BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, March 23, 2020 (Press Unit in the Office of the Prime Minister) – As part of its comprehensive plan for and response to the COVID-19 virus, also known as the novel coronavirus disease, Prime Minister Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris has announced that his Team Unity-led Government has committed an additional $16.9 million to the health sector of St. Kitts and Nevis.
“This sum of $16.9 million is in addition to the $62 million budgeted for the health sector in 2020,” Prime Minister Harris said, while noting that, “we will spare no efforts and resources to keep our country safe.”
In his address to the nation on Sunday, March 22, the honourable prime minister stated that other government departments and institutions are already in advanced discussions
“Our Ministry of Labour and Social Security has spearheaded a dialogue with our partners on tourism and manufacturing and we are working with employers to coordinate a response to the evolving situation,” said Prime Minister Harris.
He noted that the Social Security Board will convene a special meeting today, Monday, March 23, to determine its own response.
Dr. Harris added, “Our Ministry of Finance has also been part of the governmental outreach and it is fine-tuning a government response to a fiscal and economic situation. The Ministry of Tourism will spearhead outreach with tourism stakeholders as we re-calibrate our strategies on this important sector.”
Further updates on the Government’s response and plans concerning the COVID-19 and its impact on the economy of St. Kitts and Nevis will be provided during a press conference scheduled for Tuesday, March 24.