minister of Tourism, Hon. Marsha Henderson and Attorney General, Hon. Garth Wilkin underscored that structured and viable alternatives have already been presented to affected operators, ensuring that their livelihoods can continue within a lawful and organized framework.

They went on to dispel misconceptions surrounding the initiative, stressing that the process is not one of displacement, but of transition and regularization.

“The government’s offer of alternative state owned locations from which the bar operators could continue their businesses lawfully,” was highlighted as a central pillar of the plan, according to Hon. Wilkin.

And continued, “It is not kicking off. It is alternatives,”, reinforcing that the Government is actively working to provide solutions that benefit both the business community and the broader national interest.

Tourism Minister, Hon. Henderson, emphasized that the initiative is also tied to maintaining and enhancing the quality, safety, and international appeal of one of the Federation’s key tourism assets. She noted that proper planning and orderly development at South Friars are critical to sustaining the destination’s reputation while ensuring that local entrepreneurs remain part of the tourism value chain.

“The government is trying to give an opportunity to the bar owners… by giving alternatives in two different locations”, highlighting that these options are designed to allow operators to continue earning while operating within the bounds of the law.

Attorney General Wilkin, further reinforced the legal context of the matter, underscoring the importance of upholding land ownership rights and regulatory compliance. He explained that the Government has a duty to ensure that all commercial activity is conducted lawfully, while simultaneously acting in a manner that is fair, reasonable, and supportive of citizens.

The Attorney General stressed that the Government’s actions are consistent with established legal principles and are being carried out with due regard for both private rights and the public good, ensuring that the transition is managed responsibly and transparently.

To this end, Prime Minister Drew’s overarching message was clear, development must be inclusive, people-centered, and forward-looking. “We want to help our people,” the Prime Minister affirmed, noting that the Government remains committed to ensuring that affected business owners are supported throughout the transition process.

The Government of Saint Kitts and Nevis continues to engage stakeholders as part of its broader effort to balance economic opportunity, lawful development, and sustainable growth, ensuring that progress is achieved without leaving anyone behind.